The Red Lotus Sea Nong Han Kumphawapi is actually a vital part of Nong Han Kumphawapi, which is the largest natural freshwater lake in Thailand's Northeastern region (Isan) and ranks as the third largest nationwide. This vast wetland covers several districts of Udon Thani Province, primarily Kumphawapi and Prachaksinlapakhom. The lake has an average depth of only about 1 meter and serves as the headwaters of the Pao River.

The extraordinary feature of Nong Han is its incredibly rich and high-level ecosystem, especially due to the aquatic plant species known as the red water lily (Nymphaea lotus), locally called "Bua Daeng." Millions of these flowers flourish across thousands of acres of the shallow lakebed. During the cool season, typically from early December through late February, the blossoms collectively burst open in the early morning, creating a truly spectacular sight. This stunning natural phenomenon has rightfully earned it the nickname "The Red Lotus Sea."

Beyond the red lilies, Nong Han is home to various other aquatic plants and is a critical habitat for a wide array of marine life and migratory birds. Reports indicate that over 74 species of birds reside here—including both local residents and seasonal migrants—making the site an excellent destination for birdwatching alongside the floral spectacle.

The main tourist activity is the boat tour. Visitors can hire tour boats from several main piers, such as the widely popular Ban Diam Pier and Chiang Wae Pier. These services are run by local community groups, ensuring safety standards and providing income to the villages. Boats are available in two main sizes: small boats for 2–3 people and larger vessels for 6–10 people. The route takes visitors through the areas of the lake where the lilies are most densely concentrated, with the tour lasting approximately 1.5 hours per round trip. Visiting in the early morning (before 10 a.m.) is crucial, as the lilies fully open their petals to the sun during this time; as the heat increases, they slowly begin to close. A trip to the Red Lotus Sea thus offers not only a visual feast but also an opportunity to experience the traditional way of life of the local communities surrounding the lake.

• Travel from Udon Thani city by Highway No. 2 (Mittraphap Road) towards Khon Kaen. At kilometer marker 26, turn left onto the Huai Sam Phat-Prachaksilpakom District route. Continue for another 18 kilometers to reach the location of Nong Han Kumphawapi and various service piers.

• Best time to visit: Early morning lotus viewing cruises are recommended, from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM, when the red lotus flowers are in full bloom and the weather is cool.

• Dress code: Bring a sweater, hat, and sunglasses, as the morning air can be chilly and windy during the cruise.

• Boat fare: There are two sizes of boats available: small boats (2-3 seats) and large boats (6-10 seats). Prices vary depending on the number of passengers and the pier. The cruise takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Admission Fees:

• Entry to the Area: There is no admission fee to enter the Nong Han Kumphawapi area itself.

• Boat Service Fee: Visitors must pay a fee for the sightseeing boat tour, which is managed by local community enterprises. Prices may vary slightly depending on the pier and the boat size, but the average rates are as follows:

  • Small Boat Service (2-3 seats): Approximately 100–150 THB per person per trip (some piers may offer a fixed small boat rate of around 300 THB per boat).

  • Large Boat Service (6-10 seats): Approximately 600 THB per boat per trip.

(Note: Boat service prices may be subject to minor changes during each tourism season. Please confirm the exact rates with the boat operators at the service point.)

Opening Hours:

• Boat Service Hours: Boat tours to view the red lotuses are available from 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM (throughout the red lotus blooming season).

• Red Lotus Blooming Season: The lotuses bloom en masse every year during the cool season, typically from December until early March.