Gateway to the Lao-speaking region of northeast Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima is nestled the Khorat Plateau near the waterfalls and wildlife of Khao Yai National Park. Its cultural heritage is displayed at a grand central monument and fascinating university museum.

Things to do

Gain insight into Isan’s cultural traditions at the Korat Museum, which occupies a two-storey wooden house on the Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University campus. Ancient tools and artefacts once used by north-eastern Thai people are displayed, together with exhibits on local fabrics, music and handicrafts.

Mingle with the locals at the Monument of Thao Suranaree, a black copper statue in the heart of Nakhon Ratchasima. It honours a famous Thai heroine who is depicted holding a sword and facing towards Bangkok, with locals coming to kneel before the statue, pray and offer gifts of incense and flowers.

Visit the ornate temple of Wat Phra Narai Maharat, situated on a lake island inhabited by giant monitor lizards. It’s renowned for a Khmer sandstone statue of Vishnu that was uncovered at the site and lies adjacent to a monastery where friendly monks reside.

Nakhon Ratchasima is a great base for exploring Khao Yai National Park, Thailand's first national park. Hike to its spectacular waterfalls, including the 150-metre-tall Haew Narok, while keeping an eye out for wild elephants and gibbons.

Getting around

Nakhon Ratchasima is around five hours by train from Bangkok and there are buses from Cambodia and Laos. Tuk-tuks, songthaews and mototaxis are a convenient way to get around Nakhon Ratchasima.