This exotic province is renowned for its spectacular wild nature, immense cultural heritage, large, flamboyant festivals and traditional crafts. Don’t miss a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the province, explore its magnificent parks, ancient temples and ruins and learn the secrets its world-famous pottery. Shopping in Nakhon Ratchasima is very diverse. Everything - from soft natural silk to stunning delicate ceramics - can be found here. Another of the province’s remarkable features is its cuisine. Make sure you sample the traditional local dishes.
The capital of the province, Nakhon Ratchasima, commonly known as Korat, stands out for its inimitable provincial charm.
Geographical situation
Nakhon Ratchasima is a landlocked province in northeast Thailand. It lies at the west end of the Khorat Plateau and is separated from the Chao Phraya river valley by the Phetchabun and Dong Phaya Yen mountain ranges. Also, the railway station in the capital offers connections to Bangkok and Nong Khai.
Beach relaxation
The province does not possess access to the sea, and the nearest beach is 300 km. from the province’s main city.
Landmarks
One of the province’s major attractions is Khao Yai National Park, which occupies parts of four provinces in the east of the Kingdom. Among historical sites, Phimai Historical Park, the largest and the most important of all Khmer temples in Thailand, deserves a special mention and is definitely a Nakhon Ratchasima must-see. The capital is far from being boring, too. Its places of interest include: a monument to Thao Suranari (also called "The Great Heroine of Khorat"); Mahaviravong National Museum, featuring an impressive collection of ancient artifacts; Phra Narai Maharat Temple, which has a Khmer sandstone sculpture of Phra Narai (or Vishnu) and the Sala Loi Temple, where an image of Khun Ying Mo in a praying position is placed in the center of a pool.
Those travelers who are fond of history may take the opportunity and visit the neighbouring province of Buriram, home to many ancient Khmer temples, and Cambodia’s world-famous Angkor Wat.
Infrastructure
The province offers a wide variety of high-end hotels. An airport featuring a hotel, shopping and dining areas is 4 km. from the capital.
Entertainment and activities
Nakhon Ratchasima’s Candle Festival is its most famous annual event. Visitors can enjoy a fabulous parade featuring large candle sculptures depicting scenes from Buddha´s life and Buddhist tales, meticulously carved by local craftsmen. This festival marks the beginning of Khao Phansa, the Buddhist Lent. Other Buddhist holidays, including Songkran and Loi Krathong are, however, are widely celebrated as well.
Souvenirs
Nakhon Ratchasima is best known for its pottery. The village of Dan Kwian is a true hub for handcraftsand is visited by thousands of souvenir seekers from all over the world. Silk weaving is another important traditional “industry” for the province.
Interestingly, Nakhon Ratchasima is home to Korat cats, one of the oldest stable cat breeds, which originates in Thailand and named after the province. Blue-grey in color and short-haired, they first appeared in Europe under the name "Blue Siamese" at the end on the 19th century. Often dubbed the "good luck cat", they are traditionally given in pairs to newlyweds and until recently, Korats were only presented as gifts, and not sold.