Uttaradit - The Perfect Hideout For Burnout Victims

Uttaradit: Thailand’s Best-Kept Secret (That Even Some Thais Forget Exists)

Welcome to Uttaradit, the province you’ve definitely heard of if you’re a hardcore geography nerd like Rainbolt or accidentally clicked too far north on Google Maps. But hey, just because it’s not Phuket or Chiang Mai doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. In fact, Uttaradit is a low-key paradise filled with juicy langsat fruit, hidden waterfalls, and absolutely zero crowds asking, “Is this where they filmed The Beach?”

Let’s dive into why Uttaradit might just be your new favorite place to get lost in Thailand.

Where the Heck Is Uttaradit?

Uttaradit is located in northern Thailand, nestled between Phrae, Sukhothai, and Laos (well, if you squint a bit). It's a quiet province where life moves slower, think “grandma-on-a-tricycle” slow, and that’s exactly the charm.

How to Get There (Spoiler: Don't Even Think About Cycling)

By Train: Catch a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Uttaradit. It’s about 7-8 hours, depending on how often the driver stops to admire the rice fields. Prices range from THB 200 to 800+, depending on whether you want a seat, a sleeper, or a seat that becomes a sleeper after 6 hours of regret.

By Bus: Buses leave from Mo Chit in Bangkok and take around 7 hours. Fares range from THB 300–600+. Pro tip: Bring a hoodie. The aircon is usually set to “Arctic Expedition" or "Cryonic Suspension."

By Car: Driving is an option if you enjoy GPS arguing with you in Thai. Just follow Route 11 north and don’t panic if you see more cows than people.

By Plane: There’s no commercial airport in Uttaradit, but you can fly to nearby Phitsanulok and catch a bus. Like a treasure hunt. With less treasure.

Where to Stay (No, You Don’t Have to Sleep in a Temple)

Uttaradit isn’t packed with five-star resorts, but it does offer cozy, wallet-friendly options:

A bit pricier: Seeharaj Hotel – The city’s fanciest place. They even have elevators! Prices from THB 1,200/night

Won't break the bank: Friday Hotel (and its similar cousins) – Clean, central, and won’t scare your mom. Around THB 700–900/night.

Cheap Charlie: Local guesthouses and homestays – Usually THB 300–600/night, plus unlimited smiles from the aunty who runs the place.

Bonus: No loud party backpackers here, just you and the sound of geckos whispering encouragement.

Pro tip: Best to check on your favourite booking site if these hotels even still exist.

What to Do (When You’re Not Napping)

Daytime Activities

Sirikit Dam – Giant dam + boat tours = surprisingly scenic selfies. Warning: Your phone signal may disappear, along with your sense of direction.

Wat Phra Thaen Sila At – A beautiful hilltop temple where monks might give you blessings (or at least a polite nod).

Mae Phlu Waterfall – A legit jungle waterfall with almost zero tourists. Bring bug spray unless you want to be part of the food chain.

Visit a langsat orchard – If you don’t know what langsat (aka longkong) is, prepare your mouth for joy. It’s like a grape and a lychee had a sweet baby.

Nighttime Fun (It’s Chill, Not “Full Moon Party”)

Night Market – Stroll, nibble, repeat. Try grilled fish, spicy sausage, or that one thing you can’t identify but tastes amazing. Wash down with some Leos. Expect to spend THB 100–200 for a full belly and maybe a stomachache (no regrets). Drinks extra.

Live Music Cafés – Places like “Indy Bar” or “Chill Chill Cafe” have live Thai music and very friendly locals. You may end up singing karaoke with a retired teacher named Uncle Terdsak. It happens.

Random Facts Of Little Importance 

Uttaradit means “Port of the North,” but there’s no sea. Classic Thai naming logic.

Locals ride scooters with a zen-like calm. You’ll feel like a Formula 1 driver just by doing 40 km/h.

There’s a museum dedicated to trains. It’s either fascinating or the perfect nap spot, depending on your caffeine level.

People here are ridiculously nice. Say "Sawasdee krub/ka" and you’ll probably get invited to someone’s cousin’s wedding.

Final Thoughts

Uttaradit isn’t flashy, but that’s its charm. It’s authentic, friendly, and refreshingly uncrowded. You’ll eat too much, smile too much, and maybe even learn to appreciate slow travel (the type where cows might block your road for 20 minutes, and you’re okay with it).

So if you're looking for a quiet slice of real Thailand, with waterfalls, fruit that makes your mouth happy, and no chance of accidentally stepping into a Starbucks, give Uttaradit a visit. Just don’t tell too many people. We’re trying to keep it chill.