Thailand Menu

Highlights of Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)

Northeastern Thailand, known as Isaan in Thai (spelling variations include Isan, Issan and Isarn), is a vast region of largely agricultural land, interdispersed with bustling cities, attractive towns, lush and mountainous national parks, and historical areas that include ancient Khmer temples without the visitor numbers of Cambodia. Culturally and linguistically similar to neighbouring Laos, Isaan is a delight for anyone who ventures into this lesser-visited region, and can be combined with a wider tour of the country, or works very well with southern Laos.

As well as its unique culture, friendly people, laid-back vibe and dreamy Mekong River views, Isaan cuisine has to be one of the highlights of the region - similar to Lao cuisine and famously fiery. Our favourite dishes include som tam (spicy green papaya salad), laab gai (minced chicken salad), nam dtok nua (grilled beef salad), and gai yang (barbequed chicken with a mouthwatering marinade and dip). All are eaten with sticky-rice served in a rattan pot.

Back to All Regions of Thailand
Wat Pra That Phanom
Nakhon Phanom
Home to one of Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temples, the pretty town of Nakhon Phanom sits on the banks of the Mekong River. Meaning City of Mountains in Thai, the name highlights the mountain views over the Mekong and into Thakhet in neighbouring Laos.
Prasat Phimai
Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima is a large city, just three hours' drive from Bangkok, and could be considered the gateway to Isaan. Also known as Korat, derived from its Khmer name, there are a number of ancient Khmer temples within driving distance of the city.
Wat Pra That Choeng Chum
Sakhon Nakhon
Located on the edge of the largest lake in Isaan, Sakhon Nakhon is a fascinating small city that receives very few foreign visitors, and makes a wonderful stop enroute from the large city of Udon Thani, out to Nakhon Phanom bordering Laos. Visitors will be rewarded with a rich history and culture.
Ancient Rock, Phu Phra Bat Historical Park
Udon Thani
Udon Thani, once a strategic military base during the Vietnam War, is a bustling city in Thailand’s northeastern Isaan region. As of 2024, the area is now home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the impressive Phu Phra Bat Historical Site.