Nong Prajak Park and Lake
สวนสาธารณะ หนองประจักษ์
A large urban lake set within one of Udon Thani’s most attractive and lively public parks.
Why Go
- Pleasant walking, cycling, or jogging
- Beautiful sunsets
- A good choice of places to eat or relax
Nong Prajak Lake is a large urban lake that was improved and landscaped in 1987. It’s an enjoyable place to visit at any time of day, but it really comes to life in the early evening as locals arrive to exercise, meet friends, or simply enjoy the cooler air.
The park is famous for its oversized yellow plastic ducks, which attract enthusiastic selfie-takers — though, as you’ll see later, they’re not entirely without risk. Another photogenic feature is a group of large decorative jars inspired by the famous Ban Chiang pottery.
A 3 km jogging and cycling track circles the lake and is especially busy in the evening. One important local rule: if you’re jogging or cycling, you’re expected to go anti-clockwise. Ignore this and you may attract puzzled looks or even comments — unusual in normally tolerant Thailand.
On the western side of the lake there is an island-like peninsula with a car park and a children’s playground. However, most activity is concentrated along the eastern side and the north-eastern corner. Tasa Road, which runs along the eastern edge, is lined with massage stalls, fruit juice sellers, and other health-focused offerings.
At the north-eastern corner you’ll find a popular open-air food court, ideal for evening snacks. Along the northern edge of the lake there are several established restaurants, including the large and highly regarded Rabiang Phatchani.
Location & Map
Udon Thani city centre. Reached by foot, tuktuk, or Grab taxi.
What to Do There
| Activity | Notes |
|---|---|
| Selfies and sunset watching | Very photogenic |
| Jogging or cycling | Join in — or just watch the parade |
| Eating and relaxing | Restaurants and open-air food stalls |
Cost & Practical Info
- Best time to visit: Open all year; best in the evening
- Opening times: All day
- Admission: Free
- Facilities: Parking, toilets, restaurants, food stalls
The Duck Attacks!
The giant plastic ducks are a major attraction for selfie-obsessed locals and visitors alike. However, around 20 years ago one of the ducks was caught by a freak gust of wind. It broke free, took off across the lake, and made for the shore — where it flew along a line of parked motorbikes, knocking them over one by one.
The duck eventually met a sorry and deflating end after becoming impaled on a lamppost. One assumes they are now rather more securely anchored.
Photo Gallery
Udon Thani Uncovered 