Nam Som
,Nam Som is a small district located in the northern part of Thailand, in the province of Udon Thani. The district is known for its picturesque natural surroundings, including lush forests, mountains, and rivers. Agriculture is a key economic activity in Nam Som, with rice paddies and vegetable farming being prominent.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring local waterfalls in the area.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Nam Som
morning
:Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste some traditional Thai breakfast. Stroll around the quaint streets and take photos of the charming scenery.
afternoon
:Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café, savoring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon at nearby waterfalls, where you can swim and explore nature.
evening
:Dine at a riverside restaurant, sampling authentic Thai cuisine while enjoying views of the sunset. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank.
Nature Adventures
morning
:Start your day early with a trek into the lush forests surrounding Nam Som. Enjoy the cool breeze and the sounds of nature as you hike.
afternoon
:After your trek, picnic with packed lunches amid beautiful scenery. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or photographing the unique flora and fauna.
evening
:Return to town and unwind at a local food stall. Engage with friendly locals and try their homemade snacks and desserts.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery with stunning landscapes and waterfalls.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditional markets.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture.
- Affordable accommodation and dining options.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring caves, and visiting nearby national parks.
Bad
- Limited public transportation options, making it challenging to get around without a vehicle.
- Less developed tourism infrastructure compared to more popular destinations in Thailand.
- Milder nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for those who do not speak Thai.
- Risk of seasonal flooding affecting accessibility during certain months.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Trekking in Phu Phan National Park
Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Phu Phan National Park through various trekking trails that cater to different skill levels.
Cycling around Nam Som
Enjoy a scenic bicycle ride through the beautiful countryside and local villages, taking in the sights and experiencing the culture of the area.
Fishing in the Mekong River
Spend a relaxing day fishing in the Mekong River, where you can catch various species of fish while enjoying the serene environment.
Visiting local markets
Experience the vibrant local culture by visiting markets in Nam Som, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.
Picnicking at Nong Phok Lake
Pack a picnic and spend a day by Nong Phok Lake, where you can enjoy the peaceful setting and engage in various water activities.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Nam Som with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Phu Phan National Park
Known for its stunning landscapes, Phu Phan National Park offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The park is adorned with waterfalls, hiking trails, and unique rock formations, making it a great spot for photography.
Nam Som Dam
The Nam Som Dam is a picturesque location surrounded by serene water views and lush vegetation. It’s an ideal spot for capturing reflections and scenic shots, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Wat Phra That Nam Som
This temple provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a great place to capture both cultural and natural beauty in your photographs. Its intricate architecture and the surrounding landscape make it a visually compelling location.
Local Rice Fields
The rice fields around Nam Som showcase the region's agricultural beauty, especially during planting and harvest seasons. The vibrant green fields offer stunning contrasts against the sky, ideal for landscape photography.
Ban Na Soi Viewpoint
A popular viewpoint that overlooks the scenic hills and valleys of Nam Som. It’s a perfect spot for panoramic photography, especially in the golden hours of morning and evening.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kaeng Om
A hearty and aromatic soup made with a variety of herbs, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood. It's a staple dish in Nam Som and can be found in local eateries such as Baan Suan and Saengchai Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Laap
A spicy minced meat salad mixed with fresh herbs, lime juice, and fish sauce, giving it a zesty and refreshing taste. Laap is a must-try, and you can savor the best at the bustling street stalls in the town center.
Sai Oua
Northern Thai sausage packed with fragrant spices and herbs, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. You can feast on Sai Oua at Phu Pha Thoep National Park Market and the weekend market near Mekong River.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nam Som better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Nam Som Market
This local market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a vast array of fresh produce, local snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic Lao and Thai street food prepared right before your eyes.
Chom Chan Street Food Stalls
Nestled in the heart of Nam Som, this bustling street food area is a go-to spot for experiencing the town's culinary delights. From sizzling stir-fries to spicy soups, the street food stalls here cater to every craving around the clock.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Nam Som, as in much of Thailand, showing respect to elders is crucial. Always use polite language and deferential gestures when interacting with older individuals.
