Red Lotus Lake, Udon Thani Thailand

The Red Lotus Lake (Talay Bua Dang; in Thai: ทะเลบัวแดง) is one of Udon Thani’s most popular tourist destinations, not only with foreigners, but also with the local Thais, as the lake is a great source of pride for the people of Udon Thani. Located in Kumphawapi district, about 40 kilometers from the city, the Red Lotus lake takes up an amazing 600 square acres, and if you have the privilege of visiting it yourself, it’s certainly a breathtaking sight: dazzling pink lotuses budding and blooming on the top of the water as far as the eye can see in all directions.

The best time to try out this experience is in the morning (while the sun is bright, but not yet too hot) during the months of December to February. Typically you can get a boat ride for around forty minutes, costing about 300 baht. The boats are small, but can carry 6-8 people, so it’s a great choice for a family (for those with kids–don’t worry, life jackets will be provided for you as well).

The Red Lotus Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Udon Thani, from the acres of glittering water to the fantastic lotuses in their varying stages of bloom, but besides flowers, you may also see various unique birds and aquatic animals.

The lotus flower has special significance to the Thai people. In Buddhism, the lotus flower symbolizes purity, faithfulness and spiritual awakening, and these flowers are often used by the Thai people in Buddhist prayer and other ceremonies/traditions. The pink lotus, in particular, represents the Buddha. Besides the religious significance, every part of the lotus plant is edible, and Thai people often prepare them in their meals–lotus seeds are a popular snack.

If you’re interested in checking out the Red Lotus Lake, it is definitely a great place for family photos and create memories that you are sure to carry with you for the rest of your life.