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Ubud

Ubud, a town in central Bali of around 75,000 people (2020), is far removed from the nightlife bikini scene in Kuta, and is regarded as the cultural centre of Bali. It is famous as an arts and crafts hub, and much of the town and nearby villages seems to consist of artists' workshops and galleries. There are some remarkable architectural and other sights to be found, and a general feeling of well being to be enjoyed, all thanks to the spirit, surroundings, and climate of the place.

Understand
While Ubud seems to outsiders like one small town, it is in fact fourteen villages, each run by its own banjar (village committee). Ubud has grown rapidly, and some central parts are creaking under the strain of coping with the number of visitors. That said, most development is sympathetic to the zeitgeist, if not designed specifically in the local style. Growth continues apace, but there are still terraced rice fields along the rivers, and away from the town centre, regular, quiet village life carries on relatively undisturbed.

History
In many ways, the history of the Ubud area (not so much the modern day town) is the very history of Bali itself.

Ubud has a known history back to the eighth century, when the Javanese Buddhist priest Rsi Marhandya came to Bali from Java, and meditated at the confluence of the two Wos rivers at Campuan, just west of the modern day town centre. A shrine was established and later expanded by Nirartha, the Javanese priest who is regarded as the founder of Bali's religious practices and rituals as we know them today. At this time the area was a centre of natural medicine and healing, and that is how the name Ubud originated: Ubad is ancient Balinese for medicine.

Further temples and monasteries were established over the next 400 years or so. The temple complex at Gunung Kawi, and the cave temples at Goa Gajah (just east and northeast of Ubud), are architectural remains from this period. Many of the dances, drama and rituals still practised in Ubud today, originated at this time. King Airlangga ruled all of Java and Bali in this era, and his seat of government was located in what is now the village of Batuan, just southeast of Ubud.

The Javanese Majapahit kingdom conquered Bali in 1343, and the key final victory was against the Pejeng Dynasty centred at Bedulu, just to the east of Ubud. A great flowering of Balinese culture followed, and the ancestry of Ubud's current day aristocratic families can be traced back to this period. In the sixteenth Century, there was a total transplantation of the Majapahit Kingdom to Bali as the Islamisation of Java forced them eastwards. Power flip-flopped between various dynasties and feudal lords, but the Ubud area remained a very important cog in the various regencies which ruled the island.

In 1900, Ubud became a Dutch protectorate at its own request, and the colonialists interfered little, allowing the traditional arts and culture of the area to remain relatively unchanged. The modern era of Ubud perhaps began in the 1930s, when foreign artists were encouraged by the royal family to take up presence in the town. From their Ubud base, the likes of Walter Spies and Rudolph Bonnet were instrumental in promoting an understanding of Balinese art and culture worldwide. From the 1960s onwards, travellers started to arrive in earnest, mostly intrepid types as the infrastructure was still very limited indeed. Since then, Ubud has developed rapidly into a high-profile, top-class international destination, whilst still maintaining its integrity as the centre of Balinese art and culture.

Orientation
Orienting yourself in Ubud is fairly straightforward. The town sprawls for several kilometres in all directions, with all of the small villages within a five km radius of the central market being loosely referred to as "Ubud". If you choose a reasonably central place to stay, it is easy enough to get around on foot.

Central Ubud has three main streets: Jl Raya Ubud, Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Hanoman. At the intersection of Jl Raya and Jl Monkey Forest are Ubud Market, Ubud Palace, and the main bemo stop — unsurprisingly, there's also a near-permanent traffic jam here.

Jl Monkey Forest, which runs south through town to the Monkey Forest, is a built-up area, and home to a wide array of accommodation, art galleries, and cafes, as well a number of local services such as schools, a sports field, pharmacies, and travel agents. Jl Hanoman, which runs parallel to Jl Monkey Forest just to the east, is a bit quieter and makes for more pleasant walking.

To the immediate west and northwest are the villages of Campuan (Tjampuhan, Campuhan) and Kedewatan, home to some of the most upmarket hotels in the whole of Asia, with views over valleys sculpted by the Ayung and Wos rivers.

Directly to the south, past the Monkey Forest and still within a twenty minute walk of the central market, is Padang Tegal which then runs into the southern villages of Nyuh Kuning and Pengosekan, about three km from central Ubud. Directly to the east is the village of Peliatan, and then Teges and Bedulu, home of the ninth century Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave).

Climate
Due to its elevation at about 200 m above sea level, Ubud enjoys cooler temperatures than the coast, and it is sometimes necessary to bring a pullover for the evening. The midday sun can still be scorching though and the humidity often relentless; a murderous combination for an outing of 'temple tramping' which, in hilly Ubud, usually requires climbing up and down staircases. (Head out early to beat the heat and the crowds.) If there is a time to avoid, it would be the depths of the wet season in January and February — when it rains in Ubud, it really rains.

By bemo
There are regular public bemos from Denpasar's Batubulan terminal to Ubud which cost Rp50,000 and take about an hour. Most bemos run in the early morning, and in the later of the day it is getting difficult to find a bemo leaving and drivers try to pursue tourist to hire entire vehicle for Rp200,000-300,000, and you will not find any after 16:00. In the opposite direction, bemos depart every morning from the central market (northern entrance) in Ubud.

By taxi or car
If you want to take a taxi to Ubud from South Bali, it is best to charter the vehicle for a return trip, otherwise, you'll be hit with a 30% fee for going out-of-town. Metered fares, one-way and not including surcharge, are around Rp150,000 from Denpasar and Rp200,000 from Kuta. You can also rent a car in Kuta for a day in some local rental company around US$15-25, will be also useful to explore the extended vicinity.

By bus
Perama offers transfers to Ubud from Sanur, Lovina, Kuta, Bedugul, Candidasa, and Padang Bai, some daily, some on-demand. When coming from Ngurah Rai International Airport you need to take a taxi to Perama's Kuta branch first, when going to the airport direct transfers exist. These are convenient and inexpensive; e.g. four times per day to the airport for Rp50,000. Rather less conveniently, the Perama terminal is not located in the centre of Ubud, but about two km south in Padang Tegal, on Jl Hanoman just south of the intersection with Jl Monkey Forest. From Kuta to Ubud cost Rp60,000.

You can go to the "official Tourist Information" (just in the middle of town, on the big crossroad, opposite the market at Monkey Forest Road/Jalan Raya Road) and buy your ticket there (official outlet, same price) and Perama will pick you up there, to transfer to the Perama Bus Hub out of Town.

By public bus
Trans Metro Dewata (Rp 4,400, May 2024): the corridor 04 serves the route Terminal Ubung in Denpasar to Monkey Forest Central Parking with numerous bus stops. About an hour, every 7-10 min. Does not accept cash, either use bank transport card, either qris qrcode payment.

From Bedugul
From Bedugul / Candikuning, multiple options starting with cheaper (as of May 2024):
 * Take bemo from main road (next to lake) to Terminal Ubung in Denpasar (about Rp 40,000, duration ~1 hr 15 min), bus K3B to RS Dharma Yadnya Selatan (Rp 4,400, ~20 min), last bus K4B to Ubud (if centre, Pura Dalem Puri Pelatian stop; Rp 4,400, ~50 min). While cheaper (less than Rp 50,000), it's lot slower (3-4 hours) depending on traffic in Denpasar and Ubud.
 * Take bemo to Sembung (likely Rp 40,000 too as it seems the minimum price) and car-hailing app motorbike ride after (bike ~Rp 50,000, car rp 100,000-130,000). It is not known if bemo between Sembung and Ubud and likely not cheaper.
 * Full route by car-hailing app: bike ~Rp 110,00-130,000, car Rp 260,000-320,000
 * Perama tour bus: Rp 150,000, duration ~1 hr 30 min, daily 14:00, from indomaret, not perama bus shop.
 * Private car: ~Rp 300,000

Get around
Central Ubud can be covered on foot, but you will need some form of transport to explore the extended vicinity.

Central Ubud is overrun with tourists and touts, and traffic is terrible—cars are frequently stuck in traffic, pedestrians have to dodge motorcycles, and everyone has to deal with the noise and smell from so many vehicles in a small area. The nearby villages are much quieter. The sidewalks are often blocked by motorbikes, or a collapsed section necessitates a step off the sidewalk potentially placing you in the path of traffic. That traffic could be a tricycle or a truck, so keep your wits about you.

By bemo
Bemos ply the main routes in and around Ubud, and the main stop and gathering point is Ubud market at the junction of Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud. Most bemos stop running in the late afternoon, and are always more frequent in the morning.

By taxi
No metered taxis operate in Ubud, and any you see will be dropping off passengers from further afield.

You may however encounter many locals offering a taxi, who sometimes are very persistent. These are not actual taxis, but "local cars" (see below).

If you do not need a taxi, it's best to avoid eye contact with those offering a ride, as they may follow you with offers of tours of the area, etc. If you are continually being harassed, a polite "no thank you" (or "tidak terima kasih", the Indonesian equivalent) may work.

By local car
Most local transport comes in the form of SUVs or minivans that can be hired with a driver for specific trips. Look for the circular yellow "E" logo on the windshield certifying them as Ubud Transport Association members. You can (and should) haggle a bit over the price, and pay less than for the equivalent journey in a metered taxi. A short trip should be less than Rp20,000, and drivers will be glad to wait for you for a return fare.

Also, there are guys on motorbikes who will also offer bike rides (ojek) and are about half the price of those in a car.

By hotel car
Many hotels are out of town, and are happy to offer regular, complimentary drop-off and pick-up services to central Ubud. Expect to pay higher than taxi prices if you are intending to go further afield.

By motorbike
As elsewhere in Bali, motorbike rental is widely available, and you will not be short of options. Expect to pay between Rp40,000 and 80,000 per day for a late model motorbike in good condition. Look for rental agencies on all the main streets, or ask your hotel to organise for you. Navigation can be confusing, as signage is limited and all the roads look pretty much the same at first, but take it easy and stop to ask for directions if (when) you get lost.

