The northeast of Thailand, collectively known as Isaan (or Isarn), is the heartland of the kingdom. Compromising nearly 1/3 of Thailand’s geographical area, the region is also one of the poorest.
What is it?: Isaan, located in the northeastern region of Thailand, is known for its rich culture, historical sites, and natural beauty. With cities like Khon Kaen and Udon Thani, Isaan offers a more authentic and laid-back experience compared to Thailand’s tourist hotspots, with a mix of traditional festivals, stunning landscapes, and proximity to Laos and Cambodia.
Affordability: Very affordable - Isaan is one of the cheapest regions to visit in Thailand, with low-cost accommodations, local food, and transportation. It’s perfect for budget travelers and those looking for a more authentic experience away from the high prices of Bangkok or the southern islands.
Safety: Very safe - Isaan is generally very safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. As with any destination, it’s a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in more remote areas.
Popularity: Growing - While not as popular as destinations like Chiang Mai or Phuket, Isaan is gaining interest among travelers looking for cultural immersion and natural beauty. The region’s festivals, such as the elephant festival in Surin, attract a growing number of visitors.
Tourist Infrastructure: Developing - Larger cities like Khon Kaen and Udon Thani have modern infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and transport options. Smaller towns like Loei and Surin offer fewer amenities but are still well-suited for travelers looking for a more authentic experience.
Weather: Tropical - Isaan has a tropical climate with hot summers, a rainy season from May to October, and cooler temperatures in the winter (November to February). Winter is the best time to visit, especially in cities like Loei, where the cooler weather adds to the appeal.
Best Time to Go: November to February - The cooler months are ideal for exploring Isaan’s natural beauty, national parks, and cultural attractions, offering pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Known For: Cultural festivals, traditional Isaan cuisine, historical sites, national parks, elephants, and proximity to Laos and Cambodia.
Top Destinations: Khon Kaen • Nong Khai • Udon Thani • Ubon Ratchathani • Khorat • Surin • Loei • Phimai Historical Park • Wat Phu Tok • Pha Taem National Park
- Khon Kaen: The cultural hub of the Isaan region, with good tourist facilities and friendly people.
- Nong Khai: The main gateway to Laos across the Friendship Bridge.
- Udon Thani: The main city in the northern part of Isaan near the border with Laos.
- Ubon Ratchathani: Large city in the Emerald Triangle, abutting the borders of both Laos and Cambodia.
- Khorat: The gateway to the Isaan region and a pleasant enough city in its own right.
- Surin: Home to an amazing elephant festival every November.
- Loei: Cold winter weather and proximity to some of Thailand’s finest national parks.
A predominately agricultural area, most famous Thai foods, such as Som Tam (spicy papaya salad) originate in Isaan. Regional cities host numerous festivals, including the Naga fireballs and the rocket festival, many of which feature lots of live ‘country’ music. Often neglected by international tourists Isaan has a lot to offer those looking for an authentic Thai experience.
The northeast of Thailand is divided into 19 provinces. Much of the region borders Cambodia and Laos, which are separated by the Dangkrek Mountains and Mekong River respectively. The diverse natural landscape of the region is mainly used for agriculture and the region has a storied history that dates back to the Bronze Age but was also a center of power through the Angkor era in neighboring Cambodia and up until the Thai founded their first kingdoms in northern and central Thailand.
Isaan has a distinct culture that is predominantly Laotian. Similarities between Thailand and Laos, who are ethnically akin, 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 Lao that uses Thai characters for text. There is also a notable population of Khmer (Cambodian) decent, as much of the region shifted hands over the centuries, with victors often deporting populations to work the fields on their home turf.
There are many national parks that are home to an abundance of varied wildlife and plants. The Nam Nao National Park is a magnificent range of untouched forests and jungles that shelters more than 100 different species of birds. 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.
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, including the mighty Mekong River, which forms the border with neighboring Laos. The region is known for its cold temperatures during the cool season and consequently supports a major cotton quilt industry. Some of Thailand’s best wines are also from the Loei province, and some vineyards offer tours and tasting.
Amnat Charoen Province
A quiet and relatively little-known province in Thailand’s far east, Amnat Charoen is best suited for travelers looking for peaceful temples and rural charm. The province is home to sacred Buddhist relics and serene natural attractions, making it appealing to those seeking spiritual or countryside escapes.
- Amnat Charoen: Small city with significant temples and views of the Mekong River.
Buriram Province
Buriram blends modern-day enthusiasm for football with deep Khmer roots, making it a surprising mix of ancient ruins and sports culture. Visitors come for the magnificent Phanom Rung Historical Park, local festivals, and a look at the growing Isaan identity in this historically rich province.
