Things To Do
in Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat, is a city located in northeastern Thailand. It is the gateway to the Isaan region and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to historical sites such as the Phimai Historical Park and the Thao Suranaree Monument.
Nakhon Ratchasima also offers a vibrant food scene, bustling markets, and traditional festivals that showcase the unique local culture.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the impressive Phimai Historical Park, known for its ancient Khmer architecture. Enjoy a stroll around the lush gardens and take pictures of the stunning temple ruins.
Head to Korat Zoo for an entertaining afternoon among various animals. The zoo is spacious, allowing for a relaxed exploration while enjoying a picnic lunch.
Finish your day by discovering local cuisine at a nearby night market. Sample delicious Thai street food and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Rise early and make your way to Khao Yai National Park for some breathtaking views and fresh air. Experience wildlife spotting while trekking through beautiful trails.
After a morning of hiking, cool off at one of the park's waterfalls. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst nature's beauty.
As the day ends, head to a local restaurant for a hearty dinner. Try some traditional Isan dishes that the region is known for.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including ancient Khmer ruins and local festivals.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including national parks and waterfalls.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Thailand.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
- Growing infrastructure and amenities, catering to both locals and tourists.
- Limited international connectivity, making travel to and from the city more difficult.
- Less developed urban facilities compared to Thailand's major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
- Hot and humid climate, which may be uncomfortable for some residents and visitors.
- Potential language barrier, as English is not widely spoken among the local populace.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas, especially during peak times.
Best Activities in Nakhon Ratchasima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife in this beautiful national park.
Visit the ancient Khmer temple complex and learn about the region's rich history.
Enjoy a round of golf amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Experience a working dairy farm and enjoy activities such as feeding animals and tractor rides.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nakhon Ratchasima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nakhon Ratchasima
Visit one of these nice places.
Buddhist temple offering panoramic views of Nakhon Ratchasima
Monument surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures, offering great photo opportunities
Elevated walkway providing stunning views of the zoo and surrounding area
Shopping mall with a rooftop garden offering scenic city views
Food in Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Som Tum, or green papaya salad, is a popular and refreshing dish in Nakhon Ratchasima. The salad is typically spicy, sour, sweet, and salty, packed with flavors from chilies, lime, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Head to the local street food vendors or restaurants like Som Tum Jay So for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Sai Krok Isan, a fermented sausage, is a must-try local delicacy. It's made from coarsely ground pork, garlic, sticky rice, and a distinct blend of herbs. You can find this savory and aromatic snack in food markets like Maharat Market.
Nam Prik, a spicy chili dip, is a staple in northeastern Thai cuisine. It's often served with fresh vegetables, pork rinds, and sticky rice. Visit local restaurants such as Rai Thao for a fantastic Nam Prik experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nakhon Ratchasima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Maharat Market is a bustling and colorful market where you can find a wide range of local street food and fresh produce. It's an excellent place to sample authentic snacks like Sai Krok Isan and explore the vibrant food scene of Nakhon Ratchasima.
Yamo Walking Street is a lively night market offering an abundance of street food choices. You can indulge in grilled skewers, noodle dishes, and delectable desserts while immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere of this vibrant market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Nakhon Ratchasima, it's important to show respect for Buddhist monks by not touching them and by offering a wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together) as a sign of respect when you encounter them.
Wearing modest clothing, particularly when visiting temples or important cultural sites, is important to show respect for the local customs and traditions.
In many Thai households and religious spaces, it's customary to remove one's shoes before entering as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nakhon Ratchasima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nakhon Ratchasima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally expected in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. However, in tourist areas or high-end establishments, a small tip may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to have cash on hand for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nakhon Ratchasima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Nakhon Ratchasima is during the dry season when the weather is cool and pleasant. Expect clear skies, little to no rainfall, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
During the hot season, expect very warm temperatures and high humidity. It's advisable to stay well-hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
The rainy season brings heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the countryside turns lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet weather.
Nakhon Ratchasima at Night
Hiking in Nakhon Ratchasima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Thailand's largest national parks, Khao Yai offers a variety of trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. Popular trails include the Haew Narok Waterfall and the scenic viewpoints.
Known for its beautiful plateau, Phu Kradueng provides several hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The park is famous for its pine forests and cool climate.
Wang Nam Khiao is known for its cool climate and stunning landscapes, offering various nature trails through scenic hills and valleys. It’s a great spot for both hiking and camping.
One of Thailand's largest national parks, Khao Yai offers a variety of trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. Popular trails include the Haew Narok Waterfall and the scenic viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nakhon Ratchasima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nakhon Ratchasima by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, approximately 250 kilometers south of Nakhon Ratchasima.
Another Bangkok airport, primarily serving low-cost carriers, located about 260 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima.
The main airport serving northern Thailand, located around 660 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima.
The main airport serving Phuket and southern Thailand, approximately 1,500 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima.
An important airport serving southern Thailand, located about 1,200 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnic group native to the region, primarily found in the northeastern part of Thailand.
People from Laos, many of whom have settled in Nakhon Ratchasima.
The majority ethnic group in Thailand, with a significant presence in Nakhon Ratchasima.
A notable community involved in trade and commerce.
An ethnic group with historical roots in the area.
Indigenous groups with distinct cultural practices and language.
The Soul of Nakhon Ratchasima
Discover the essence of Nakhon Ratchasima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and combat sport known as the 'Art of Eight Limbs'. It is popular in Nakhon Ratchasima and is practiced widely in local gyms and during festivals.
Football is a widely followed sport in Nakhon Ratchasima, with many local teams and a strong fan base. The region's team, Korat, plays in the Thai football league.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and communities in Nakhon Ratchasima, with local tournaments and events encouraging participation.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball, where players use their feet, head, knees, and chest to hit a rattan ball over a net. It enjoys considerable popularity in the region.
Basketball is steadily growing in popularity among the youth in Nakhon Ratchasima, with many schools having teams and hosting competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakhon Ratchasima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Thai cuisine often features meat-based dishes, several restaurants and cafes in Nakhon Ratchasima, such as Midwinter Green, offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options. They serve an assortment of plant-based delights, ensuring that vegetarians and vegans can savor the local flavors.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free dishes at select restaurants in Nakhon Ratchasima. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the staff, and they can often accommodate by customizing dishes or recommending suitable options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nakhon Ratchasima with these cultural adventures.