By bicycle
You can rent bicycles for about Rp20,000-30,000 per day. There is a large selection available at the corner of the football field on Jl Monkey Forest. Beware though: Ubud is very hilly, so cycling can be hard, sweaty work. Traffic on the main roads is heavy and drivers rarely pay heed to cyclists.

By ride hailing app
There are lots of signs in Ubud saying taxi apps (like Grab, Blue Bird, and Gojek) are prohibited. You may or may not have success calling one anyway if you try.

See
Ubud is so crammed with attractions it can almost seem like a visual assault at times. Try to make sure you allocate at least a week for your visit here, and take your time to explore properly. Visitors who jump up to Ubud for just two or three days of their Bali holiday, stand little chance of understanding much of what is going on around them.

The key historical sites are located out of town, some as far as 20 km away, and you might find it worthwhile joining a tour to visit these. If you do visit attractions such as Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi, Pura Kehen and Tirta Empul under your own steam, try to find a knowledgeable guide when you get there. Whilst you will certainly appreciate the beauty of these places, their cultural and spiritual significance may be lost without a guide.

Temples and historical sites

Landscape

The area around Ubud is characterised by gently rolling rice paddies, and these create an impression of greenness which can be quite startlingly beautiful. This is especially true to the south and southeast of the town. Any visitor approaching from the south will appreciate this and it is worth a stop just to absorb the gentle beauty of it all.

Far more off the beaten path is to explore the rice fields immediately north of town. A good route is to take Jl Raya eastwards from the town centre and turn north up the small road immediately adjacent to the BCA Bank building. Proceed up this road through the village of Kutuh and just keep going, turning where you feel like it. This is a very gentle, rural area with some lovely landscape. A great way to explore is by bicycle as there are no steep hills to negotiate here.

On the opposite side of town in the Campuhaun, Sanggingan, and Kedewatan areas, the landscape changes dramatically as great gorges have been carved out of the limestone land base by the Ayung and Wos rivers. It's no surprise that so many five star hotels have made their home in these lush, dramatic valleys. Opportunities for viewing these gorges are many. You can just find your own way and explore by motorbike (it is very hard work by bicycle as the hills are steep). Head west out of town over the Campuhan Bridge and just start exploring. The main road here is Jl Raya Sanggingan, and if you continue heading away from town you will reach the junction with Jl Raya Kedewatan. From that point you can turn in either direction and just keep exploring. Alternatively, you can stop into a hotel or restaurant, have a drink or lunch, and gaze out in very civilised surroundings. If your pockets are deep, the restaurant at the Four Seasons in Sayan probably has the best views of all of the Ayung Gorge. A more budget conscious option is the lovely Indus restaurant in Sanginngan, with tables facing out to the Wos River.

Do
As a centre of the arts, Ubud has dance and shadow puppet performances every night. There are also plenty of spas for resynchronising your chakras, and all manner of spiritual classes and treatments, some distinctly less genuine than others.

Spas

Whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities
There is good rafting available on the Ayung River at Sayan, just west of Ubud. Almost as good as the rafting itself is the wonderful experience of being right down inside the Ayung gorge. This is the domain of high-end resorts like the Four Seasons and Amandari, and it is a very scenic area indeed. The rapids are Class II and Class III, and best during the rainy season as the river can run a bit dry from June to September. There are two well established operators, both with offices on the main road in Sayan, close to Amandari, however other operators have sprung up.

Cycle tours are an increasingly widespread and popular option.

Buy

Ubud has a vast assortment of art and jewelry shops. Head for the boutique type stores on Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud for higher quality goods (with appropriately higher prices), or down to the market for bulk-produced cheapies.

Craft villages between Ubud and Sanur
The 25-km road to Ubud from Sanur in the south passes through a series of small towns and villages which specialize in the production of particular arts and crafts. The towns are Batubulan/Singakerta for stone carvings, Celuk for silver jewellery, Batuan for paintings, and Mas for wood carvings. The whole area is sometimes referred to as the "craft villages" of Bali, although it is all a bit more built-up and congested than one might infer from the term "village."

This is the best area to see and buy a wide variety of Balinese craftwork in a short period of time. There are many large showrooms where arts and crafts in the Balinese style are offered for sale. Nearly all organised day-tours of central Bali stop at one or more of these showrooms (and the tour operators usually have a financial tie-up with the places where they stop, collecting a commission on purchases.) Be careful, many of these shops specialise in pricing based on huge commissions to the drivers and tour busses.

Eat
Ubud is renowned in Bali for its wide range of restaurants, and is probably second only to Seminyak in terms of the quality of the offerings. Travelers on a budget will not be short of options, as there are many simple warungs serving up the standard Indonesian staples.

Budget

If you are looking more for the low-budget one-dish meal aka Rp 15,000-25,000, it’s easier to go on Jalan Cok Gede Rai and around (Ayam goreng prambanan, Mr Kebab Martabak, Burger Bangor Express Ubud…). You can occasionally find mobile street food like bakso but it seems less common in centre.

Splurge
Many of the five-star hotels in and around Ubud have top class restaurants, with the Four Seasons Resort and Maya Ubud being of special note.

Drink
Ubud is emphatically not party town: there are a few places for a quiet drink, but the strictly enforced local regulation that all live performances and loud music must end by 22:30 puts a bit of a clamp on the local nightlife. More often than not, visitors have a quiet drink with their evening meal, and call it a night.

Sleep
Ubud has a vast selection of lodging for all budgets. Many visitors prefer to avoid the noisy, congested, and crowded town centre and instead stay out in nearby rural areas, ideally with views of the famous rice terraces, but this can make it a little difficult to get around. As in most of Bali, in all but the grandest of hotels, check-in and check-out times are a bit of a moveable feast. It is safe to assume about 14:00 and 11:00.

Budget
Ubud has many homestays which are the cheapest form of lodging, a good way to meet the locals, and the natural replacement for hostels on the backpacker circuit. If you want to stay in town, the area around Jl Monkey Forest is generally the most expensive little more expensive (from Rp80,000-100,000 per night). If you want cheaper prices try the areas around Jl Hanoman, north of Jl Raya Ubud and further out in Peliatan. In the low season especially, bargains can be had by those willing to bargain. Jn Kajeng, close to the centre, is a peaceful, mostly pedestrianised street with many small budget to mid-range homestays - those on the west side have views at the rear towards the river, waterfall or nearby rice fields.

Splurge

Resorts
Several of the leading luxury resorts anywhere in Asia are located in Ubud. Expect superb standards, with prices to match.

Private villas
The following are private, individual villas which only take a single group of customers at a time.

Stay safe
Ubud is a safe town to visit and few problems will ever be encountered.

Be wary around the monkeys that occupy the Monkey Forest. They are experts at stealing possessions like glasses, earrings, cameras and even handbags, and have been known to attack people that are carrying food. Rabies is also a concern in Bali, and the likelihood is that these monkeys could carry the disease. No matter how cute they look, feeding them is just asking for trouble.

Stay healthy
Dengue fever outbreaks are not uncommon, so be diligent with mosquito repellant. Ubud does not have a fully fledged hospital and the nearest is about 20 km to the south in Denpasar. There are a number of reasonable clinics, though, which are used to treating typical traveller ailments.

Internet
Most dedicated internet cafes provide computers with fairly low speed access at a low price, Rp6,000 per hour being the current standard. There is only one truly high speed location, Highway on Ubud Main Road, but be prepared to pay a lot more than in other places.

In cafes and restaurants free wifi for customers is increasingly widespread. If you have your own laptop and don't need high speeds that's probably the best way to go, but beware of the hours internet is available can be fewer than the hours a restaurant is open. KAFE for example has excellent and uncommonly fast internet in a great environment but internet is only available from opening until 12:00 and from 15:00-18:00.

Post
There is a refreshingly old-fashioned main post office at the Jl Raya Ubud end of Jl Jembawan. If you are staying in Ubud for any length of time, you can use this as a poste-restante office. Make sure you have your passport with you when you want to collect any mail or parcels.

Telephone
The area code for Ubud is 0361. +62 361 XXXXXX for international callers.

All of the major Indonesian mobile telephone networks have full coverage of the Ubud area. If you need to make an international landline call, there are many public phone shops (wartels) in the town. As with the rest of Bali, the few public telephones that exist are extremely unlikely to be in working order.

Go next
Ubud is well located for moving on to other areas of Bali.

 * If you are heading east, the road to Candidasa and beyond via Klungkung is often busy with trucks, but a nice one hour drive nonetheless.
 * Bedugul has a traditional fruit market, a splendid botanical garden, and the Ulun Danu Bratan temple, about one hour north by car.
 * The region around Tabanan has Mount Batukaru and the Batukaru Temple, as well as the rice fields around Jati Luwih, about one hour north by car.
 * Lovina is an easy-going black-sand beach, about two hours north by car.

title: Ubud


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Uçhisar

Uçhisar is a small town in Cappadocia where pinnacles of soft tuff have been hollowed out into bastions and dwellings. Uç hisar means "outermost fort", the fortified main pinnacle. If you mistook Uç for Üç meaning "three" you'd still be on the money, as there are two other less prominent pinnacles within town.

Uçhisar in 2022 had a population of 3555. It's only 4 km from better-known Göreme and a scenic canyon stretches between.

Get in
Long-distance travel is via Nevşehir, which has flights from Istanbul and buses from all directions. A swarm of dolmuşes buzzes between Nevşehir and the smaller towns of Cappadocia: Uçhisar is off D302 on the route to Göreme. There isn't a bus station, the dolmuşes make multiple stops through town.

Get around
The sights are all within walking distance.

