Isan Thailand Travel Guide: North-East Thailand’s Hidden Gem
Often overlooked by tourists flocking to beaches or bustling cities, Isan, Thailand’s vast northeastern region, offers authentic experiences, breathtaking natural beauty, ancient history, and INCREDIBLE local cuisine.
This travel guide focuses on three remarkable provinces - Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Bueng Kan - inviting you to explore hidden gems off Thailand’s beaten track.
Contents:
Getting Around Isan
Tips for Traveling in Isan
Udon Thani: Gateway to History and Culture
Nong Khai: Riverside Charm by the Mekong
Bueng Kan: Nature, Adventure, and Thailand’s Newest Province
Getting Around Isan
Hiring a car and a driver/guide is highly recommended in Isan, especially if Thai is not your native language. Public transportation is available but very limited outside main towns.
Tips for Traveling in Isan
Embrace local culture and cuisine! try new dishes and participate respectfully in local traditions.
Plan visits around cooler seasons (November-February) for pleasant weather. That being said, we visited in June and still had a blast!
Carry cash, as many local establishments and markets may not accept cards.
Udon Thani: Gateway to History and Culture
Udon Thani is one of Isan’s more developed hubs - it even has an international airport - yet it retains a laid-back vibe. This province is full of temples, ancient history sites, and delicious food, making it a perfect start for your Isan adventure. Udon Thani city offers modern comforts (like big shopping malls) alongside traditional markets and historical treasures. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Udon Thani.
Where to Stay in Udon Thani
Centara Hotel Udon Thani: A centrally located modern hotel directly linked to CentralPlaza shopping mall, providing convenience and comfort.
Best Attractions in Udon Thani
Ban Chiang Museum: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient pottery and archaeological treasures dating back over 5,000 years.
Local Pottery Class (ศูนย์เรียนรู้ กลุ่มปั้นหม้อเขียนสี): Experience traditional pottery-making techniques and create your personalized souvenirs.
Railway Market Food Centre: Sample mouthwatering street food and local specialties in this vibrant evening market.
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park: Explore ancient sandstone formations and prehistoric cave paintings set within lush forest trails.
Khiri Wongkot Village: Embark on a unique village tour riding local farm trucks, experiencing rural Isan life.
Wat Pa Phu Kon: Marvel at the stunning mountain temple with its famous giant reclining Buddha sculpture.
Wat Kham Chanot (Snake Temple): Discover local spiritual traditions at this temple famed for its naga legends and luck-bringing rituals.
Wat Santiwanaram (Lotus Temple): Visit during January to observe captivating nun ordination ceremonies amidst serene, lotus-inspired architecture.
Where to Eat in Udon Thani
Maeya Restaurant: Michelin-rated local favorite, renowned for its deep-fried ice cream dessert.
Chabaa Barn Café: Enjoy authentic Isan dishes in a charming treehouse setting.
Baan-I-Tim: Popular stall serving delicious homemade Thai ice cream - get there early before it sells out.
Laab Mu Worachai: Award-winning local eatery famous for grilled pork neck and traditional Isan dishes.
Udon Miang Pla Pao: Feast on grilled salted fish served Isan-style with fresh vegetables and spicy dipping sauces.
Ayutthaya Kitchen: Try the mouthwatering crispy fish with mango sauce and other local specialties.
Nong Khai: Riverside Charm by the Mekong
Just an hour’s drive north of Udon Thani lies Nong Khai, a tranquil province hugging the Mekong River. Nong Khai town sits right on the riverbank, gazing across to Laos - in fact, this is Thailand’s main border crossing to Vientiane (Laos’ capital).
Where to Stay in Nong Khai
Na Rim Khong River View: Cozy guesthouse offering breathtaking Mekong River views from private balconies.
Top Attractions in Nong Khai
Lan Boeng Wiang (Naga Statue Park): Snap iconic photos of giant naga statues overlooking the Mekong towards Laos.
Nong Khai Walking Street (Tha Sadet Market): Stroll through lively riverside stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious food.
Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge: Witness the landmark bridge connecting Thailand to Laos, symbolizing regional unity.
Best Restaurants in Nong Khai
Muu Yor Mae Tuan (หมูยอแม่ถ้วน): Legendary local shop specializing in banana leaf-wrapped steamed pork sausage.
Daeng Namnuang: Famous for Vietnamese-Thai fusion cuisine, especially the grilled pork meatball wraps.
Je Nom’s Kitchen by the River (ครัวเจ้นงค์ริมโขง): Riverside restaurant renowned for freshly caught Mekong catfish dishes.
Bueng Kan: Nature, Adventure, and Thailand’s Newest Province
Thailand’s newest province (established in 2011 after splitting from Nong Khai). Tucked in the northeastern tip of the country, Bueng Kan is an unspoiled haven of jungles, mountains, and the Mekong River along its border. This province is still off the tourist radar, which means an authentic adventure awaits those who venture here. Bueng Kan is known for its dramatic rock formations, serene temples perched on cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and endless rubber tree plantations. If you love nature and a bit of thrill, Bueng Kan will steal your heart. Here’s how to explore this rugged gem:
Where to Stay in Bueng Kan
The One Hotel Bueng Kan: Comfortable, modern accommodations ideal as a base for exploring nearby natural attractions.
Must-Visit Attractions in Bueng Kan
Three Whale Rock (Hin Sam Wan): Ride a 4WD vehicle to see three unique whale-shaped rock formations offering panoramic forest and river views.
Wat Phu Tok (Jetiyakhiri Temple): Ascend dramatic cliffside wooden walkways at this breathtaking mountain temple, perfect for adventure seekers.
Tham Phra Waterfall: Enjoy a secluded jungle hike and swim at this hidden local waterfall known as nature’s waterpark.
Recommended Eats in Bueng Kan
Krua Sa-woei (ครัวเสวย): Don’t miss their famous deep-fried larb balls, a crunchy twist on classic Isan cuisine.
Phon Thuk Thai Road Night Market: Savor local street foods like grilled meats, spicy salads, and regional specialties in a vibrant, authentic setting.
