MileHacker Logo
Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit

Udon Thani Province, Thailand

Climate Patterns

Cool Season (November - February): This period has the most pleasant weather. Temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). Humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. Clear skies and comfortable daytime temperatures make this an inviting period for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Evenings can bring a light chill.

Hot Season (March - May): Temperatures soar, often reaching 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F) or higher. Humidity also climbs, making the heat feel more intense. Rainfall is minimal in the early part of this season, but occasional thunderstorms may occur towards May. Direct sun exposure during midday can feel overwhelming.

Rainy Season Overview

  • Rainy Season (May - October): Heavy rainfall is common.
  • Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
  • Rainfall is especially heavy from August to September.
  • Downpours often occur as short, intense bursts, followed by sunshine.

Humidity & Landscape

Humidity remains very high. Despite the rain, Udon Thani retains its vibrancy. Lush green landscapes define the surroundings.

During the hot season, hydration is very important.

High Season Nov - Feb

Most comfortable weather.

Pros:

Comfortable weather for sightseeing; lower humidity; aligns with popular festivals.

Cons:

Accommodation prices climb; popular attractions see more visitors; advance booking for flights and hotels needed.

Shoulder Season Mar, May, Oct

Fewer tourists, potential savings.

Pros:

Fewer tourists than high season, a more relaxed experience; potentially lower prices for flights and accommodation.

Cons:

March can be very hot; May and October see increasing rainfall, which might affect outdoor plans.

Low Season Jun - Sep

Significant discounts.

Pros:

Most significant discounts on accommodation and flights; landscapes appear lusher and greener; fewer tourists.

Cons:

High humidity and frequent, heavy rainfall can disrupt outdoor activities; some rural roads might become muddy.

Special Weather & Activity Timing

Monsoons & Heat

Udon Thani, inland, does not experience direct impact from hurricanes or typhoons. The rainy season, however, brings monsoonal rains. These bring localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas or during prolonged heavy downpours. Travelers monitor local weather forecasts during this period. Extreme heat is a significant factor in the hot season.

Sun & Hydration

Prioritize hydration and wear appropriate Sun protection to avoid heat-related illness.

Ideal Timing for Activities

  • Cultural Sightseeing:

    Cool season (Nov-Feb) brings comfortable conditions.

  • Outdoor Activities:

    Cool season (Nov-Feb) for the best experience.

  • Red Lotus Lake:

    Visit December-February; early morning for views.

  • Night Markets:

    Enjoy year-round, cool season for comfortable atmosphere.

  • Dining:

    Outdoor eating is more pleasant in the cool season.

Health-Related Entry Information

  • Thailand has no specific health-related entry requirements for general entry.
  • Travelers check the latest official information from the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate.
  • Travel advisories and requirements change rapidly; stay informed.

Visa & Entry Overview

Rules vary based on your nationality and stay length. Check official sources for the latest details.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Rules for entry vary based on your nationality and the length of your stay.

Visa Types & Application

Many nationalities, including citizens from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries, enter Thailand without a visa for tourism. This exemption typically allows a stay of up to 30 days when arriving by air or land. Extend this once for an additional 30 days at an immigration office.

Visa on Arrival & Tourist Visa

  • Nationals from specific countries, like China, India, and Saudi Arabia, obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for tourism. This VOA grants a stay of up to 15 or 30 days. It is obtained at designated international immigration checkpoints, Udon Thani International Airport included.
  • For those not visa-exempt, or for longer stays, a Tourist Visa (TR) is obtained in advance. Apply for this visa through a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • This visa typically allows a stay of 60 days, extendable by 30 days.
  • Thailand offers non-immigrant visas for specific purposes like business, education, or retirement.

Required Documentation

Passport validity, photos, and other documents are needed.

Document Checklist

  • Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Thailand. It needs blank pages for stamps.
  • Immigration officials may ask for proof of onward or return travel.
  • You may show sufficient funds for your stay. Around 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family for visa exemption or VOA.
  • Recent passport-sized photos are needed for VOA and pre-arranged visa applications.

Immigration Procedures & Special Permits

Entry Fees & Procedures

  • No entry fee for visa-exempt nationalities.
  • A fee, typically 2,000 THB, applies for Visa on Arrival (verify current amount).
  • Upon arrival at Udon Thani International Airport (UTH), present your passport and completed arrival card.
  • Keep the departure card portion of the stamp for leaving the country.

Special Permits

  • No specific permits are generally needed for standard tourism activities in Udon Thani.
  • Access to some national parks or protected areas outside the city may have an entrance fee.
  • For deep sea diving or limited access cultural performances, verify special arrangements. Such instances are rare for casual tourists.
  • Filling out a visa application form is needed for VOA and all pre-arranged visas.

Health-Related Considerations for Entry

  • Currently, Thailand has no specific health-related entry requirements for general entry.
  • Travelers check the latest official information from the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in their country before travel.
  • Travel advisories and requirements change rapidly. Stay informed by consulting reliable government travel sites.
  • Other visa types are available for purposes like business or education.

Budgeting & Costs

This section has detailed cost breakdowns for various travel styles and money-saving strategies.

Currency & Exchange

  • The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).
  • Exchange major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) at Udon Thani International Airport.
  • Banks and authorized money exchange booths operate city-wide.
  • Bank ATMs are widely available; they charge a fixed fee (typically 220 THB).

Important Financial Notes

  • Inform your bank of your international travel plans.
  • This helps prevent card freezing due to unusual international transactions.
  • Compare rates between different vendors for exchange.
  • The ATM fee applies regardless of the withdrawal amount.

Cost Variation

Daily expenses in Udon Thani vary based on your travel style.