See

 * is a similar carved-out pinnacle east across the valley. There's a good walking trail around it, but the paths up its heights are in poor condition above the break-neck cliffs. Free to access, far fewer tourists, and you get the view of Uçhisar Castle.
 * is another carved-out pinnacle, which you may have to yourself.
 * (Güvercinlik Vadisi) can be viewed and entered from the coach parking lot at the south edge of town. It's a canyon riddled with caves and hidey-holes: many of these were pigeon lofts, as the bird droppings were used as fertiliser and as house paint.
 * (Güvercinlik Vadisi) can be viewed and entered from the coach parking lot at the south edge of town. It's a canyon riddled with caves and hidey-holes: many of these were pigeon lofts, as the bird droppings were used as fertiliser and as house paint.

Do

 * Hike down Pigeon Valley to Göreme, 4 km. It's easier in that direction as it's downhill, you go with the flow of other hikers, and the side-canyons are joining not diverging so you're unlikely to get lost up a dead end.
 * Hamam: Milagro is a modern free-standing spa at Adnan Menderes Cd, 1 km south of village centre. For old-style public Turkish baths head into Göreme.

Buy

 * Chez Kamal in town centre is the main store, open daily 08:00-00:00.

Eat

 * Town centre near the castle entrance has several small cafes, not too touristy.
 * Bindalli has a good view of Pigeon Valley but the buffet food is only so-so. It's on Adnan Menderes Cd 200 m north of the valley lookout and trailhead.

Drink

 * Cafes serve alcohol, there isn't a free-standing bar.

Connect
Uçhisar and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of July 2024, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next

 * Nearby Göreme has an extensive landscape of "fairy chimneys" carved into dwellings.
 * Nevşehir the transport hub has an "underground city" around its castle. Two better-preserved underground cities lie south at Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu on the road to Niğde.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Uçhisar


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Uckfield

Uckfield is located in the Heart of the Weald. It is a jolly town with all the amenities that local people and tourists could want.

Understand
The first iron cast-cannon was cast in Buxted, a nearby village, by Ralf Hogge (or Huggett). He perfected gun production in 1543 and became a weapon maker by royal appointment.

The town has the oldest working cinema in Sussex which shows big name films.

Uckfield is the last place Lord Lucan was seen and where Emma Le French was born, although neither have any real significance to the town.

Often Sheffield Park is described as 'Uckfield' it is in fact around 10 miles (16 km) away.

By car
If you want to visit; the A22, A26 and B2102; from Heathfield run by or through Uckfield (it is well signposted).

By bus
Uckfield acts as a terminus for many bus routes (31 from Hawards Heath to Uckfield) and as a passing stop for route 29/28 (from Brighton and Lewes to Tunbridge Wells) and route 54 (from Eastbourne and Hailsham to Uckfield and East Grinstead).

Get around
Walking is the only way to really see the town, since it is fairly small, but for travelling further afield, cars, buses and trains could be necessary. There is a town bus, but since it mainly tours the housing estates around the town, it will be of little use to visitors.

See
The town has little to distract for more than a morning.

Bridge Cottage is worth a look, but other than that the town is fairly bland. It is cloaked by housing developments, of which more seem to be inevitable. However the surrounding villages of Blackboys, Framfield, and Ashdown Forest are popular with walkers. Parking is free throughout the town.

Do

It’s quite difficult to dress a fairly unexciting town as something that it isn’t. Lewes is probably a better attraction if you wish to visit this delightful area. You are probably better off having a look at the local area including Ashdown Forest or the Cuckoo Trail from Heathfield to Eastbourne. Still, the local area does contain some hidden gems.

 * magnificent garden landscaped by Capability Brown
 * waterfalls, cascades and four large lakes
 * a profusion of colour all year, including bluebells, rhododendrons and trees with spectacular autumnal colors
 * the National Collection of Ghent azaleas
 * the site of the first England v. Australia cricket match
 * a profusion of colour all year, including bluebells, rhododendrons and trees with spectacular autumnal colors
 * the National Collection of Ghent azaleas
 * the site of the first England v. Australia cricket match

Pubs
The outlying villages generally have better food and more character than the town pubs.

Restaurants
Starting at the top of the town (north) and moving down:

Drink
The town has the normal smattering of bars, pubs and a club for evening entertainment. During the day the town is well stocked with cafes. Among the best are The Hop Barn (opposite WHSmiths) and Corbins on the high street.

Pubs such as The Station stay open well into the night, catering for anyone's thirst.

Buy

The town has pretty much anything you could need as a tourist, with facilities including a leisure centre, camping shop, a petrol station and several supermarkets.

Sleep
There is nowhere to stay in Uckfield (the last Hotel became a nunnery). However some of the local villages have camping sites or hotels.

Go next
Local villages, the rest of East Sussex and Ashdown Forest.

title: Uckfield


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Ucluelet

Ucluelet is a small town on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It has less surf vibe than neighbouring Tofino (and no big surf beaches in town) but is a pretty spot in its own right and is close enough to Long Beach and Tofino's beaches to serve as an alternate base to explore the West Coast.

Understand
Historically, Ucluelet has been a service center for the fishing industry. With the emergence of Tofino as a tourist destination and the increasing popularity of activities like storm watching and surfing, tourism has become more important.

Climate
The west coast of Vancouver Island is wet and temperate, and Ucluelet is no exception. In terms of temperature, winters are mild (by Canadian standards) and summers are cool. Average daytime highs are 8°C in Jan and 19°C in July/Aug. The mild winters come at a price though — it's wet wet wet — but the Pacific storms make for some great storm watching. Summers are relatively drier (there is still 80-90 mm of rain on average in July and August) but fog will sometimes drift in in the morning and not lift until late in the day. All told, Ucluelet is a beautiful spot but not an ideal destination if you're looking for a sunny warm vacation. Be prepared for rain at any time of the year and it's probably best to always pack at least one warm item of clothing, even in summer, in case the fog rolls in.

By car
Ucluelet is located 8 km south of the junction where Highway 4 meets the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway. It is 40 km south of Tofino (30-45 minute drive) and about 180 km west of Nanaimo (a 2.5 - 3 hour drive). Highway 4, best driven during the day, is twisty and narrow (particularly west of Port Alberni) with few passing lanes, but offers great views of lakes and mountains on the west coast. From Nanaimo, follow Highway 19 north to Parksville-Qualicum Beach and take the Highway 4 turnoff west to Port Alberni (exits 51 or 60). Travel time from Vancouver is about 5.5 hours (including ferry to Nanaimo); from Victoria, travel time is about 4.5 hours.

By plane
The nearest airport with schedule flights is , also known as Long Beach Airport (CYAZ), is located 25 kilometers northwest of Ucluelet, on the Pacific Rim Highway (Hwy 4). See Tofino for details.

By boat
In the summer you can catch the M.V. Frances Barkley from Port Alberni to Ucluelet, 4.5 hours, $30 one-way.

By bicycle and foot
Most of the town and surrounding area can be seen by walking and hiking. A multi use bicycle and foot path travels from just south of the Highway 4 junction toward Ucluelet to near the centre of the town. The multi use path is to be extended 1.2 km by Summer 2023, up to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where multi use paths connect to all trailheads and to the multi use path that travels to the northern end of Tofino. Until the 1.2 km multi use path extension is complete, it is possible to travel along Highway 4, which has narrow shoulders along that stretch.

Surfboard rentals and lessons
While surfing is not possible within Ucluelet, it is a popular activity at beaches in the nearby Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and in Tofino.

Sleep

Cope

 * The nearest hospital is in Tofino.

Go next
Tofino is 30-40 minutes north on Highway 4. Along the way to Tofino is Pacific Rim National Park Reserve with surfing, beach sunbathing, hiking, camping and kayaking opportunities.

title: Ucluelet


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Udaipur

Udaipur (Hindi: उदयपुर Udaypur) is the capital of the district of Mewar in Rajasthan, India. Udaipur is famous for its lakes, palaces, forts, temples, gardens, and romantic backdrops. It was the setting of many movies, including the 13th James Bond film, Octopussy.

History
In 1568, the Mughal emperor Akbar captured Chittorgarh, and Udai Singh was forced to flee and establish the city of Udaipur. Udaipur remained the capital of the state of Mewar, which became a princely state of British India in 1818. After India's independence in 1947, Mewar was integrated into the state of Rajasthan.

Culture
People in Udaipur usually prefer wearing bright colored clothes. Colourful festivals and fairs depict the cultural prosperity of Udaipur.

Climate
Udaipur offers moderate climate all through the year, but the best season to visit the place is from September to March.

Winters (December to February) offers pleasant climate with a temperature not going beyond 32°C. The pleasing weather is perfect for enjoying holidays and indulging in various tourist activities.

Summers (mid-March to June) has hot weather with a temperature maximum of 45°C, especially April to June. The hot climate is not preferable for Udaipur tourism activities.

Monsoons (July to September) offer very little rainfall. The scanty amount of rains in Udaipur makes the place very humid. However, during monsoon, the lush green environs of the place become very attractive. Even the lakes are filled with rain water.

Winter months are comparatively cooler than summer months which make it perfect for holidaying and all types of tourist activities of all ages. Plan your travel or book packages for Udaipur during these months. March offers comfortably hot weather and is ideal for sightseeing and adventures. Summer months are very hot and it's better to avoid visiting during these months. September to November has pleasing climate making it really a good time for sighting and other tourist activities.

By car
Udaipur is easily accessible via major roads from every major destination in India including Chittorgarh (117 km), Ahmedabad (257 km), Jodhpur (260 km), Ajmer (307 km), Sawai Madhopur/Ranthambore (638 km), Jaipur (421 km), Bikaner (488 km),  Agra (638 km), Delhi (676 km), Mumbai (725 km), and Khajuraho (776 km).

By plane

Taxis between the airport and the city cost ₹650 from the prepaid taxi booth in the airport. Many hotels offer a prearranged pickup for ₹600-800. There are no public buses between the airport and the city.

