Northeastern Thailand City Guide: Top 7 Isaan Cities

Many travelers only have eyes for the southern beaches of Thailand, ignoring the lesser-known northeastern region. But the Isaan region isn’t somewhere you should skip. No, no, no. Fiery foods, sprawling national parks, and cultural beauties are all tucked away in this gem. 

We’ve gathered the top spots in Northeastern Thailand, so all you have to do is pack your bags. Keep reading to be an Isaan expert in five minutes.

About Northeastern Thailand 

Northeastern Thailand is also called Isaan. It’s Thailand’s largest region and covers roughly the size of England and Wales or half of Germany. 

From isolated villages to sweeping ride paddies, it’s home to beauty, culture, and never-seen-before sights. But these delights aren’t seen by most travelers. Other areas of Thailand (*cough* the south) are most backpackers’ first, and possibly only, stop. 

Northeastern Thailand has more than meets the eye. Whether you want to experience authentic Thai life, sample spicy food, or avoid the beaten path, there’s more than one reason to visit this region.

Northeastern Thailand itinerary: All the must-see stops in Isaan

Whether you’re dedicating a full two weeks to Isaan or only popping in for a weekend, these are the cities you must visit.

1. Nakhon Ratchasima

Best for big city vibes, good food, and parties. 

Nakhon Ratchasima (also known as Korat) is the first big city you’ll hit in the Isaan region. It’s a relatively popular spot for all travelers. It gives you a glimpse into northeastern life without traveling too far from the Thai capital, Bangkok. After this city, you’ll see fewer tourists and expats. 

Like all Thai cities, Nakhon Ratchasima boasts many things to do and see. Popular options include:

• Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo
• Wat Ban Rai (Elephant temple)
• Phimai historical park
• Save One Night Market
• Flora Park

Just because you’re in a city doesn’t mean nature’s off-limits. Book a day trip to the Khao Yai National Park for a beautiful view, waterfalls, and serenity. It’s approximately a 2-hour drive away. Consider booking an overnight stay to avoid feeling rushed.

While you’re here, take advantage of the bars, clubs, and restaurants. Nightlife gets quieter as you make your way into Isaan. The Mae Kim Heng Market is the best place for beers and gai yang (grilled chicken, sticky rice, and fiery chilies).

Most travelers go from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima. This takes 3.5 hours via car or 4 hours and 45 minutes via train.

2. Khon Kaen

Best for modern city life.

Welcome to Khon Kaen, the heart of Isaan. This is a modern city developed in the late 18th century. Compared to other Thai cities, this one’s a baby. But you’ll want to see this baby, so don’t cross it off your list!

Khon Kaen is home to the most important university in Isaan and is a significant economic player. It’s about to have a high-speed rail connection to Singapore, China, Laos, and Malaysia. So, visit now before it gets too crowded. 

Top things to do in Khon Kaen include:

• Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake
• Temples, or Wats (Wat Nong Waeng & Wat Phra That Aram Luang)
• Night markets
• Phu Wiang National Park & Dinosaur Museum
• Khon Kaen National Museum

If you’re on a tight schedule, visiting Khon Kaen shouldn’t be your first pick. While this city does offer a glimpse of a modern Thai city, there are northeastern cities with more attractions, livelier nightlife, and foodie scenes. 

Traveling slowly and hitting all Isaan cities? Add this stop to your list!

3. Dan Sai

Best for an authentic small-town atmosphere. 

Dan Sai is best known for the Phi Ta Khon festival (June 23rd to 25th). For three days, locals dress in colorful costumes to become spirits, host rocket launches, and act out exquisite Buddhist readings. You don’t want to miss this event.

If you’re not there in June, Dan Sai is still worth a visit. Here, you can explore lush green landscapes and provincial Thai life. It’s also a popular overnight destination between Loei and Phitsanulok.

Notable Dan Sai attractions:

• Wat Neramit Wipatsana 
• Phu Thap Buek Mountains
• Tesaban market

Culinary delights in Dan Sai include grilled Isaan sausages, sun-dried fish, fresh exotic fruit, pork noodle soup, and handmade Thai sweets.

4. Chiang Khan

Best for a deep dive into Northeastern Thailand’s history.

Situated in the north of the Isaan region and right on the Laos border, Chiang Khan is an under-appreciated city. This small urban area is sleepy but surrounded by the Mekong River and rugged mountains. It’s also one of the best-preserved historic towns. History-buffs, you’ll feel at home here!

Each morning, the streets of Chiang Khan see an ancient tradition. As the sun rises, monks wander the streets with large bowls to collect their food. This custom has happened for thousands of years, dating back to the 13th century.

When in Chiang Khan, see:

• Sunrise from Phu Lam Duan viewpoint
• Walking street — an open-air market
• Chiang Khan Skywalk 
• Wat Si Khun Muang & Wat Si Phanom Mat

Got hunger pangs? Check out the region’s steamed rice dumplings, pan-fried eggs, spicy pork salad, patongko (deep-fried dough), and miang kham (one-bite wraps). 

5. Nong Khai 

Best for authentic culinary adventures & quick access to Laos. 

Nong Khai is another northern city and province in the Isaan region. Like Chiang Khan, this city borders Laos, and you’re within spitting distance of Vientiane, the capital. 

This is another smaller town without much tourist traffic. But don’t write Thailand’s smaller towns off. 

