Isaan is full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations, and Surin is one of them. What may seem like a sleepy little province in southern Isaan actually has its own unique features that will make you want to visit.
For one, Surin is well known for its indigenous people who have pioneered the art of taming elephants for centuries. The province also has a long and rich history dating back to the rise of the Khmer Empire, and you'll often come across ancient temples and ruins scattered across the landscape.
Another cool fact about Surin is that the province has produced several world-famous figures, including Buakaw Banchamek, a world-class Muay Thai kickboxer, and Tony Jaa, an internationally acclaimed martial arts actor. If that doesn’t inspire you to visit, I’m not sure what will!
If you're intrigued by Surin, keep reading, we’ll explore all the awesome things you can do here and share everything you need to plan the perfect trip. Without further ado, here’s your complete travel guide to Surin:
- Surin Things to Do Map
- Where to Stay in Surin?
-
10 Best Things to Do in Surin
- Visit Prasat Sikhoraphum
- Check Out Prasat Ta Muean Thom along the Thai-Cambodian Border
- Find Your Way to Prasat Ta Krabey, a Shared Thai-Cambodia Temple
- Learn about Surin at Surin National Museum
- Hike Around Phanom Sawai Forest Park
- Hang Out at Huay Saneng Reservoir
- Try Out Street Food at Night Bazaar Surin
- Visit Wat Chang Mop
- Observe Fishermen at Huai Lam Phok Reservoir
- Walk Around Pha Manow
- How to Get to Surin?
- How to Get Around Surin?
- What to Pack for Surin?
- Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand
Surin Things to Do Map
10 Best Things to Do in Surin
1. Visit Prasat Sikhoraphum
Due to the fact that Surin was part of the ancient highway that connected several towns to Angkor Wat during the reign of the Khmer Empire, you can expect to find many Khmer ruins and temples across the province. One that stood out to me the most is Prasat Sikhoraphum.
This impressive Khmer structure was built in the 12th century by the very king who commissioned Angkor Wat. It takes the style of Baphuon architecture, which is quite common for structures built before the Angkor era.
Originally constructed as a Hindu temple, Prasat Sikhoraphum was converted into a Buddhist sanctuary in the 16th century during the reign of Ayuthaya, a Thai (Siam) Kingdom. The name "Sikhoraphum" derives from the Sanskrit word "shikhara", meaning "tower sanctuary".
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Here, you can still see its five brick towers in a quincunx pattern on a laterite base, a configuration you can only find among Khmer temples located in modern-day Thailand. It is one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Surin, and it's definitely worth checking out.
The historical site is open from 7:30 AM to 6 PM every day, and the entrance fee is 50 THB per person. On-site, you will also find some archaeological artifacts lying around, so be sure to spend some time and look around.
Where to Stay in Surin?
2. Check Out Prasat Ta Muean Thom along the Thai-Cambodian Border
Due to how close we are to the Thai-Cambodian border, you will often find many abandoned Khmer ruins tucked away in the thick forest, waiting for you to explore. Some of those ruins that I highly recommend you visit are Prasat Ta Muean, Prasat Ta Muen Tot, and Prasat Ta Muen Thom, located right by the border with the last one actually located inside Cambodia.
If you know a bit about Thai-Cambodian relations, you'll know that our two countries haven't always gotten along throughout history, much of it due to disputed borders and the many temples located right along the borderline. There have been numerous skirmishes and conflicts in modern times, with the most recent one occurring in 2011.
Since then, the relationship between the two countries has remained relatively calm, leading to several interesting initiatives aimed at healing and strengthening ties.
One such initiative you can experience is Prasat Ta Muen Thom, a temple technically located inside Cambodia. Both countries have agreed to open access to the temple for both Cambodians and Thais without requiring immigration checks.
It is one of the first of its kind, and I hope it paves the way for more sacred sites and temples along the border to be open to both countries. The sights are open from 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM every day and there is no entrance fee.
At Prasat Ta Muen Thom, you'll also encounter a number of military personnel, along with military equipment, barbed wire, and bunkers. Don't be alarmed, they're stationed there due to the sensitive nature of the area, but the soldiers are actually very welcoming. If you're a history buff and want to venture off the beaten path, be sure to spend some time exploring these fascinating historical sites!