By train
Udaipur has direct train connections to many major cities in India including Chittorgarh (6-7 per day, 2 hours. ₹140), Ahmedabad (daily, 10 hours, ₹200), Ajmer (4 per day, 5 hours. ₹135-680), Sawai Madhopur (daily, 7 hours, ₹270-1,625), Jaipur (3 per day, 7 hours, ₹170-855), Agra (daily, 13 hours, ₹360-2,355), Delhi (2 per day, 12 hours. ₹390-1,440), Mumbai (every other day, 17 hours, ₹475-1,785), and Khajuraho (daily, 21 hours, ₹485-3,245).

By bus
Udaipur is connected by an efficient bus service to most cities in Rajasthan, which sometimes be much faster than the train. Buses operate between Udaipur and Mount Abu (5 hours, ₹100), Agra (6 hours, ₹120), Ahmedabad (6 hours, ₹200), Jodhpur (8 hours, ₹125), Ranakpur (3 hours, ₹85), Ajmer (8 hours, ₹150), Jaipur (9 hours, ₹200), Bikaner, Delhi (14 hours, ₹420), and Mumbai (16 hours, sleeper ₹600 or seat ₹400). RSRTC runs Volvo & other Multiple axle bus services which can be booked through its RSRTC Bus Ticket Booking mobile app.

Get around
While most of the city can be covered on foot and the narrow alleyways in the old city make any other form of transportation a hassle, a taxi or autorickshaw/tuk-tuk is necessary to reach the Monsoon Palace or the wilderness park. A tuk-tuk will usually cost around ₹50, and should never cost more than ₹100 within the city. App-based cab hailing services like Uber and Ola are becoming increasingly popular since they generally cost lower than the tuk-tuk and require no fare-haggling Also there are many local taxi providers.

Horseback riding
Situated in the middle of the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur offers a fantastic landscape and unrivaled views. Various operators offer horse rides here:

Fairs and festivals
The city of Udaipur celebrates all the fairs and festivals with equal fervor. The important fairs and festivals that are closely associated with Udaipur are Mewar Festival and the Shilpgram Fair. If you want to catch the vigor of these desert people, catch them during their famous fairs and festivals.

 * Mewar Festival - Mewar festival is observed to welcome the arrival of spring season (March/April). The festival is especially meant for women and offers the best time when they dress in their finest clothes and join the celebrations of the fest. To conduct the ceremony, women assemble to dress the images of Isar (Lord Shiva) and Gangaur (Goddess Parvati). After dressing the idols, they carry them in a traditional procession passing through different parts of the city. In the last, the procession makes its move towards the Gangaur Ghat at Pichola Lake. At this point, the images are transported into special boats and immersed in the deep waters of the lake. When this religious part gets over, people engage into various dances, songs and other cultural events revealing the culture of Rajasthan. Mewar festival is concluded with a glittering show of fireworks.
 * Shilpgram Crafts Fair - Shilpgram Mela is held annually in the west of the city of Udaipur in the month of November/ December. The fair is organized to promote art and craft of Rajasthan. This fair is a perfect destination to try out the hand woven clothes, embroideries, mirror works and handicrafts. The hand woven clothes and camel leather items grab the major attention of visitors in this fair.

Buy
Udaipur is particularly famous for its miniature paintings inspired by style of Rajputs and Mughals. You are unlikely to find these items elsewhere in India. These cost as little as ₹100 and make a beautiful gift or keepsake. Items such as handicrafts, pottery, jewelry, wooden toys, antique items and paintings are easily available in the tourist area. Other popular purchases include toys, bewitching puppets, wall hangings, pen stands, cloth lanterns, handmade papers, painted wooden boxes and greeting cards, pottery in both metal and adobe, pots, plates, vessels and containers, brassware, and terracotta sculptures.

Udaipur also has typical bazaars including Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road.

Shopping malls
There are 4 malls offering a range of shopping, dining and entertainment.

Eat
Udaipur is famous for its spicy snacks such as mirchi bada and kachori. Other common local cuisines include Dal Baati Churma (Lentils and rice), Pyaz Kachori (onion/flour balls), and Gatte Ki Sabzi (gram flour dumplings with curry). These are common on the menu of just about every restaurant and should definitely be eaten!

Cooking classes are also commonly offered in Udaipur.

There are a couple Thali restaurants where you can get unlimited servings of a selection of Rajasthani and Gujarati dishes (rotis, savoury bites, daals, vegetables, rice, sweets and more). There are also American fast food restaurants such as McDonald's and Subway in the Celebration Mall (see listing above). Outside of the old town, you can find street stalls selling cheap chaat (Indian fast food).

There are many rooftop restaurants with romantic views of Lake Pichola. However, in all cases, you will usually have to walk up several flights of stairs to get to them.

 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.
 * Parkview Restaurant, located in the prime location opposite the city's town hall and at a convenient proximity of Bapu Bazaar market area, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Its history dates back to late 1960s and is still regarded as a favorite family restaurant among city's older residents. This family run restaurant has a genuine mastery over good, affordable dining. Sitting area is quite large and its menu is well balanced with vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisines.

Sleep
Udaipur has a wide range of accommodation options.

Stay safe
Udaipur is a safe place and the local people are very helpful. However, visitors are advised to take care of their personal belongings, particularly if they have very large amounts of cash, credit cards or are carrying a passport. To avoid pick pocketing, concealed money belts are helpful tools.

Don't leave cash or any valuables in the hotel room. Cross check all hotel, restaurant and lounges bills for errors. Never pay anyone for anything upfront, including taxi drivers. If you are traveling alone then it is advisable to stay in a hotel in Udaipur itself and not in remote areas.

Stay healthy
There are many clinics and hospitals in Udaipur which provide quality treatment at affordable prices, and health tourism is on the upswing. The blood bank services are in quick time and it not only serve blood within Udaipur but most of the small towns around the city.

Government hospitals

 * Ayurvedic Hospital, Moti chohtta (Tel: 2-421968)
 * Maharana Bhopal general hospital (Tel: 2-528811-19)
 * Natural Hospital, Bhatyani chohtta (Tel: 2-422700)
 * T B Hospital (tel: 2-560310)
 * Women's Hospital (Tel: 2-523989)

Private hospitals

 * Aravali Hospital, 332 Ambamaata Scheme, Mullatalai, Udaipur (Tel: 2430222, 2431222)
 * Goyal hospital, 328-A, Vasant Vihar, Sector-5, Hiran Magri, Udaipur (Tel: 0294-2465764)
 * J.K. Hospital & Research Centre, Bhupalpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2418544)
 * Jagrati Orthopedic Hospital, Hospital Road, Udaipur (Tel: 2529234)
 * Sanjeevani Nursing Home, Sevashram Chowraha, Udaipur (Tel: 2412770)
 * Shreyas Children & Maternity Hospital, Fatehpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2560861)
 * Dr. Chaudhary Hospital & Medical Research Center, Udaipur (Tel : 0294 2465566)

Blood bank

 * M.B. Govt. Hospital Blood Bank, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2528811)
 * Udaipur Americal International Hospital, 101, Kothi Bagh, Bhatt Ji Ki Bari, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2426000)
 * Udaipur M/s Saral Blood Bank, 30, Bhikharinath ka math, Bhupalpura, Udaipur. (Ph. No. 0294-2416285)

Day trips
Udaipur offers great excursions to its outskirts. Hire a cab or explore by yourself to the some of the great escapades on the city outskirts.

 * Eklingji Temple - 22 km north of Udaipur is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The magnificent architecture of Eklingnath Temple is simply remarkable.
 * Haldighati - An important historical site in the context of Rajasthan 40 km from the city of Udaipur. The term Haldighati has been derived from the yellow colored soil of the place that gives a sense of turmeric (in Hindi)
 * Jagat Temple - At the village called Jagat, 58 km in the south-east of Udaipur. Built in 961 AD, the Jagat Temple is renowned for its intricate carvings in the exteriors.
 * Kankroli - A small town 65 km from the city of Udaipur mainly known for its temple, which is sited on the banks of renowned Rajsamand Lake.
 * Nagda - Beside Bagela Lake 23 km in the north-west of Udaipur on the way to Nathdwara. Nagda comprises many small and big temples, but the main attraction is gained by its 'Sas-Bahu' temple.

Further destinations

 * Ajmer - An ancient town 288 km from Udaipur is famous among the spiritual and religious sects for the shrine of Khwaja Ajmer Sheriff and the only Brahma temples by the banks of Lake Pushkar.
 * Bhilwara - The administrative city of Mewar region 168 km from Udaipur. The city contains some of the exquisite neolithic temples that adorn the Nagar style of architecture.
 * Bundi - An ancient town 275 km from Udaipur inhabited by local tribesmen famous for its historical fortresses and kunds (holy wells).
 * Chittorgarh - About 140 km from Udaipur, Chittorgarh was the capital of Mewar from 734 AD to 1559. Chittorgarh Fort is a massive fort situated on a hilltop near Chittorgarh town in Rajasthan state in India.
 * Jodhpur - A popular gateway to the Thar Desert located 269km from Udaipur with the massive Mehrangarh Fort and access to Osiyan desert (no direct train from Udaipur).
 * Kumbhalgarh - A 15th-century fortress, built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar, with 36 km of walls. Over 360 temples are within the fort. It also has a wildlife sanctuary. Located in Rajsamand District, 64 km from Udaipur. The vista from the top of the palace typically extends tens of kilometers into the Aravalli hills.
 * Mount Abu - A popular tourist hill station 185 km from Udaipur. highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar, at 1722 m above sea level. Mount Abu is home to a number of Jain temples especially the Dilwara Temples.
 * Nathdwara - Shri Nathdwara (a pathway to Lord Shri Krishna) lies 48 km from Udaipur and literally means the gateway to the Lord. Devotees throng the shrine in large numbers during occasions of "Janmashtmi", the day of the Lord's birth, and other festivals like Holi. It is famous for its 'pichwai' paintings, with Shri Krishna in the centre and is recognized for profuse use of gold colour.
 * Ranakpur - Ranakpur is widely known for its magnificent marble Jain temple devoted to Lord Adinath and is a "must see". Ranakpur is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur, in a valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. Easily accessed by road, Ranakpur is around 100 km north of Udaipur. Its architecture is said to be better than even that of famous Taj Mahal. It is said that the experience of visual treat inside the temple can hardly be described in words. Light colored marble has been used for the construction of this grand temple. The temple, with its distinctive domes, rises majestically from the slope of a hill. Over 1444 marble pillars, carved in exquisite detail, support the temple. The pillars are all differently carved and no two pillars are the same. There is one beautiful carving made out of a single marble rock where there are 1008 heads of snakes and numerous tails over the head of Lord ParsvaNatha. One cannot find the end of the tails. The image faces all four cardinal directions. The temple is designed as chaumukha—with four faces. The construction of the temple and quadrupled image symbolize the Jain Tirthankara's conquest of the four cardinal directions and hence the cosmos.

title: Udaipur


text:
Udaipur Division

Udaipur Division is in Rajasthan in India.

