The northeast region of Thailand is usually known for its rice farming, but the stunning wetlands of Lotus Lake, hidden among tall grass, are well worth a visit for their gorgeous bright pink lotus flowers. The best time for visitors to see this spectacle is during the cool season, December through February. Once there, tourists will take a wooden boat guided by a local fisherman or villager through the cleared elephant grasses to where a thick expanse of flamingo-pink lotus blooms suddenly emerge above the sparkling waters of the Lotus Lake. The wetlands are also home to roughly 80 species of birds, including the endangered purple heron, grey heron, and black kite.