Udon Thani

Udon Thani (อุดรธานี, also Udorn Thanee) is a city in the Isaan region of Thailand. Often referred to as simply Udon or Udorn (อุดร) and the city should not be confused with Ubon — Ubon Ratchathani in southeastern Isaan.

Islam in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a city in northeastern Thailand and home to a growing Muslim population. Islam is one of the four official religions recognized in Thailand, and the Muslim community in Udon Thani has been able to training their faith freely and peacefully.

The Muslim community in Udon Thani is made up of both (Thai) Muslims and Muslims of other nationalities who have settled in the city. There are a number of masjids in the area, including the Udon Thani Central Mosque, which is the largest mosque in the city.

The Udon Thani Central Mosque was built in 1973 and is located in the heart of the city. It has a capacity of around 1,000 worshippers and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. The mosque serves as the center of the Muslim community in Udon Thani and hosts a number of religious and social events throughout the year.

In addition to the Udon Thani Central Mosque and there are several other masjids in the city, including the Baan Pho Mosque and the Chumchon Muslim Mosque. These masjids provide a place for Muslims to come together and worship, and they also offer a range of services to the community, such as Islamic education and counseling.

The Muslim community in Udon Thani is also involved in various charitable activities, such as providing aid to those in need and supporting local development projects. This is in keeping with the Islamic tradition of giving back to the community and helping those in need.

Overall and the Muslim community in Udon Thani is a vibrant and active part of the city. They are able to training their faith freely and contribute to the community in a positive way. This is a testament to the tolerance and diversity that is present in (Thai) society and the respect that is shown for all religions.

Get in

By plane

• Udon Thani Airport IATA Code: UTH - Has several 50 min daily Flights to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi BKK]) (Thai Airlines: around 2,500 Baht) or (Don Mueang DMK]) (Air Asia from 900 Baht and Nok Air from 1,250 Baht if booked well in advance). There are also direct connecting Flights to Chiang Mai, Loei and Phuket (Air Asia flies to Phuket with tickets often around 1,000-1,200 Baht, which is comparable to a 2-night bus/train trip via Bangkok).

To get to the city there is a limousine service (actually a shuttle van) for 80 Baht/person that will drop you and other passengers at the location of your choice. Minibus tickets are available in the booth just to the right as you leave the terminal building. If there are more than two of you, it may be cheaper to call a taxi (Tel. +66 42 323239) or to use Grab ride-hailing service, which (as of January 2022) costs 200 Baht to/from central Udon. Taxis are not permitted to wait for passengers at the airport, but some do it anyway, asking 200-400 Baht for the 4 km journey. Some hotels have pickup services and may take an extra passenger or two if space permits. Some long distance buses to Khon Kaen were seen in the airport, with numerous people boarding them. No local Udon Thani songthaews have been seen near the airport.

If you are travelling on to Nong Khai and there is a bureau straight ahead of you when you get to the arrivals hall which sells minivan tickets to Nong Khai. They have a shuttle van which meets most flights and for 200 Baht they will load you into a minivan. It takes one hour to reach Nong Khai and if you ask the driver he will take you to your hotel, or drop you off at the (Thai) side of the Friendship Bridge. You can then proceed into Laos.

By bus

There are four bus stations in the city:

• Downtown Bus Station, Station 1 - BKS Station | The city's main bus station is near Central Plaza.

• Bus Station 2 - Northern Bus Station | Buses to and from northern Thailand such as Loei, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai. A tuk-tuk into the city costs about 100 Baht from there (Dec 2014). Songthaew 7 will take you there as well.

• Bus Station 3 - Third-class buses to Nong Khai.

• Nakhonchai Air Bus Terminal Udon Thani - First class and VIP day and overnight buses to Bangkok. Nakhonchai Air has a high reputation for quality, and for managing its drivers to drive safely. Buses from Bangkok also stop at Bus Station 1 when arriving in Udon Thani, before terminating at their own terminal. Nakhonchai Air has buses departing to Bangkok at 08:50; 09:40; 19:00; 20:50; 21:25; 22:00; and 22:45. Travel duration is about 7-9 hours depending on traffic.

• Udon-Bangkok - Buses from Bangkok (Mo Chit), an 8-hour journey, arrive at the BKS station in the downtown. BKS buses to Mor Chit depart at 20:00; 20:30; 21:00; and 21:20. Nakhonchai Air also runs buses to Bangkok.