There’s lots to see and culture to soak up. Plus, the cuisine here differs significantly from central, southern, and eastern Thailand. Must-try food includes barbecued Mekong River fish, pork neck, sticky rice, and Isaan chicken. Naturally, the best food is at the market. 

When you’re in Nong Khai, you can visit:

• Sala Keoku Sculpture Park
• Saturday night market
• Tha Sadet market
• Wat Pho Chai 
• Riverboat cruises

Nong Khai is a popular spot for slow travelers. Thanks to its mix of Thai and Western amenities, many nomads stay here for months at a time. If you only have a few days, consider larger cities.

Curious about Laos? Nong Khai to Vientiane is only 16 km/10 miles. Consider a day trip, but have your passport on hand. 

6. Sakhon Nakhon

Best for religious and spiritual history. 

Sakon Nakhon is known by the Thai people for its religious prominence. There are five stupas (bell-shaped Buddhist monuments), and some of the most famous monks have lived in the city. 

This area is also known for two big festivals: the Star Christmas Parade and the Wax Candle Festival at the end of Buddhist Lent. Schedule your trip to match these dates for an authentic experience. 

Aside from religion and culture, this northeastern area is known for its indigo dyeing process and unique textiles.

What should you see in Sakhon Nakhon?

• Wat Phra That Choeng Chum Worawihan (one of the most important temples in Thailand)
• Indigo dyeing workshops 
• Indigo walking street
• Nong Han Chalermprakiat Lotus Lake
• Sakon Nakhon City Gate

Sakhon Nakhon gives you a glimpse into a whole new culture. However, traveling this far off the beaten path is best if you’ve backpacked before or speak a little Thai. Don’t worry — it’s a safe area. But it might overwhelm newbie travelers!

Want to pair your visit with unbeatable natural views? Take a day trip to Phu Pha Yon National Park. This is a little over an hour away from the city and is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Get ready for lush green views and encounters with monkeys and deer.

7. Ubon Ratchathani

Best for temple hopping.

Situated at the very east of the Isaan region is Ubon Ratchathani. This famous city has a historic center and sits right on the Mae Nam Mun, Thailand’s second longest river. 

Most visitors come to Ubon Ratchathani to gaze upon the many beautiful temples. From Wat Ban Na Muang (a floating temple) to Wat Pa Nanachat (a Western-oriented temple with English text), the religious monuments here differ from the typical style. 

Other must-see temples include:

• Wat Si Pradu
• Wat Thung Phra That Nong Bua
• Wat Thung Si Muang
• Wat Sri Ubon Rattanaram Museum

While in town, you can also check out the Ubon Ratchathani Museum to learn about the city’s roots. And after? It’s time to feast. 

Food and drink in this area is inspired by Chinese, Vietnamese, and traditional Isaan flavors. You must taste kuay chab yuan (Vietnamese-inspired soup with pork ribs, eggs, and fresh rice noodles). It’s sensational.

Why not spend a day in Pakse, Laos? The trip from Ubon Racharhani to Pakse is approximately 105 km/65.6 miles. Perfect for a quick overnight stop. Take your passport! This involves a border crossing.

Or you can head from Ubon Ratchathani to Bangkok to continue your adventure. This takes 10.5 hours via train or 55 minutes via flight. We know what we’d choose. 

Other notable stops in Isaan

The journey doesn’t have to stop with the cities above. If you have more time on your hands, add these fantastic stops to your Northeastern Thailand itinerary.

Surin

Surin is another Isaan province that provides a provincial feel. Popular activities include elephant round-ups, village tours, and crossing the land border to Cambodia.

Sisaket 

If you’re on a mission to see Khmer (Cambodian) ruins without crossing the border, Sisaket could be for you. This city has plenty of Thai and Khmer temples to marvel at.

Udon Thani 

Udon Thani is home to an extremely early bronze-age civilization, and you can see genuine artifacts from 2100 BC at Ban Chiang. This Isaan city is also close to the Phu Phra Baht Historical Park and Phu Fio Lom Eco Park. 

Weather in Northeastern Thailand

The Northeastern Thailand Isaan region sees three distinct seasons:

• Winter — October to February
• Summer — February to May
• Rainy Season — May to October

Don’t expect snow and ice, though. Isaan experiences an average of 33°C/91°F all year. It just becomes humid and tropical in the summer and wet season. 

The best time to visit is from November to April. These months have pleasant temperatures (around 29°C/84°F) and no rain.

Packing list essentials for Northeastern Thailand

You might know which Isaan cities you’re visiting. But don’t forget to double-check your bags! Bring these expert-approved essentials for a comfortable trip.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Thai to English phrasebook
• Portable chargers
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito spray
• UV protective sunglasses
• Sun hat

Don’t forget to have some Thai Baht cash. Credit cards aren’t king in this region. 

Isaan & Northeastern Thailand map

Forget opening your mind’s eye. Here’s a map of Northeastern Thailand to help you visualize your trip.

Planning an unforgettable Isaan adventure: The takeaway

Experiencing the rich culture of Isaan is life-changing, especially if you have time to travel slowly and soak up the sites. However, you can still admire this region on a time limit. Use our city suggestions as a guide for a guaranteed excellent adventure. 

The best way to decide on your route? Follow your gut! If a city speaks to you, add it to the list. If not? Keep it moving. We hope this list has opened your eyes to Isaan’s hidden gems! 

Before you go! Bookaway offers 24/7 booking assistance. We provide quick, digital tickets for all Thailand routes. Perfect for on-the-go bookings and spontaneous moments.

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