-
Khon Kaen, Thailand
Khon Kaen is the gateway to Isaan and a vibrant university city. Visit the National Museum to learn about the region's history and try the famous Isaan dishes like som tam and larb at the night market. The Beung Kaen Nakhon lake is perfect for an evening stroll.
-
Roi Et, Thailand
Roi Et is a peaceful provincial town centered around a large lake with a beautiful walking promenade. The giant standing Buddha statue at Wat Buraphaphiram is a must-see landmark rising 67 metres tall. Don't miss the lively evening market for local Isaan street food.
-
Yasothon, Thailand
Yasothon is famous for its annual rocket festival (Bun Bang Fai) and has a relaxed, authentic small-town feel. Wat Mahathat houses an important Lao-style chedi worth visiting. The town is a great place to experience everyday Isaan life away from tourists.
-
Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
Ubon Ratchathani is one of Isaan's largest cities and a cultural hub known for its Candle Festival. Explore the stunning Pha Taem National Park with its ancient cliff paintings overlooking the Mekong River. The city's night market and local silk shops are excellent for souvenir hunting.
-
Mukdahan, Thailand
Mukdahan sits right on the Mekong River across from Savannakhet in Laos, giving it a unique border-town atmosphere. The Indochina Market is packed with goods from Laos, Vietnam and China at bargain prices. Climb the Mukdahan Tower for panoramic views over the Mekong.
-
Nakhon Phanom, Thailand
Nakhon Phanom is arguably the most scenic city on the Thai Mekong, with views of rolling mountains in Laos across the river. Wat Phra That Phanom, about 50 km south, is one of the most sacred temples in all of Isaan. The riverside promenade at sunset is absolutely breathtaking.
-
Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
Sakon Nakhon is home to Nong Han, the largest natural lake in northeast Thailand, surrounded by serene countryside. Wat Phra That Choeng Chum is a revered temple with a beautiful Lao-style prang in the city centre. The province is also known for producing some of Thailand's finest indigo-dyed fabric.
-
Udon Thani, Thailand
Udon Thani is a bustling hub with a strong expat community and excellent food scene. Don't miss the prehistoric Ban Chiang archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 5,000-year-old pottery and artefacts. The Red Lotus Sea (Talay Bua Daeng) is a magical pink lake best visited at sunrise by boat.