Isan Northern Eastern Thailand
Isan Northern Eastern Thailand
Thailand has become an ever more popular travel destination in recent years, pulling tourists in from across the world. However, it seems the country’s beautiful Northeastern region, known as Isaan, is often overlooked in favour of Thailand’s popular beaches and islands. But if you love culture, history, great food and want to get away from the stereo typical Thai traveller, we’re here to let you know why Isaan should be at the top of your Thailand bucket list.
Isan’s Culture and Traditions
Even if you haven’t visited Thailand before, you’re most likely aware of how hospitable the country is, and Isaan is no exception. You can always expect warm welcomes from locals who love to treat their guests with open arms and high spirits, meaning you can experience their unique customs in the best way possible. This might include their Phi Ta Khon festival held in the town of Dan Sai during June or their Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival, which is held in Yasathon on the second weekend of May.
If you choose to visit Isaan, then make sure you check out what the region has to offer. By heading to Northeast Thailand, you can explore the beautiful ruins left by the Khmer Empire, the last in a series of temple complexes connected by a ‘royal highway’ that extends from present-day Cambodia to Southern Isaan.
When you think of Khmer temples, the first place that springs to mind is Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia. However, the Khmer Empire was thought to be one of the largest empires in the world during this period, even larger than the Byzantine Empire. This empire stretched from Thailand to China, leaving a trail of spectacular temples along its ‘royal highway’.
The best way to explore the Khmer Temples in Northern Thailand is by visiting its breathtaking ruins in Phanom Rung Historical Park. Built on an extinct volcano,located in Ban Tapek, Tambon Ta Pek, the park is one of the most beautiful and meaningful historical examples of Lop Buri art in Thailand. The word “Phanom Rung” or “Vnam Rung” in the Khmer language means “a huge mountain.” Phanom Rung sits 200m above the paddy fields below. Looking to the southeast, you can see Cambodia’s Dongrek Mountains. It’s in this direction that the capital of the Angkor empire once lay.
Phimai Historical Park is one of the most impressive Khmer ruins in Thailand. With its grand scale and its intricate details, this Mahayana Buddhist temple displays carvings featuring many Hindu deities, and many design elements. Phimai is often refered to as a mini Angkor Wat (in Cambodia). Considered the largest Khmer temple in all of Thailand, it is definitely worth a visit. Built in the 11th and 12th century, Prasat Hin Phimai and the temple were apart of Thailand that was ruled by the Khmer. Part of the ‘royal highway’ that ran from the temple, all the way to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Natural Wonders
We all know that Thailand is steeped in natural beauty thanks to its magnificent forests, beaches, and wildlife. The northeast of the country is no exception, and while you may not find beaches, you will find other natural wonders that set it apart from the south, such as the Phu Kradueng National Park, the Mekong River, and the Red Lotus Sea.
As one of Thailand’s most popular national parks, Phu Kradueng will not disappoint. You’ll find this park in the Kradueng district, which is in the Loei province. Because the park is in a remote location and you have to hike to get there, it’s less known to foreign tourists, which means the quietness makes it a spectacular experience. You’ll want to head out on a long hike in the Phu Kradueng National Park to fully admire its scenery and maybe even encounter a samba deer or a wild boar grazing.
Another must-visit place in the Isaan region is the Mekong River. It’s the longest river in Southeast Asia and the 7th longest in the whole of Asia. The river acts as a border between Isaan and its neighbouring country, Laos. To fully experience the beauty of the river, you may want to think about trying out a river cruise. Not only will it be a little bit of luxury for you, but you’ll also have 360-degree views of the river and its surrounding area, where you can explore it for miles and miles.
Nothing sounds more picturesque than the Red Lotus Sea and if you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed. While not exactly a sea, but rather a large lake, the Red Lotus Sea features endless horizons of red lotus flowers that have blossomed on the water. The lotus flowers are in full bloom from late December to early January and you’ll want to visit in the early morning sun for the best experience.
A Culinary Adventure
If you’re a foodie, then you’re probably already clued up on how delicious Thai cuisine is. Their foods are loved worldwide for their bold flavours and spice, whether that’s in the form of a curry or stir-fry. Isaan is no exception and even has some of its unique dishes that are well worth a taste.