Cities

 * — known as "City of a Hundred Islands", for the numerous islands in the Mahi River, and as the greenest city in Rajasthan due to the heavy rainfall which it receives

 * — (or Bari Sadri)

 * — famous for its massive fortress, claimed to be the largest of all Rajput forts

 * — known for hosting the Baneshwar Fair, an annual tribal fair held in January or February that features traditional folk songs, folk dances, magic shows, animal shows and acrobatic feats

 * — visitors are drawn to its massive citadel built in 1443 AD, and for the wildlife sanctuary nearby

 * — a holy town famous for its temple of Krishna

 * — surrounded by the wide ranges of Aravali, it houses the stunning Rajsamand Lake

 * — known as City of Lakes, including Pichola and Fateh Sagar lakes, and famous for its lakes, palaces, forts, temples, gardens, and romantic backdrops

title: Udaipur Division


text:
Uddevalla

Image taken at the heart of Uddevalla, with the tourist information house at left, and Bohusläns museum at right.

Uddevalla is a city of 35,000 people (2015), with a total of 57,000 in Uddevalla Municipality (2021), in Bohuslän, on the west coast of Sweden.

Uddevalla is a nice little town, with a river cutting through the city center. The town burnt down more than a few times in the 18th and 19th centuries, so there are but a few old wooden buildings left. Most older buildings date from the beginning of the 20th century.

By car
The E6 highway follows the western coast of the Scandinavian peninsula, connecting Uddevalla to Oslo in the north and Gothenburg in the south.

By bus
Express buses stop at Torp bus station, 7 km west of the city centre. Säfflebussen which runs between Berlin and Oslo and E6-expressen between Gothenburg and Oslo stops here.

By train
There are frequent train connections to Strömstad in the north, Trollhättan (Öxnered) in the east, and Göteborg due south (where you usually want to get off at "Uddevalla centralstation" rather than "Uddevalla östra").

By plane
The closest airport Trollhättan, about 30 minutes away by car, has flights to Stockholm. Landvetter Airport outside of Gothenburg, about 100 km south of Uddevalla serves domestic and international flights.

By bus

 * (Västtrafik) handles the local traffic throughout the city.

By boat
During the summer, a regular boat line goes through the fjord, visiting various places. See details in Do.

By taxi
Uddevalla Taxi, the city's oldest taxi company. Reservations can be made by phone: +46 (0)522-144 00. The company is affiliated and co-owner of Taxi Väst AB, +46 (0)522-459 000.

See

 * Villa Elfkullen A large building with a very peculiar design, also built by Ture Malmgren. Open to the public on Sundays July - September. Like the castle, the building is filled with secret compartments.
 * Villa Elfkullen A large building with a very peculiar design, also built by Ture Malmgren. Open to the public on Sundays July - September. Like the castle, the building is filled with secret compartments.
 * Villa Elfkullen A large building with a very peculiar design, also built by Ture Malmgren. Open to the public on Sundays July - September. Like the castle, the building is filled with secret compartments.
 * Villa Elfkullen A large building with a very peculiar design, also built by Ture Malmgren. Open to the public on Sundays July - September. Like the castle, the building is filled with secret compartments.

Go next

 * Göteborg, the second largest city in Sweden, is not far.
 * Tanum in northern Bohuslän is renowned for their UNESCO World Heritage-rock carvings.

title: Uddevalla


text:
Udhampur

Udhampur is the second-largest city in the Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir. It is 68 km from Jammu city.

By plane
The nearest airport is at Jammu.

By train
Udhampur is connected to Jammu and Katra by train.

By car
Takes 1 and half hrs from Jammu station. Taxi fare ₹700

By bus
₹40

Mid-range

 * Pine View Hotel & Restaurant

Mid-range

 * Pine View Hotel & Restaurant

Go next

 * Katra (Katra Vaishno Devi) — a small town in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains famous for the Vaishno Devi Temple
 * Patnitop — a small hill-station town in the Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir

title: Udhampur


text:
Udine

Udine is the capital of the Province of Udine in the Italian Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Friuli is known as a region of wines, prosciutto di San Daniele and Montasio cheese. Udine is an excellent location to taste these products and to start a visit to this less traveled part of Italy.

Understand
Udine is a quiet and stately provincial capital - and also the unofficial capital of Friuli (Forum Iulii-Cividale del Friuli), which comprises the largest part of the Region of Friuli-Venezia-Giuli. While the once-great seaport of Trieste is the regional capital and reigns over the coast, Udine presides over the region's inland plains and its Alpine peaks. For centuries Udine was a Venetian city - in contrast to Trieste, which was part of the Austrian Empire.

By plane
Udine is 40 km from Trieste Airport, which has daily flights to London Stansted, Milan, Munich and Rome, and less regular flights to Birmingham, Brussels, Valencia and other locations in Europe. Other popular nearby airports include Venice Marco Polo, Treviso (Venice) - both about an hour away by car or train - and Ljubljana, Slovenia less than two hours drive from Udine.

By train
From rest of Italy. The train from Venice/Mestre takes just over an hour and a half (unless you catch one of the locals that makes all the stops for a two-hour ride). Trieste is just over an hour away. Trains to Venice and Trieste run almost every hour. One train a day goes direct to Milan, and another to Rome (otherwise, change in Venice/Mestre).

From Austria: Venice-bound daytime (2 per day) and night trains from Vienna have a stop at Udine. There also exist two regional trains per day from Villach, and buses from Villach and Klagenfurt.

From Slovenia: The most convenient and frequent method may be to take a train to Nova Gorica, walk across the border to Gorizia and onwards to the city's train station and take one of the frequent trains coming from Trieste to Udine. Also, you can take a train from Ljubljana to Udine for €15.6 one way. The train leaves Ljubljana just before 06:00 and arrives after almost four hours to Udine. You can return on the same day from Udine at 17:54 and be in Ljubljana before 22:00. This way you have 8 hours of sightseeing in Udine, perfect for a day trip. Of course you can stop in Trieste instead on the way.

By car
By highway (A4/A55), Udine is about an hour from Trieste, an hour and a half from Venice and from Villach, Austria, and under two hours from Ljubljana, Slovenia.

See

 * Udine also has two photographic collections.
 * Udine also has two photographic collections.
 * Udine also has two photographic collections.

Do

 * Un tajut. Udine lies in the centre of a rich plain, known for its wine, prosciutto (from San Daniele) and cheese (Montasio and more). Piazza San Giacomo is a beautiful square and the ideal place for a glass of wine (un tajut, in Furlan, the language of Friuli) or a coffee. The Piazza lies at the centre of the pedestrian area of town - which has become the sort of open-air shopping centre common in northern Italy.
 * Football: Udinese play soccer in Serie A, Italy's top tier. Their home ground Stadio Friuli or Dacia Arena (capacity 25,000) is 2 km northwest of city centre.

Connect
As of June 2022, Udine has 4G from Iliad, Tim and Vodafone, and 5G from Wind Tre.

Go next

 * Trieste - the multicultural and multi-heritage capital of Friuli-Venezia Giulia region (1-1½ hours by train)
 * Venice and the venetian coast - about 1½-2 hours by train
 * Cividale del Friuli with its Lombard Temple (UNESCO heritage site)
 * Villach (2-2½ hours by train) and Klagenfurt in Austria's Carinthia - the region of many lakes
 * Other FVG UNESCO places: Aquileia, Palmanova, Palù di Livenza and the Friulan Dolomites
 * Gorizia, Pordenone
 * The FVG sea resorts: Lignano, Grado, Monfalcone, Trieste riviera
 * The FVG international ski resorts : Piancavallo, Tarvisio, Sella Nevea, Ravascletto-Zoncolan, Forni di Sopra.
 * The Slovenian coast.

title: Udine


text:
Udmurtia

Udmurtia (Russian: Удму́ртская Респу́блика ood-MOORT-skuh-yuh rees-POOB-lee-kuh or Удму́ртия ood-MOOR-tee-yuh) is a region in the Upper Volga, bordering Kirov Oblast to the west and north, Perm to the east, Bashkortostan to the southeast, and Tatarstan to the south.

Cities

 * — the capital city is most famous for its weapons manufacturing, especially for its AK-47 factory, designed by native Mikhail Kalashnikov, who resided here until his death; be sure to visit the Udmurt Presidential Palace, the Kalashnikov Museum, and check out Italmas—an Udmurt folk theater and dance company
 * — a mid-sized industrial city on the Trans-Siberian Railway; there is an ancient Udmurt settlement, Idnakar, just outside the city that is worth investigating
 * — the second largest city in the region
 * — a mid-sized industrial city with a big ICBM plant and the birthplace of the great Russian composer Tchaikovsky

Understand
Udmurtia is named for its native Finno-Ugric Udmurt people, who have inhabited the Volga Region since at least the days of Ancient Greece. The majority of the Udmurts' recorded history has been devoted to fighting for survival and rebelling against their more powerful neighbors, the Mongols, Tatars, and Russians. But the Udmurts were perhaps finally subdued by the USSR, which purged most of the Udmurt nationalist intelligentsia and relocated large industries from Central Russia and with them large numbers of ethnic Russians, who now comprise the majority of the region's population while Udmurts now are represent only about a third.

