Things To Do
in Chum Phae
Chum Phae sits in Khon Kaen Province in Isan, Thailand, surrounded by rolling farmland and the foothills of the Phu Phan range. The town has a slow-paced, friendly atmosphere with lively morning markets, simple Temples, and generous locals who welcome visitors. It serves as a practical base for exploring the wider Khon Kaen region, with easy access to rivers, forests, and agricultural scenery.
Summers are hot and dry, but the countryside comes alive with vibrant greens during the rainy season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant local market in Chum Phae where you can experience the hustle and bustle of Thai culture. Sample fresh fruits and traditional snacks as you stroll through the colorful stalls. Engage with the friendly vendors while picking up unique local souvenirs.
After lunch at a cozy eatery, head over to the Chum Phae Museum to learn about the area's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum showcases fascinating artifacts and provides insights into the lives of the local people. Spend some time enjoying the peaceful gardens surrounding the museum.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers stunning views of the town. Savor traditional Thai dishes freshly prepared with local ingredients. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through the town's night market, soaking in the sights and sounds of evening life.
Embark on an early morning trip to Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary, where the air is fresh and the wildlife is active. Take a guided trek through lush forests and keep an eye out for various bird species and other indigenous wildlife. Enjoy the scenic views and the tranquility that comes with nature.
After a satisfying picnic lunch in the sanctuary, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby waterfalls. Spend the afternoon swimming or simply relaxing by the water, surrounded by nature. Capture memorable photos of the beautiful landscape to remember your day.
Return to Chum Phae for dinner, where you can share stories from your day’s adventure with fellow travelers. Opt for a local BBQ and savor the flavors unique to northeastern Thailand. Wind down with a stroll by the river, enjoying the gentle evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $15-35 |
| 🧭Local SIM card/data plan | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Isan culture and warm hospitality
- Affordable prices and genuine local experiences
- Good base for exploring Khon Kaen region
- Limited English in rural areas
- Smaller nightlife and fewer Western-style amenities
- "Sawasdee ka/krap" - Hello (polite; female/male)
- "Khap khun ka/krap" - Thank you
- "Dao-rak han em? (excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Khow thot" - Sorry
- "Tee nee thi dai mai?" - Where is this?
- "Ao nam na nom" - Can I have a glass of water?
Places to Visit in Chum Phae
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm water with palm-fringed banks; a serene spot for landscape and reflections.
Open viewpoints over farmland and distant villages; dramatic skies at dawn and dusk.
Quiet spaces with ornate murals, banners, and traditional architecture—great for candid and detail shots.
Colorful stalls, warm lights, and dynamic street scenes perfect for documentary-style photography.
Food in Chum Phae
Chum Phae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fiery, tangy salad made with shredded green papaya, chilies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts; a staple at markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Herby, sour, and spicy minced pork seasoned with lime, fish sauce, mint, and roasted rice powder; best with sticky rice.
Chargrilled marinated chicken served with fragrant sticky rice; popular at roadside stalls and markets.
Bright, sour-salty soup flavored with lemongrass, lime leaves, and chilies; a comforting Isan classic.
Fermented pork sausage with garlic and rice; widely available at markets and grilled on open flames.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, herbs, grilled meats, and river fish; a perfect place to sample Isan snacks.
Evening stalls along major roads serving grilled chicken, som tam, sticky rice, and spicy dips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a wai (hands pressed together) and a slight bow. Use a polite tone; address elders and monks with respect.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple buildings, avoid pointing feet at sacred objects, and refrain from touching monks on the head.
Speak softly in public, avoid loud displays of affection, and show courtesy to locals, especially during ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Chum Phae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Pocket change to round up bills or small tips to guides and drivers are common.
Cash in Thai Baht is widely used in markets and small eateries. Some larger restaurants and hotels accept cards or mobile payments; rural vendors mostly rely on cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. Hydration, sunscreen, and light clothing are essential; mornings are best for outdoor activity.
June to October brings frequent showers and lush greenery; expect humidity and occasional flooding near rivers; carry a compact rain jacket.
November to February offers milder temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Chum Phae at Night
Hiking in Chum Phae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridgetop hikes with farmland views and village scenery; suitable for day trips.
Gentle hikes through orchards, paddy fields, and forested patches near the town.
Airports
How to reach Chum Phae by plane.
Main regional gateway with domestic and some international flights; about a drive from Chum Phae.
Another major airport nearby with broader domestic connections; longer drive to Chum Phae.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Isan Thai with Lao heritage; Buddhist majority; mix of rural and urban residents; strong community networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; gyms and occasional matches in larger towns and gyms in the region.
Popular among youth and communities; casual games in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chum Phae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable dishes with tofu or egg, ask for dishes without fish sauce or shrimp paste, and enjoy sticky rice with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs.