Discover Thailand differently: Isan region
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
When we think about Thailand, we directly imagine white sand beaches, floating markets, temples, and street food. Destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai or Krabi naturally come to mind. However today, let’s discover a more discrete yet fascinating region: Isan.
Isan, a more authentic Thailand
Located in the northeast of the country, along the borders with Laos and Cambodia, Isan is the largest region in Thailand.
More rural and historically marked by a certain level of poverty, the region long remained outside the main tourist routes. Today, however, it offers a different kind of experience — purer and deeply authentic.
Yet the region has many major assets, particularly its preserved landscapes: lush green rice fields, waterfalls, national parks, and traditional villages where time seems to stand still.
A unique cultural richness
The history of Isan is closely intertwined with that of Laos and Cambodia. This cultural blending is reflected in the language, which is close to Lao, as well as in the cuisine, traditional clothing, and architecture.
Khmer influences are especially visible in many remarkable ruins, often compared to the famous temples of Angkor. Among the must-see sites:
Phimai Historical Park
Phanom Rung Historical Park
Prasat Muang Tam
But Isan isn’t limited to Khmer temples. The region is also home to many Buddhist temples, including some unique ones such as Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew (built from over 1.5 million empty Heineken and Chang beer bottles) and Wat Pa Phu Kon.
A spectacular and preserved nature
On the nature side, Isan is full of still little-known treasures. It is home to many national parks, including Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most famous, with its luxurious forests, waterfalls and diverse fauna.
Further east, Pha Taem National Park impresses with its cliffs overlooking the Mekong and its rock paintings over 3,000 years old. Nearby, Sam Phan Bok—nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Thailand”—reveals a striking rocky landscape shaped by the river.
In the north, near Udon Thani, the Red Lotus Sea Lake is covered with millions of pink lotus flowers between November and February — an unforgettable sight.
The Isan region is also home to one of the oldest and most impressive banyan trees, located in Sai Ngam Banyan Tree Park. Venerated in both Buddhism and Hinduism, this spectacular tree is often called the “walking tree” because its aerial roots spread outward and seem to advance over time.
Of course, beyond the national parks, Isan is also best explored through more intimate experiences: watching water buffaloes in the vivid green rice fields or stopping in small villages to discover silk workshops and local artisanal craftsmanship.
Traditions, craftsmanship, and slow life
Isan is also an immersion into a simpler, deeply human way of living. It is here in particular that Thai craftsmanship comes to life, where one can still witness silk weaving, traditional handloom work, and artisanal production in villages.
The region is also shaped by its festivals, such as Phi Ta Khon, and by local music like Mor Lam, which is rooted in Lao cultural heritage.
A cuisine full of character
Isan cuisine is popular throughout Thailand. Influenced by Laos, it is known for its bold, spicy flavours. Among the must-try dishes are:
• larb, spicy minced meat salad
• green papaya salad
• sticky rice, a staple of almost every meal
A different view of Thailand
Travelling through Isan means discovering a different side of Thailand, far from the usual clichés. It is a region where life moves more slowly, where encounters feel genuine, and where every experience seems more authentic.
With its preserved nature, rich cultural heritage, and living traditions, Isan offers a deeply human journey — a timeless escape for those who want to see Thailand from a new perspective.
At Novaway, we are passionate about helping you discover unique destinations for unforgettable, original, and meaningful journeys. Isan is a truly remarkable region, so if you’d like to explore it through our tailor-made itineraries, feel free to contact us!
