Northern Isaan Travel Guide

Plan your itinerary for Northern Isaan with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Northern Isaan

Northern Isaan is a region located in the northeastern part of Thailand. It is home to some of the country’s most culturally significant sites, as well as natural wonders that will leave you in awe. If you’re looking for a place to explore off the beaten path, Northern Isaan is the perfect destination. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, best things to do, and where to stay, eat, and shop in Northern Isaan.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Isaan

Before we dive into the details of each attraction, here’s a list of must-see places in Northern Isaan:

  • Phimai Historical Park
  • Phu Kradueng National Park
  • Phu Phrabat Historical Park
  • Ban Chiang Archaeological Site
  • Khao Yai National Park
  • Dan Sai Loei
  • Nong Khai Province
  • Udon Thani Province
  • Bung Kan Province
  • Sirindhorn Museum

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northern Isaan is known for its rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites and museums to explore. Here are some of the top culturally significant attractions in Northern Isaan:

Phimai Historical Park

Phimai Historical Park is one of the most important Khmer temples in Thailand. The park is home to a well-preserved temple, which is said to have been built in the 11th century. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, and it is surrounded by a moat and outer walls. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history at the on-site museum.

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the Bronze Age. It is home to some of the oldest pottery and metal artifacts in the world, as well as evidence of early rice cultivation. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the ancient civilization that once lived here.

Sirindhorn Museum

The Sirindhorn Museum is located in Kalasin and is dedicated to educating visitors about the cultural history and the geology of the region. The museum is named after Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and showcases exhibits on the prehistoric times of Isaan.

Natural Attractions of Northern Isaan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northern Isaan is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Thailand. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Northern Isaan:

Phu Kradueng National Park

Phu Kradueng National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers. The park is home to several waterfalls, hiking trails, and a variety of endemic wildlife. Visitors can hike to the summit of Phu Kradueng, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is one of the largest national parks in Thailand. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and gibbons. Visitors can hike through the park’s many trails and enjoy the stunning scenery of waterfalls, forests, and mountains.

Phu Phrabat Historical Park

Phu Phrabat Historical Park is a unique geological site that features unique rock formations and scenic views. The park is home to many ruins, including ancient temples, caves and pagodas. The highlight of the park is the large rock formation known as “Phra Non,” which resembles a reclining Buddha.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Isaan

Northern Isaan offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Thailand. Here are some of the top routes for outdoor enthusiasts:

Phu Kradueng Hiking Trail

The Phu Kradueng Hiking Trail is a challenging hike that takes visitors to the summit of Phu Kradueng. The trail takes approximately four to six hours to complete and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Loie Dan Sai Biking Trail

The Loie Dan Sai Biking Trail is a scenic and peaceful biking trail that takes visitors through the countryside of Northern Isaan. The trail follows the roads from Loei to Dan Sai, which passes through rice fields, orchards and forests.

Best Things to Do in Northern Isaan: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the top attractions and outdoor adventures, there are several other things to do in Northern Isaan. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

Traditional Thai Crafts Tour

Northern Isaan is known for its traditional Thai crafts, such as silk weaving, pottery, and basket weaving. Visitors can take a tour to learn about these crafts and see them being made by local artisans.

Authentic Local Cuisine Tour

Northern Isaan is also known for its unique cuisine, which is influenced by the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia. Visitors can join an authentic food tour to sample some of the local dishes such as som tam, larb, and nam tok.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Isaan

For visitors who have a week to spend in Northern Isaan, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Phimai Historical Park and explore Nakhon Ratchasima
2 Hike to the summit of Phu Kradueng National Park
3 Explore Ban Chiang Archaeological Site and Udon Thani
4 Visit Phu Phrabat Historic Park and Sirindhorn Museum
5 Take a tour of local crafts and visit markets in Nong Khai
6 Explore Khao Yai National Park and enjoy outdoor adventures
7 Sample local dishes and buy souvenirs before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Isaan

Northern Isaan’s food and drink scene is diverse and delicious. Here’s what you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Som Tam: a spicy green papaya salad
  • Larb: a spicy minced meat salad
  • Nam Tok: a salad made from thinly sliced grilled meat
  • Kaeng Om Gai: a chicken curry with herbs and spices

Local Beverages

  • Khao Ji: a local millet beer
  • Laombong: a fermented tea drink
  • Nam Manao: a refreshing lime juice drink

Where to Stay in Northern Isaan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Isaan offers a range of options for accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Hop Inn Hotel in Khon Kaen
  • Chuan Jia Hotel in Chiang Khan
  • Villa Vadee in Loei
  • Kaewkwan Resort in Nong Khai

What to Buy in Northern Isaan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Northern Isaan, be sure to pick up some souvenirs and local products to take home. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Traditional Thai silk
  • Handmade pottery
  • Woven baskets and bags
  • Embroidered textiles

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Isaan

Northern Isaan’s culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism and the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia. Locals are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors.

Best Time to Visit Northern Isaan

The best time to visit Northern Isaan is during the cooler months of November to February, when the temperatures are lower. The region experiences a hot, humid climate for the rest of the year, making outdoor adventures less enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Isaan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Northern Isaan:

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and experience the culture.
  • Be respectful of the locals and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the monarchy or Buddhism.
  • Disrespect the culture and beliefs of the locals.
  • Publicly display affection.

Safety and Health

Northern Isaan is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. Here are some tips for staying healthy and safe during your trip:

Safety in Northern Isaan

  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close.
  • Obey local laws and regulations.
  • Only use licensed taxis or transportation services.

Health in Northern Isaan

  • Drink bottled water to avoid getting sick from tap water.
  • Be mindful of the food you eat and only eat food from reputable establishments.
  • Apply sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid sunburn and mosquito bites.

Getting to Northern Isaan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northern Isaan can be easily reached by plane, train, or bus. Here are some options for getting to the region:

Airports Near Northern Isaan

  • Khon Kaen Airport
  • Udon Thani International Airport
  • Nakhon Ratchasima Airport

Bus Stations Near Northern Isaan

  • Mochit Bus Terminal in Bangkok
  • Northern Bus Terminal in Chiang Mai
  • Southern Bus Terminal in Phuket

Other Options

  • Trains run from Bangkok to Nong Khai and Nakhon Ratchasima.
  • Private cars can be rented for traveling around the region.

How to Get Around in Northern Isaan

To get around Northern Isaan, visitors can choose between buses, taxis, or rental cars. Motorbikes can also be rented in some locations, however, be aware of the local traffic laws, and prioritize your safety.

Where to Go Next from Northern Isaan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring more of Thailand, here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Northern Isaan:

  • Chiang Mai, in the north of Thailand
  • Bangkok, the capital of Thailand
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • Vientiane, Laos

Conclusion

Northern Isaan is a hidden gem in Thailand, boasting stunning natural landscapes and cultural landmarks, as well as delicious food and unique crafts. Plan your itinerary with this comprehensive travel guide and experience the warmth of a unique part of the country without the crowds.



    Bueng Kan
    Chiang Khan
    Nong Khai
    Sakon Nakhon
    Udon Thani