Nong Bua Lamphu, a province in Isaan that rarely gets attention from either Thai or foreign tourists, is home to some of the region’s most impressive cave temples, including Erawan Cave, Pha Chor Cave, and Wat Tham Suwannakhuha. It’s a place often overlooked, but not by me.
I spent a few days exploring both the city and its surroundings to see what this underrated province has to offer, and I’ve compiled a list of places you shouldn’t miss. If you’re passing through, you’ll definitely want to check out the places I mention in this travel guide. So without further ado, here’s your complete travel guide to Nong Bua Lamphu:
Nong Bua Lamphu to Do Map
8 Best Things to Do in Nong Bua Lamphu
1. Visit Wat Tham Erawan
The number of stunning cave temples in Nong Bua Lamphu is astounding, and one of the most impressive you should definitely visit is Wat Tham Erawan. Technically, it’s within the jurisdiction of Loei province, but it sits right on the border between the two provinces, and it would be a shame to come all this way and not see it.
What’s especially cool about this temple is that it’s built into a massive opening on the side of a limestone cliff. From miles away, you can spot the huge cliffside hole with a gigantic Buddha image seated in the opening. The moment you see it, you’ll know you’ve found Wat Tham Erawan.
To get up there, you’ll first need to park your car at the temple grounds and check in with the ranger at the trailhead. He’ll likely warn you about the heat and make sure you have a water bottle and enough time to return before closing. It’s free, all you need to do is sign your name, and you’re good to go.
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Once checked in, you can start the hike. The trail takes you up around 600 steps, which should take no more than half an hour to reach the top. It’s a bit steep, but once you’re there, any tiredness instantly fades as you take in the awesome view from the cliff, with the giant Buddha image watching over it all.
If you think that's done, then you will be surprised to see that there's a whole cave system waiting for you to explore as you arrive at the Buddha Image. Right behind the large image, you will find an entrance to a massive cave with stairs going down even further.
You can walk down and explore some of the caverns here. They are illuminated with lights, and the trail is well marked, so as long as you stay on the main path, there is nothing to worry about. Inside, you will find all kinds of fascinating rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites in a variety of shapes.
If you can read Thai, you’ll notice labels describing the names given to these rocks. Some are straightforward, like “Hin Ngok” (a rock that forms from the ground up), while others require a bit more imagination, based on what people think they resemble. I saw one shaped like a bath, another called “Hin Pakarang” (coral reef stone), and more.
You can walk as far as you like, but I only went to the end of the large cavern they call the “Stargaze Room” before heading back, as daylight was fading. The cave temple is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3 PM, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Entry is free.
Where to Stay in Nong Bua Lamphu?
2. Hike Up to the Top of Pha Chor Cave
Not too far from Wat Tham Erawan, you’ll find Pha Chor Cave, another of my favorite cave temples. This one requires you to climb a steep limestone mountain, but the reward is a stunning 360° view of the surroundings, unlike Wat Tham Erawan, where the view is only in one direction. Of all the cave temples I’ve visited here, the view from Pha Chor Cave is by far the best.
To get to the viewpoint, you can park your car at the temple ground and proceed to the trailhead where the 2 multi-headed nagas are flanked on both sides. For this hike, it is a bit steeper than Wat Erawan as you are climbing up stairs that go straight up a rugged karst cliff. Without rest, it should take you about 15 minutes to get to the first stop, which is a cave called "Phi Du", which translates to "very haunted cave" 😅, haha.
At the cave, you'll find a beautiful Buddha image perfectly positioned so that sunlight filters through the rocks and trees to illuminate it. To the side, there's an entrance to Phi Du Cave. You can explore a short distance inside, but the path beyond is no longer maintained, and I don't recommend going further.
