Located east of Nakhon Sawan, Bueng Boraphet Lake is Thailand's largest freshwater reservoir. Covering an area of ​​over 200 km², it's a true paradise for birds and a popular spot for birdwatchers. The lake is also home to a small "sea of ​​red lotus flowers" (though, similar to Udon Thani, these are actually pink water lilies, not true red lotus flowers – but beautiful nonetheless!). The flowering season peaks between November and December, and the best time to admire them is at dawn, as the blossoms begin to close around 10 a.m. in the heat of the sun. Once a traditional fishing ground, Bueng Boraphet is now a protected nature reserve with over 200 bird species – including rare species like the Pallas's sea eagle and the Asian openbill stork – as well as a rich variety of fish and aquatic plants. The site also serves an educational purpose: A research and aquarium center has been established to raise awareness of the lake's biodiversity and the importance of protecting its unique ecosystem. I highly recommend a visit to the Bueng Boraphet Aquarium, which showcases freshwater fish species from the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Things to do in Bueng Boraphet: Boat trip: An absolute must! Small boats and motorboats depart from the jetty near the visitor center to explore the wetlands and observe birds and lotus flowers up close. It's especially beautiful during the lotus bloom, but also appealing year-round (weather permitting). Visit the Bueng Boraphet Aquarium: It displays native aquatic fauna, including the giant Mekong catfish and other freshwater species.

A boat tour on the lake costs 600 THB (maximum 12 people). The boats depart from Bueng Boraphet Bird Park (see map), not from the aquarium side.