Things To Do
in Kantharalak
Kantharalak is a quiet border town in Sisaket Province, Isan, near the Cambodian frontier. It offers a mix of temples, markets, and rural scenery that reflect traditional northeastern Thai life. The standout attraction is Phu Wihan National Park, home to the Khmer-era Prasat Phu Wihan and border views.
The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring local culture, nature, and the border region without the crowds of bigger Thai destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kantharalak and check in to your accommodation. Spend some time freshening up and savoring a traditional Thai breakfast at a local café. Explore the vibrant surroundings as you get acclimated to the atmosphere of this charming town.
Visit the serene Wat Phu Thok temple, which features stunning architecture and an inviting garden. Take in the views and appreciate the tranquil ambiance as you learn about the local culture and history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local delicacies.
Stroll through the night market where the hustle and bustle of the town comes alive. Delight in trying various street foods and shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Conclude your evening with a traditional Thai massage to relax after your travels.
Start your day with a tasty breakfast before heading to the historic site of Phanom Rung. This breathtaking Khmer temple complex will captivate you with its intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Take your time roaming the grounds and absorbing the magnificent surroundings.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the nearby Phanom Rung Historical Park. The lush gardens and ancient ruins provide a perfect backdrop for photos and exploration. Learn more about the history of the area with a guided tour.
Return to Kantharalak and take part in a cooking class that introduces you to traditional Thai recipes. Enjoy the camaraderie of preparing and sharing a meal with fellow travelers and locals. Wind down with a peaceful evening stroll along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $7-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🧁Street food snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Isan culture away from tourist crowds
- Access to Phu Wihan National Park and Khmer-era history
- Delightful markets and affordable, flavorful food
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Public transport can be sparse outside town
- Border-region services may require longer trips to larger cities
- "Sawasdee kha" - Hello (female speaker)
- "Sawasdee khap" - Hello (male speaker)
- "Khob khun kha" - Thank you
- "Hong nam yoo tee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nii tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Chai / Mai chai" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Kantharalak
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Khmer temple ruins perched on the border ridge with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Open fields during early morning or late afternoon provide soft light for wide landscape shots.
Colorful stalls and street life offering candid portraits and texture.
Food in Kantharalak
Kantharalak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A zesty shredded papaya salad with lime, chili, and peanuts; widely available at markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Herby, chili-spiked minced meat typically served with sticky rice; great as a starter or main.
Tender, smoky grilled pork often enjoyed with sticky rice and a dipping sauce.
Hot and sour soup with herbs, mushrooms, and seafood or chicken; a Thai staple found in many eateries.
Green chili dip served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice; a classic Isan accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market with fresh produce, grilled meats, sticky rice, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for photography and authentic bites.
Rows of mobile stalls offering grilled skewers, papaya salad, and hot soups; ideal for a casual dinner.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite wai (palms together with a slight bow) is common; use a respectful wai when greeting elders or monks.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple compounds, and refrain from pointing feet or touching sacred objects.
Maintain calm behavior in public and show respect in religious spaces and during cultural events.
Safety
Tipping in Kantharalak
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated at nicer restaurants and hotels; rounding up bills or leaving around 10% for good service is common.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries; many places in town accept coins and notes. Some larger restaurants and hotels may accept credit/debit cards or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot with high humidity; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and hats, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent showers and occasional flooding in rural areas; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails can be slippery.
Warm days and cool evenings; comfortable for temple visits and outdoor exploration; humidity is lower and visibility is clear.
Kantharalak at Night
Hiking in Kantharalak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short and longer trails through limestone landscapes with rewarding border views and wildlife.
Moderate walking routes that pass through rice fields and small forests; best in early morning or late afternoon.
Airports
How to reach Kantharalak by plane.
Domestic flights and connections to Bangkok; useful for accessing eastern Isan regions.
Regional airport with limited domestic service; a practical option for southern Isan access.
Larger regional airport serving several domestic routes; connects to Bangkok and other Thai destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region; warm hospitality and a strong cultural identity rooted in Isan traditions.
Nearby communities with Khmer heritage contribute to the region's cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular throughout Thailand, with local gyms and occasionally small events in towns nearby.
Common recreational sport in schools and communities; informal matches and local clubs occur in town.
Played in community centers and parks; easy for visitors to join in.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kantharalak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Isan cooking often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste. Look for clear vegetable dishes, tofu, and fruit-based salads; ask for no fish sauce or substitute with soy sauce when available.