Detailed Cost Breakdowns

Your daily expenses in Udon Thani vary significantly based on your travel style.

Traveler Daily Costs

Budget Traveler: 800 - 1,500 THB (approximately $22 - $42 USD). This budget typically covers hostel or guesthouse accommodation, street food, and local songthaew transportation.

Mid-range Traveler: 1,500 - 3,000 THB (approximately $42 - $85 USD). This allows for comfortable hotel stays, a mix of local and casual restaurant meals, and Grab ride-sharing service.

Luxury Traveler

  • 3,000+ THB (approximately $85+ USD).
  • This budget supports luxury hotels.
  • Private transportation is an option.
1

Accommodation

Budget options include guesthouses and basic hotels. Mid-range options cover comfortable hotels with more amenities. Luxury choices include upscale hotels and resorts.

Comfortable stays in the mid-range.

Higher prices for luxury services.

2

Meals

Budget costs cover delicious street food and local eateries. Mid-range prices allow for casual restaurants and cafes. Luxury dining options include fine dining establishments and hotel restaurants.

Street food offers inexpensive meals.

Fine dining at higher costs.

3

Local Transport

Budget options for local transport include songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) or walking. Mid-range choices include Grab (ride-sharing app) or motorbike taxis. Luxury travel may involve private car hire.

Songthaews are the cheapest option.

Private cars have higher costs.

Price Ranges

Category Budget (THB) Mid-Range (THB) Luxury (THB)
Accommodation 300 - 700 700 - 2,000 2,000+
Meals (per meal) 50 - 150 150 - 400 400+
Local Transport (per ride) 20 - 60 50 - 150 150+ (Grab/private car)

Attractions & Tipping

  • Attraction Entry:0 - 500+ THB
  • Many temples:Free entry (donations welcome)
  • National parks/sites:Entry fees apply
  • Tipping:Not customary for most services

Tipping Situations

  • Upscale Restaurants:10% service charge (if not included) or 20-50 THB.
  • Hotels:20-50 THB/day for bellhops/housekeepers.
  • Massage:50-100 THB for 1-hour Thai massage.
  • Taxi/Grab:Rounding up fare by 10-20 THB.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat Local:Street food and local markets.
  • Use Songthaews:Cheapest transport for short distances.

Further Savings

  • Bargain at Markets:For non-food items, polite bargaining.
  • Accommodation:Stay outside the main tourist zone for better value.
  • Drink Water:Use filtered water refills from accommodations.

Smart Hydration

Tap water:Generally not safe for direct consumption.
Utilize filtered water:Many accommodations have refills.
Avoid constantly buying:Plastic bottled water.
Benefit:Reduces plastic waste.
Result:Safe drinking water on the go.

Health & Safety Overview

  • This section outlines precautions and resources.
  • Routine vaccinations need checking.
  • Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, Tetanus are common recommendations.
  • Consult a healthcare professional 4-6 weeks prior to travel.
  • This provides personalized advice.

Health & Safety Considerations

This section outlines precautions and resources for a safe journey.

Common Health Concerns & Prevention

  • Traveler's Diarrhea:

    Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice from questionable sources. Eat thoroughly cooked food. Wash hands frequently or use Alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

  • Dengue Fever:

    Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (20-30%). Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn/dusk. Sleep under mosquito nets.

  • Heatstroke/Dehydration:

    Stay hydrated. Seek shade during hottest parts of day. Avoid strenuous activity during midday heat. Recognize symptoms.

Access to Healthcare & Safety Tips

Hospitals: Bangkok Hospital Udon Thani (private, English-speaking) and Udon Thani Hospital (public).

Pharmacies are widespread and well-stocked. Pharmacists advise on minor ailments and dispense many common medications. Look for pharmacies with a green cross sign.

Crime statistics show Udon Thani generally safe with low violent crime rates. Petty crime like bag snatching or pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas like markets or bus stations, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Natural disaster risks include localized flooding during peak rainy season (Aug-Sep) and thunderstorms. Seek shelter indoors during storms.

Travel Insurance & Emergency Contacts

  • 1
    Travel Insurance:

    Travelers obtain comprehensive Travel insurance before their trip. Policy coverage should include medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and loss of belongings. Consider SafetyWing for digital nomads or Insubuy for US visitors.

  • 2
    Emergency Services:

    Dial 1669 for medical emergencies (ambulance) and 191 for police. Familiarize yourself with these numbers.

  • 3
    Keep Contacts Accessible:

    Note contact details for your embassy/consulate in Bangkok. For flight compensation, AirHelp might assist.

Drinking Water & Food Hygiene

Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Always choose Bottled water. Consider a Water filter bottle.

Food Safety Tips

  • Exercise caution with street food.
  • Choose stalls with high turnover; food cooked fresh.
  • Observe cleanliness of stall and utensils.

Safe Food Practices

  • Fruits should be peeled before eating.
  • Vegetables need thorough cooking.
  • Busy, popular street food stalls often mean fresh and safe food.

Safety by Neighborhood

Udon Thani is generally a safe city with low violent crime rates. Petty crime occurs in crowded areas like markets or bus stations, especially at night. Awareness of your surroundings helps.

City Center/Shopping Areas

Generally safe day and night. Be aware of valuables in crowded sections.

Night Markets/Entertainment Areas

Lively and generally safe. Awareness of personal belongings. Do not leave bags unattended.

Rural Areas outside the city

Very low crime rates. These areas are isolated, so plan transport and return times.

Emergency Contacts

Keep this information accessible. Police: 191. Tourist Police: 1155. Ambulance: 1669. Fire Department: 199. Your Embassy/Consulate contact details in Bangkok.