The first dish that you should try is som tum, also known as a papaya salad. This salad consists of green papaya found only in Thailand, and is then accompanied by fresh chillies, garlic, shrimp, roasted peanuts, long beans, and tomatoes. These ingredients are mixed in a sweet and sour dressing to create a refreshing meal.
If you prefer something on the meaty side, then the Thai dish known as larb may be better suited, as it means a minced meat salad. It’s considered a staple dish in the Isaan area and is made from minced pork that’s seasoned with fish sauce, chilli flakes and lime juice. You’ll usually find that it’s also served with rice and fresh herbs.
Another popular dish in the Isaan region is gai yang, or, in English terms, grilled chicken. Thai people see it as a traditional street food option as it’s so easy to fry up. There’s no doubt you’ll love the authentic flavour that comes with gai yang, where the chicken has been marinated in lemongrass, fish sauce, garlic, and chopped chillies.
While travelling in Isaan, nothing will feel more cultural than visiting one of the region’s busy food markets. The most popular and largest of these is in Udon Thani, where you’ll find everything from fresh fruits, colourful spices, and delicious smelling street food. It’s the perfect place to sample everything Isaan has to offer in terms of food.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
As Isaan isn’t heavy on tourism, it means the region has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences for you to enjoy. One place you’ll most certainly want to visit is the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, located in the Udon Thani province. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that was first discovered in 1966 and has since become the most important archaeological site in Southeast Asia. Not only have pottery and bronze age artefacts been discovered, but also human remains. There’s so much to learn here, helping you to understand Thailand’s past.
Once you’ve had a taste of the ancient history of Isaan, you might want to explore it even further by heading to the Dinosaur Provincial Park in Phu Waing. The park is home to some of the oldest dinosaur fossils ever to exist and also life-size dinosaur figures, making it feel as though you’re in the middle of Jurassic Park.
After a couple of action-packed days visiting the Ban Chaing Archaeological Site and the Dinosaur Provincial Park, you might want a more relaxing day wandering through one of Isan’s silk villages. In places such as the village of Ban Reng Khai, you’ll be able to learn about the intricate art of silk weaving and how it can create some of the country’s most beautiful clothes.
Want more from Thailand – Check out this Thai Travel Itinerary.
Practical Tips
As Isaan isn’t in a tourist area of Thailand, you may think that it’s going to be harder to get to, but this isn’t the case. From Bangkok, you can travel to Khon Kaen, one of the major cities in Isaan, by plane, bus or train. It typically takes 3 hours to fly or 9 hours by bus or train. Once you arrive in Isaan, it may be more beneficial for you to rent a car to get around, otherwise, the region has plenty of low-cost bus options.
Some of the best areas to stay in Isaan include Chiang Khan, Nakhon Phanom, and Nong Khai. Chaing Khan is a small village near the Mekong River, making it the perfect location if you want to fully immerse yourself in the Issan culture. Nakhon Phanom is a more built-up option that offers a mixture of both modern amenities and history. Otherwise, you can stay in Nong Khai, which is a city home to numerous temples, festivals,l and plenty of markets to keep you occupied.
Isaan is a region that can be visited all year round, however, certain times of year are hotter than others. If you want to avoid the hot temperatures during your visit, then it’s worth heading there either in the green season months, which are June to October, or the cool season months, which are November to February. During March, April, and May, the heat can become stifling, making it nearly impossible to sightsee, so it’s best to avoid the region during this time.
If you want to escape the crowds of tourists in Thailand, then there’s no better place to head than Isaan. It still has the same authentic Thai culture that we all know and love, along with delicious food and plenty of history. Whether you’re after adventure, a relaxing river cruise, or something just a little different, then Isaan is the perfect destination to add to your Thailand itinerary.
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Dan’s a windsurfing, adventure-seeking nomad with a passion for exploring the globe overland and an Engineer. Having grown up in the Middle East, he brings a unique perspective to Getting Lost Again, sharing his love for discovering hidden gems and embracing the unexpected. When he’s not on the road, he finds inspiration in windsurfing and other creative pursuits – and is equally at home under a vehicle solving problems as he is exploring a new place.