3. Find Your Way to Prasat Ta Krabey, a Shared Thai-Cambodia Temple
Another historical site that is part of the Thai-Cambodian heritage initiative is Prasat Ta Krabey, located about an hour east of Prasat Ta Muen Thom. It can be a bit tricky to reach, as GPS directions often route you through Cambodia instead of staying within Thailand.
Don’t rely on GPS alone, follow my directions instead. Trust me, it took me ages to actually find the way to this temple! Thankfully, some kind locals and park rangers helped guide me to the site.
First and foremost, you gotta punch in this village into your Google Maps, and follow the GPS there. Once you arrive at the intersection, you will see a blue sign on the corner with Prasat Ta Krabey written in Thai (ปราสาทตาควาย).
Follow the road south until you arrive at a military checkout. Go through the gate and continue along the road. Follow the paved road all the way to Ta Kwai Dam and continue on. You will be on paved road all the time, so the moment you end up on an unpaved road, you know you went in the wrong direction.
Once you've reached this checkpoint, turn left and go through the gate, and you will arrive at the military camp where you can park your car and walk to the temple. Again, don't be alarmed by the soldiers. They are very welcoming and happy to see some visitors. I was the only tourist there when I arrived 😂.
Prasat Ta Krabey is an impressive example of Khmer architecture, with its massive, well-preserved prang rising high among the trees. Surrounded by dense forest and with no other tourists in sight, just me and a few soldiers, it’s hard not to feel like Indiana Jones, cliché as that may sound. I absolutely love discovering these hidden ancient gems!
At the site, you’ll encounter both Thai and Cambodian soldiers, Thai troops typically wear casual uniforms with sleeveless black vests, while the Cambodian soldiers are dressed in green camouflage. Don’t be alarmed if you come across them while exploring; they’re just part of the area’s unique setting.
At the altar, you’ll notice offerings from both Cambodians and Thais, money, branded bottled water, and more, a sign that the initiative to share historical sites is truly working, drawing people from both sides of the border. I could even hear the voices of Cambodian villagers mingling just beyond the treeline while I was there.
If you're looking for the ultimate off-the-beaten-path destination to brag about for years to come, it can't get any better than Prasat Ta Krabey 😉. The site is open daily from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM and it is free to enter.
4. Learn about Surin at Surin National Museum
As you can see, Surin is incredibly rich in history, and if you want to dive deeper into it, there’s no better place than the Surin National Museum. This history museum offers a fascinating look into the province’s cultural and historical heritage that has shaped the Surin you see today.
The museum comprises a section dedicated to each era of discovery, all filled with displays and artifacts from that time. From the prehistoric skeleton remains to the variety of indigenous people living here, you will gain a much better understanding of what makes Surin stand out from the rest.
The museum is fairly large, relatively speaking, and you can expect to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour exploring its exhibitions. If you're interested in learning about Surin’s often-overlooked history, the Surin National Museum is a must-visit. It’s open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
5. Hike Around Phanom Sawai Forest Park
If you're looking for something more active to do in Surin, check out Phanom Sawai Forest Park, a temple complex nestled within a forest park. The area features a network of walking trails that guide you through serene mountain scenery and peaceful religious sites scattered along the way.
Inside the park, there are three peaks to explore. The first peak, known as “Phanom Phrao” or “Khao Chai”, rises 220 meters high. At the top, you’ll find a large Buddha image and a stunning viewpoint. You can drive to the foothill and then hike up for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
The second peak, “Phanom Sarai” or “Khao Ying”, which is 210 meters high, also offers several attractions you can explore, including two ancient ponds, a golden pagoda, and various walking trails that lead to more scenic viewpoints.
The third peak is 150 metres high and enshrines a replica of the Buddha's footprint that you can check out. Most of the hiking trails are pretty easy, short, and sweet, so you can tackle them at your own leisure.
It gets pretty hot during the day, so I recommend visiting in the morning or evening. The forest park is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and the entrance fee is 100 THB per person plus 10 THB for a motorcycle or 30 THB for a car.
6. Hang Out at Huay Saneng Reservoir
If you're looking for a scenic drive that's not too far from Surin’s city center, consider visiting Huay Saneng Reservoir in the early morning or late evening. It’s a perfect spot for a lovely drive with beautiful views, especially along the unused small plane runway at the bank of the reservoir.
The reservoir is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with over 180 bird species found here. The natural environment of Surin is well-preserved, and the diverse ecosystem that the birds thrive in is a true testament that their preservation efforts work.
