Tour overview
Treasure of Isan is a 2-day / 1-night tour that takes you from Pattaya or Bangkok to the lesser-known Isan region in northeast Thailand, home to some of the most impressive Khmer temples outside of Cambodia.
You will explore the spectacular hilltop sanctuary of Phanom Rung, the atmospheric temple of Muang Tam, small local villages and a landscape of rice fields and low hills, with one overnight stay in a simple but comfortable local hotel.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 From the coast to the Khmer temples
07:00 · Departure from Pattaya / Bangkok
Early morning departure by road towards the Isan region in the lower northeast of Thailand. It is a long drive, but the scenery slowly changes from coastal plains to rural farmland.
12:00 · Local lunch stop
Lunch at a simple local restaurant with Isan specialities (included). A first taste of the flavours of northeast Thailand.
15:00 · Phanom Rung Historical Park
Visit to Phanom Rung, the most famous and best-restored Khmer temple complex in Thailand, built on top of an extinct volcano. Time to walk along the processional avenue and explore the central sanctuary with its intricate carvings.
17:00 · Muang Tam temple
Short drive down to Muang Tam, a smaller but very atmospheric temple complex with four sacred ponds and tranquil surroundings.
Evening · Check-in & dinner
Check-in at a local hotel or guesthouse in the Phanom Rung area. Evening at leisure and dinner at or near the accommodation (not always included, depending on the final program).
Day 2 Rural Isan impressions & return
08:00 · Breakfast and check-out
Breakfast at the hotel (usually included) and check-out.
09:30 · Local temple or village stop
Depending on timing, short stop at a local temple or village in the Isan countryside to see everyday life away from the tourist centres.
11:00 · Start drive back south
Begin the return journey towards Pattaya or Bangkok, with a few comfort stops along the way.
13:00 · Lunch on the road
Lunch at a roadside restaurant (included or at own expense, depending on final arrangements).
Late afternoon / evening · Arrival
Arrival back in Pattaya or Bangkok in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and exact routing.
Photo impressions
These photos are indicative. Exact order of visits and some stops can change depending on traffic, opening times and local conditions.
