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Nong Bua Lam Phu Province
Nong Bua Lam Phu is one of Thailand's newest provinces, created in 1993 when five districts were separated from Udon Thani, and it lies at the heart of the Khorat Plateau in upper northeastern Thailand. The province covers 3,859 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 467,000.
Bordered by Udon Thani to the north and east, Khon Kaen to the south, and Loei to the west, Nong Bua Lam Phu occupies a transitional zone between the highlands and the plateau interior. It was established as a province alongside Amnat Charoen, Sa Kaeo, and the later Bueng Kan, making it one of the youngest administrative units in the country. Erawan Cave (Tham Erawan) in Rattanawapi district, named for the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology, is the province's most celebrated natural attraction, featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The total forest area of about 480 square kilometres, roughly 12 percent of the province, includes protected areas supporting wildlife. King Naresuan is historically connected to the region, with the provincial seal commemorating his visit in 1574.