Yasothon Travel Guide

Yasothon is a hidden gem in Central Isaan, Thailand, with plenty of cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, and a vibrant food and drink scene. Read on for a comprehensive guide on what to see, do, and experience in Yasothon.


Introduction to Yasothon

Yasothon, a province in Central Isaan, Thailand, is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by travelers venturing into the region. However, it’s a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions, offering a glimpse into the traditions, lifestyle, and history of Isaan. The province is known for its vibrant festivals, mouth-watering cuisine, charming villages, and scenic countryside. If you’re looking for an offbeat destination in Thailand, Yasothon should be on top of your list.

List of Places to Visit in Yasothon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Yasothon has a rich cultural heritage, visible in the numerous temples, museums, and historical landmarks scattered across the province. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Wat Maha That - a sacred temple with a towering chedi and intricate murals showcasing the Buddha’s life and teachings.
  • Phra That Kong Khao Noi - a revered stupa atop a hill that’s said to contain the Buddha’s relics.
  • Yasothon City Pillar Shrine - a revered shrine believed to protect the city and its inhabitants from harm.
  • Ban Kham Phra Handicraft Center - a museum showcasing the local handwoven silk fabrics, traditional costumes, and crafts.
  • Theppharat House Museum - a restored old house showcasing the life and times of a wealthy Isaan family in the early 20th century.
  • Ban Si Than Museum - a museum showcasing the folk arts, crafts, and musical instruments of Isaan.

Natural Attractions of Yasothon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Yasothon’s countryside is a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, dotted with verdant rice fields, pristine forests, and picturesque waterfalls. Some of the unmissable natural attractions include:

  • Pha Taem National Park - a national park with stunning rock formations, cliff-top views, and prehistoric rock paintings.
  • Lam Pao Dam - a scenic reservoir that’s perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park - a national park with towering peaks, scenic rivers, and diverse wildlife.
  • Sai Thong National Park - a national park with golden meadows, cascading waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Nong Han Lake - a scenic lake famous for its pink lotus flowers that bloom from December to February.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yasothon

Yasothon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking and biking routes that traverse the lush forests, fields, and hills of the province. Some of the recommended routes include:

  • Phra That Kong Khao Noi Trek - a scenic and challenging hike that leads to the sacred stupa atop the hill.
  • Pha Taem National Park Hike - a moderate hike that takes you through the stunning rock formations and ancient rock paintings of the national park.
  • Sai Thong National Park Hike - a moderate hike that leads to the golden meadows and cascading waterfalls of the national park.
  • Yasothon Cycling Loop - a scenic and leisurely bike ride that covers the charming villages, rice fields, and temples of Yasothon.

Best Things to Do in Yasothon: Activities and Tours

Yasothon has plenty of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Some of the top things to do in Yasothon include:

  • Attend the Bun Bang Fai Festival - a vibrant festival featuring mock rocket launchings, cultural shows, and delicious food.
  • Explore the Night Market - a bustling market that offers street food, handicrafts, and clothing.
  • Watch a Traditional Isaan Performance - a cultural show that features traditional music, dance, and costumes.
  • Visit the Village of Silk Weavers - a village where you can see how the locals weave silk fabrics and make traditional costumes.
  • Take a Cooking Class - a hands-on experience where you can learn how to make authentic Isaan dishes using fresh and local ingredients.
  • Experience the Local Life - a guided tour that takes you to the villages, farms, and temples of Yasothon, giving you a glimpse into the local lifestyle and traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yasothon

If you’re planning to spend a week in Yasothon, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the top attractions and experiences:

  • Day 1 - Arrive in Yasothon and check into your hotel. Explore the city center and visit Wat Maha That, Phra That Kong Khao Noi, and Yasothon City Pillar Shrine.
  • Day 2 - Take a day trip to Pha Taem National Park. Hike to the rock formations, see the ancient rock paintings, and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Day 3 - Visit the Ban Kham Phra Handicraft Center and Theppharat House Museum in the morning. In the afternoon, take a bike ride around the countryside and enjoy the scenery.
  • Day 4 - Attend the Bun Bang Fai Festival and experience the local culture, food, and traditions.
  • Day 5 - Take a cycling tour to the village of silk weavers and learn how to weave silk fabrics. In the evening, watch a traditional Isaan performance.
  • Day 6 - Take a day trip to Lam Pao Dam and enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking by the reservoir.
  • Day 7 - Visit the Sai Thong National Park and hike to the golden meadows and cascading waterfalls. In the evening, explore the night market and try the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Yasothon

Must-Try Dishes

Yasothon’s cuisine is spicy, flavorful, and unique, with influences from Lao, Khmer, and Vietnamese cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Som Tam Yasothon - a spicy and tangy papaya salad that’s a specialty of Yasothon.
  • Nam Nuang Yasothon - grilled pork meatballs that are seasoned with herbs and spices.
  • Larb Pla Kem - a spicy and sour salad made with salted, fermented fish.
  • Tom Saep - a spicy and sour soup made with meat, tripe, and herbs.
  • Kaeng Kradang - a spicy curry made with freshwater fish and vegetables.

