Inner Eastern Thailand Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Inner Eastern Thailand, featuring a list of places to visit, activities and tours, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Inner Eastern Thailand

Inner Eastern Thailand is a region located in the eastern part of Thailand that is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The region is home to many breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, national parks, and mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Inner Eastern Thailand

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Inner Eastern Thailand is home to several museums and historical places that are worth visiting. One of the most popular ones is the Prasat Hin Phimai Historical Park, which features ancient Khmer ruins that date back to the 11th century.

Another must-visit attraction is the Khorat Fossil Museum, which showcases fossils that are millions of years old. Visitors can learn about the evolution of life on Earth and see impressive collections of dinosaur bones and footprints.

Natural Attractions of Inner Eastern Thailand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Inner Eastern Thailand is a nature lover’s paradise, with many national parks, waterfalls, and mountains to explore. Khao Yai National Park is a popular destination for hiking and wildlife watching, as it is home to many exotic animals such as elephants, tigers, and gibbons.

Other popular natural attractions in Inner Eastern Thailand include Haew Suwat Waterfall, which is famous for being featured in the movie “The Beach,” and Pha Taem National Park, which offers stunning views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Inner Eastern Thailand

Inner Eastern Thailand is a great place to explore on foot or by bike, with many scenic trails and routes to choose from. One popular hiking trail is the Khao Yai Trekking Trail, which takes visitors through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Another popular activity is cycling through the countryside, where visitors can enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery. The Chaiyaphum Loop is a great option for cyclists, as it takes riders through quaint villages and past gorgeous rice fields.

Best Things to Do in Inner Eastern Thailand: Activities and Tours

Inner Eastern Thailand offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. One unique activity is the Surin Elephant Festival, an annual event that takes place in November and features traditional elephant shows, food markets, and cultural performances.

Visitors can also enjoy a boat tour of the Mekong River, where they can take in the beautiful scenery and learn about the history and culture of the region. For those seeking adventure, zip-lining through the jungle or rock climbing at Khao Yai National Park are great options.

Week-Long Itinerary for Inner Eastern Thailand

Day 1: Explore the ancient ruins of Prasat Hin Phimai Historical Park. Day 2: Hike through Khao Yai National Park and spot exotic wildlife. Day 3: Visit the Khorat Fossil Museum and learn about the region’s prehistoric past. Day 4: Take a boat tour of the Mekong River and learn about the culture of the local communities. Day 5: Cycle through the countryside and enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery. Day 6: Explore the buzzing night markets of Khon Kaen. Day 7: Relax and unwind at the hot springs of Lam Narai.

Food and Drink Scene of Inner Eastern Thailand

Must-Try Dishes

Inner Eastern Thailand is known for its spicy, flavorful cuisine that is influenced by neighboring Laos and Cambodia. One must-try dish is som tum, a spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, chilies and peanuts.

Another popular dish is laap, a spicy minced meat salad made with lime juice, herbs, and toasted rice. Khao niao, or sticky rice, is a staple of the region and is often served with grilled meats and sauces.

Local Beverages

The region is also known for its refreshing beverages, such as Thai iced tea and coffee. Visitors can also sample local fruit juices, such as coconut and passionfruit. For those looking for something a little stronger, lao khao, a type of rice whiskey, is a popular local spirit.

Where to Stay in Inner Eastern Thailand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Inner Eastern Thailand offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. From luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, there is something for everyone. Khao Yai National Park offers a range of options, from luxurious resorts to eco-friendly lodges, while the city of Khon Kaen has many affordable guesthouses and hostels.

What to Buy in Inner Eastern Thailand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Inner Eastern Thailand is home to many unique products and souvenirs that visitors can take home with them. Hand-woven silk products, such as scarves and bags, are popular gifts, as are traditional pottery and ceramics.

For those with a sweet tooth, the region is also known for its delicious treats, such as coconut candy and khanom chin, a type of noodle dish served with spicy fish curry.

Local Culture and Customs of Inner Eastern Thailand

Inner Eastern Thailand is home to many unique customs and traditions that are worth learning about. The region is known for its lively festivals, such as the Surin Elephant Festival and the Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival, which take place in May.

Visitors should also be aware of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or temples, and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Inner Eastern Thailand

The best time to visit Inner Eastern Thailand is during the cooler and drier season from November to February. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

The hot and humid season from March to June can be challenging for some visitors, while the rainy season from July to October can result in flash floods and muddy trails.

Do’s and Don’ts of Inner Eastern Thailand

Do:

  • Learn some basic Thai phrases before your trip.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets and street vendors.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the monarchy or any religious icons.
  • Touch someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful.
  • Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
  • Give alms or money directly to monks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Inner Eastern Thailand

The region is generally safe for visitors, but it is still advisable to take precautions. Visitors should be cautious when traveling at night and should avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.

Natural hazards, such as flash floods and landslides, can occur during the rainy season. Visitors should stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.

Health in Inner Eastern Thailand

Visitors should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and malaria. It is advisable to use mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors.

Visitors should also take precautions when consuming street food and should only drink bottled water.

Getting to Inner Eastern Thailand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Inner Eastern Thailand is accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest international airport is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, which serves many major airlines.

From Bangkok, visitors can also take a bus or train to reach destinations in Inner Eastern Thailand. There are also many local transportation options, such as tuk-tuks and songthaews, available in most towns and cities.

Airports Near Inner Eastern Thailand

  • Khon Kaen Airport
  • Udon Thani International Airport

Bus Stations Near Inner Eastern Thailand

  • Morchit Bus Terminal (Bangkok)
  • Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Train service from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima

How to Get Around in Inner Eastern Thailand

Inner Eastern Thailand has many transportation options for visitors to get around. Tuk-tuks and songthaews are popular local options, while motorbikes and bicycles are also available for rent.

For longer distances, buses are the most convenient option and serve most towns and cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Inner Eastern Thailand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Inner Eastern Thailand is well-connected to other regions in Thailand and neighboring countries. Visitors can easily travel to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other popular destinations in Thailand.

Neighboring Laos and Cambodia are also easily accessible by land and offer many unique travel experiences, such as exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat or trekking through the jungles of northern Laos.

Conclusion

Inner Eastern Thailand offers a wealth of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting adventures for visitors to discover. From hiking through national parks to sampling the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this unique and vibrant region. By following these tips and suggestions, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Inner Eastern Thailand.



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