Heritage Isan – 10 Days of Culture
Khmer Temples and the History of Isan
- Tour in private
- 0 à 0 personnes
- Ref. CAR302
Discover the heart of Thailand with our 10-day Heritage Isaan cultural journey! Explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and authentic villages far from the tourist crowds. Immerse yourself in traditional crafts, local festivals, and stunning natural landscapes.
Experience the warm hospitality of the Isaan people and savor unique regional cuisine. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden gems that tell the story of Thailand’s rich history. Perfect for travelers seeking a deep cultural connection and unforgettable memories. Join us for an authentic adventure that reveals the true soul of Isaan!
Program:
Day 1 – Arrival Once you arrive in Bangkok and settle into your hotel, take some time to rest. If you arrive early in the morning, it is possible to schedule a first visit to the capital in the afternoon.
Day 2 – Bangkok Depart in the morning to discover the secrets of Thai history and culture at the Bangkok National Museum. This museum is located in the 18th-century Wang Na Palace and offers a vast collection of Thai art from across the country. Some artifacts are particularly important, such as a royal funeral chariot used for cremations, and many examples of Thai architecture and cultural elements that will help you understand the other historic monuments you will visit during your trip.
At the end of the day, you will return to your hotel and can either relax or enjoy the bustling streets of Bangkok.
Day 3 – Bangkok, Lopburi, Korat Begin your journey toward Isan and its heritage with a first visit to an ancient temple ruin in Lopburi, where you can admire a large collection of Khmer tombs dating back to the 12th century. Prang Khaek is the oldest monument in Lopburi and one of the oldest Khmer-style structures in Thailand. Then continue to Nakhon Ratchasima (known as Korat), arriving mid-afternoon. After checking into your hotel, you will have free time to rest or explore the surroundings.
Day 4 – Korat This morning, explore the mysterious ruins of Phimai Historical Park. Within this park is the Phimai sanctuary, one of the largest and most important Khmer sites in Thailand. Little is still known about the temple’s origins, but inscriptions and architecture suggest it was built in the late 11th century. Many features resemble the temples of Angkor.
After visiting the temple, stop by the museum, where you can admire a large collection of artifacts dating back hundreds of years and a stone statue of King Jayavarman VII, found nearby.
Day 5 – Korat Today, admire the local artisans in the pottery village of Dan Kwian, who produce various pottery and ceramic pieces. For generations, locals have made jars and containers used to store fish and spices. The local clay, very colorful and strong, is often decorated.
Next, head to Pak Thong Chai, a small village known for fine silk production. Thailand is renowned for its silk, and the art continues in small villages that use ancient traditional techniques. Here, you will learn how it’s made and the history behind this craft. In the evening, return to your hotel for your last night in Korat. You might want to visit the night market and browse local stalls.
Day 6 – Korat to Surin In the morning, visit the extinct volcano and magnificent site of Phanom Rung, a majestic Khmer temple over 1,000 years old. The entire site is sculpted with elaborate structures telling stories of Hindu deities. Take your time to explore and learn about this fascinating temple before heading to your next destination.
The second temple of the day is Prasat Muang Tam, also Khmer. This temple is notable for its four large pools with serpent statues — a must-see for beautiful photos before traveling to Surin Province. Check into your hotel and enjoy your free evening.
Day 7 – Surin Today, visit a magnificent temple known for its five towers, similar to Angkor Wat. It has Hindu influences, with sculptures of the god Shiva performing the cosmic dance on the central tower. The temple was renovated around the 15th century and became Buddhist.
Then continue to the small village of Sawai, known for its silk weaving artists. The influences can be seen in the colors and patterns of the fabrics produced. Return to your hotel in the evening and enjoy free time.
Day 8 – Surin to Ubon Ratchathani Today, visit the 11th-century Khmer temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, named Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai. It was later converted into a Theravada Buddhist temple in the 13th century. It consists of three stupas, the main one made of brick and stone, and numerous houses carved into rock representing Hindu deities and the elephant god. At the end of the day, return to your hotel to relax after a culturally rich day.
Day 9 – Ubon Ratchathani After breakfast, head to visit the National Museum with its large collection of artifacts. Discover many textiles and instruments more than 2,500 years old. The museum is especially famous for a 9th-century statue called Ardhanarisvara, a half-man, half-woman figure representing Shiva and Uma. Continue to Wat Thung Si Mueang, built in the 19th century, which houses a replica of Buddha’s footprints — a marvel to visit, along with a wooden library containing Buddhist scriptures.
Day 10 – Ubon Ratchathani to Khong Jiam Today, explore the natural beauty of Pha Taem National Park, where plateaus and hills dominate the landscape and cliffs were formed by earthquakes. Discover many rock paintings over 3,000 years old that depict the lives of ancient inhabitants. Descend to the Bru tribal village to see the unique local culture. Then, board a traditional boat for a cruise on the Mekong and Moon rivers.
Arrive in Khong Jiam, a picturesque town with old houses and spectacular river views. It is one of Thailand’s most charming and least-known towns. Check into your hotel and enjoy independent exploration of this unique region.
Day 11 – Khong Jiam After breakfast, spend the rest of your time exploring the charming town, visiting local markets, or mingling with the locals. Later, transfer to Ubon Ratchathani airport for your connecting flight.
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