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Isan, or Issan, Isaan, is the name for Thailand's Northeastern region. It is the largest and the most populous region, consisting of 20 provinces bordering Laos and Cambodia. The Mekong River flows through here and is adjacent to two countries with similar cultures, making Isan a historical and cultural destination. Perhaps you are already familiar with Bangkok and Phuket, so today, let's explore a new color called Isan with Asia King Travel!
The Mekong River is the natural border between Isan and Laos. Photo: Hug Thailand
Isan was a part of the Khmer Empire. Many architectural structures reflecting the influence of Khmer culture were built, with the Ancient City of Phimai being a prime example. In the 14th century, the Lan Xang Kingdom was established, including the region. This kingdom flourished and had a significant influence in the area. However, by the 18th century, Lan Xang weakened and was divided into several smaller kingdoms.
In contrast, the Kingdom of Siam had become a powerhouse at that time, it began to expand its influence into the Isan region. After many wars and negotiations, it was officially annexed into Siam in the early 19th century.
Due to history and geography, Isan has a diverse demographic. Most people have connections to the Lao people and near the Cambodian border, there are also Khmer-speaking communities. Due to historical influences, it is also home to a number of Vietnamese-origin people. In many ways, the land can be seen as a "Golden Triangle" of Southeast Asian cultures.
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The best time to explore Isan is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, perfect for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
If you want to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, visit Isan in May for the Yasothon Rocket Festival to see locals launch spectacular rockets into the sky. Alternatively, you can visit in July for the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, featuring massive candle sculptures and vibrant parades.
The locals joyfully participate in the Rocket Festival. Photo: Visun Khankasem/Shutterstock.com
For historical reasons, they are ethnically Thai, but many aspects of their culture are deeply influenced by Lao traditions, creating a unique identity distinct from the rest of Thailand. The first notable aspect is language. They speak a dialect that blends Thai and Lao, and both Thai and Lao speakers can understand what they say.
The Isan people still preserve many Lao cultural traditions and festivals. Photo: Internet
In religion and festivals, they also share similarities with Laos. They have preserved many Lao beliefs and customs, such as the Baci ceremony (thread-tying ceremony). Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival) is also celebrated in many provinces across Isan, with the largest and most famous as mentioned before in Yasothon Province.
Unlike people in Central and Southern Thailand who prefer jasmine rice, the Isan people eat sticky rice almost every day. Sticky rice is typically steamed in small woven bamboo baskets called "kratip," which help retain heat and make it easy to carry to work. They have a habit of taking a small portion of sticky rice by hand, rolling it into a ball, and dipping it into sauces or eating it with main dishes.
The Isan people use a lot of chili and spicy seasonings in their dishes. Photo: Food & Wine
Besides, they love using fresh chilies, dried chilies, and chili powder in most dishes. Spice is not just a flavor but also a habit and a source of pride. The locals believe that eating spicy food helps stimulate digestion and even boosts mental clarity. The symbol of spicy food is som tam (papaya salad). The main ingredient is papaya, but it must also include a few chilies. Larb is also spicier than in other places.
In Nong Khai, which is opposite Vientiane, there are very bustling border markets. The shops sell many products of both Thailand and Laos at cheap prices. There are also many restaurants for tourists to enjoy local specialties and see the capital of Laos on the other side of the Mekong River. Not as strict as many other borders, the border market is a beautiful feature of Isan culture.
Mor Lam has an emotionally rich melody that you can recognize immediately upon first hearing. Traditionally, this music was used in religious ceremonies, but now it is sung by people to tell stories about everyday life, leading to more lyrical melodies. The fast and energetic Mor Lam tunes can create a lively atmosphere at festivals as well. Modernized Mor Lam songs have also become a popular trend among the younger generation.
A Mor Lam performance using traditional instruments. Photo: Bangkok Post
When talking about Mor Lam, we can't forget Khaen. Singers use this bamboo instrument to produce long, resonant sounds that create rhythm or interact with the audience. In addition to the khaen, Mor Lam also uses many traditional string and drum instruments.
