Udon Thani, a northeastern province covering an area of 11,730 square
kilometers, is a prime business center of I-San. Located 564 kilometers
from Bangkok, it the world heritage site for the prehistoric culture of
Ban Chiang.
Udon Thani is probably best known for its archaeological wonders, paramount among them the  hamlet of Ban Chiang where the world is first Bronze Age civilization is believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago.
Udon Thani borders Nong Khai to the north, Khon Kaen to the south,
Sakon Nakhon to the east and Nongbualamphu and Loei to the west. The
province is located on a plateau which is approximately 187 metres
above sea level. Most of its areas are covered with rice fields,
forests and hills, with the Phu Pan mountain ranges and the Songkhram
River are the provinces 2 main natural resources.
 The
locals are mainly engaged in agricultural activities, with particular
rising in wholesale and retail trading activities. That is why Udon
Thani is an agricultural market hub or neighboring provinces.
Udon Thani is provincial seal depicts God Wetsuwan, King of the giants and keeper of the Northern Heavenly Gate.
The Past
The Vietnam War transformed the sleepy provincial city of Udon Thani
into a booming support center for a nearby American airbase. Since the
withdrawal of American troops in 1976, it has continued to grow as an
industrial and commercial center within the region.
The Present
Today, Udon Thani is the transportation and communications hub of the upper Northeast with  several tourist destinations and facilities.
Administratively, Udon Thani is divided into the following
districts: Muang, Kumphawapi, Nong Han, Phen, Ban Phue, Ban Dung, Si
That, Nam Som, Nong Wua So, Kut Chap, Non Sa-at, Wang Sam Mo, Chai Wan,
Nong Saeng, Sang Khom, Thung Fon, Na Yung, Phibun Rak, Ku Kaeo and,
Prachaksinlapakhom. |