Removing Shoes
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain places of worship. Always observe this practice to show respect for local customs.
Politeness in Communication
Thais value politeness and soft-spoken interactions. Using 'krap' (for males) or 'ka' (for females) at the end of sentences demonstrates respect and politeness in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nam Som with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Nam Som, Thailand, tipping is not a common practice but is appreciated. It is generally expected in restaurants and for services like taxi rides or hotel staff. A small tip, usually rounding up the bill or leaving small change, is considered enough. In more upscale establishments, a tip of around 10% may be appropriate.
Payment
Payment methods in Nam Som vary, with cash being widely accepted. Many establishments, including local markets and small restaurants, primarily deal in cash. However, credit and debit cards are accepted in larger businesses, tourist areas, and some restaurants. Mobile payment options are also gaining popularity in urban locations, but it's always good to have cash on hand, especially in rural areas.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nam Som.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter (November to February)
This is considered the best time to visit Nam Som, Thailand, as the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the local sights.
Hot Season (March to May)
During this period, temperatures can rise significantly, often exceeding 35°C (95°F). While it can be quite hot, mornings and evenings are still enjoyable for sightseeing. Expect some locals to take a break from outdoor activities during the peak heat hours.
Rainy Season (June to October)
This season is characterized by heavy rainfall, particularly in September and October. While the greenery of the region flourishes, travel may be affected by occasional flooding and muddy conditions. Expect fewer tourists, and it can be a good time for budget travel and experiencing local culture.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Phu Kradueng National Park
A popular hiking destination with beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna, located about 120 km from Nam Som.
Khao Yai National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers numerous hiking trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, situated approximately 150 km from Nam Som.
Phu Ruea National Park
Known for its cool climate and scenic vistas, this park features several hiking trails and is located around 70 km from Nam Som.
Suan Phueng
A lesser-known hiking area that combines hiking with beautiful nature views, located about 100 km from Nam Som.
Doi Phu Nang National Park
Home to various trails with breathtaking views, this park is approximately 85 km from Nam Som, making it a perfect day trip for hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nam Som through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Nam Som by plane.
Udon Thani International Airport (UDN)
Located approximately 60 kilometers from Nam Som, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (NAK)
About 90 kilometers from Nam Som, this airport mainly serves regional flights.
Khon Kaen Airport (KKC)
Approximately 100 kilometers away, this airport provides domestic services and some international flights.
Loei Airport (LOE)
Located around 120 kilometers from Nam Som, this airport mainly caters to regional flights.
Sakon Nakhon Airport (SNO)
Situated about 130 kilometers from Nam Som, this airport serves domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Thai
The majority ethnic group in Nam Som, comprising the largest demographic with cultural and linguistic significance.
Lao
A significant ethnic presence in the region, often sharing cultural ties with the Thai population.
Chinese
A smaller demographic that contributes to commerce and trade in Nam Som.
Khmer
Another ethnic group present, typically found in small numbers, with cultural influences from neighboring Cambodia.
The Soul of Nam Som
Discover the essence of Nam Som through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Muay Thai
A traditional martial art and combat sport from Thailand that uses stand-up striking along with various clinching techniques.
Football (Soccer)
A widely popular team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net.
Volleyball
A team sport where two teams, separated by a net, score points by hitting a ball over the net and into the opposing team's court.
Sepak Takraw
A popular sport in Southeast Asia, resembling volleyball but played with a rattan ball, with players using feet, head, knees, and chest to hit the ball over a net.
Basketball
A competitive team sport where players aim to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Nam Som cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, several eateries in town, such as Baan Ouan and J Garden, offer an array of delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes crafted with fresh produce and aromatic spices.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can indulge in a variety of gluten-free dishes at Nong Khai Restaurant and Krua Luang. These establishments are known for their accommodating attitudes toward dietary preferences and offer flavorful gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nam Som with these cultural adventures.
