The Treasures of Isan in 9 Days

An authentic stay in a region untouched by mass tourism

Tour in private
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Ref. CAR303

Embark on a 9-day immersive adventure through the hidden treasures of Isaan, Thailand's most authentic and untouched region.

Discover ancient Khmer temples, charming villages, and vibrant local traditions that offer a true glimpse into Thai culture. Cruise along the majestic Mekong River, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and witness breathtaking sunsets in Chiang Khan. From bustling markets to serene lotus lakes, every day brings new experiences far from the tourist trail.

Join us and uncover the soul of Thailand — raw, real, and unforgettable.

Program:

Day 1: Arrival in the capital and visit of the Khlongs You will be welcomed upon arrival at the airport by your French-speaking guide. Transfer and check-in at your hotel. Take your time to rest and freshen up. In the afternoon, you will board a motorboat for a short cruise through the khlongs, the famous canals of the historic Thonburi district. You will admire wooden stilt houses, ancient temples, and orchards — a different side of Bangkok than what the average tourist sees. Then visit Wat Arun, a beautiful Buddhist temple located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Day 2: Temples of Bangkok Early in the morning, we head to Chinatown, the Chinese quarter of the capital, full of curiosities and treasures of all kinds. Wander through this lively commercial district, then continue to Pak Klong Talad flower market, the largest fresh flower market in Thailand—a feast for the senses. Lunch at a local restaurant followed by visits to Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha, and the must-see Grand Palace with Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Day 3: Departure for Ayutthaya Morning transfer to the historic city of Ayutthaya. Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site and its splendid ensemble of Buddhist temples. Be amazed by five of the main temples of this vast complex, such as Wat Mahathat, and visit the Bang Pa In Palace. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the river.

Day 4: Ayutthaya – Uthai Thani – Kamphaeng Phet – Sukhothai After a visit to a local market to discover local foods and spices, head north across the plains of the country. Stop in Uthai Thani by the Sakae Krang River, where you can enjoy a small town far from the bustle of big cities. Visit the Thasung Temple and its magnificent crystal hall. Explore the beautiful Hub Patthart valley, a true Eden of palm trees. Then continue your journey towards Sukhothai.

Day 5: Historical Park of Sukhothai This day is dedicated to visiting the UNESCO-listed historical park, a remarkable testimony to Thailand's glorious past. Visit the ruins of the country’s first capital (12th to 14th century) by bike or car. The afternoon is free—enjoy the hotel pool or a traditional Thai massage to relax. Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Heading to Isan and Chiang Khan Head to the unknown east of the country: Isan! Isan is the hidden, secret, and mass-tourism-free part of Thailand. Travel through beautiful countryside and rice fields to reach Loei. Then follow a scenic road to the majestic Mekong River, the natural border with Laos, and arrive in the charming small town of Chiang Khan. Chiang Khan’s charm lies in its old wooden houses stretching along the Mekong. The sunset there is magical. Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: At the borders of Laos in Nong Khai Early morning, watch the monks' alms offering in the streets. Then follow the mighty Mekong River with Laos in the background. Enjoy stunning panoramas with planned stops to take in the views. Visit Wat Pa Phu Kon, famous for its huge white marble Buddha and its beautiful dark blue roofs, located atop a small hill. Arrive in Nong Khai in the afternoon and check in at your hotel. Free time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by the Mekong. You can visit the large night market near the train station and try many local specialties (insects are very common in Isan, for adventurous eaters!). Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Udon Thani, the life of Isan Early morning visit to Wat Pha Nakanoy and watch the monks’ procession. After breakfast, stroll through the market with fresh products and local specialties. Free time to wander along the Mekong. In the afternoon, visit Sala Kheo Ku, a park with statues of Buddha, Vishnu, Shiva, multi-armed goddesses, Naga serpents, human-animal hybrids, and various secular figures. A rather surprising pilgrimage site! On the way to Udon Thani, stop at the village of Na Kha, known for cotton and silk weaving. Arrive late afternoon and check in at your hotel. Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Continuation of your stay or departure Morning departure to discover a charming small village. After exploring its alleys, take a boat ride on a beautiful lake full of pink lotus flowers—a magnificent spectacle called talay buadaeng (the sea of red lotus) by the Thais. Then visit the prehistoric site of Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Considered the most important prehistoric settlement discovered so far in Southeast Asia, Ban Chiang marks a significant stage in human cultural, social, and technological evolution. Transfer to Udon Thani airport for your flight to Bangkok or Chiang Mai to continue exploring northern Thailand.

Included:
Private car

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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.

[content2] =>

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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The Treasures of Isan in 9 Days

An authentic stay in a region untouched by mass tourism

Program:

Other activities in Nong Khai

Heritage Isan – 10 Days of Culture

Discovery of Authentic Isan in 3 Days and 2 Nights