The Udmurts are of special interest to anyone interested in paganism: Udmurtia is one of Europe's last remaining strongholds of organized shamanism, despite its active repression under the Tsarist and Soviet governments. Travelers interested in Udmurtia's native religion should try to seek out the 1994 Udmurt film, "Shadow of Alangasar." Shamanist structures and sites persist to this day in isolated villages throughout the region.

Perhaps top on anyone's list of things to do in Udmurtia is to see the Udmurt national folk theater and dance company, Italmas.

Talk
The Udmurt language shares official status with Russian, but you can expect that anyone you meet will be at least bilingual in Russian. Udmurt is a Finno-Ugric language closely related to Komi.

Get in
Flights arrive in Izhevsk from Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Yekaterinburg. The flight from Moscow takes about 2 hours.

Trains run to Izhevsk from Moscow (daily, 18 hours), Saint Petersburg (~31 hours), Yekaterinburg (11 hours), Kazan (6 hours), and Perm (10 hours).

Glazov is a stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Do
Udmurtia would make an interesting destination (to say the least) for hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and hiking.

Eat
There are a few restaurants in Izhevsk where you can sample Udmurt cuisine, but outside of those, it should not be too hard to find some Udmurt pies (perepechi).

Drink
Try the Udmurt national drink, Kumiska.

Stay safe
Despite the presence of many huge weapons factories, Udmurtia is one of the quietest and most peaceful regions of Russia in terms of crime.

Since there are many weapons and military factories of strategic importance in Udmurtia, you as a foreigner (especially if you are from a Western country) should be careful and it is advisable not to approach or try to take photos or videos of these objects, since many agents and informants of the Federal Security Service and police patrol there, and you may be accused of espionage, since few foreigners visit Udmurtia. In Soviet times, this region was completely closed to all foreigners.

Go next
The next stops on the Trans-Siberian Railway are Zuevka, Kirov Oblast to the west and Perm to the east.

title: Udmurtia


text:
Udmurt phrasebook

Udmurt (удмурт кыл, udmurt kyl) is a Finno-Ugric language that is spoken in Udmurtia.

Vowels

 * a ah : like father
 * e yeh : like yesterday
 * ё yoh : like yore
 * и ee : like seen or machine
 * ӥ ee : like seen or machine
 * o oh : like score
 * ӧ uh : like about
 * у oo : like cartoon
 * ы yh : like roses
 * э eh : like end
 * ю yoo : like Yugoslavia
 * я yah : like yacht

Basics

 * Hello. :Ӟечбуресь. (Jech-boor-esh)
 * Hello. (informal) :Ӟечбур. Чырткем. ( )
 * How are you? :Кызьы тӥляд ужъёсты? ( ?)
 * Fine, thank you. :Ярам, тау. ( )
 * What is your name? :Кызьы тынад нимыд? ( ?)
 * My name is ______ . :Мынам нимы ______ . (  _____ .)
 * Nice to meet you. :Тӥледын тодматскыны шумпотӥсько. ( )
 * Please. :Пожалуйста. Буркарик. ( )
 * Thank you. :Тау. ( )
 * You're welcome. :Пожалуйста. Тауна. ( )
 * Yes. :Бен. ( )
 * No. :Ӧвӧл. ( )
 * Excuse me. (getting attention) :Вождэс эн вае. ( )
 * Excuse me. (begging pardon) :Вождэс эн вае. ( )
 * I'm sorry. :Вождэс эн вае. ( )
 * Goodbye :Ӟеч луэ. ( )
 * Goodbye (informal) :Ӟеч лу. ( )
 * I can't speak Udmurt [well]. :Удмурт кылын [умой] уг вераськиськы. ( [ ])
 * Do you speak English? :Англи кылын вераськиськоды-а? ( ?)
 * Is there someone here who speaks English? :Татын англи кылын вераськись вань-а? ( ?)
 * Help! :Юрттэ! ( !)
 * Look out! :Эскериськы! ( !)
 * Good morning. :Бур ӵукна. ( )
 * Good evening. :Бур ӝыт. ( )
 * Good night. :Ӟеч кӧл. ( )
 * I don't understand. :Мон уг валаськы. ( )
 * Where is the toilet? :Кытын туалет? ( ?)

Problems

 * Leave me alone. : . ( .)
 * Don't touch me! : ! ( !)
 * I'll call the police. : . ( .)
 * Police! : ! ( !)
 * Stop! Thief! : ! ! ( ! !)
 * I need your help. : . ( .)
 * It's an emergency. : . ( .)
 * I'm lost. : . ( .)
 * I lost my bag. : . ( .)
 * I lost my wallet. : . ( .)
 * I'm sick. : . ( .)
 * I've been injured. : . ( .)
 * I need a doctor. : . ( .)
 * Can I use your phone? : ? ( ?)

Numbers

 * 1 : одӥг ( )
 * 2 : кык ( )
 * 3 : куинь ( )
 * 4 : ньыль ( )
 * 5 : вить ( )
 * 6 : куать ( )
 * 7 : сизьым ( )
 * 8 : тямыс ( )
 * 9 : укмыс ( )
 * 10 : дас ( )
 * 11 : дас одӥг ( )
 * 12 : дас кык ( )
 * 13 : дас куинь ( )
 * 14 : дас ньыль ( )
 * 15 : дас вить ( )
 * 16 : дас куать ( )
 * 17 : дас сизьым ( )
 * 18 : дас тямыс ( )
 * 19 : дас укмыс ( )
 * 20 : кызь ( )
 * 21 : кызь одӥг ( )
 * 22 : кызь кык ( )
 * 23 : кызь куинь ( )
 * 30 : куамын ( )
 * 40 : ньыльдон ( )
 * 50 : витьтон ( )
 * 60 : куатьтон ( )
 * 70 : сизьымдон ( )
 * 80 : тямыстон ( )
 * 90 : укмыстон ( )
 * 100 : сю ( )
 * 200 : кык сю ( )
 * 300 : куинь сю ( )
 * 1,000 : сюрс ( )
 * 2,000 : кык сюрс ( )
 * 1,000,000 : миллион ( )
 * 1,000,000,000 : миллиард ( )
 * 1,000,000,000,000 : триллион ( )
 * number _____ (train, bus, etc.) : _____ номеро ( )
 * half : ӝыны ( )
 * less : -лэсь ичи ( )
 * more : -лэсь уно ( )

Time

 * now : али ( )
 * later : берло ( )
 * before : азьло ( )
 * morning : ӵукна ( )
 * afternoon : нуназе ( )
 * evening : ӝыт ( )
 * night : уй ( )

Clock time

 * one o'clock AM : ( )
 * two o'clock AM : ( )
 * noon : ( )
 * one o'clock PM : ( )
 * two o'clock PM : ( )
 * midnight : ( )

Duration

 * _____ minute(s) : ______ минут ( )
 * _____ hour(s) : ______ час ( )
 * _____ day(s) : ______ нунал ( )
 * _____ week(s) : ______ арня ( )
 * _____ month(s) : _______ толэзь ( )
 * _____ year(s) : ______ ар ( )

Days

 * today : туннэ ( )
 * yesterday : толон ( )
 * tomorrow : ӵуказе ( )
 * this week : таяз арняе ( )
 * last week : кылем арняе ( )
 * next week : вуоно арняе ( )

 * Sunday : ( )
 * Monday : ( )
 * Tuesday : ( )
 * Wednesday : ( )
 * Thursday : ( )
 * Friday : ( )
 * Saturday : ( )

Months

 * January : толшор  (tol-shor)
 * February : тулыспал (too-lys-pal)
 * March : южтолэзь (yoozh-tolez')
 * April : оштолэзь (osh-tolez')
 * May : куартолэзь (koo-ar-tolez')
 * June : инвожо (in-vozho)
 * July : пӧсьтолэзь (pos'-tolez')
 * August : гудырикошкон (goo-dyree-koshkon)
 * September : куарусён (koo-ar-us'on)
 * October : коньывуон (konyee-vuon)
 * November : шуркынмон (shoor-kynmon)
 * December : толсур (tol-soor)

Colors

 * black :сьöд
 * white : тöдьы
 * gray : пурысь
 * red : горд
 * blue : лыз
 * yellow : ӵуж
 * green :вож
 * orange :
 * purple :
 * pink :
 * brown :

Bus and train

 * How much is a ticket to _____? : ( )
 * One ticket to _____, please. : ( )
 * Where does this train/bus go? : ( )
 * Where is the train/bus to _____? : ( )
 * Does this train/bus stop in _____? : ( )
 * When does the train/bus for _____ leave? : ( )
 * When will this train/bus arrive in _____? : ( )

Directions

 * How do I get to _____ ? : ( )
 * ...the train station? : ( )
 * ...the bus station? : ( )
 * ...the airport? : ( )
 * ...downtown? : ( )
 * ...the youth hostel? : ( )
 * ...the _____ hotel? : ( )
 * ...the American/Canadian/Australian/British consulate? : ( )
 * Where are there a lot of... : ( )
 * ...hotels? : ( )
 * ...restaurants? : ( )
 * ...bars? : ( )
 * ...sites to see? : ( )
 * Can you show me on the map? : ( )
 * street : ( )
 * Turn left. : ( )
 * Turn right. : ( )
 * left : ( )
 * right : ( )
 * straight ahead : ( )
 * towards the _____ : ( )
 * past the _____ : ( )
 * before the _____ : ( )
 * Watch for the _____. : ( )
 * intersection : ( )
 * north : ( )
 * south : ( )
 * east : ( )
 * west : ( )
 * uphill : ( )
 * downhill : ( )