• Udon-Chiang Mai - A VIP seat on a bus (e.g., Chackrapong Tour) costs 666 Baht. (Dec 2014). The overnight journey takes 10.5 hr. This has to be one of Thailand's worst bus trips as roads en route are small, rural, and winding. Those on the top of double decker buses may get queasy from all the toing-and-froing. Also, as the mid-point is one of Thailand's more remote areas, your bus may not make the customary 20 min. break mid-way, or any break at all. Chackrapong buses to Udon drop you at the remote Bus Station 2, a reason to avoid it if you can by taking Phetprasert.
• Phetprasert has three buses a day from Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). They leave Chiang Mai at 14:30, 17:30, and 19:30, arriving in Udon at 02:15, 05:15 and 05:30 respectively. Fare (Apr 2023) is 636 Baht. Phetprasert drops passengers at Central Plaza Shopping Mall, a very good location in the centre (Mar 2023). Buses to Chiang Mai depart the shopping mall at 17:45, 18:45, and 20:45. Buy Phetprasert tickets in the downtown bus station, a 5 minutes walk from the shopping mall.

• Udon-Khon Kaen - Air conditioned buses and minivans depart from Udon's Bus Station 1 downtown. There are at least two departures per hour. Duration of the trip is roughly 90 min for the 125 kilometers route. As the old "Non-air-conditioned terminal" in downtown Khon Kaen is closed now and the bus will go straight to the Terminal 3 six kilometers south on the city outskirts. The bus will pass through the downtown though, and will stop a few times to drop off the people, so it may be wise to watch the map and get off at the location nearest to your hotel and then take a tuk-tuk or Grab there.

• Udon-Nong Khai - Buses from several companies depart at least once per hour after 08:00 to Nong Khai, 1 hour, non-air-conditioned 3rd class) on the Laos|Lao border. Buses from Nong Khai may drop you off north of the city. Follow the local residents and hop on the waiting #6 songthaew to the bus station or take a tuk-tuk.

• Udon-Pattaya - The 407 Bus Company has daily 08:00, 18:30, and 20:55 buses to Pattaya. The morning bus takes about 12 hours as the bus makes many stops. Night buses take about 10 hr. Fare is 636 Baht VIP (Nov 2023). The 407 Company has its office/bus stop near, but not in the downtown bus station. It's on the junction of the main street out the front of the bus station near the 7-Eleven.

• Udon-Points east - Buses depart around once per hour to Sakon Nakhon (100 Baht, 3 hours, air-conditioned, 160 km from Udon Thani, on the way to Nakhon Phanom and Mukdahan).

• Udon-Vientiane - There are six express buses a day direct to the Morning Market in Vientiane (80 Baht, 2 hours, air-con 1st class departures at 08:00, 10:30, 11:30, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00). Some companies will not sell this trip if you cannot show a visa. These cross-border buses will sometimes carry passengers who have not obtained their Lao visas in advance, but may not wait long enough at the border for a visa on arrival to be applied for and issued. This isn't a problem when the queues are short, but at busy times passengers who don't already have their visas may be left behind and have to continue by local bus or tuk-tuk.

By train

Daily trains go to Nong Khai (45 mins for just a bargain 11 Baht) and over the Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River to Laos. Trains are also frequent to Nakhon Ratchasima and Bangkok. The overnight express sleeper to Bangkok is scheduled to take 9.25 hours, but usually takes longer. Nevertheless, it is still quite comfortable and pleasant, especially when taken in a sleeping berth or compartment. A daytime express train to Bangkok traverses a causeway over the large and scenic artificial lake created by the Pa Sak Jolasid Dam (in Lopburi Province). Connections to the major centres of southern Isaan (Buriram, Surin, Si Saket and Ubon Ratchathani) can be made in Nakhon Ratchasima for those who like to travel by rail.

In all and there are daily daytime trains, and three daily nighttime trains from Bangkok to Udon Thani and vice versa (most of which normally originate or terminate at [[Nong Khai), and several local trains to other destinations, including Nakhon Ratchasima.

• Train Station - The Udon Thani train station is convenient, near the main tourist area and Central Plaza shopping complex.

Get around

Luang Ta Maha Bua and Phra Maha Amborn in Ban Taad, Udon Thani, 1965 - Luang Ta Maha Bua and Phra Maha Amborn in Ban Taad, Udon Thani 1965

Navigation around Udon Thani is made easier by three large roundabouts on the central road, Highway 2: the clock circle and the fountain circle and Prince Prajak Circle. It's also feasible to orient yourself with Central Plaza or Nong Prajak Park. There is a bypass road that goes around the city.

