Northeastern Thailand Travel Guide

Often ignored by the independent traveller to Thailand, the northeast region of Thailand, also known as Isan, is a wildly colourful and interesting area which is well worth exploring. Although lacking in some of the stronger tourist magnets such as beautiful beaches and large mountain ranges, I-san has a more subtle appeal, no better demonstrated than by the vista of the winding Maekhong River which lines much of the border area. The lack of tourism and tourists in this area is all the more reason to go, especially for those interested in a better look at a more unadulterated version of Thai life and times.

I-san covers almost one third of Thailand and some areas are bursting with worthwhile points of interest. Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima Province is viewed by many as being one of the best National Parks in the world and the spectacular ruins at Prasat Phanom Rung are arguably the best restored Khmer ruins in all of Thailand. The quaint sleepy riverside scenery along I-san's frontier with Laos is ideal for cyclists who can easily traverse much of the predominantly flat landscape. Festivals also play a big role in the area with Yasothon's Rocket Festival, Surin's elephant roundup, Phimai's boat racing, Ubon Ratchathani's Candle Festival and the highly regarded Songkran Festival celebrated throughout the province, each being a great reason for visiting the region.

Divided into 19 provinces, Isaan takes up a large portion of Thailand and borders with Cambodia and Laos. All of these provinces are easily visited and the provincial capitals each have a selection of hotels and restaurants as do many of the smaller towns. In some of the smaller, less visited provinces it can be difficult to find English speakers but that is just all the more opportunity to practise your Thai!. The diverse natural landscape of the region is mainly used for agriculture, with much of Thailand’s fruit, vegetables and rice grown here. A long and interesting history exists, with important artifacts of the Bronze Age remaining today.

Isaan has a distinct culture that is predominantly Laotian. Similarities between Thailand and Laos are seen in the foods, dress, festivals, music, dance and arts. Although economically Thailand’s poorest region, the people are generally very happy, content and friendly. The language spoken is Isaan, which is a mix of Thai and Laos that uses Thai characters for text.

There are many national parks, home to an abundance of varied wildlife and plants. The Nam Nao National park is a magnificent range of untouched forests and jungles. Home to over 100 different species of birds, the area is popular for bird watching. With a variety of other wild animals and some great trekking, the park is a fantastic place for a family vacation.

The city of Khon Kaen is situated in the heart of the northeastern region. Khon Kaen has the best university in the northeast and many facilities for business travelers. The city is alive with markets and street vendors selling everything from food, ancient Khmer stone carvings and traditional Thai silk, for which Khon Kaen is known.

In the center of the city is Bung Kaen Nakhon, a large fresh-water lake that is popular for jogging, cycling, picnics and general recreation. Along the water’s edge you will find many restaurants serving traditional Isaan food.

Phetchabun province in the northeast of Thailand offers stunning scenery, with a massive mountain range running through the area. Above Phetchabun lies the beautiful province of Loei, where magnificent national parks and picturesque mountain scenery can be found.

The roads through Loei are great, making driving by car a very enjoyable experience, with so much to see along the way. The region is known for its cold temperatures during the cool season and consequently supports a major cotton quilt making industry. Some of Thailand’s best wines are also from the Loei province, and some vineyards offer tours and tasting.

Highlights

  • Visiting Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung (Buriram Province).
  • A trip to That Phanom to see Wat Phra That Phanom (Nakhon Phanom Province).
  • Ban Chiang (Udon Thani Province).
  • Travelling around Tha Li district (Loei Province).
  • Khon Kaen Museum (Khon Kaen Province).