Things To Do
in Roi Et
Roi Et is a friendly provincial capital in Thailand's Isan region, surrounded by flat rice fields and rural charm. It serves as a cultural gateway to northeastern Thailand with bustling markets, ornate temples, and welcoming locals. The city blends historical sites with a down-to-earth pace, ideal for immersion in everyday Thai life.
Visitors are drawn by its affordability, local cuisine, and easy access to nature and small-town experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Wat Neel Kham, known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Spend some time meditating in its peaceful gardens and appreciating the spirituality of the site. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast from a nearby street vendor before continuing your exploration.
Head to the Roi Et National Museum to learn about the province's rich history and culture. Delve into the exhibits featuring local art and historical artifacts, and catch a glimpse of traditional Thai life. For lunch, savor local delicacies such as som tam and kai yang in a nearby eatery.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beautiful Roi Et Lake, where you can enjoy the evening breeze and the vibrant hues of the sky. Consider renting a paddleboat for a unique view of the city from the water. Wrap up your day with a dinner at a local restaurant, sampling more regional flavors, and perhaps exploring the night market for some local crafts.
Embark on a nature trek in the nearby Pla Ba National Park, known for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Start early to take advantage of the cool morning air while hiking through the scenic trails. Don't forget to bring binoculars for bird-watching as you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
After a guided nature walk, find a peaceful spot for a picnic lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings. Enjoy the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves as you recharge for the afternoon. Once finished, explore nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip in crystal clear waters.
Return to Roi Et and enjoy a quiet dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can indulge in regional specialties while enjoying views of the sunset over the water. Take a leisurely walk along the lake to witness the night market springing to life, offering local artisans' goods. Conclude your day by immersing yourself in the local culture and perhaps enjoying some live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $12-30 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and rich Isan culture
- Low cost of living and easy travel within the province
- Limited nightlife compared to major tourist hubs
- Smaller English-speaking scene outside major towns
- "Sawasdee ka/krap" - Hello (polite)
- "Khob khun ka/krap" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai chai" - No
- "Khor thot" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Khun phoot phasa angkrit dai mai?" - Do you speak English?
- "Nee tao-rai?" - How much is this?
- "Hong nam yoo thee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ao one a-nyang?" - I would like to eat... (please)
- "Aroi mak" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Roi Et
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic temple complex with golden chedi and serene temple grounds ideal for morning light.
Large urban lake perfect for sunset reflections and birdlife.
Iconic central landmark with street photography opportunities and markets nearby.
Green hills and rural vistas offering wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Roi Et
Roi Et Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded green papaya salad with lime, chilies, peanuts, and dried shrimp—the region's signature dish.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced pork salad with herbs, lime juice, and toasted rice powder.
Steamed sticky rice that accompanies most Isan dishes.
Grilled chicken served with a side of sticky rice and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, herbs, and local Isan snacks.
Evening market with street food stalls, snacks, and casual dining.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and perform Wai greeting to show respect.
Thai is spoken; a polite Wai with a slight nod is customary when greeting; address elders with respect.
Respect monks, avoid loud behavior in sacred areas, and show courtesy to farmers and street vendors.
Safety
Tipping in Roi Et
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Round up bills or leave small tips at restaurants and for guides.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards common in larger shops and hotels; mobile payments (PromptPay) increasingly used in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with temperatures often above 35°C; stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June to October brings daily showers and high humidity; carry a light rain jacket and plan flexible schedules.
November to February offers cooler temperatures and pleasant humidity, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Roi Et at Night
Hiking in Roi Et
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails around the lake area with birdlife and sunset views.
Accessible paths through rice fields, orchards, and temples; a good option for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Roi Et by plane.
A 2.5–3 hour drive from Roi Et; well-connected domestic flights and some regional connections.
Approximately a 2.5- to 3-hour drive from Roi Et; serves domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main local ethnic group across the Isan region; culturally and linguistically Thai with Isan influences; most speak Thai, with Lao or Isan dialects in daily life.
A small but growing segment in Roi Et, drawn by affordable travel and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; see local gyms or matches in larger towns.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport popular in Isan and Thailand; often played in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roi Et.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Isan cuisine, vegetarians can enjoy sticky rice, papaya salad without fish sauce, fried vegetables; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste; choose tofu or mushroom dishes.