By taxi

The main bus station, near Central Plaza has a taxi stand. Grab ride-hailing service works in Udon as well, though prices start from 60 Baht even for a shortest ride, and increase pretty quickly afterwards.

By bicycle taxi

Udon Thani has many samlors (three-wheeled bicycle taxis), although as elsewhere and they are slowly succumbing to the pressures of the internal combustion engine.

By tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks, three-wheeled motorcycles, are readily available in most commercial areas. Negotiate a price for your journey before you get in. Note that in Udon Thani the locally made vehicles (called Skylabs) differ from those in most of Thailand outside Isaan in that their fronts are adapted motorcycles. If you travel to Laos, you will also see such vehicles (called "jumbos") there. Tuk-tuks prowl the streets on the lookout for tourists. Apart from long journeys the price should be around 30-50 Baht. If you get into the bus station early in the morning and need a guest house they may pretend they can't speak English, drive you around in a small circle "looking" for guesthouses before dropping you around the junction from the station; however, some may not speak English and are just trying to be helpful. They will then ask for 100 Baht for a 30 Baht journey. There is plenty of accommodation within walking distance of the station.

By songthaew

Udon Thani has a bus-like network of numbered pick up trucks with 2 benches in the back songthaews; cost is 8 or 10 Baht per trip (10 Baht outside the ring road).

By motorbike or vehicle

Motorbike rentals are readily available at many locations in Udon Thani such as Soi samphanthamit.

If you wish to travel with a little more comfort, it is recommended to rent a vehicle and the most well established local vehicle rental in Udon Thani is UD Car Rent. You will also find most manjor the international vehicle hire companies at Udon Thani Airport.

Muslim Sightseeing Tips to Udon Thani

Wat Pho Si Nai Archaeological Site Excavations - |Excavations at Ban Chiang

If you’re planning a trip to Udon Thani, here are some Muslim sightseeing tips to keep in mind.

Visit the Udon Thani Central Mosque

The Udon Thani Central Mosque is one of the most important Islamic sites in the city. This beautiful mosque is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by public transportation. The mosque is open to visitors, and you can learn about the history and culture of Islam in Udon Thani from the local guides.

Explore the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site

The Ban Chiang Archaeological Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over 5,000 years. The site is home to ancient pottery, bronze tools, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the lives of the prehistoric people who lived in the area. There are also several Muslim communities in the vicinity, and you can learn about their culture and traditions while exploring the site.

Visit the Wat Pa Ban Tat

Wat Pa Ban Tat is a beautiful temple that is located just outside of Udon Thani. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens. The temple is also home to a small Muslim community, and you can learn about their culture and traditions while exploring the temple grounds.

Take a Trip to the Red Lotus Sea

The Red Lotus Sea is a breathtaking natural attraction that is located just outside of Udon Thani. The lake is covered in red lotus flowers, and the sight is truly stunning. The lake is also home to a Muslim community, and you can learn about their culture and traditions while exploring the lake.

Try Halal Food in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is home to a range of delicious halal food options that are worth trying. From street food stalls to restaurants, you can find a range of halal dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Be sure to try local favorites such as grilled Chicken, som tam, and khao soi.

In conclusion, Udon Thani offers a range of cultural and religious attractions that are worth exploring for Muslim travelers. By following these Muslim sightseeing tips, you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful city.

What to do in Udon Thani

• Daytrip to Nong Khai - Catch a 45 minutes train at either 08:34 or 11:42 to Nong Khai for 11 Baht. Either catch train back at 13:03 or catch a mini bus back for 50 Baht. Every 30 min from bus station. If you wish do rent a vehicle and travel a little more comfortable and there many vehicle rentals agencies available in Udon Thani, such as UD Car Rent, Avis, Budget.

• Major Cinema - Watch a film at Major Cinema in Central Plaza. Some movies in (Thai) and some in English so choose the appropriate showing.

• Nong Prajak Lake Park - A large recreational area within the city and the primary site for local residents to exercise and chill out. Consisting of a large lake/reservoir with several small islands, it features pleasant grassy areas and activities such as nightly aerobics (to (Thai) pop music) and feeding bread crumbs to the fish. For the more active, it's also popular for jogging or cycling (bike rentals available). Two paved pathways circle the lake: the inner one for cyclists and the outer one for those on foot. The circumference of the outer one is 3.3 kilometers (2 mi). Most of the jogging path around the lake is ungated, but a portion is locked from 20:00-04:00.