Nong Khai is the northernmost province of the region, located directly across the Mekong River from Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The most beautiful time of the day is the breathtaking sunset over the Thai - Lao Friendship Bridge. The bridge spanning the river also serves as a crucial transportation link between Nong Khai and Vientiane.
Sunset on the bridge connecting Thailand and Laos. Photo: AnnetteinBangkok
Another must-visit bridge is the U-shaped glass bridge, built on a cliff, offering a breathtaking view of the landscape below. When visiting Nong Khai, be sure to stop by the border markets to pick up souvenirs from both countries.
Udon Thani is a province with a thriving economy. Besides shopping in the city, Nong Prajak Park has a unique attraction: giant rubber ducks floating in the middle of the lake! This playful addition makes the city more appealing to tourists and a way to show hospitality. In the morning, the fresh air attracts visitors who come to take photos and enjoy paddle boating on the lake.
But Udon Thani also has a beautiful scenic spot, it is the Red Lotus Lake 45 kilometers from the city. It can also be called the “Red Lotus Sea” because all kinds of lotuses and water lilies bloom all over the 20 km² lake as if the pinkish red color stretches to infinity. Visit around November to February of the following year to take a boat and get lost in the sea of flowers.
Boating in the endless sea of lotus. Photo: TripZilla
Ubon Ratchathani has the most radiant and diverse landscape in Thailand. Hills, grasslands, plains, beautiful rivers, and charming waterfalls. This is best shown in Pha Taem National Park. Besides, you can also see the carvings on the rock face in prehistoric times dating back up to 4000 years.
And the most magical thing about Ubon Ratchathani lies in Wat Sirindhorn Wararam. The temple on the mountain has an open-space architecture that blends into nature between the sky and the mountains and forests, with only one wall being the back of the main hall. On the outside of that wall is a picture of a tree of life. When the sky gets dark, the fluorescent paint on the tree and the temple ground glow a magical blue color.
Every night, magical lights appears at Wat Sirindhorn Wararam. Photo: Siamguides
Two other magnificent temples in Ubon Ratchathani that you should visit are Wat Phrathat Nong Bua and Wat Thung Si Mueang. Additionally, you can learn how to make a candle flower in Si Pradu.
Some other provinces with many tourist attractions include Mukdahan, Roi Et, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sisaket,...
Som tam is the most iconic food in the region. This is a green papaya salad that perfectly balances the four signature flavors of Thai cuisine: sour, spicy, salty, and sweet. If you've been to Thailand without trying Som Tam, it could say your trip is still missing a bit of spice!
The reason Som Tam is so spicy lies in the Prik Kee No chilies. Just one or two of these can make your eyes water, but locals typically add five to ten in a regular serving. In the traditional preparation, the chilies aren’t finely chopped. Instead, they are tossed whole into a stone mortar and pounded, allowing their spicy oils to fully infuse the ingredients.
This eye-catching dish will put your spice tolerance to the test. Photo: Localise Asia
To reduce the spiciness, ask the cook to use fewer chilies. Additionally, sticky rice and fresh vegetables can help tone down the heat.
Nam tok is another version of Larb. Instead of using minced meat, this dish features grilled meat. The name "Nam tok" in Thai means "waterfall," referring to the meat juices dripping while grilling. The dish also carries a signature spiciness but blends perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the meat, making it easier to enjoy than som tam.
This is a signature sausage of the Isan region. The sausage has a slightly sour taste from the fermented meat and a spicy kick from garlic and pepper. It is commonly sold at night markets and street food stalls. Rows of plump sausages sizzling on the grill, turned over until the skin turns golden brown, are a familiar sight for visitors traveling to Isan.
Piping hot sausages are always a hot seller at the market. Photo: Takeaway
Some places are neither bustling nor glamorous, yet once you set foot there, they become unforgettable. If you’re looking to explore a different, more peaceful side of Thailand beyond the usual tourist hubs, Isan is the perfect destination. Contact Asia King Travel and immerse yourself in the unique and unforgettable culture of this region!
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