- Buriram: Lively town with a major football stadium and growing urban scene.
- Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung Historical Park: Impressive Khmer temple complex set on an extinct volcano.
Chaiyaphum Province
Chaiyaphum offers a blend of floral fields, ancient ruins, and scenic parks across a rugged plateau landscape. While it’s off the beaten track for many tourists, those who make the effort are rewarded with peaceful natural beauty, rock formations, and wildflower blooms in the rainy season.
- Chaiyaphum: Small city surrounded by parks, known for its laid-back pace.
Kalasin Province
A tranquil agricultural province, Kalasin is renowned for its dinosaur fossils, with world-class museums and dig sites. It’s a top pick for family travelers and history enthusiasts seeking something different in Thailand’s northeast.
- Kalasin: Quiet provincial town with a strong focus on dinosaurs and local culture.
Khon Kaen Province
Khon Kaen is one of the major urban centers of Isaan, serving as a hub for transportation, education, and commerce. Tourists come here for silk weaving, lakeside parks, Buddhist temples, and an increasingly cosmopolitan vibe.
- Khon Kaen: Modern city with museums, markets, and temples near Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake.
- Phu Wiang National Park: Park famous for its dinosaur fossil sites and nature trails.
Loei Province
Loei is one of the most mountainous and scenic provinces in Thailand, known for its cool climate, flower fields, and distinctive culture. It’s a destination for ecotourism, national parks, and quiet river towns along the Mekong.
- Loei: Provincial capital with local shrines and access to mountain getaways.
- Chiang Khan: Riverside town popular for cycling, local crafts, and Mekong views.
- Dan Sai: Mountain village known for the unique Phi Ta Khon ghost mask festival.
- Phu Kradung National Park: Famous for its plateau summit hike and panoramic viewpoints.
- Phu Reua National Park: Cool-climate park with flower gardens and high-altitude vistas.
Mahasarakham Province
Often bypassed by mainstream tourism, Mahasarakham is a center for regional education and home to quiet temples and handicraft villages. It’s a low-key destination for those curious about authentic rural Thai life.
- Mahasarakham: University town with a focus on local crafts and Buddha imagery.
Mukdahan Province
Mukdahan sits on the Mekong opposite Laos and is known more as a border town than a tourist magnet. Still, it has peaceful river views, hilltop temples, and a few good parks, appealing to travelers passing through to or from Laos.
- Mukdahan: Border city with a skywalk tower and peaceful Mekong riverside.
Nakhon Phanom Province
Set on the Mekong River with a view across to Laos, Nakhon Phanom is a scenic and spiritual province with French colonial architecture, riverside promenades, and important religious sites like Phra That Phanom.
- Nakhon Phanom: Charming riverside town with temples, history, and Indochina-era buildings.
- That Phanom: Religious town home to one of the most sacred stupas in Northeastern Thailand.
Nakhon Ratchasima Province
Also called Khorat, this is the gateway to Isaan and one of Thailand’s largest provinces. It blends ancient Khmer ruins with modern commerce, excellent national parks, and traditional silk-making villages.
- Khorat: Bustling city with museums and a lively food scene.
- Phimai: Home to one of Thailand’s most important Khmer temples.
- Ban Prasat: Archaeological site with prehistoric human burial exhibits.
- Pak Thong Chai: Renowned for handwoven silk production.
- Khao Yai National Park: Thailand’s oldest national park with waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails.
Nong Bua Lam Phu Province
A peaceful province with ancient roots, Nong Bua Lam Phu is rich in prehistoric sites, Buddhist caves, and rural traditions. It attracts history lovers and those interested in geological discoveries.
- Nong Bua Lam Phu: Town with historical significance and access to natural cave sites.
Nong Khai Province
Nong Khai is known as the main gateway into Laos via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. Beyond that, it offers beautiful Mekong views, intriguing spiritual traditions, and some bizarre modern sculpture parks.
- Nong Khai: Laid-back border city with a riverwalk and mysterious Naga folklore.
- Bueng Kan: Nearby town with access to rock formations and waterfalls.
Roi Et Province
A flat but culturally rich province, Roi Et is known for its giant standing Buddha, lakeside parks, and Isaan-style temples. It’s an easygoing destination with good food and few tourists.
- Roi Et: Provincial town with a huge Buddha and tranquil public parks.
Sakon Nakhon Province
Set on the Phu Phan mountain range, Sakon Nakhon is full of religious sites and traditional craft villages. It also has lush forest parks and festivals that draw Thai pilgrims and culture-seekers.