Local Beverages

Yasothon is known for its refreshing and unique beverages that complement the spicy and flavorful cuisine. Some of the beverages to try include:

  • Nam Manao - a sweet and sour lime juice that’s a popular thirst-quencher.
  • Krating Daeng Yasothon - a locally-made energy drink that is also the original formula for Red Bull.
  • Lao Caow - a rice-based liquor that’s popular in Isaan.
  • Nahm Bpoon - a sweet and fragrant herbal drink that’s said to offer medicinal benefits.

Where to Stay in Yasothon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yasothon offers a range of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the recommended options include:

  • Baan Phu Plai Dao Resort - a luxurious resort that’s set amidst lush gardens and rice fields, offering spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa.
  • Yasothon Grand Hotel - a mid-range hotel that’s located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Ploenruedee Resort - a budget-friendly resort that’s located near Lam Pao Dam, offering cozy rooms, an outdoor pool, and a garden.
  • Ban Kham Phra Guest House - a guesthouse that’s located near the Ban Kham Phra Handicraft Center, offering clean rooms, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Yasothon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Yasothon has a vibrant handicraft scene, known for its handwoven silk fabrics, traditional costumes, and local products. Some of the recommended souvenirs to bring home include:

  • Yasothon Silk Products - handwoven silk fabrics, scarves, and neckties that are made using traditional methods.
  • Yasothon Khit Cloth - a traditional cloth that’s used for making skirts of the women who dance during the Bun Bang Fai Festival.
  • Miang - a snack made with betel leaves, nuts, and spices that’s a specialty of Yasothon.
  • Rangsitrade Soap - handmade soaps that are made with local herbs and essential oils.

Local Culture and Customs of Yasothon

Yasothon has a rich cultural heritage that’s rooted in Buddhism and agricultural lifestyle. The locals are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their traditions and customs. Some of the notable cultural aspects of Yasothon include:

  • Bun Bang Fai Festival - a festival that features mock rocket launchings, cultural shows, and delicious food, celebrated in May or June.
  • Woman’s Skirt Dance - a traditional dance performed by women during the Bun Bang Fai Festival, wearing colorful traditional skirts made of Khit cloth.
  • Agricultural Lifestyle - Yasothon is known for its rice farming, silk weaving, and handicrafts that are integral to the local economy and culture.

Best Time to Visit Yasothon

The best time to visit Yasothon is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. March to May is the hot and dry season, while June to October is the rainy season, with occasional flooding and landslides in the countryside.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yasothon

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions, such as taking off your shoes before entering a temple or shrine.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, but be careful with the level of spiciness.
  • Bargain at the markets to get a fair price for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Buddha or other religious icons by touching, pointing or sitting on them.
  • Litter or leave trash behind. Always dispose of your waste properly.
  • Make negative comments about the monarchy or political issues in Thailand.
  • Touch or pat a person’s head, as it’s considered disrespectful in Thai culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yasothon

Yasothon is a safe and peaceful province, with low levels of crime and violence. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions and follow common sense safety tips, such as:

  • Keep your valuables and important documents in a secured place.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling alone or at night.
  • Use caution when driving or riding a motorbike on rural roads.
  • Carry a basic travel first-aid kit and medication for common illnesses.

Health in Yasothon

Yasothon is a relatively healthy province with no major health risks or epidemics. However, it’s important to take some precautions and follow basic hygiene practices, such as:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid water-borne diseases.
  • Use mosquito repellents or wear long-sleeved clothes to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
  • Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
  • Consult a doctor or travel clinic before heading to Yasothon and make sure you’re up-to-date with routine vaccinations.

Getting to Yasothon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yasothon

The nearest airport to Yasothon is Ubon Ratchathani Airport, located 83 km away, and served by domestic airlines such as Thai Airways and AirAsia.

Bus Stations Near Yasothon

Yasothon Bus Terminal is the main bus station in the province, serving buses to/from Bangkok, Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, and other major cities in Thailand.

Other Options

Traveling by train or car is also an option, with the nearest railway station being Udon Thani, located 120 km away.

How to Get Around in Yasothon

Yasothon can be explored by various modes of transportation, such as:

  • Tuk-tuks - small motorized rickshaws that are available for hire in the city center.
  • Bikes - rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the countryside and nearby attractions.
  • Songthaews - shared taxis that ply along the main roads, connecting the city center to nearby villages and towns.
  • Private cars - hire a private car with a driver for a day trip or sightseeing tour.

Where to Go Next from Yasothon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Yasothon is well connected to some of the top destinations in Isaan and beyond, such as:

  • Ubon Ratchathani - a province known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning waterfalls, and traditional festivals.
  • Khon Kaen - a vibrant city with a great food and nightlife scene, and nearby attractions such as Phu Wiang National Park and Phu Kradueng National Park.
  • Chiang Mai - a popular destination in Northern Thailand, known for its temples, night markets, and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Yasothon is a hidden gem in Isaan, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the vibrant festivals and mouth-watering cuisine to the scenic countryside and charming villages, Yasothon has something for every type of traveler. So, pack your bags and head to Yasothon for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Isaan.