The cave leads to a vertical drop that opens on the other side of the mountain. It is a huge drop with no easy way back up, so it’s best to enjoy the cavern from the end of the trail and then continue to the viewpoint, just another three minutes of hiking before you reach the top.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible 360° panoramic view of the surroundings, endless plains of rice fields stretching to the horizon, dotted with towns, villages, and rugged limestone mountains scattered across Nong Bua Lamphu. It’s a sight that will truly take your breath away!
Pha Chor Cave is definitely one of my favorite hikes in Nong Bua Lamphu. If you’re looking for something active to do, be sure to hike here. The cave temple is technically open 24/7, but I recommend visiting during daylight hours since the hike involves going into a cave. Aim to be there between 8 AM and 5 PM. Entry is free, of course.
3. Check Out Wat Tham Suwannakhuha
Next, we visit Wat Tham Suwannakhuha, another beautiful temple built into the side of a limestone cliff, but this time at ground level, unlike the other cave temples on this list that are perched high up in the mountains.
The temple is surrounded by beautiful limestone mountains and a lake, with a new pagoda currently being built beside the water. The temple structure is integrated right into the cave itself, with the shrine positioned at the cliff's opening. On weekends, you'll often find many locals coming here to make merit.
Along the side of the cliff, there are several small shrines housing multiple Buddha images that you can explore, as well as a moss-covered nature trail that feels like it has been lifted straight from a fairy tale. I really like this temple. It’s peaceful, easy to access, and offers a unique experience you don't come across every day.
If you’re looking for a nice and accessible cave temple to visit in Nong Bua Lamphu, Wat Tham Suwannakhuha is a great choice. The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5:45 PM, and entry is free.
4. Enjoy the Sunset at Phu Phan Noi
If you’re looking for a great viewpoint to watch the sunset in Nong Bua Lamphu, I highly recommend Phu Phan Noi. This cliffside viewpoint is located inside Bua Ban Forest Park, not far from the main highway connecting Nong Bua Lamphu and Udon Thani. I visited on a weekday evening, and it was incredibly peaceful with very few people around.
At the viewpoint, you will get a stunning 180° view of the forests and rice fields of Nong Bua Lamphu. You can even see Nong Bua Lamphu City from up here. Since the viewpoint is facing west, you are going to have a really great vantage point for the sunset here.
Once you arrive at the park, be sure to park your car at Phu Phan Noi and head to this viewing platform, located just south of the cliff. You’ll walk along an elevated wooden path that runs parallel to the cliff, and when you reach the platform, you’ll find a completely unobstructed view of the surroundings, unlike the main Phu Phan Noi viewpoint, which has a few trees partially blocking the view.
There are also places to sit and relax while you enjoy the view. It can get quite busy at sunset, but when I visited on an early weekday evening, I spent a solid 30 minutes on the platform with no other tourists around. It was an incredible experience!
This is one of the best viewpoints you’ll find in Nong Bua Lamphu, so be sure not to miss it. The park is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, and entry is free. When you visit, make sure to walk all the way to the platform I mentioned earlier, as many people miss the best part of the forest park!
5. Drop by 150 Million Year Old Stone Shell Museum
Not many people know this, but many dinosaur fossils in Thailand have been discovered in this area of Isaan, stretching from Nong Bua Lamphu to Khon Kaen and Kalasin. One museum that houses a collection of these fossils and is worth a visit is the 150 Million Year Old Stone Shell Museum, located just off the highway between Nong Bua Lamphu and Udon Thani.
The museum is located inside a park, a lovely shaded area filled with animatronic dinosaurs that are sure to delight the inner child in all of us. The main attraction is inside this building, where you’ll find the most impressive animatronic Tyrannosaurus, featuring the most complex movements of all the animatronics here. It’s definitely worth checking out!
On the opposite side of the building, you’ll find the actual room where they store their collection of 50 Million Year Old Stone Shells. It’s a small, cramped, air-conditioned space where you can view the shells up close, but keep your expectations low. I didn’t find it nearly as impressive as the awesome animatronic Tyrannosaurus, though maybe that’s just the kid in me geeking out 😂.
