North-East Thailand
Khorat
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Nakhon Ratchasima, commonly known as Khorat, is the gateway to the Northeast. It is an excellent starting point for excursions to Thailand’s finest Khmer ruins which can be seen here next to Mon and Lao sites. In addition, Khorat has an abundance of natural attractions in its forests, hills, wildlife and waterfalls that are easily accessible in locations such as Khao Yai National Park.
Surin
Surin is best known for its elephants. The gigantic animal of Surin impresses everyone and creates unique character of the province. The people of Surin have a long relationship with the elephants which goes back for more than two thousand years. The area is dotted with ancient Khmer ruins built during the Angkor Empire. Some of the most beautiful silk comes from Surin which is also very famous fragrant jasmine rice.
Ubon
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Ubon Ratchathani has been a well established community for hundreds of years. Relatively unknown to the most tourists, the province boasts a number of natural wonders, cultural and historical attractions as well as national parks. The province is renowned for its strong Buddhist tradition, particularly the practice of forest-dwelling monks and the ancient Buddhist temples, which can still be seen throughout the province today. The province is unique in its folk culture, which is expressed in the indigenous cuisine, handicrafts, such as silk and cotton products, basketry, and bronze-ware, and traditional events such as the Candle festival held every July. Ubon is famous for its Isaan food especially for the spicy duck salad and the grilled chicken. The local markets offer a lot of local handicrafts including fabrics and silverworks.
Khon Kaen
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The city of Khon Kaen is the commercial, administrative an educational centre of the Northeast,which is often used by travellers as a base for visiting many parts of upper Isan. The National Museum houses objects from the Dvaravati period and bronze sculptures from Ban Chiang. Kaen Nakhon Lake in the centre of town is a popular spot for picnics and dining, while Wat That on its bank features typical Isan spires. Khon Kaen is the centre of the northeastern silk industry with numerous villages producing their own mudmee designs. Chonnabot is noted for its quality silks. A dinosaur is the provincial symbol ever since remains of these great beasts were unearthed in Phu Wiang National Park, an area also famous for its flora, fauna and waterfalls.
Nakhon Phanom
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This ancient city is located on the right bank of the majestic Mekong River. The lovely setting of the provincial capital is enhanced by the rugged beauty of jungle covered mountains which lie beyond the Laotian town of Tha Khaek , located on the opposite bank of the river. With a history that dates back many thousands of years, the province is a melting pot of diverse ethnic cultures and traditions. However, the culture with the strongest influence on the architecture, customs and cuisine of the province is the Lao culture. Nakhon Phanom is renowned as a great place with beautiful scenery and relaxing ambiance by the Mekong River.