Wesmile Magazine July 2018

TRAVEL
NONG HAN
RED LOTUS LAKE
A LAKE WITH CNN RANKING
Northeast Thailand, normally
labelled as an arid region, has
an otherworldly attraction that
combines the beauty of a tropical
flower garden and the serenity
of a lake in Udon Thani province
during December - February. This
spectacular site is home to millions
of pink water lilies, a sacred flower
in Ancient Egypt, and appropriately
named the Red Lotus Lake -Talay
Bua Daeng, officially named Nong
Han at Kumphawapi district. Other
than the vast numbers of flowers
present, the Red Lotus Lake also
holds the position of the world’s
second strangest lakes by CNN. It
covers a large area of 600 square
acres providing livelihood to over 60
villages around it. The water comes
from 6 different creeks. Thus the lake
is never dry all year round.
The lake is also home of many
kinds of fishes, shellfish and different
species of birds. The stems of the
lilies are edible and can be used as
an ingredient of variety of delicious
dishes such as som tum, spicy
salad, and curries. The roots can be
used for drinks and has a cooling
effect. During the cool season this
pink blanket of lilies provides a
picturesque scenery, especially
during sunrise. Visitors in small boats
come here as early as 6am when the
flowers are in full bloom. The air is
very fresh in the morning with birds
flocking in the sky. Fishermen also
start their day at this time.
Nature should be thanked for
providing such a fascinating spot in
Thailand.
People should preserve this
pink paradise, a must-visit place in
Udon Thani.
HOW TO GET THERE
THAI Smile flies direct daily to Udon
Thani city (www.thaismileair.com).
The Red Lotus Lake is at Baan Diem,
Chiangwae, Kumphawapi district.
From Udon Thani city take Highway
2 .At 26km turn left along the
local road, Huay-sampad-Prajaksilpakom
for about 18 km until you
reach the lake. Best time to visit
and take a boat ride is from 6.00-
10.30am, when the lilies are in full
bloom and the weather is not too
hot. For boat rides please contact
the Nong Han Travel Service
tel. 089-395-0871, 083-349-5673
54
July 2018