Split off from Udon Thani in 1993, Nong Bua Lam Phu is a scenic province famous for its prehistoric sites. Fossilised shells about 140 million years old can be seen in the cliffs 10 kilometres outside the main town;archaeological sites at Kudkwangsoi villages are also attractions.

Well worth a visit is the huge Erawan Cave, Full of beautiful stalagmites and stalacitites.  A very long stairway leads up to the cavern, where a large Buddha sits at the entrance.

Wat Tham Klong Phen, a tranquil forest monastery outside of town, is revered as the home of the famous meditation monk.  Luang Phu Khao Analayo.  A museum in the compound is dedicated to the monk. A beautiful nature reserve is found at Phu Kao Phupan Kham National Park covering 320 square kilometres, including a large lake formed by Ubon Ratana Dam, which is a popular fishing area.