During the cool season in Thailand (between November-February) there are many reasons that a visitor may want to travel to Isaan (also Isan or Isarn), Thailand’s north east region. Among the many sights and interesting attractions is Ban Diem village, Kumphawapi District, in Udon Thani province. Every year Ban Diem becomes a local spectacle as Nong Han, the vast adjoining lake, turns to pink with thousands of Water Lilies (locally know as Bua Daeng or Bua Sai). Bua Daeng or the water lily grows easily and spreads naturally in the lake and each year from November to March the beautiful Bua Daeng blossom to a stunning pink display that, once seen, you will never forget.

According to legend “Pha Daeng-Nang Ai”, the location of Nong Han Lake, was once a town governed by the King of Khmer and was cursed to be flooded forever by the Naga (Thai Dragon) named Phang Khee who deeply fell in love with Nang Ai, the daughter of the Khmer King. The Naga became very disappointed when he altered himself into a cute white squirrel before presenting himself to Nang Ai; but she did not love him and ordered a hunter to kill him because she wanted to taste the white squirrel meat. As legend goes, before he died Phang Khee cursed all people who ate his meat to be drowned and the city to be flooded forever.

With an area of 22,500 Rai (about 36 sq. km.), Nong Han Lake provides a rich abundance of natural resources. Many people in the area rely on the lake for their livelihoods; mainly from fishing and indirectly as a source of water for their crops. Also, the locals are strong in their desire to preserve their natural resources.

If you get a chance to visit Nong Han in the early morning, you will often see a foggy mist above the lake until it is burned off by the rays of the sun. After the fog lifts, the thousands of Bua Daeng (water lily) appear and open up the day with their bright pink display.

Bua Daeng is a beautiful and elegant floating flower. The contrasting colors of the vibrant pink petals and the vivid green mat of lily pads provide a visual feast and its fragrance will bring a sense of vigor. When the long boat passes by, the star-shaped flowers and the broad green leaves gently sway to get out of the path of the boat as sparkling water droplets roll across the leaves. As seen in this seldom traveled region, the Water Lily blossom display is as another example of nature’s wondrous beauty.

In addition to viewing the Bua Daeng blossoms, visitors can enjoy many other activities such as experiencing a home-stay at Ban Diem village and learning about the simple Thai-Isaan traditional lifestyle. Longboats can be hired to get the best views of the lake and the country side, there is ample fishing, and several important temples to visit. Though Nong Han is not yet a popular destination, this is a large part of the charm and a good way to experience traditional Thailand.