Enjoy a Thrilling Trip to Ubolrat Dam, Khon Kaen

Enjoy a Thrilling Trip to Ubolrat Dam, Khon Kaen with mr.hotsia

When talking about Khon Kaen province, many people think of a big city full of development and the warm lifestyle of Isan people. But for mr.hotsia, this trip I chose to head out of town towards “Ubolrat Dam,” also known to many as “Nam Phong Dam,” a natural tourist attraction that hides the vastness of the lake for us to fully experience.

Ubolrat Dam is located about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Khon Kaen city. The road up to the dam is increasingly steep, passing through Ubolrat district, a small peaceful community and the starting point of my nature adventure this time.

Two Zones, Two Atmospheres at Ubolrat Dam

This dam is divided into two main zones that are completely different. The first zone is the lower area, which is the large lake above the dam with dozens of floating food rafts on the water surface. The atmosphere is filled with the sounds of laughter and conversations of locals who enjoy sitting and eating together joyfully. I didn’t miss the chance to sip cold beer along with spicy papaya salad by the lakeside, a moment that truly made me feel the lifestyle of Khon Kaen people.

The second zone is the upper dam ridge area, where local houses are located, including accommodations for tourists who want to fully immerse themselves in nature. Although I didn’t stay here, I stopped by to walk and enjoy the dam ridge view that overlooks the lake stretching as far as the eye can see. The lake’s vastness here is extraordinary, extending up to 30 kilometers long, and at some points, I roughly estimated the width to be about 13 kilometers.

Nam Phong Dam, the Origin of the Chi River

Another discovery that excited mr.hotsia is that this dam is not just an ordinary water reservoir but also the source of the Chi River, an important river flowing through the Isan region. Ubolrat Dam functions to store water from the Phong River, which joins with the Bat River to become the Chi River, vital for agriculture and communities around the area.

Road Trip Continuing from Ubolrat Dam

After recharging with papaya salad and cold beer by the lake, I drove north from the dam along Highway 2146 heading to Nong Bua Lamphu province before continuing to Udon Thani city to spend a night resting and exploring the city. I enjoy traveling like this because it feels like an adventure that gradually builds excitement and reveals the beauty of Isan step by step.

Nature Blended with Local Lifestyle

Along the way and in Ubolrat district itself, I saw the simple yet warm lifestyle of the locals. People here still live relying mainly on nature and the Phong River. I saw villagers fishing and practicing traditional farming, a rare and beautiful sight in an era where big cities are rapidly growing.

Stop to Taste Local Khon Kaen Food

Before heading back to the city, I didn’t miss the chance to try local dishes in Khon Kaen city, which has many great restaurants, such asNoi Lab Pedwhere I stopped to eat spicy duck larb, spicy duck soup, and crispy fried duck bones—so delicious I had to recommend it. Or if you want to start your morning like a true Khon Kaen local, I recommendJok Jab Senwhich offers porridge and noodle soup with flavors hard to find elsewhere.

Stroll Khon Kaen Walking Street to Complete Your Day

In the evening, before returning to my accommodation, I took a walk atKhon Kaen Walking Streetwhich is lively and colorful, comparable to famous walking streets in other cities. Here, you can find a variety of food, goods, and local products to browse and buy. The atmosphere is full of friendliness from Khon Kaen people and shows the community’s cooperation in creating this walking street.

An Unforgettable Experience with mr.hotsia

For me, visiting Ubolrat Dam this time was not just a trip to see natural views but also an opportunity to learn about the true lifestyle and culture of Isan people. Nam Phong Dam is not just a dam but a major lifeline that nourishes the lives and bonds of the surrounding communities. If you want to experience the vastness of nature along with the warmth of Isan people, I highly recommend coming here.

If you have more time, don’t forget to visitThe History of Khon Kaen City Pillar ShrineOr if you want some light exercise like me, check outTennis Courts in Khon Kaen Provincewhere I once played with my favorite orange Boris Becker tennis racket. It will surely make your Khon Kaen trip more complete.