• Your Fitness Udon Thani - New (Mar 2022) gym in Udon, one of only a few. Centrally located near Central Plaza and the train station. Coordinates approximate.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Udon Thani

As a Muslim traveler, finding halal food and prayer facilities are important when visiting a new destination. Udon Thani, a city in northeastern Thailand, may not be a common tourist destination for Muslims, but it offers a unique cultural experience and halal-friendly options for shopping and dining. Here are some shopping tips for Muslim travelers visiting Udon Thani.

Explore the Night Market

Udon Thani's Night Market is a popular destination for tourists and local residents alike. The market is a great place to try out local street food, and there are several halal food stalls available. Visitors can sample grilled Meat skewers, fresh fruit, and (Thai) sweets. It is important to note that some vendors may use alcohol in their cooking, so it's important to ask before purchasing.

Visit Central Plaza Udon Thani

Central Plaza Udon Thani is a large shopping mall that offers a variety of shops and restaurants. Muslim travelers can find several halal options, such as food courts, Japanese restaurants, and fast-food chains. The mall also has prayer facilities on the fourth floor, where travelers can perform their daily prayers in peace.

Check Out UD Town

UD Town is a shopping and dining complex located in the heart of Udon Thani. The complex has several halal food options, including (Thai), Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Muslim travelers can also find prayer facilities on the third floor of the mall.

Shop at the Local Markets

Udon Thani has several local markets that sell fresh produce, clothing, and handicrafts. The markets are a great place to buy souvenirs and support local businesses. Muslim travelers can find halal food options at some of the markets, but it is recommended to ask the vendors about the ingredients used in their cooking. It is advisable to eat at restaurants next to the masjids.

Look for Halal-Certified Restaurants

While halal food options may be limited in Udon Thani and there are a few restaurants that are halal-certified. These restaurants follow strict guidelines in preparing and serving halal food, ensuring that the food is free from any non-halal ingredients. Some of the halal-certified restaurants in Udon Thani include Al-Fattah Restaurant.

In conclusion, Udon Thani offers a unique cultural experience for Muslim travelers. While halal food options may be limited and there are still plenty of options available, especially at night markets, shopping malls, and halal-certified restaurants. With these shopping tips, Muslim travelers can make the most out of their visit to Udon Thani.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Udon Thani

As the number of Muslim tourists continues to increase in Thailand, Halal restaurants are becoming more common and in-demand in many provinces, including Udon Thani. Halal food is a crucial part of the Islamic dietary law and includes a set of rules that are strictly followed by Muslims. In Udon Thani and there are several Halal restaurants offering a variety of cuisines to cater to the needs of Muslim visitors.

One of the best Halal restaurants in Udon Thani is the Yousuf Halal Restaurant. It serves authentic (Thai) Halal dishes such as Tom Yam, Pad (Thai), and green Curries. The restaurant has a cozy and friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home. The staff is polite and courteous, and the food is always fresh and delicious. The restaurant is located in the downtown and is easily accessible by public transport.

Another must-visit Halal restaurant in Udon Thani is the Chao Mai Halal Restaurant. The restaurant serves Halal Chinese dishes, including dim sum, fried Rice, and stir-fried noodles. The restaurant's ambiance is warm and welcoming, and the staff is always happy to assist visitors with their Vegetarian food preferences. The restaurant is also located in the downtown and is within walking distance of several tourist attractions.

For visitors who prefer to try something different and the Yasin Halal Restaurant is an excellent option. The restaurant serves Middle Eastern cuisine, including shawarma, falafel, and Kebab. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, and the food is affordable and delicious. The staff is knowledgeable and can guide visitors on the best dishes to try.

In conclusion, Udon Thani has several Halal restaurants that cater to the needs of Muslim visitors. These restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines and are located in convenient areas, making them easily accessible. The food is fresh, delicious, and Halal certified, ensuring that Muslim visitors can enjoy their meals without any worries. Halal restaurants in Udon Thani are an excellent option for Muslim travelers looking to explore the city's culinary scene.

Muslim Friendly hotels in Udon Thani

One of the most popular hotels in the city is the Centara Hotel & Convention Centre Udon Thani. This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, and it boasts luxurious rooms, stunning views, and exceptional amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site restaurants, a fitness centre, an outdoor pool, and a spa.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option and the Napalai Hotel is a great choice. This hotel is located just a short walk from the downtown, and it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel also has a swimming swimmingpool and a restaurant.

