Things To Do
in Yasothon
Yasothon is a friendly provincial town in Isan, northeastern Thailand, set along rural farmland and river valleys. The city blends temple heritage, lively markets, and a slower pace that invites easy day trips. It is best known for its energetic Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival, a colorful spectacle that showcases local culture and community pride.
Outside festival season, Yasothon offers authentic Isan cuisine, handicrafts, and welcoming locals who are happy to share their way of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yasothon and check into your accommodation, freshening up before immersing yourself in the local vibes. Visit the nearby morning market to indulge in traditional breakfast options like 'khao niew' and 'som tam'. Experience the bustling atmosphere as locals go about their daily routines, offering a vibrant introduction to the culture.
After lunch, explore the stunning Wat Pha Nam Thip Thep Prasan Suk Temple, known for its impressive golden Buddha. Take a stroll through the peaceful gardens surrounding the temple, absorbing the tranquility and spiritual ambiance. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful architecture and the surreal views from the hilltop.
Wrap up the day with a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Isaan dishes. As the sun sets, stroll along the Mun River and enjoy the calming sounds of nature. Find a cozy spot to relax while watching fishermen casting their nets in the twilight.
Start your day with a visit to the local craft market, where you can see artisans at work and purchase unique handicrafts. Try your hand at traditional Thai weaving, a skill passed down through generations. Engage with the artisans to learn about their techniques and stories behind their creations.
Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes, focusing on the local flavors of Yasothon. As you chop, mix, and cook, enjoy the scents and colors of fresh ingredients. Share a hearty meal with fellow participants, relishing the fruits of your labor together.
Experience Yasothon’s vibrant nightlife by heading to a local street food market. Sample an array of dishes while enjoying live music and entertainment from local performers. Conclude the night with a sweet treat from a dessert vendor before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $10-25 |
| 🚶♂️Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Isan culture and cuisine
- Compact town with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hot climate can be intense in summer
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหนครับ/ค่ะ" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ราคานี้รวม VAT หรือบริการไหม" - Does this price include tax or service?
- "ช่วยแนะนำร้านอาหารอร่อยๆ แถวนี้ได้ไหม" - Could you recommend a good restaurant nearby?
- "ฉันไม่กินเนื้อวัว" - I do not eat beef.
Places to Visit in Yasothon
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Thai temple with gold chedi, ornate murals, and tranquil courtyards ideal for architectural photography.
Open river views with glowing skies and silhouettes along Yasothon’s Mun River.
Colorful stalls, farmers, and livestock create vibrant, candid street photography scenes.
Long fields and farmland with soft light during golden hours, perfect for landscape shots.
Food in Yasothon
Yasothon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Green papaya salad with chilies, lime, peanuts, and palm sugar; best found at street stalls and markets.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced pork salad with lime, herbs, and chilies; pairs well with sticky rice.
Marinated grilled chicken served with dipping sauce and sticky rice.
Sticky rice that accompanies most Isan meals and street foods.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, grilled meats, sticky rice stalls, and everyday snacks.
Evening food stalls along the river offering grilled treats and tangy salads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and speak softly around sacred sites.
A wai (hands pressed together) is common; smile, and use polite language with “khrap/khha” endings.
Conservative clothing in public and during ceremonies; avoid public displays of affection in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Yasothon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not required; small amounts (10-20 THB) for good service at casual eateries; larger tips for tour guides or hotel staff if service charge is not included.
Cash (Thai Baht) is widely used; many places accept credit/debit cards in towns and hotels; ATMs are common in Yasothon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; carry water, wear hats, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
High humidity with frequent afternoon showers; lightweight rain gear helps; some outdoor sites may be muddy.
Pleasant temperatures and low humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and temple visits.
Yasothon at Night
Hiking in Yasothon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic walks along the river with opportunities for birdwatching and sunset photography.
Easy hikes through rice paddies and orchards in the districts surrounding Yasothon.
Short day hikes in nearby Roi Et province’s greener areas with rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Yasothon by plane.
Domestic airport serving routes to Bangkok and other Thai cities; drive 60-90 minutes to Yasothon.
Major international gateway in northeast Thailand; around 2.5-3 hours drive to Yasothon.
Regional airport with frequent flights to Bangkok; connected via road/train to Yasothon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority residents; Thai-speaking with Isan dialect; strong local culture and family ties.
Agricultural communities form a significant portion of the local economy; markets reflect their livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing enjoyed in local gyms and events.
Popular among youths and clubs; local matches occasionally held in town.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport seen in schools and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yasothon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes like sticky rice with vegetables, tofu larb, papaya salad without dried fish, and clearly ask for no fish sauce; many stalls will accommodate with fresh vegetables and tofu.