The museum is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM every day except Mondays, and the entrance fee is 100 THB per person. If you are passing through here and looking for a place to kill some time, be sure to come and check out the 150 Million Year Old Stone Shell Museum.
6. Explore Wat Tham Klong Phle
Wat Tham Klong Phle is another cave temple in Nong Bua Lamphu that’s worth a visit. It features intricate Buddha images carved into the rock, a collection of petrified wood, and a peaceful, inviting atmosphere that makes it a lovely place to explore.
The temple is located not far from the 150 Million Year Old Stone Shell Museum and Ban Huay Dua Jungle Market, so it’s easy to stop by while exploring the area. The temple is built around massive piles of rock, with many features integrated into the rock face itself, such as intricately carved Buddha images.
It’s quite different from the other cave temples on this list, which often require climbing, hiking, or driving far from the main highway. This one is the most accessible of all, which makes it a great place to drop by. The temple is open daily from 5 AM to 6 PM, and entry is free.
7. Visit Ban Huay Dua Jungle Market
If you are visiting the 150 Million Year Old Stone Shell Museum, Ban Huay Dua is a pretty interesting place to stop as it is located right next to the museum and it is a bustling market selling all kinds of fresh produce straight from the jungle. There are many markets in Thailand, but not many focus on selling jungle produce like here.
While many stalls offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, the real intrigue comes from offerings harvested from the nearby forest. You’ll find “wildlife” both alive and prepared as local delicacies, including live coconut worms, frogs, lamprey, ant eggs, and more.
It’s a great place to take a break and stretch your legs as you travel between Nong Bua Lamphu and Udon Thani. The market is open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM, so be sure to drop by and check out Ban Huay Dua Jungle Market.
8. Drop by Wat Charoen Song Tham
Last but not least, if you are planning to drive from Nong Bua Lamphu to Khon Kaen, one of the larger and most popular cities to visit in Isaan, you might want to drop by and check out Wat Charoen Song Tham.
What's cool about this temple is its traditional Isan-style ubosot (ordination hall), which stands out due to its unique wooden construction and intricate carvings. The high roof design not only facilitates natural ventilation but also features ornate gables adorned with delicate depictions of Garudas, mythical bird creatures significant in Thai mythology.
Inside the ubosot, you will find the meditating Buddha image called 'Phra Kino', but other than that, it's the outside that's most impressive for me. How often do you get to see a temple built like this? They don't make them like this anymore. If you are passing through this way, be sure to drop by Wat Charoen Song Tham. It's open from 6 AM to 6 PM daily, and entry is free.
How to Get to Nong Bua Lamphu?
By Flight: The fastest way to get to Nong Bua Lamphu is to fly from Bangkok to Udon Thani Airport operated by AirAsia and it should take about one hour. You can browse more flights via Skyscanner.
Once you arrive, you can rent a car from the airport and drive to Nong Bua Lamphu, which takes about 1 hour. Nong Bua Lamphu is not big, so you can visit it as a day trip from Udon Thani as well if you wish to stay there overnight. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars or one of the many car rental kiosks near the airport's exit.
By Bus: You can also take a bus from Bangkok to Nong Bua Lamphu. The bus typically leaves from Morchit Bus Terminal and will drop you off at Nong Bua Lamphu Bus Terminal in about 8 hours. The price is about 650 THB and you can find the schedule and book online here.
From the bus terminal, you can easily find a motorbike taxi or a Sam Lor (three-wheeler) to take you to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can rent a car from this shop located inside the terminal. Rental prices for a small car start at around 900 THB per day. It's best to contact them in advance via Line, as rental shops in smaller provinces may or may not be open when you arrive.
By Car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can also drive from Bangkok to Nong Bua Lamphu. The journey should take about 8 hours depending on the traffic. A bit faster than the bus and you can stop at any places along the way. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars.
How to Get Around Nong Bua Lamphu?