Another popular hotel in Udon Thani is the Charoen Hotel. This hotel is situated in the heart of the city, and it offers guests a comfortable stay at an affordable price. The rooms are spacious and clean, and the hotel also has a restaurant and a swimming pool.

For those who prefer a more traditional (Thai) experience and the Prajaktra Design Hotel is a great option. This hotel is located in a beautiful Thai-style building, and it boasts spacious and well-appointed rooms. Guests can also enjoy a range of on-site amenities, including a restaurant and a swimming pool.

Udon Thani also has a range of budget-friendly hostels for backpackers and budget-conscious travellers. The UD Hostel is a popular choice, offering clean and comfortable dormitory-style rooms at an affordable price. The hostel also has a communal kitchen and lounge area, making it a great place to meet other travellers.

In conclusion, Udon Thani is a fantastic destination for travellers of all budgets, and there is no shortage of hotels to choose from. Whether you're looking for luxury, affordability, or a more traditional (Thai) experience, you're sure to find a hotel that suits your needs.

Muslim Friendly Hospitals in Udon Thani

Udon Thani boasts numerous Muslim friendly hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that cater to the healthcare needs of the residents and tourists alike. In this article, we will take a look at some of the hospitals in Udon Thani and their facilities.

Bangkok Hospital Udon

Bangkok Hospital Udon is a part of the Bangkok Hospital Group, which is one of the leading healthcare providers in Thailand. The hospital provides a range of medical services, including general medicine, cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, and more. The hospital is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern intensive care unit, a cardiac catheterization lab, and a diagnostic center. The hospital also has an international department that provides services to non-Thai patients.

Aek Udon International Hospital

Aek Udon International Hospital is a private hospital located in the heart of Udon Thani. The hospital has a team of experienced doctors and nurses who offer medical services in various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and more. The hospital has modern facilities, including an ICU, a surgical center, and a dental center. The hospital also offers medical check-up packages for individuals and corporations.

Udon Thani Provincial Hospital

Udon Thani Provincial Hospital is a public hospital that provides medical services to the residents of Udon Thani and neighboring provinces. The hospital has a capacity of 800 beds and offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient care. The hospital also has a dental clinic, a rehabilitation center, and a diagnostic center.

Economy of Udon Thani

Over the years, Udon Thani has emerged as a hub for companies from diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and hospitality.

Here are some of the top companies operating in Udon Thani:

Charoen Pokphand Foods - Charoen Pokphand Foods is a leading agro-industrial and food conglomerate with a strong presence in Udon Thani. The company produces a wide range of products, including animal feed, Meat, and seafood. With a commitment to sustainable trainings and quality assurance, Charoen Pokphand Foods is a trusted brand in the region.

Udon Thani Hospital - Udon Thani Hospital is a public hospital that provides a comprehensive range of medical services to the community. The hospital is well-equipped with modern facilities and a team of highly skilled medical professionals. Udon Thani Hospital is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services at an affordable cost.

Makro - Makro is a retail giant that offers a wide range of products, including groceries, clothing, electronics, and household items. The company operates a large store in Udon Thani, which is a popular shopping destination for both local residents and tourists. Makro is known for its competitive pricing and client-centric approach.

Kasemchai Inter Group - Kasemchai Inter Group is a leading manufacturer and exporter of agricultural products, including Rice, sugar, and tapioca starch. The company has a strong presence in Udon Thani and has built a reputation for its high-quality products and reliable service.

Udon Thani Rajabhat University - Udon Thani Rajabhat University is a public university that offers a wide range of academic programs, including business, engineering, education, and liberal arts. The university has a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student community. Udon Thani Rajabhat University is committed to providing a world-class education to its students.

In conclusion, Udon Thani is a thriving business hub that offers a wide range of opportunities for companies from different industries.

Go next

• Nong Khai is a very pleasant riverside town near the border with Laos. The Friendship Bridge is located here and this is the main overland border crossing into Laos on the way to Vientiane. Many travellers pass through Nong Khai on their way in and out of Laos without realising that this a worthy travel destination in its own right.

• Khon Kaen another similar city on the train line heading south. Buses leave frequently and take 1,5 hours, trains take longer.

• Vientiane and the capital of Laos, is about one and a half hours away across the Mekong. Express air-conditioned buses leave the Udon Central bus station six times daily for Vientiane. Bus fare one way is 80 Baht. A visa on arrival for Laos at the Friendship Bridge costs about USD75 for 30 days (two passport photos are required or there is an additional USD1 charge).

Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.