Khorat Travel Guide

Khorat Travel Guide

Khorat, officially known as Nakhon Ratchasima, is a city in northeastern Thailand (Isaan) and a gateway to the region's culture, history, and natural beauty. As a major hub, Khorat offers a blend of ancient temples, national parks, and authentic Thai experiences. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to exploring Khorat.

Getting to Khorat

• By Bus: Buses run frequently from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal, taking about 3-4 hours.
• By Train: Trains from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station take about 5 hours to Khorat, offering a scenic view of the countryside.
• By Car: Driving from Bangkok takes about 3 hours via Route 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and Route 2 (Mittraphap Road).

Best Time to Visit

• November to February is the ideal time to visit Khorat when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.
• March to May can be hot, while June to October is the rainy season, though the rains bring lush greenery to the area.

Top Attractions

a) Phimai Historical Park

One of the most important Khmer temple complexes in Thailand, Phimai resembles Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Dating back to the 11th century, its intricate carvings and towering structures make it a must-visit for history lovers.

• Location: 60 km from Khorat City.
• Highlights: The main sanctuary, stone carvings, and the Naga Bridge.
• Tip: Visit in the early morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

b) Prasat Hin Phanom Rung

This stunning Khmer temple, located on an extinct volcano, is another significant historical site. It's known for its alignment with the sun during specific times of the year when sunlight shines through all the temple doors.

• Location: About 90 km from Khorat.
• Tip: Time your visit with the solar alignment events, which occur in April and September.

c) Thao Suranari Monument

This monument honors Lady Mo, a local heroine who defended the city from Lao invaders in the 19th century. It's a popular spot for locals to pay their respects and offer garlands.

• Location: Central Khorat.
• Tip: Visit in the evening when the area becomes lively with food stalls and vendors.

d) Khao Yai National Park

Thailand's first and one of the largest national parks, Khao Yai is known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great spot for trekking, wildlife spotting, and camping.

• Location: About 100 km southwest of Khorat.
• Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, waterfall visits, and camping.
• Tip: Visit Haew Suwat Waterfall, made famous by the movie "The Beach."

e) Dan Kwian Pottery Village

A charming village famous for its unique clay pottery, which has been produced for centuries. Visitors can watch artisans at work and buy pottery as souvenirs.

• Location: 15 km from Khorat.
• Tip: Try a pottery-making workshop if available.

f) Wat Sala Loi

A modern Buddhist temple built in the shape of a boat, featuring stunning contemporary architecture. The temple was awarded the Best Architecture Award in 1973.

• Location: North of the city center.
• Tip: The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for meditation.

g) Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo

A family-friendly destination offering a wide variety of animals, including white tigers and giraffes. The zoo also features a water park.

• Location: About 20 minutes from the city center.
• Tip: Great for families traveling with kids.

Local Experiences

a) Korat Night Market

A bustling night market offering everything from street food to clothing and souvenirs. Try local Isaan delicacies such as grilled chicken (kai yang), som tam (papaya salad), and sticky rice.

• Tip: Try the coconut ice cream and mango sticky rice.

b) Isaan Silk Weaving Villages

Take a short trip to one of the silk-weaving villages around Khorat, such as Pak Thong Chai, to see traditional weaving techniques and buy locally produced silk.

• Location: 30 km from Khorat.

c) Local Cuisine

Khorat is famous for its Isaan cuisine, known for its bold flavors. Be sure to try the following:

• Som Tam: Spicy papaya salad.
• Larb: Minced meat salad, usually made with pork or chicken.
• Kor Moo Yang: Grilled pork neck.
• Khao Niao: Sticky rice, often served with savory dishes.

Accommodations

a) Budget

• Tokyo Hotel: A simple, budget-friendly option with clean rooms and friendly staff.
• Siri Hotel: Centrally located, offering basic amenities for budget travelers.

b) Mid-Range

• Fortune Hotel Korat: A well-rated hotel with comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
• Romyen Garden Place: Offers cozy accommodations with a garden and fitness center.

c) Luxury

• Kantary Hotel Korat: A modern hotel offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and great service.
• Sima Thani Hotel: Known for its luxurious atmosphere, offering top-notch facilities and proximity to the city center.

Getting Around Khorat

• Tuk-tuks: Widely available and great for short trips within the city.
• Motorbike taxis: A quick and affordable way to get around.
• Songthaews (shared taxis): Local public transport that operates on fixed routes.
• Car rentals: If you’re planning to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option.

Day Trips from Khorat

a) Lam Takhong Dam

This large reservoir is a great spot for picnicking and relaxing by the water.

b) Pha Kep Ta Wan

A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s particularly popular at sunset.

c) Jim Thompson Farm

A unique attraction showcasing Thailand’s famous silk industry. The farm is open seasonally (December-January) and offers tours of silk production, organic farming, and cultural activities.

Festivals and Events

• Phimai Festival (November): Held at Phimai Historical Park, this festival celebrates the history and culture of the region with light and sound shows, traditional performances, and boat races.
• Korat Candle Festival (July): A Buddhist celebration marking the start of Buddhist Lent, with intricate wax sculptures and candle parades.

Tips for Travelers

• Language: While Thai is the official language, some English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Thai phrases can be helpful.
• Currency: The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and large restaurants.
• Dress Code: Respectful attire is required when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering.

Khorat is a fascinating destination for those looking to explore Thailand beyond the typical tourist spots. With its blend of ancient history, vibrant markets, and stunning nature, Khorat offers a memorable experience for every traveler. Whether you're hiking through national parks, exploring ancient Khmer ruins, or indulging in spicy Isaan cuisine, Khorat promises an authentic Thai adventure.