I love parking my car along the reservoir ridge, soaking in the peaceful scenery in the early morning while watching the birds fly and chirp. It’s a small, serene spot perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of Surin city. The area is open 24/7, and there’s no entrance fee.
7. Try Out Street Food at Night Bazaar Surin
As quiet as Surin City may seem, you can always count on finding a bustling walking street or market, just like in any other city in Thailand. Night Bazaar Surin is one such place, a great spot to hang out and explore after sundown.
From 5 PM to 9:30 PM, Krungsri Nai Road is closed off and transformed into a vibrant pedestrian street. Street food carts, shops, and makeshift restaurants line both sides, ready for you to explore and enjoy.
The market operates every evening, every single day, so if you're looking for a spot to enjoy street food for dinner in Surin city center, this is the place to be.
8. Visit Wat Chang Mop
As you explore the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin, you might also want to drop by Wat Chang Mop, a lovely little forest temple with a name that can be translated to "Temple of the Kneeling Elephant", symbolizing Surin's deep connection with elephants.
In the past, the area was a dense forest and a red zone due to how close it is to the border, and you can often find elephants wandering around the area. The temple is associated with the conservation of elephants and the local culture of Surin people, hence the name.
The temple's architecture is a fusion of Thai and Khmer styles, something I always find fascinating and a big reason why I love exploring border areas. The influence between the two countries often creates a unique and interesting culture of its own, and this temple is a perfect example of that.
What’s cool about this temple is how it combines elements of Thai architectural style with influences from Angkor Wat. Its gilded golden towers, adorned with the decorative details often seen in Thai temples, reflect the region’s unique integration of Thai and Khmer influences. It’s a beautiful example of how the area has created its own distinctive identity. I absolutely love it!
If you are exploring the border area between Surin and Cambodia, be sure to drop by Wat Chang Mop. The temple is open from 7 AM to 6 PM, and it is free to enter.
9. Observe Fishermen at Huai Lam Phok Reservoir
If you're planning to drive to Si Saket or Ubon Ratchathani afterward, you might want to stop by and check out Huai Lam Phok Reservoir. It’s a calming and beautiful spot where you can often find local fishermen using traditional techniques, like stomping on the water and fishing from a stilt.
I drove by in the morning on my way to Si Saket and stopped at Huai Lam Phok Reservoir to rest and enjoy the calm, quiet scenery. It was also a great opportunity to observe the local fishermen going about their work. I always thought fishing on stilts was a thing of the past, but apparently, I was wrong!
If you're looking for a place to break up your trip on the way to Si Saket or Ubon Ratchathani, be sure to stop by and check out Huai Lam Phok Reservoir.
10. Walk Around Pha Manow
Another attraction you might want to check out while you're at the Surin-Cambodian border is Pha Manow. This beautiful natural rock cliff offers stunning views of the Isaan plain, along with a lovely cliffside walk that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll after a day of intense temple-hopping.
Thailand doesn't have many high cliffs, especially here in Isaan, so we Thais get pretty excited when we find a place like this. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning, as the cliff faces east, offering an epic viewpoint for the sunrise.
The place is open from 5 AM to 5 PM every day, with an entrance fee of 400 THB per person plus 30 THB per car, which is on the higher side. That’s why I’ve placed it last on the list. Personally, it would make sense if it were priced at 100 THB, maximum. It's not very big, but if you're looking for an epic sunrise spot, there’s no better place than here.
How to Get to Surin?
By Plane: AirAsia recently opened a new domestic route from Bangkok to Buriram, which is only about an hour's drive to Surin, so you should be able to get here quite easily without having to drive here yourself. For the best price, check out Skyscanner or Expedia.
By Train: You can also take a train from Bangkok's Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Surin Train Station. There are about 12 trains running between the 2 cities with a variety of classes you can choose from, ranging from a third-class seat to a second-class seat with AC or fan, with prices ranging from 226 THB to 471 THB respectively. The journey should take about 6 - 7 hours, depending on which train you choose. You can see the schedule and book online here.
By Bus: Another great way to get to Surin is by buses and vans. They often leave from Morchit Bus Station, operated by several companies. The price ranges from 370 to 500 THB and takes between 7 - 10 hours depending on the bus size and traffic. You can find the schedule and book online here.
By Car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can also drive from Bangkok to Surin. It’s a pretty straightforward journey, thanks to the newly built M6 Highway, which takes you directly to Korat. From there, it's about a 2 - 3 hour drive to Surin. The entire trip should take around 6 hours. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars.
