Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Timing is crucial here, and those who miss it will travel far for nothing, only to see an unremarkable lake. Talay Bua Daeng, the Red Lotus Sea, is Nong Han Kumphawapi Lake, about 45 km southeast of Udon Thani. There, a wide, shallow expanse of water transforms into a sea of ​​pink blossoms during the cooler months. The flowering season lasts from November to February, peaking from December to mid-February. In April, however, there is hardly anything to see.

The blossoms open at dawn and close before noon, so the window of opportunity is roughly from 6:00 to 11:00 a.m. Boats depart from 6:00 a.m. onwards, and if you leave Udon around 5:00 a.m., you'll be on the water as the sun rises, when the pink color is most intense and the light is soft.

Access to the lakeshore is free, but boat trips are not free. Small wooden boats for two people cost around 150 baht for a short tour and 300 baht for the longer trip to the center of the lake. Covered motorboats for groups cost around 500 baht per trip, with recent reports indicating groups of six to ten people. A complete trip takes about an hour and a half. Boats depart from four piers operated by local fishing communities: Ban Diam, Ban Don Khong, Ban Chae Lae, and Ban Chiang Wae. This advertisement refers to Ban Diam, the main pier (Tel.: 089 395 0871).

There is no regular public transport, so it's recommended to hire a car or driver, or book a Grab the evening before (approximately 50 minutes each way). Remember to bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is no shade by the water. Information about algal blooms can be found on the lake's Facebook page; it's worth checking before you set off early.