Isaan Experience

Discover the quiet & rustic charm of Thailand in this mesmerizing cultural tour through its northeastern provinces, collectively known as Isaan. This is an unknown territory for most travelers. We take you through stunning nature where you can sample the spicy and full-flavored food of the region and visit beautiful temples.

Season: This trip is offered year-round. In northern Thailand, the June to October rainy season can bring heavy and regular rainfall.

Day 1: Bangkok – Khorat
We depart Bangkok at 7.30 am for the northeastern provinces of Isaan. First stop today will be the Thai-Danish dairy farm where milk is produced. En route we bear testimony to the stunning Khmer architectural flavors expressed by Phi Mai Khmer Temple Complex, which was laid out in the same concentric styles as Angkor Wat and lies on the ”Royal Road” leading to the ancient Khmer kingdom. Overnight in Khorat. (L, D).

Day 2: Korat – Buriram – Surin
This morning we visit to Ban Dan Kwian and witness the traditional techniques of crafting earthenware. Afterwards we drive to Phanom Rung Historical Park to explore some of the most impressive Khmer ruins in the region. This visit will provide you with a deeper understanding of the blend of cultures in the Isaan region. We continue to an elephant village for a first-hand encounter with these magnificent animals before ending the day visiting craft villages to witness the intricate processes of crafting silks and golden brocades. Overnight in Surin, (B, L, D)

Day 3: Surin – Ubon Ratchatani – Khong Jiam
Today we drive eastwards from Surin through Ubon Ratchathani to the border town of Khong Jiam. En route we stop at rattan basket weaver villages and discover Khmer temples in Sikhoraphum Sanctuary. One of today's highlights is the National Museum in Ubon Ratchathani where the rich history of Thailand is on display in a series of incredible exhibits. Arrive late this afternoon at the easternmost district of Thailand for your stay in Khong Jiam, a town on the Mekong and Mon Rivers. Overnight in Khong Jiam. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Khong Jiam – Pha Taem – Mekong – Khong Jiam
We hop on board a local boat for a leisurely cruise along the Mekong river. At Pha Taem Historical Park, scrutinize the pre-historic cave paintings depicting the daily scenes of early humans as you listen to the narrations provided by the Fine Arts Department. Then we head to Kaeng Tana, a rocky cataract that straddles the Moon River forming breathtaking waterfalls (only when the season allows). Overnight in Khong Jiam. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Khong Jiam – Ubon Ratchatani – Bangkok
Today we will return Bangkok. On the way, we will make a stop in Ubon Ratchatani, where it is possible to take a flight back to Bangkok. (Not included in the program.) Today’s drive will be quite long, but we will make interesting stops during the drive whenever we pass something of interest. (B, L)

Key: B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner

Sleeping:
1 night at a local Guest House in Khorat
1 night at a local Guest House in Surin
2 nights at a local Guest House in Khong Jiam

Disclaimer
This itinerary is an accurate account of your trip. Please note, however, that we regularly update each trip according to customer recommendations and changes on the ground. Varying conditions and unforeseen circumstances may alter this itinerary, which does not represent a contract between Visit Beyond and its customers. As your trip approaches, we recommend you check visitbeyond.com for the most accurate and up-to-date itinerary.

Adventure trips, trekking, hiking, and water activities including swimming, snorkeling and diving are done at your own risk. Visit Beyond recommends purchasing travel insurance before leaving your home country. We can recommend Gouda travel insurance for our European customers.

We reserve the right to make changes without prior notice.

Cancellation policy
The customer or booking agent must notify Visit Beyond of any cancellations. The following regulations apply to cancellations or no-shows:
* 100% refund if cancellation is received one month prior to arrival
* 50% refund if cancellation is received 15 to 29 days prior to arrival
* No refund if cancellation is received less than 15 days prior to arrival.

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