By Car: The best way to get around Nong Bua Lamphu is by renting a car and driving around the province. You can rent a car at Udon Thani Airport or the Nong Bua Lamphu Bus Terminal, depending on how you arrive. You can also rent one straight from Bangkok’s airports and drive up here. It’s a long journey, but if you have the time, there’s plenty to see along the way. You can book a rental through DiscoverCars.
What to Pack for Nong Bua Lamphu?
As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Nong Bua Lamphu, Thailand:
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
- Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
- Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi's jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
- Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It's lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker's towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
- Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Nong Bua Lamphu, Thailand in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.
- Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
- Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It's a total game-changer.
- Universal Adapter: You'll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
- Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It's large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it's stylish as hell!
- Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can't go wrong with Osprey.
For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.
Now that we have all the information we need, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are some resources to help you get going:
Are you planning to travel independently? Be sure to check out my guide on How To Plan A Backpacking Trip here.
Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand
Looking for more information about your trip to Northeastern Thailand? Here are a collection of articles about Northeastern Thailand that you might find useful:
- Tired of the well-trodden parts of Thailand and looking to really go off the beaten path? How about a road trip around Isaan? My itinerary covers all 20 provinces in the Isaan region, and more, so be sure to check it out: One Month Itinerary for Isaan.
- As the gateway to Isaan, you can't travel to the region without passing through Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat for short. To help guide you through the province, check out 10 Impressive Things to Do in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).
- Home to Phanom Rung, one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand, Buriram is an awesome place to visit as you explore Southern Isaan. If you plan to visit Buriram, check out Discover Buriram: 11 Awesome Things to Do and More.
- One of the best times to visit Phanom Rung is during the Phanom Rung Festival, where you'll find parades, light and sound shows, and more. Here's a complete guide to visiting the Phanom Rung Festival: Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide
- Passing through Surin and wondering what to do? Check out this travel guide: Visit Surin: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More
- Curious about the coolest things to do in Si Saket? Check out: Discover Si Saket: 11 Amazing Things to Do and More
- One of the best places to visit in Isaan is Ubon Ratchathani. If you're looking for things to do there, check out: Ubon Ratchathani: 14 Amazing Things to Do and More
- If you're passing through Ubon Ratchathani and only have time to explore the city, be sure to check out: Ubon City Guide: 10 Best Things to Do and More
- Planning to cross the land border between Thailand and Cambodia to visit Siem Reap? You might want to stop by Sa Kaeo, a Thai border province full of awesome things to do. For the full guide, check out: Exploring Sa Kaeo: 8 Best Things to Do and More
- Come explore the lesser-known mountainous region of Phetchabun with this travel guide: Discover Phetchabun: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More.
- Tired of the constant heat in Thailand? Escape to the cool mountains of Khao Kho with this guide: A Complete Travel Guide to Khao Kho.
- As a gateway to the mountains of Phetchabun, Lom Sak is the perfect place to stop by before you head into the mountains. For a complete travel guide, check out: A Complete Travel Guide to Lom Sak.
- Want to explore Loei and its mountainous scenery and vibrant culture? Check this out: Exploring Loei: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Looking to explore Chiang Khan and its wonderful tourist attractions? You are going to need this travel guide: Chiang Khan Travel Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Want to experience the colorful Phi Ta Khon Festival, where locals wear elaborate costumes and ghost masks? Check out this guide: Phi Ta Khon Festival: A Complete Travel Guide.
- Nong Khai is often overlooked by many travelers traveling between Thailand and Laos, but there's so much to do here. If you are interested to explore more of the frontier province of Nong Khai, check out: Explore Nong Khai: 12 Best Things to Do & More.