Taxi

 * Taxi! : ( )
 * Take me to _____, please. : ( )
 * How much does it cost to get to _____? : ( )
 * Take me there, please. : ( )

Lodging

 * Do you have any rooms available? : ( )
 * How much is a room for one person/two people? : ( )
 * Does the room come with... : ( )
 * ...bedsheets? : ( )
 * ...a bathroom? : ( )
 * ...a telephone? : ( )
 * ...a TV? : ( )
 * May I see the room first? : ( )
 * Do you have anything quieter? : ( )
 * ...bigger? : ( )
 * ...cleaner? : ( )
 * ...cheaper? : ( )
 * OK, I'll take it. : ( )
 * I will stay for _____ night(s). : ( )
 * Can you suggest another hotel? : ( )
 * Do you have a safe? : ( )
 * ...lockers? : ( )
 * Is breakfast/supper included? : ( )
 * What time is breakfast/supper? : ( )
 * Please clean my room. : ( )
 * Can you wake me at _____? : ( )
 * I want to check out. : ( )

Money

 * Do you accept American/Australian/Canadian dollars? : ( )
 * Do you accept British pounds? : ( )
 * Do you accept euros? : ( )
 * Do you accept credit cards? : ( )
 * Can you change money for me? : ( )
 * Where can I get money changed? : ( )
 * Can you change a traveler's check for me? : ( )
 * Where can I get a traveler's check changed? : ( )
 * What is the exchange rate? : ( )
 * Where is an automatic teller machine (ATM)? : ( )

Eating

 * A table for one person/two people, please. : ( )
 * Can I look at the menu, please? : ( )
 * Can I look in the kitchen? : ( )
 * Is there a house specialty? : ( )
 * Is there a local specialty? : ( )
 * I'm a vegetarian. : ( )
 * I don't eat pork. : ( )
 * I don't eat beef. : ( )
 * I only eat kosher food. : ( )
 * Can you make it "lite", please? (less oil/butter/lard) : ( )
 * fixed-price meal : ( )
 * a la carte : ( )
 * breakfast : ( )
 * lunch : ( )
 * tea (meal) : ( )
 * supper : ( )
 * I want _____. : ( )
 * I want a dish containing _____. : ( )
 * chicken : ( )
 * beef : ( )
 * fish : ( )
 * ham : ( )
 * sausage : ( )
 * cheese : ( )
 * eggs : ( )
 * salad : ( )
 * (fresh) vegetables :  ( )
 * (fresh) fruit : ( )
 * bread : ( )
 * toast : ( )
 * noodles : ( )
 * rice : ( )
 * beans : ( )
 * May I have a glass of _____? : ( )
 * May I have a cup of _____? : ( )
 * May I have a bottle of _____? : ( )
 * coffee : ( )
 * tea (drink) : ( )
 * juice : ( )
 * (bubbly) water : ( )
 * (still) water : ( )
 * beer : ( )
 * red/white wine : ( )
 * May I have some _____? : ( )
 * salt : ( )
 * black pepper : ( )
 * butter : ( )
 * Excuse me, waiter? (getting attention of server): ( )
 * I'm finished. : ( )
 * It was delicious. : ( )
 * Please clear the plates. : ( )
 * The check, please. : ( )

Bars

 * Do you serve alcohol? : ( )
 * Is there table service? : ( )
 * A beer/two beers, please. : ( )
 * A glass of red/white wine, please. : ( )
 * A pint, please. : ( )
 * A bottle, please. : ( )
 * _____ (hard liquor) and _____ (mixer), please. : ( )
 * whiskey : ( )
 * vodka : ( )
 * rum : ( )
 * water : ( )
 * club soda : ( )
 * tonic water : ( )
 * orange juice : ( )
 * Coke (soda) : ( )
 * Do you have any bar snacks? : ( )
 * One more, please. : ( )
 * Another round, please. : ( )
 * When is closing time? : ( )
 * Cheers! : ( )

Shopping

 * Do you have this in my size? : ( )
 * How much is this? : ( )
 * That's too expensive. : ( )
 * Would you take _____? : ( )
 * expensive : ( )
 * cheap : ( )
 * I can't afford it. : ( )
 * I don't want it. : ( )
 * You're cheating me. : ( )
 * I'm not interested. : (..)
 * OK, I'll take it. : ( )
 * Can I have a bag? : ( )
 * Do you ship (overseas)? : ( )
 * I need... : ( )
 * ...toothpaste. : ( )
 * ...a toothbrush. : ( )
 * ...tampons. : . ( )
 * ...soap. : ( )
 * ...shampoo. : ( )
 * ...pain reliever. (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) : ( )
 * ...cold medicine. : ( )
 * ...stomach medicine. : ... ( )
 * ...a razor. : ( )
 * ...an umbrella. : ( )
 * ...sunblock lotion. : ( )
 * ...a postcard. : ( )
 * ...postage stamps. : ( )
 * ...batteries. : ( )
 * ...writing paper. : ( )
 * ...a pen. : ( )
 * ...English-language books. : ( )
 * ...English-language magazines. : ( )
 * ...an English-language newspaper. : ( )
 * ...an English-English dictionary. : ( )

Driving

 * I want to rent a car. : ( )
 * Can I get insurance? : ( )
 * stop (on a street sign) : ( )
 * one way : ( )
 * yield : ( )
 * no parking : ( )
 * speed limit : ( )
 * gas (petrol) station : ( )
 * petrol : ( )
 * diesel : ( )

Authority

 * I haven't done anything wrong. : ( )
 * It was a misunderstanding. : ( )
 * Where are you taking me? : ( )
 * Am I under arrest? : ( )
 * I am an American/Australian/British/Canadian citizen. : ( )
 * I want to talk to the American/Australian/British/Canadian embassy/consulate. : ( )
 * I want to talk to a lawyer. : ( )
 * Can I just pay a fine now? : ( )

title: Udmurt phrasebook


text:
Udon Thani

Udon Thani (อุดรธานี, also Udorn Thanee) is a city of 131,000 people (2019) in the Isaan region of Thailand. Often referred to as Udon or Udorn (อุดร), the city should not be confused with Ubon — Ubon Ratchathani in southeastern Isaan.

Understand
Founded in the 1890s by Prince Prajak Silapakom, Udon Thani is the 7th largest city in Thailand.

Udon had a USAF airbase during the Vietnam War that increased its wealth and importance. Surrounded by one of the major agricultural areas of the country, Udon Thani has become a regional hub for agriculture, commercial distribution, shopping and a fledgling tourism industry.

The airbase closed in 1976, there was a U.S. consulate until 1995, and there is still a Voice of America radio station. Because of this American presence, many Thais were well-paid and learned English, making them more marketable to foreign labour recruiters. A lot of Udon citizens have worked or are working overseas, particularly in Middle East oil fields. This has contributed both to the wealth of the area and its desirability as an expat destination. More than 5,000 expats from Europe, Australia and North America have settled in the area.

Climate
Winters are fairly dry and very warm. Temperatures rise until April, which is hot with the average daily maximum at 36.2 °C (97.2 °F). The monsoon season runs from late-April through early-October, with heavy rain and somewhat cooler temperatures during the day, although nights remain warm.

By plane

 * Udon Thani terminal,Thailand (27412478245).jpg

To get to the city there is a limousine service (actually a minibus) for 80 baht/person that will drop you and other passengers at the location of your choice. Minibus tickets are available in the booth just to the right as you leave the terminal building. If there are more than two of you, it may be cheaper to call a taxi or to use Grab ride-hailing service, which (as of January 2019) costs 160 baht to/from central Udon. Taxis are not permitted to wait for passengers at the airport, but some do it anyway, asking 200-400 baht for the 4 km journey. Some hotels have pickup services and may take an extra passenger or two if space permits. Some long distance buses to Khon Kaen were seen in the airport, with numerous people boarding them. No local Udon Thani songthaews have been seen near the airport.

If you are travelling on to Nong Khai, there is a bureau straight ahead of you when you get to the arrivals hall which sells minivan tickets to Nong Khai. They have a minibus which meets most flights and for 200 baht they will load you into a minivan. It takes one hour to reach Nong Khai and if you ask the driver he will take you to your hotel, or drop you off at the Thai side of the Friendship Bridge. You can then proceed into Laos.

By bus
There are four bus stations in the city:

 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.
 * Phetprasert runs one overnight bus per day between Chiang Mai to Udon (and onto Nakhon Phanom). Buy Phetprasert tickets in the city centre bus station, a 5-minute walk from the shopping mall.

By train
Daily trains go to Nong Khai (45 min for a bargain 11 baht) and over the Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River to Laos. Trains are also frequent to Nakhon Ratchasima and Bangkok. The overnight express sleeper to Bangkok is scheduled to take 9 hr 25 min, but usually takes longer. Nevertheless, it is still quite comfortable and pleasant, especially when taken in a sleeping berth or compartment. A daytime express train to Bangkok traverses a causeway over the large and scenic artificial lake created by the Pa Sak Jolasid Dam (in Lopburi Province). Connections to the major centres of southern Isaan (Buriram, Surin, Si Saket and Ubon Ratchathani) can be made in Nakhon Ratchasima for those who like to travel by rail.

In all, there are daily daytime trains, and three daily nighttime trains from Bangkok to Udon Thani and vice versa (most of which normally originate or terminate at Nong Khai), and several local trains to other destinations, including Nakhon Ratchasima.

Get around
Navigation around Udon Thani is made easier by three large roundabouts on the central road, Hwy 2: the clock circle, the fountain circle and Prince Prajak Circle. It's also possible to orient yourself with Central Plaza or Nong Prajak Park. There is a bypass road that goes around the city.

By taxi
The main bus station, near Central Plaza has a taxi stand. Grab ride-hailing service works in Udon as well, though prices start from 60 baht even for a shortest ride, and increase pretty quickly afterwards.

