How to Travel Around Isaan Thailand
There are plenty of unique and offbeat places to see in Thailand. Among them is Isaan, a region nestled between the more well-known destinations of Chiang Mai and Bangkok. From Bangkok, travelers can head north to the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and then loop east through Isaan before heading back to the capital. This is a great way to get the most out of your trip to Thailand.
Khao Yai National Park
In order to get the most out of your trip to Khao Yai National Park in Isan Thailand, make sure you hire a guide. Rangers strongly discourage visitors from exploring the park’s outer reaches without guides. These areas are prone to sandalwood poaching, which involves the cutting of mature aloewood trees to obtain the oil. The wood is then sold for between B20,000 and 40,000 per kilogram. Since the trees are native to Khao Yai, the process of collecting the oil does not kill them. Your guide can point out any trees that have been cut down, but it’s best to stick to the marked paths.
When to Visit: Khao Yai is best visited during the cooler months. While it’s not the most popular time to visit, the park has several highlights that are accessible by car or motorbike. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventure-filled trek, the park offers something for everyone. Make sure you wear appropriate clothing and shoes, as it’s an active park.
The northern entrance to the park is accessible by public truck. The cost is around 40 baht per person. You can also hitchhike. This option is very easy on weekends. If you prefer to hire a motorbike, you can rent one for around THB300 a day at the visitor center. Otherwise, you can also hire a taxi. Getting around the park is an adventure in itself, so make sure you know what you’re doing.
Phu Laen Kha Historical Park
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, learning how to travel around Phu Laen Kha Historical and Cultural Park is an excellent way to get the most out of your trip. The park is one of the 180 National Parks in Thailand, and it covers 200 square kilometers. It has hiking trails, camping, and unique geology. It also features two large, multi-level air-conditioned buildings. You can take classes and host corporate retreats at these facilities.
You can get around easily in Isaan by bus, small minivans (tuk-tuks), local taxis, motorbike sidecar taxis, and rental cars. However, you’ll need to rent a car to visit the ruins and national parks in this region. While it might cost a little more, it will give you the opportunity to get to know the locals better.
For a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges, take a hike along the Dong Phaya Yen trail. It’s about 2km east of the main visitor center. You’ll see rice fields and matchbox-like houses along the way. The park is also home to some beautiful monasteries. If you’re a history buff, you’ll be fascinated by the temples in this area.
The Seven Color Waterfall is another interesting site in the area. The name of the waterfall translates to “Seven Colors Waterfall.” The waterfall spans a sandstone shelf, and is deep enough to swim in. The waterfall is accessible by shared boat, and the price is 20 baht per person. The waterfall is about 15 km from Wat Phu Tok.
Wat Phra That Phanom
You can learn how to travel around Wat Phyra That Phanom in Issaan Thailand by first taking the bus from Laos. This historic temple is located near the lake. It is one of the most revered sites in the province, and its square-shaped chedi is stunning. You will also find a variety of other items, such as seashells, pottery, and US presidential commemorative coins.
Located across the Mekong river from Laos, That Phamm is considered an auspicious site by Thai Buddhists, but it also has special associations based on your birth year. Born on a Sunday, for example, you’ll be able to make seven trips to the temple. After seven visits, you’ll be considered a child of the stupa, and prosperity will follow.
Before heading to That Phanom, be sure to stop in nearby Renu Nakhon. This town is home to a 35m-tall pink-and-white chedi. Wat That Renu also has an excellent textile market where you can purchase local clothes and fabrics. You’ll find cotton and silk from Laos and elsewhere in Thailand.
If you have some spare time, take a day trip to Nakhon Phanom. This provincial capital has historic buildings, a vibrant food scene, and one of the most revered temples in the region. You’ll also have the chance to experience the Wat Phra That Phanom temple, one of the icons of Isaan culture.
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park
The ten-meter high signature of the Phu-Phra-Bat Historical Park is the park’s most impressive feature. This mountain was formed by the erosion of sandstone in the Dvaravati period, and has many strange shapes and sizes that are unique to the area. To see the park in person, you should spend a day visiting this fascinating historical park.
If you’re planning a trip to the Isaan Region, this might be an excellent first stop. Its four major cities are Udon Thani, Khao Yai, and Phuket. These cities are popular destinations for travelers traveling to Vientiane and Luang Prabang, Laos. If you’re looking for an easy way to travel around Isaan, consider Couchsurfing.
The park is open daily from 8am to 4pm and has many facilities that can help you plan your trip. There is a Central Bus Station in Nong Khai and Ban Phu is 90 minutes away by shared red songthaew. You can hire a tour guide to help you navigate the park. There are free buses throughout the park and you’ll have no trouble finding a ride.
The name of Phu Phutthabat, which means Buddha Footprint Mountain, is not entirely accurate, but it is worth visiting for the Buddha Footprint Mountain. Its rock formations are prehistoric in nature, but they have been reclassified as Early Cretaceous. They’re also surrounded by concrete statues and columns. You can also see traces of Khmer settlement.
Nong Khai
The northeast region of Thailand is a little known destination for travelers. This region is a great place to go off the beaten path and enjoy authentic Thai culture. It is far away from the hectic cities of Bangkok and Phuket and offers a unique cultural experience. It is also close to Laos and Cambodia, which makes it an ideal jumping off point to explore the rest of Southeast Asia.
Food is another important part of a visit to Nong Khai. The town offers a wide variety of delicious Vietnamese and Thai restaurants, as well as a few western options. You can dine at local restaurants or on the riverfront. In the evening, you can relax with a cocktail in one of the town’s many bars and restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to catch a sunset over the water from the Manchester Arms Café.
Besides enjoying the scenery of the area, Nong Khai is also a gateway to Laos and the neighboring kingdom of Lan Xang. You can also take a day trip to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Another place to visit while exploring Isaan is Udon Thani, a bustling metropolis of Isaan but lacking in modern conveniences. Likewise, you can also visit the mountain town of Chiang Khan, which is often dubbed the smaller version of Chiang Mai.
Volunteer projects in Isaan
There are many reasons to become a volunteer in Isaan Thailand. For one, you will meet interesting new people and have the chance to work with villagers. In addition, you will gain a practical introduction to daily life, help with ongoing projects, and learn more about nature and the local culture. You will also learn the Thai language and become more familiar with the Thai language. Volunteer projects in Isaan Thailand are free and offer a variety of choices for your trip.
Volunteering in Isaan is a great way to gain experience while traveling, and it is a great way to make new friends. While you are there, you can learn about sustainable agriculture, permaculture design, and natural building. Whether you’re interested in helping children or in teaching English, you’ll be able to make a valuable contribution in this region. The Idex program is safe, and the benefits of volunteering here are shared with the local people.
Volunteers can learn Thai and English at the NightLight Foundation, which is a non-profit branch of the organization. The organization’s mission is to provide holistic care for local communities and women. There are two internships offered through this organization: one is for a month and the other is for one year. Both require a minimum commitment of two months and experience with fundraising or blogging. For more information on volunteering in Isaan Thailand, visit our website!
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