The Historic Gateway of Northern Thailand and Land of Durian & Heroic Legends
Uttaradit Province is a historically important province in Northern Thailand, serving as a traditional gateway between Northern and Central Thailand. Known for its role in Thai national history, fertile river plains, mountain forests, and famous durian orchards, Uttaradit blends strategic geography with deep-rooted cultural identity.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Uttaradit has long been a key transit and defense region in Thai history.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| Pre-13th century | Early settlements along Nan River |
| 13th–16th century | Part of Lanna Kingdom |
| 18th century | Integrated into Siam |
| Late 18th century | Home of Phra Si Phanommat (local hero) |
| 1899 | Administrative reforms under Siam |
| 1933 | Established as a modern province |
Uttaradit is strongly associated with Thai patriotism and resistance history.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Uttaradit Province |
| Capital City | Uttaradit |
| Region | Northern Thailand |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~7,838 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~450,000 |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai, Northern Thai (Kham Muang) |
| ISO Code | TH-53 |
⚖️ Government & Administration
Uttaradit operates under Thailand’s standard provincial administration.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Uttaradit Provincial Hall coordinates governance.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Uttaradit
Uttaradit Province consists of 9 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Uttaradit
Tron
Tha Pla
Nam Pat
Fak Tha
Ban Khok
Phichai
Laplae
Thong Saen Khan
These districts include river valleys, agricultural zones, and mountainous border areas.
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: River plains, hills, forested mountains
Major River: Nan River
Borders: Phrae, Nan, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Laos
Natural Features:
Phu Soi Dao National Park
Sirikit Dam & reservoir
Forest reserves & waterfalls
Uttaradit plays a role in northern Thailand’s water management.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Local administration includes:
Uttaradit City Municipality
Town municipalities (Laplae, Tron)
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Local governance balances agriculture, conservation, and urban services.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Uttaradit focuses on:
Agriculture (durian, rice, fruits)
Agro-processing industries
Water resource management
Cultural tourism
Logistics & transport connectivity
The province is famous for Laplae durian, one of Thailand’s best-known varieties.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Uttaradit Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Border & Forestry Units | Border & forest protection |
| Disaster Response Units | Flood & drought management |
Uttaradit is considered a stable and safe province.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Lanna–Central Thai blend |
| Local Language | Kham Muang |
| Folk Traditions | Hero legends & local festivals |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites:
Wat Phra Borommathat Tung Yang
Laplae Old Town
Phra Si Phanommat Monument
Uttaradit culture blends history with agricultural life.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Durian, rice, fruits |
| Energy | Hydropower (Sirikit Dam) |
| Tourism | Cultural & eco-tourism |
| Trade | Regional trade routes |
| Services | Local commerce |
Uttaradit is a key agricultural and water-resource province.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Higher Education | Uttaradit Rajabhat University |
| Vocational Training | Agriculture & industry |
| Major Hospitals | Uttaradit Hospital |
Education supports agriculture and regional development.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Rail | Northern Railway Line |
| Roads | Highway links between north & central Thailand |
| Nearest Airport | Phitsanulok Airport |
Uttaradit is a traditional transport corridor.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions:
Phu Soi Dao National Park
Sirikit Dam
Laplae Old Town
Nan River viewpoints
Local fruit orchards
Uttaradit appeals to eco-tourism and cultural travelers.
🌍 Regional Role
Gateway between Northern & Central Thailand
Agricultural supply province
Hydropower & water management hub
Historical patriotism center
📝 Summary
Uttaradit Province is a land of history, agriculture, and strategic geography. As a northern gateway with rich cultural heritage, fertile lands, and natural resources, Uttaradit plays a vital role in Thailand’s regional development.
📢 News & Articles
“Laplae Durian and Agricultural Branding”
“Sirikit Dam and Water Security”
“Uttaradit’s Role in Northern Transport Networks”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, accurate, and expandable provincial documentation.