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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's 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's 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.
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