Sunday, August 4, 2024 The Thai government, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and local citizens, is celebrating the designation of Phu Phrabat Historical Park as Thailand’s eighth UNESCO World Heritage site, and the second in Udon Thani, a northeastern province. This recent inclusion was announced at the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee on July 27, 2024, in New Delhi, India. For travelers keen on delving into Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, a trip to Phu Phrabat Historical Park, located in the lesser-known Ban Phue District of Udon Thani, is highly recommended.
This site, now recognized globally, is notable for its extensive collection of Sīma stones, unique rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and sandstone sculptures, all of which exemplify the Sīma stone tradition from the Dvaravati period. The citation also said , “While sacred boundary markers for areas of Theravada Buddhist monastic practice vary in materials, extensive use of stones is found only in the Khorat Plateau region in Southeast Asia.” This addition brings Thailand’s UNESCO World Heritage tally to eight, including five cultural and three natural sites.
The cultural heritage sites include the Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns, Historic City of Ayutthaya, Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, The Ancient Town of Si Thep with its Dvaravati Monuments, and now, Phu Phrabat Historical Park. The natural sites are Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, and Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex. Udon Thani, with its two cultural heritage sites—Phu Phrabat and the earlier recognized Ban Chiang Archaeological Site—has become a pivotal region for cultural tourism.
The province is also renowned for its vibrant cultural offerings, including the stunning Red Lotus Sea, traditional Pha Khit silk weaving, and a dynamic food scene, having been featured in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand since 2023. As a key logistical and trading hub in the Upper Northeast, Udon Thani is accessible via both air and land, serving as a gateway to the CLMV countries..
