North East (ISAN) Information

I-san is noted as the center of an age-old civilization dating back to pre-historic time and to the period when the Khmer people held away in the region. Relics and monuments still stand, attesting to the splendors and majesty of the ancient era. The Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, the Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung in Buri Ram and the Prasat Hin Phimai in Khorat, are some of the most important and interesting structures in the area. Ban Chiang village in Udon Thani, where remains of pre-historic skeletons and tools have been discovered, serves as concrete evidence of a Bronze Age civilization flourishing 5,000 to 7,000 years ago.

The Northeast's ancient traditions and customs are still reflected in fairs and festivals found nowhere else in the country. These include the colorful Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival), the Candle Procession and the Wax Castle Festival.

Probably the most well-known local products of the Northeast are the world - famous Matmee silk, wickerware, earthenware and edible items such as sausages, Mu Yong and Mu Phaen.