I-San : The Cradle of Learning and Civilization
Uncovering the Region Identity
The Northeastern Region of Thailand, known locally as I-San boasts distinctive culture and civilization many tourists have never seen. The Northeast’s unique landscapes and attractions are no less interesting than those of the other parts of the country. Its local people are famous for their super friendliness. During a trip to the region, tourists will be introduced to another Thailand, quite different from a seaside destination. And only at their first visit to I-San many foreigners fell in love with this region and you will surely feel the same way.
Cave Painting at
Phataem National Park
(Photo by courtesy of TAT) |
Ban Chiang Archaeological
Site in Udon Thani |
Attractions in the Northeast
Starting from tracing the dinosaurs, the region’s prehistoric rulers, you will discover the beginning of the earth, universe and the theory of where life begins. Recommended places are Phu Kum Khao Dinosaur Excavation Site Museum at Sirindhorn Museum in Kalasin Province and Phu Faek Forestry at the Dinosaur Museum in Khon Kaen Province.
Things you can do in the northeast of Thailand includes visiting many archaeological sites such as prehistoric cave paintings at Phataem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani Province and Ban Chiang world’s heritage site in Udon Thani Province. What shouldn’t be missed on the trip are groups of ancient Khmer style castles like Sikhoraphum Castle and Ta Muean Thom Castle in Surin Province and Muang Tam and Phanom Rung Castles in Buriram Province.
Muang Tam Castle in Buriram
(Photo by courtesy of TAT) |
Ban Song Yae Church
in Yasothon |
In this region, there are plenty of religious attractions too. Not only Buddhist but Christianity is deeply ingrained in the areas along the bank of the Mekong River. The architectural style of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Nakhon Phanom is strikingly beautiful. In addition, you can visit Ban Song Yae Church in Yasothon Province, the country’s largest wooden church comprising 336 posts and Wat Song Khon in Nakhon Phanom Province, the Southeast Asia’s largest Roman Catholic Church -- both places are among Thailand’s unseen attractions.
In order to promote I-San Travel Years 2008-2010, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has arranged various campaigns including tour packages throughout the period. To learn more about the packages or make a reservation please contact:
The Association of Domestic Travel: Tel. +66 (0) 2270 1505-8
The Ecotourism & Adventure Travel Association: Tel. +66 (0) 2393 5855
The Tourism Promotion Association: Tel. +66 (0) 2961 2204-5
The Association of Thai Tour Operators: Tel. +66 (0) 2998 0744 |