- Bueng Kan is emerging as Isaan’s new adventure hotspot, known for the famous Naka Cave, Phu Tok mountain, scenic waterfalls, and more. If you're planning a trip to Bueng Kan, don't miss this: Discover Bueng Kan: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- The walking street and riverside views along the Mekong in Nakhon Phanom are absolutely legendary, and a must-visit in Isaan. If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss my full guide here: Visit Nakhon Phanom: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Sleepy Sakon Nakhon is full of surprises—from the colonial French buildings of Tha Rae Village to hidden Khmer temples tucked away in the jungle. Check out this complete travel guide to Sakon Nakhon: Exploring Sakon Nakhon: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Udon Thani is a big city with tons of things to do. If you plan to visit Udon Thani, be sure to check out this travel guide: Discover Udon Thani: 10 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- Khon Kaen is a big province with plenty to do. If you want to visit but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you: Discover Khon Kaen: 12 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- Kalasin may be a small province in Isaan, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. If you’re passing through, be sure to check this out: Kalasin Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Mukdahan may not be as popular as other Mekong towns like Chiang Khan or Nakhon Phanom, but it offers a laid-back vibe and chill atmosphere unlike its larger counterparts. Don’t skip Mukdahan! Here’s a complete travel guide to help you explore this lovely province: Exploring Mukdahan: 10 Cool Things to Do & More.
- If you are passing through Amnat Charoen and are wondering what there is to do there, then check out this guide: Visit Amnat Charoen: 9 Best Things to Do & More.
- Yasothon is where the famous Bun Bung Fai Festival or rocket festival takes place, and it's home to some really charming Isaan attractions not many people know about. Here's a complete guide to Yasothon: Discover Yasothon: 10 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Roi Et is definitely one of my favorite provinces in Isaan, thanks to its beautiful and modern city center, iconic landmarks like the Roi Et Tower, and more. If you’re interested in visiting Roi Et, be sure to check out Explore Roi Et: 12 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you are wondering what to do in Maha Sarakham, this guide is for you: Visiting Maha Sarakham: 9 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you like mountains and are looking for a true hidden gem of Isaan, which is already a hidden gem in itself, you might want to check out Chaiyaphum, all as I called it the land of beautiful cliffs. Here's a complete guide to Chaiyaphum: Discover Chaiyaphum: 12 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Interested in learning more about the unique music of Isaan? Check out this guide: The Sounds of Isaan: Thai Psychedelic Music Unknown to Many – A Guide to Mor Lam.
- Looking for a complete travel guide to Southeast Asia? You should check out our 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary for Southeast Asia.
- Looking for an itinerary for Thailand? Check out One Month Itinerary for Thailand.
- If you are traveling to Thailand, it is important for you to know what you should and shouldn't do. Here are 10 Tips for Traveling in Thailand.
- Thai Street Foods are among the best in the world, and to help guide you through the street food cuisine of Thailand, be sure to check out the 15 Best Street Foods in Thailand to Try.
- Learning a bit of Thai phrases will go a long way for you when you visit Thailand. Here are 15 Thai Phrases You Should Know.
- Photos are worth a thousand words, but what is worth more than photos? A video. Here are travel videos I made for Thailand: Timeless Thailand, a journey into the North of Thailand, Long Tail Thailand, exploring the beautiful south of Thailand, and taking it slow with Slowed Down Bangkok travel video.
- Wondering where to go after Thailand? How about continuing on to Malaysia, Myanmar, or Indonesia?
- Want to explore other parts of Thailand? How about exploring Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Central Thailand?
- Want to travel from Thailand to Vientiane, Laos? Check this guide out: How to Get From Thailand to Vientiane, Laos & Vice Versa.
- Looking to cross the border from Thailand to Pakse in Southern Laos? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Ubon Ratchathani to Pakse, Laos, and Vice Versa.
- Want to cross the border from Mukdahan to Savannakhet in Laos and vice versa? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Mukdahan to Savannakhet, Laos & Vice Versa.
- For all articles about Thailand, visit the Thailand Travel Guide page.
- Looking to travel to Southeast Asia? Check out all my articles about Southeast Asia here: Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
- You can see all my Asia-related articles here: Asia Travel Guide page.
- For more of my travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.
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