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.
Explore: Khon Kaen • Nong Khai • Udon Thani • Ubon Ratchathani • Khorat • Surin • Loei
- 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.
Where to Go
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.
Provinces
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Amnat Charoen Province: A small, serene province famous for important Buddha images and temples. Haui Pla Daek Reservoir is one of the biggest attractions.
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Buriram Province: A large, heavily-populated province with strong Khmer heritage. Popular spots include Phra Suphatthara Bophit and the pagodas of Prang Ku Suan Taeng.
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Chaiyaphum Province: Sitting almost at the exact center of Thailand is this home to some of the country’s oldest buildings and prettiest flower fields. Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Sai Thong National Park and Prang Ku are some of the popular destinations.
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Kalasin Province: A small agricultural province featuring a lush, hilly landscape, famous for dinosaur fossils, natural beauty and local handicrafts. Sirindhorn Museum and Phu Khum Khao Dinosaur Excavation Site form the biggest single attraction.
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Khon Kaen Province: A large, cultural province that forms the heartland of Thailand’s Northeast, Khon Kaen is a thriving hub of education, transport, tourism and government. Popular spots include the modern city of Khon Kaen, the Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake region, and national parks like Phu Kao Phu Phan Kham.
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Loei Province: Home to many cultural and historical sites, as well as much natural beauty, Loei is one of the region’s most popular provinces. Key destinations include the Chaopho Kut Pong and City Pillar shrines in Loei city, Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chaloem Phra Kiat Public Park.
Chiang Khan • Dan Sai • Loei • Phu Kradung National Park • Phu Reua National Park
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Mahasarakham Province: Offers a moderate level of interest to those keen on Buddha images or handicrafts. Popular spots include the artisan village of Ban Nong Khuan Chang and the Mongkon Standing Buddha.
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Mukdahan Province: Contains ancient temples and beautiful scenery but is otherwise of little interest to tourists, apart from its status as an gateway into and out of Laos. Popular sites include Mukdahan National Park and Wat Si Mongkon Tai.
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Nakhon Phanom Province: Set on the banks of the Mekong River amidst the hills and mountains in the northernmost reaches of the region, the province has strong links with Laos and is popular with tourists. Phra That Phanom shrine is of major religious importance.
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Ban Prasat • Khao Yai National Park • Khorat • Pak Thong Chai • Phimai
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Nong Bua Lam Phu Province: Has a history dating back almost 1,000 years but is also home to exceptional prehistoric fossil finds. Popular spots include the Kudkwangsoi villages and Erawan cave.
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Nong Khai Province: Typically seen only by foreigners passing through on their way to the border of Laos, there is much culture, history and scenery of interest in Nong Khai. There is an important Buddha image at Wat Pho Chai temple and the mysterious Naga Fireballs around October.
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Roi Et Province: A medium-sized province near Laos that features plains in the south and the Phu Phan Mountains in the north. The town of Roi Et offers many attractions. The Tham Pha Nam Thip Non-hunting Area is another popular spot.
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Sakon Nakhon Province: Located on the Khorat Plateau close to the Mekong River and home to the Phu Phan mountain range. Popular spots include the old Sakon Nakhon town, Huai Huat National Park and the Ban Kut Na Kham Arts and Crafts Center.
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Si Saket Province: A quiet province located in the Mun River valley on the border with Cambodia, Si Saket is home to many Khmer ruins. Popular sites include Wat Maha Phuttharam temple and Khao Phra Wihan National Park.
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Surin Province: Sitting south of the Mun River valley and north of the Dongrek mountains, with Cambodia on its southern border. More than 80 per cent of Surin Residents speak Khmer. Popular sites include Khmer ruins, the City of Pillar Shrine, and an elephant village.
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Ubon Ratchathani Province: Laos lies to the north and east, Cambodia lies to the south, rich forestation lends it the name, the Emerald Triangle. Kaeng Tana, Phu Chonh Na Toi and Pha Taem national parks are key attractions, as are Saeng Chan, Bak Tew Yai and Thung Na Muang waterfalls.
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Udon Thani Province: Sitting in the center of the Khorat Plateau, the key feature of Udon Thani is the province’s history - from Bronze Age relics to Udon’s role in the air war over Southeast Asia. Popular spots include Ban Chiang, Udorn Sunshine Orchid Farm, Phu Phra Bat Historical Park and Na Yung-Nam Som National Park.
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Yasothon Province: Famous for a hugely-popular annual Rocket Festival and home to many of the oldest stupas in the region. Pra That Yasothon, Hor Trai Buddhist library and Wat Maha That temple are some of the highlights.
Need to Know
- 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.