Isaan Explorer – Discover the Northeast

Isaan, as Eastern Thailand is commonly known, isn’t a destination for package tourists chasing glittering shops or idyllic beaches. Instead, it calls to those seeking a deeper connection with the culture and original way of life of the Thai people—far from the usual tourist haunts. Here, in the heart of Thailand’s rural northeast, travelers are welcomed into communities where traditions, customs, and everyday life unfold with quiet authenticity. From temple festivals and silk weaving to sticky rice shared under starlit skies, Isaan offers unforgettable insights into a Thailand that lives beyond the postcards.

Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Bangkok, followed by a scenic drive northeast to Nakhon Nayok, located about 100 kilometers from the capital. Upon arrival, visit the vibrant local fruit market, where you can sample and purchase fresh seasonal Thai fruits—from juicy mangoes and rambutans to fragrant longans and mangosteens.

Continue your journey into the lush expanse of Khao Yai National Park, one of Thailand’s oldest and most celebrated protected areas, spanning over 2,168 square kilometers of forested mountains and rich biodiversity. Embark on a trekking adventure through the park, where the haunting calls of gibbons echo through the canopy and wildlife sightings are part of the magic. A highlight of the day is a visit to Heo Sawat Waterfall, a dramatic cascade made famous by its appearance in the film The Beach.

In the late afternoon, leave the park and check in to a nearby eco-resort, nestled in nature. As dusk approaches, head to a nearby cave to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of millions of bats streaming out into the twilight sky for their nightly hunt—a natural phenomenon that leaves a lasting impression. Return to the resort for a delicious Thai dinner and a restful overnight stay surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

After breakfast, begin your 120-kilometer journey to Buri Ram Province, a region steeped in history and cultural depth. Your first stop is the majestic Wat Prasat Phanom Rung, a 12th-century Khmer temple complex dramatically perched atop an extinct volcano. Built by the same Khmer rulers who constructed Phimai and Angkor Wat, Phanom Rung showcases intricate sandstone carvings and sacred architecture aligned with the sun—a testament to ancient cosmology and craftsmanship.

Continue about 15 kilometers to Tham Muang, a lesser-known but equally captivating site that offers insight into the spiritual and geological heritage of the region. After exploring these historical treasures, check in to your hotel in Buriram, where you’ll enjoy a restful evening and overnight stay in one of Thailand’s most culturally rich provinces.

After breakfast, visit the remarkable Prasat Si Khoraphum, an ancient Khmer temple complex dating back approximately 800 years. With its elegant sandstone towers and intricate carvings, this site offers a quiet yet powerful glimpse into the architectural legacy of the Khmer Empire in northeastern Thailand.

From here, continue your journey eastward to Kong Chiam, a picturesque town in Ubon Ratchathani Province, nestled at the dramatic confluence of the Moon River and the Mekong River. In the late afternoon, board a small motorboat and cruise to the exact meeting point of these two rivers, where the warm, earthy brown waters of the Mekong collide with the cooler, blue-green currents of the Moon River. The visual contrast is striking—especially during the rainy season, when the colors are at their most vivid.

Check in to a local resort and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by river views and the gentle pace of life in Thailand’s eastern frontier. Overnight in Kong Chiam.

After breakfast, set out for Pha Taem National Park, located just 15 kilometers from Kong Chiam. This remote and striking park is famed for its bizarre rock formations, sculpted by wind and time, and its collection of prehistoric rock paintings—some over 3,000 years old—etched into cliff faces overlooking the Mekong. These ancient artworks offer a rare glimpse into the lives and beliefs of early river communities.

Continue with a longer trek to a scenic vantage point, where sweeping views of the Mekong Valley unfold beneath you, with Laos visible across the river. The landscape here is especially dramatic during the rainy season, when the river swells and the forest glows with life. In the afternoon, travel onward to Mukdahan, a tranquil town nestled along the banks of the Mekong. Check in to a local resort, and enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring regional Isaan flavors. Overnight in Mukdahan, where the river continues to shape both the scenery and the soul of the town.

After breakfast, begin your journey to Nakhon Phanom, a serene town along the Mekong River. Your first stop is the revered Prathat Phanom, a striking Laotian-style temple believed to house relics of the Buddha. This sacred site is a spiritual anchor for both Thai and Lao Buddhists and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and cultural appreciation.

Continue southward to Ban Chiang, located about 50 kilometers from Udon Thani. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ban Chiang is one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological zones, revealing evidence of human settlement dating back over 5,000 years. Explore the museum, where beautifully curated exhibits showcase prehistoric pottery, tools, and burial practices, offering deep insight into early civilization in the region.

Stop briefly in Udon Thani for lunch before completing the final leg of your journey to Nong Khai, arriving by mid-afternoon. Visit the surreal and spectacular Sala Kaew Ku (also known as Wat Kek), a sculpture park filled with towering, otherworldly statues blending Hindu and Buddhist iconography—a truly unique artistic and spiritual experience.

Check into a riverside resort, then take time to explore the vibrant Mekong River market, where goods from across Indochina and China fill the stalls with color and variety. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the river, as the sun sets over the water and Laos glimmers on the opposite bank.

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive along the Mekong River, following its winding path through tranquil countryside and riverside villages. The route takes you through Si Chiang Mai and onward to Chiang Kham, offering stunning views of the river as it curves between Thailand and Laos, with misty hills and lush farmland lining the way.

Pause for lunch at a local restaurant, where regional flavors reflect the gentle pace and agricultural richness of the area. In the late afternoon, arrive in Loei, Thailand’s highest—and often coolest—city, nestled among forested mountains and known for its crisp air and laid-back charm.

Check in to a resort near town, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight in Loei, where the stars shine bright and the mountain breeze carries the quiet promise of tomorrow’s adventure.

Begin your day with a very early start and drive approximately 40 kilometers into the misty mountains of Phu Luang National Park, a sanctuary of biodiversity and quiet majesty. Known for its rich flora, the park is home to over 200 species of orchids, seasonal wildflowers, and rare alpine vegetation. As you walk through its forested trails, keep your eyes peeled for signs of wild elephants, as well as other large mammals and birds that inhabit this protected landscape.

The cool mountain air and sweeping views make for a refreshing and immersive nature experience. By mid-afternoon, descend to the charming town of Dansai and check in to a boutique eco-resort, nestled amid lush greenery and serene surroundings. Enjoy a peaceful evening with dinner served at the resort, and settle in for an overnight stay embraced by nature’s calm.

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Bangkok, with a scenic drive to Khon Kaen, the largest city in Thailand’s upper Northeast. The drive takes approximately four hours, passing through the heart of Isaan’s rural landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take time to explore the city, known for its vibrant markets, silk production, and cultural landmarks such as Wat Nong Wang and the Kaen Nakhon Lake.

In the late afternoon, transfer to Khon Kaen Airport for your flight back to Bangkok, bringing your northeastern adventure to a close.

Note: For travelers wishing to continue into Laos, an alternative route is available—return to Nong Khai on Day 8, where you can cross the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge into Vientiane, opening the door to a new chapter of exploration.

• Private air-conditioned transport and transfers
• Accommodation  as mentioned in the programme
• Local English-speaking guide
• Meals as mentioned in the programme
• All entrance fees for visits included in the programme

• Additional soft drinks/alcohol
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide and driver
• Domestic and international flights
•  Travel insurance

For our confidential prices or additional information about any of our services,

please contact us at:  info@nutty-adventures.com 

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