By bicycle taxi
Udon Thani has many samlors (three-wheeled bicycle taxis), although as elsewhere, they are slowly succumbing to the pressures of the internal combustion engine.

By tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks, three-wheeled motorcycles, are readily available in most commercial areas. Negotiate a price for your journey before you get in. In Udon Thani the locally made vehicles (called Skylabs) differ from those in most of Thailand outside Isaan in that their fronts are adapted motorcycles. If you travel to Laos, you will also see such vehicles (called "jumbos") there. Tuk-tuks prowl the streets on the lookout for tourists. Apart from long journeys the price should be around 30-50 baht. If you get into the bus station early in the morning and need a guest house they may pretend they can't speak English, drive you around in a small circle "looking" for guesthouses before dropping you around the corner from the station; however, some may not speak English and are just trying to be helpful. They will then ask for 100 baht for a 30-baht journey. There is plenty of accommodation within walking distance of the station.

By songthaew
Udon Thani has a bus-like network of numbered pick up trucks with 2 benches in the back songthaews; cost is 8 or 10 baht per trip (10 baht outside the ring road).

By bicycle

Bicycles can also be rented by the day from Asia Backpackers and SPM House.

By motorbike or car
Motorbike rentals are readily available at many locations in Udon Thani, however the most well known and trusted motorbike rental business in Udon Thani is "Jenny's Motorbike Rental". You can find them on Facebook or at their website www.JennysMotorbikeRental.com

If you wish to travel with a little more comfort, it is recommended to rent a car. The most well-established local car rental in Udon Thani is UD Car Rent, and you will find most major international car hire companies at Udon Thani Airport.

See
Due to poor public transportation in Udon Thani, the only mean of transportation for tourist to get to these tourist attractions is by Car rentals or Taxi service.

Buy
On the east-side ring road is the Bo Bei Clothing Market. Within the city itself are numerous 7-Elevens as well as many mini-marts with Western snacks and goods.

Eat
Street vendors abound throughout the city. Satay, noodle soup (beef, pork, chicken and duck are common), pad Thai, som tam, grilled chicken, meat on a stick, various sweets and rice dishes are available at nearly all times. Udon Thani has a large range of buffet restaurants including Korean-style cook-it-yourself BBQ in a raised dish over a charcoal burner in the centre of your table.

Drink
Udon Thani has a variety of karaoke bars, beer bars and Western bars. "Farang bars" tend to be concentrated in the area between Central Plaza and the railway station. Bars close sharply at midnight as the police are strict. Police set up roadblocks at the hour to look for drunk drivers. If you are driving a motorbike and over the limit it will cost you a night in a very uncomfortable Thai jail, most of the next day, and 3,000 baht.

Sleep
There are many hotels in town. Prices vary, and as with most things, you get what you pay for. Rates range from 200 to 2,000 baht or more per night. Apartment rentals from 1,800 baht/month. Private pool villas can be rented for catered stays of two nights or more.

Budget

 * King’s Hotel (โรงแรมคิงส์). (Coordinates: 17.40905, 102.78499). No fan rooms, only AC - 320 baht (Feb 2023).
 * Krung Thong Hotel (โรงแรมกรุงทอง). (Coordinates: 17.4078, 102.7878). "Single" fan room 190 baht, "single" fan room with TV 250 baht, "single" AC room with TV 350 baht, "double" fan room with TV 270 baht, "double" AC room with TV 350 baht (Feb 2023).
 * Phet House Hostel. (Coordinates: 17.40339, 102.80148). Near the Bus Station 1, Fan room 250 B, AC room 350 B. (Feb 2023)
 * Rich Hotel (โรงแรมริช). (Coordinates: 17.4060, 102.8076). Old building. Clean bedsheets and pillows, blankets not. Noisy roosters on the northern side. One bed (1-2 people) fan room 190 baht, two beds (2-3 people) fan room 240 baht, one bed (1-2 people) AC room 290 baht, two beds (2-3 people) AC room 350 baht (Feb 2023).
 * Phet House Hostel. (Coordinates: 17.40339, 102.80148). Near the Bus Station 1, Fan room 250 B, AC room 350 B. (Feb 2023)
 * Rich Hotel (โรงแรมริช). (Coordinates: 17.4060, 102.8076). Old building. Clean bedsheets and pillows, blankets not. Noisy roosters on the northern side. One bed (1-2 people) fan room 190 baht, two beds (2-3 people) fan room 240 baht, one bed (1-2 people) AC room 290 baht, two beds (2-3 people) AC room 350 baht (Feb 2023).
 * Rich Hotel (โรงแรมริช). (Coordinates: 17.4060, 102.8076). Old building. Clean bedsheets and pillows, blankets not. Noisy roosters on the northern side. One bed (1-2 people) fan room 190 baht, two beds (2-3 people) fan room 240 baht, one bed (1-2 people) AC room 290 baht, two beds (2-3 people) AC room 350 baht (Feb 2023).
 * Rich Hotel (โรงแรมริช). (Coordinates: 17.4060, 102.8076). Old building. Clean bedsheets and pillows, blankets not. Noisy roosters on the northern side. One bed (1-2 people) fan room 190 baht, two beds (2-3 people) fan room 240 baht, one bed (1-2 people) AC room 290 baht, two beds (2-3 people) AC room 350 baht (Feb 2023).

Go next

 * Nong Khai is a very pleasant riverside town near the border with Laos. The Friendship Bridge is located here and this is the main overland border crossing into Laos on the way to Vientiane. Many travellers pass through Nong Khai on their way in and out of Laos without realising that this a worthy travel destination in its own right.
 * Khon Kaen another similar city on the train line heading south. Buses leave frequently and take 1½ hours, trains take longer.
 * Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is about one and a half hours away across the Mekong. Express air conditioned buses leave the Udon Central bus station six times daily for Vientiane. Bus fare one way is 80 baht. A visa on arrival for Laos at the Friendship Bridge costs about US$35 for 30 days (two passport photos are required or there is an additional US$1 charge).

title: Udon Thani


text:
Udumalaippettai

Udumalaippettai (also called Udamalpet or UDT) is in India and is a nice resting place away from the humdrum of the high route to Palani.

Get in
Udumalpet is on the National Highway 209 connecting Coimbatore and Madurai. It is about 75 km from the industrial city of Coimbatore (which has an airport) in the North, 60 km from the Hosiery Town of Tirupur in the North East, 35 km from the Temple Town of Palani in the East, 75 km from Palghat (Kerala) in the West and 85 km from the Hill Resort of Munnar (Kerala) in the South.

Udumalpet is also on the Coimbatore-Rameswaram railway line which has a branch route to Palghat in Kerala.

Get around

 * Thirumoorthy dam
 * Amaravathi dam
 * Picnic spot nearby panchalingam water falls in thirumoorthy hills 20 km from Udamalpet.

See
The town is surrounded by hills and has a great weather throughout the year. The town is also known as Poor man's Ooty because of its climate. Udumalpet is close to many tourist attractions - Palani Temple (35 km), Munnar (88 km), Kodaikanal (100 km) and Thirumoorthy Hills (21 km), Topslip, Aaliyar (35 km).

Waterfalls in Thirumoorthy hills draws quite a number of tourists. It takes half an hour to the falls by trekking from the Thirumoorthy temple. The Thirumoorthy temple is an excellent scenic place with Amanalingeshwarar Thirukkoil at the foothills. The way atop the hill is pretty exciting up to some 1 km and extremely challenging to go beyond that. It is said if you bend and crawl for about 40 meters beneath a rock behind Panchalingam, you could reach the next layer of Western Ghats, i.e. the plain between two adjacent hills and it is said that even tigers exist there.

The villages surrounding Udumalpet are well known for their beauty. Villages are crisscrossed by Amaravathi river and various irrigation canals. Coconut tree farms are common sight and this area is one of the leading producer of coconuts. The countryside is a popular film shooting spot, providing scenic backgrounds and greenery. Thirumoorthy hills houses a beautiful dam which is a very famous shooting spot for Tamil movies.

Udumalpet lies between the famous temple town of Palani (35 km) and Pollachi (28 km) in the National Highway No.209. Udumalpet is also connected by a metre gauge railway line.

Buy

 * Sri RajRajaswari Agencies, 61, Chatram St, phone 225609. Department store.

Eat
SUN HOTELS non vegetarian south Indian, north Indian, Chinese, tandoori.. dhali road

AARIYA BHAVAN vegetarian traditional south Indian dishes with sambar.. dhali road

TAJ HOTELS non-vegetarian world class biriyani shop.. kuttai, dhali road

Ragam Bakery, Dhali Rd, Baking and confectionary. Top class baking items, snacks, ice creams, pizza.

Drink
Anamalais Hotel, 223569,224516,224166 M P Hotels,224255

Sleep

 * M.P. Hotels - Lodge, Restaurant and Conference Hall - #5, Dharapuram Road, Udumalpet -642126. Phone: 04252 - 224255, Mobile: 9884622191 URL: mphotels website Lodge, Rooms, Drink, Hotel, Food, Restaurant, Bar, Marriage Hall
 * Ananth Lodge, 224827, 226208
 * Annai Lodge, 224159
 * Ganesh Lodge, 223161
 * Kurinji Lodge, 224353
 * M.R. Complex, 223884, 225464
 * Priya Lodge, 223696
 * Shalimar Lodge, 226111
 * Shankar Illam, 223089
 * Siva Lodge, 223926
 * Sivan Lodge, 224258
 * Sri Ganesh Lodge, 223161
 * Udupi Lodge, 226285
 * V.M. Complex, 227851, 227853
 * Anamalais Hotel, 223569,224516,224166
 * Annna Hotel, 223131
 * Arya Bhavan, 226788
 * Dharma Sastha Hotel,

Go next

 * Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station is 100km away from here.
 * Topslip, Aliyar and Thirumoorthy dams are close by.
 * Munnar (80km) and Chinnar near UDT are famous for tea estates.

title: Udumalaippettai