- Sakon Nakhon: Historic town with temples, silk weaving, and lakeside serenity.
- Phu Phan National Park: Mountain park with hiking, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Si Saket Province
Si Saket sits on the Cambodian border and is rich in Khmer ruins and quiet farming towns. The province’s temples and proximity to Preah Vihear make it an interesting stop for history buffs.
- Si Saket: Sleepy town with a temple housing a revered image of the Buddha.
- Khao Phra Wihan National Park: Border park with views of Preah Vihear temple and cliffside vistas.
Surin Province
Surin is famous for its annual elephant roundup and for being one of Thailand’s most Khmer-influenced provinces. It’s a great place for seeing cultural festivals and historic ruins with fewer tourists around.
- Surin: Town known for its Elephant Festival and local silk weaving.
Ubon Ratchathani Province
Ubon is a major province in the far east of Thailand, bordering both Laos and Cambodia. Its remote parks, scenic cliffs, and prehistoric rock art sites make it perfect for adventurous travelers looking to escape the crowds.
- Ubon Ratchathani: Cultural capital with vibrant temples and annual candle festivals.
- Pha Tem National Park: Park with ancient cliff paintings and sunrise Mekong views.
- Chong Mek: Border market town and crossing point into Laos.
Udon Thani Province
Udon Thani is a major hub in northeastern Thailand and offers excellent access to historical and archaeological sites. From Bronze Age relics to Cold War history, it’s a destination for travelers who love digging into the past.
- Udon Thani: Modern city with shopping, museums, and cultural performances.
- Ban Chiang: UNESCO World Heritage site with prehistoric pottery and tools.
- Phu Phrabat Historical Park: Unique rock formations and ancient shrines in a forested setting.
Yasothon Province
Yasothon is best known for its colorful Rocket Festival held each May, a wild celebration of rural tradition and fun. Outside festival season, it’s a peaceful province with old temples and local flavor.
- Yasothon: Small town with ancient stupas and lively cultural traditions.
Top Cities
- Khon Kaen: A bustling city in northeastern Thailand, known for its rich culture, vibrant markets, and silk production.
- Nong Khai: A charming riverside town on the Mekong River, famous for the unique Sala Kaew Ku sculpture park.
- Udon Thani: A lively city with a mix of ancient history and modern attractions, including the renowned Ban Chiang archaeological site.
- Ubon Ratchathani: Known for its annual Candle Festival and beautiful temples like Wat Nong Pah Pong.
- Khorat (Nakhon Ratchasima): The gateway to Isan, famous for the Phimai Historical Park and traditional Isan culture.
- Surin: Renowned for its annual Elephant Round-Up and rich Khmer heritage.
- Loei: A picturesque town with cool climate, scenic mountains, and the beautiful Phu Kradueng National Park.
National Parks
- Phanom Rung Historical Park: Stunning Khmer temples from the 11th century feature at this excellent park outside Buriram.
- Pha Taem National Park: Steep cliffs overlooking the Mekong provide the scenery for prehistoric paintings.
- Phu Kradung National Park: This cold climate plateau is a rarity in Thailand and one of the finest natural areas in the kingdom.
- Khao Yai National Park: Thailand’s oldest park is easy to reach from Bangkok for a luxury resort weekend or an adventurous trek.
- Khao Phra Wihan National Park: Hugging the Mekong River and the border of Laos, the caves and waterfalls here are a major attraction.
- Tap Lan National Park: Elusive leopards and untouched nature await those venturing into this wonderful park near the Cambodian border.
Other Popular Destinations
- Roi Et: The world’s tallest Buddha watches over this quiet town with a long history.
- Chiang Khan: One of the nicest riverside towns along the mighty Mekong River.
- Mukdahan: Unpretentious and perhaps a bit dull, but this border town is the easiest way to jump into this part of southern Laos.
- Si Saket: A lively night market is a highlight of this typical Isaan town.
- Phimai: The Angkor-era National Park near this town offers the best Khmer temple in Thailand.
- Buriram: Perhaps the most typical of all Isaan cities.
- Worth it?: Undoubtedly, for intrepid travelers who enjoy exploring pretty country villages, trekking and discovering ancient archeological sites. [delete]
- What to do: Jungle trekking, visiting tribal villages, dining on local cuisine, exploring national parks, taking part in vibrant festivals.
- Best time to go: November until February offers the best weather and is the most popular time for tourists to visit.
- How long?: At least five days and nights.
- Trivia: Northeastern Thailand is known locally as Isaan and is famed for its hot and spicy food such as laab and som tam, which are perfectly complemented by sticky rice and grilled chicken.