Visit Bueng Boraphet lake (Nakhon Sawan)

Located to the east of Nakhon Sawan city, Bueng Boraphet Lake is the largest freshwater body in Thailand. Spanning more than 200 km², it is a true haven for birdlife and a favorite spot for birdwatchers. The lake also features its own small "sea of red lotuses" (though, like in Udon Thani, they are actually pinkish water lilies rather than true red lotuses — but still beautiful!). The blossoms reach their peak between November and December, and the best time to see them is at dawn, as the flowers begin to close around 10 a.m. under the heat of the sun.

Formerly a traditional fishing area, Bueng Boraphet is now a protected nature reserve home to over 200 bird species — including rare ones such as Pallas’s fish eagle and the Asian openbill stork — as well as a rich variety of fish and aquatic plants. The site also has an educational purpose: a research and aquarium center has been established to raise awareness about the lake’s biodiversity and the importance of preserving its unique ecosystem. I highly recommend visiting the Bueng Boraphet Aquarium, which showcases freshwater fish species found in the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries.

Things to Do at Bueng Boraphet

• Boat ride: the must-do activity. Small boats and motorized vessels depart from the pier near the visitor center to explore the wetlands and get a closer look at the birds and lotus flowers. It’s especially beautiful during the lotus blooming season but remains interesting year-round (weather permitting).
• Visit the Bueng Boraphet Aquarium: it features the local aquatic fauna, including the giant Mekong catfish and other freshwater species.