Blur in the Train Window
Uttaradit, population 168,000, once an important trading center on the Nan River, and a battlefront against the constantly invading Burmese, is now more commonly known to Thailand’s visitors as a train station on the busy route to Chiang Mai. Few people get off here to explore this unassuming city and surrounding province. Nonetheless, there is a handful of modest attractions for visitors to explore.

Wood to Fruit
Before the nationwide teak-cutting ban in 1982, this coveted wood played a major role in the local economy. Now the area is far more dependent on the production of langsat fruit and the massive Sirikit Dam that holds back the Nan River.

However, because of the logging ban, there are still teak forests in Ton Sak Yai Park, including the largest teak tree in the world, with a circumference of nearly 10 meters. This tree has a number of hefty younger brothers as well, which should hopefully flourish under the ban.

Fruity Celebration
Even if you’ve never heard of langsat fruit, all are welcome at the annual Langsat Festival at the end of September, which includes beauty contests, dancing, singing, revelry – and lots of langsat fruit. Unlike many other better-known festivals, this one does not pander to tourists, so you know you are getting the genuine article.