DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Nakhon Ratchasima

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Thailand’s largest province, is a blend of ancient history, agricultural abundance, and modern growth. Just a few hours from Bangkok, it serves as the northeastern gateway, offering everything from Khmer-era temple ruins to the lush wilderness of Khao Yai National Park. Known for its folk traditions like Pleng Korat and bustling markets, Korat is a cultural crossroads where rice fields meet industrial progress—yet remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism.

Beyond its role as a transit hub, Nakhon Ratchasima rewards visitors with authentic Isan charm. Farmers tend to vast fields of rice, sugarcane, and fruit, while the province’s 7,000+ factories hum with activity. Whether you’re exploring Khmer sanctuaries, savoring fiery som tam, or tracing the footsteps of the legendary heroine Thao Suranari, Korat unveils Thailand’s heartland at its most unspoiled and compelling.

A Glimpse into the History

Nakhon Ratchasima’s history stretches back over 2,000 years, but its golden era began under the Khmer Empire (7th–13th centuries). As the frontier city of Nakhon Raj, it guarded the empire’s eastern flank, leaving behind awe-inspiring temples like Phimai Historical Park—a miniature Angkor Wat—and the mountaintop Prasat Hin Phanom Rung. These sandstone marvels, aligned with celestial events, reflect Khmer ingenuity and spiritual grandeur.

In the 14th century, Korat fell under Siamese rule, becoming a strategic trade and military hub. King Narai the Great fortified the city in the 1600s, building walls and moats whose remnants still stand today. The 19th century tested Korat’s resilience: it was briefly seized during the Lao Rebellion (1826–1828) before being liberated by Thao Suranari, the province’s revered heroine. Her statue in the city center remains a pilgrimage site for those paying homage to her bravery.

The 20th century propelled Korat into modernity. The railway’s arrival in the late 1800s cemented its role as Isan’s transport nexus, while the Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base (later shared with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War) highlighted its Cold War significance. Today, Korat balances its agricultural roots with industrial growth, yet its soul endures in night markets humming with mor lam music and the quiet dignity of ancient temple stones.

Things To Do In Nakhon Ratchasima

Step into Ancient Khmer Grandeur

Honor a Local Heroine's Legacy

Discover Unique Ship-Shaped Architecture

Wander Through Vibrant Flower Fields

Taste Korat's Street Food Delights

Other Attractions To Visit

• Khao Yai National Park, Thailand's first and third-largest national park, spans four provinces and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex. Covering over 2,168 km² of rainforests and grasslands, it is a vital watershed and biodiversity hotspot, home to over 350 rare and endangered species. With its accessible wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes, including the 1,351-meter Khao Rom peak, it attracts nature enthusiasts and bird watchers from around the globe.

• Wat Luang Phor Toh, a stunning Buddhist temple in Thailand, is a serene destination where visitors can immerse themselves in Thai culture and spirituality. Funded entirely by donations, including a significant contribution from a Thai actor-turned-monk, the temple features lush gardens, ornate architecture, and a majestic golden statue of the revered Luang Phor Toh. On weekends and Buddhist holidays, the temple draws large crowds of devotees, adding to its vibrant and sacred atmosphere.

• Prasat Hin Phimai, the largest Khmer stone temple in Thailand, is a stunning example of ancient architecture located in Nakhon Ratchasima. Built in the mid-16th Buddhist century as a Mahayana Buddhist structure, it served as a key cultural and religious link between the Mun River basin and the Angkor Kingdom. Restored by the Thai Fine Arts Department from 1964 to 1969, this well-preserved temple remains a highlight of Phimai Historical Park, showcasing Thailand's rich Khmer heritage.

• The Korat Fossil Museum in Thailand is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, showcasing an impressive collection of fossils, including petrified wood dating back 800,000 to 320 million years. It features multimedia exhibits on Earth's history, ancient elephants, dinosaurs, and other prehistoric species, serving as a key educational hub for the Korat UNESCO Global Geopark. Recognized by UNESCO in 2023, the museum highlights the region's rich geological and evolutionary heritage.

• Ban Prasat Archaeological Site, located in Nong Sung north of Nakhon Ratchasima, is Thailand’s second outdoor museum showcasing a 3,000-year-old agricultural-ceramic society from prehistoric times. The site reveals evidence of continuous human habitation, from ancient Khmer-Dvaravati cultures (1,500–3,000 years ago) to the present, including human skeletons, pottery, and traces of cultural evolution. Visitors can explore layers of history that highlight community beliefs, traditions, and the development of early societies in the region.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Nakhon Ratchasima

1. Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House

   

   Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House, with 52 years of global hospitality experience, is the top Western food destination in Korat’s old city, specializing in Swiss, Italian, and French cuisine. Located steps from the Night Bazaar and Police Station, it offers a full bar with German beers, fine wines, and diverse dining in an air-conditioned room or roofed beer garden. The menu highlights authentic Swiss fondue, Australian ribeye, house-made gnocchi, and imported cheeses, ensuring a memorable European dining experience.

   📍Ban Kob Kaew, Manat Road Nai Mueang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000 Thailand

2. The Grill Room Restaurant

The Grill Room Korat is the city’s premier rooftop steak restaurant, offering spectacular views of the downtown lights alongside expertly prepared cuts of meat and fresh seafood. With a cozy atmosphere, impeccable service, and a diverse menu featuring grilled steaks, tuna, and delicious crepes, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Guests also enjoy a selection of fine wines and fair prices, making it a must-visit dining destination in Korat.

📍899/1 Mittraphap Road, Thambol Nai Maung, Amphor Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand 30000

3. Wat Boon Night Market

The Wat Boon Night Market in Nakhon Ratchasima is a lively evening destination near Wat Boon Temple, offering a vibrant mix of Thai street food, local crafts, and a bustling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy popular dishes like pad Thai, grilled skewers, and fresh fruit juices while browsing stalls selling clothing and souvenirs. This market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local culture and flavors of the city.

📍X4G6+2PF ถนน ชุมพล Tambon Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand

4. Monkey Bar

Monkey Bar is a vibrant venue offering delicious fresh food, ice-cold beers, and a wide selection of spirits and cocktails, perfect for relaxing with friends. Enjoy live music on weekends, catch the latest sports on three large TVs, or challenge others to free pool and darts. With free WiFi, air conditioning, and comfortable seating indoors—plus a covered outdoor area for smokers—it’s the ideal spot for any occasion.

📍423-425 Suranaree Road Nai Mueang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000 Thailand

5. O&D Pub & Restaurant

O&D Pub in Korat, open since 2005, is a beloved spot offering a mix of German and international cuisine alongside Thai dishes, with standout favorites like Tagliatelle spinach salmon and Meatball tomato sauce. Guests rave about the generous portions, cozy atmosphere, and excellent service, complemented by a selection of beer and wine. With affordable prices and a welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

📍69 Moo 7 Ban Khok Sung, Nakhon Ratchasima 30310 Thailand

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.