How to Get Around Surin?
By Car: Honestly, the best way to get around Surin is by renting a car. Most of its attractions are quite spread out, and the Isaan heat is no joke.
While renting a motorbike is possible, it’s not the most comfortable option, plus, you'll often be riding on highways, which can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders. Since Surin is also not really a tourist town, you might find it hard to find a shop to rent one for you.
For the most convenient experience, I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself. You can rent one directly from Buriram Airport and drive to Surin, or pick one up at Bangkok’s airports and make the journey from there. You can book a rental through DiscoverCars.
What to Pack for Surin?
As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Surin, Thailand:
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
- Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
- Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi's jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
- Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It's lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker's towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
- Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Surin, Thailand in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.
- Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
- Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It's a total game-changer.
- Universal Adapter: You'll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
- Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It's large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it's stylish as hell!
- Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can't go wrong with Osprey.
For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.
Now that we have all the information we need, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are some resources to help you get going:
Are you planning to travel independently? Be sure to check out my guide on How To Plan A Backpacking Trip here.
Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand
Looking for more information about your trip to Northeastern Thailand? Here are a collection of articles about Northeastern Thailand that you might find useful:
- Tired of the well-trodden parts of Thailand and looking to really go off the beaten path? How about a road trip around Isaan? My itinerary covers all 20 provinces in the Isaan region, and more, so be sure to check it out: One Month Itinerary for Isaan.
- As the gateway to Isaan, you can't travel to the region without passing through Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat for short. To help guide you through the province, check out 10 Impressive Things to Do in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).
- Home to Phanom Rung, one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand, Buriram is an awesome place to visit as you explore Southern Isaan. If you plan to visit Buriram, check out Discover Buriram: 11 Awesome Things to Do and More.
- One of the best times to visit Phanom Rung is during the Phanom Rung Festival, where you'll find parades, light and sound shows, and more. Here's a complete guide to visiting the Phanom Rung Festival: Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide
- Curious about the coolest things to do in Si Saket? Check out: Discover Si Saket: 11 Amazing Things to Do and More
- One of the best places to visit in Isaan is Ubon Ratchathani. If you're looking for things to do there, check out: Ubon Ratchathani: 14 Amazing Things to Do and More
- If you're passing through Ubon Ratchathani and only have time to explore the city, be sure to check out: Ubon City Guide: 10 Best Things to Do and More
- Planning to cross the land border between Thailand and Cambodia to visit Siem Reap? You might want to stop by Sa Kaeo, a Thai border province full of awesome things to do. For the full guide, check out: Exploring Sa Kaeo: 8 Best Things to Do and More
- Interested in learning more about the unique music of Isaan? Check out this guide: The Sounds of Isaan: Thai Psychedelic Music Unknown to Many – A Guide to Mor Lam.
- Come explore the lesser-known mountainous region of Phetchabun with this travel guide: Discover Phetchabun: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More.
- Tired of the constant heat in Thailand? Escape to the cool mountains of Khao Kho with this guide: A Complete Travel Guide to Khao Kho.
- As a gateway to the mountains of Phetchabun, Lom Sak is the perfect place to stop by before you head into the mountains. For a complete travel guide, check out: A Complete Travel Guide to Lom Sak.
- Want to explore Loei and its mountainous scenery and vibrant culture? Check this out: Exploring Loei: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Looking to explore Chiang Khan and its wonderful tourist attractions? You are going to need this travel guide: Chiang Khan Travel Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Want to experience the colorful Phi Ta Khon Festival, where locals wear elaborate costumes and ghost masks? Check out this guide: Phi Ta Khon Festival: A Complete Travel Guide.
- Nong Khai is often overlooked by many travelers traveling between Thailand and Laos, but there's so much to do here. If you are interested to explore more of the frontier province of Nong Khai, check out: Explore Nong Khai: 12 Best Things to Do & More.
- Bueng Kan is emerging as Isaan’s new adventure hotspot, known for the famous Naka Cave, Phu Tok mountain, scenic waterfalls, and more. If you're planning a trip to Bueng Kan, don't miss this: Discover Bueng Kan: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- The walking street and riverside views along the Mekong in Nakhon Phanom are absolutely legendary, and a must-visit in Isaan. If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss my full guide here: Visit Nakhon Phanom: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Sleepy Sakon Nakhon is full of surprises—from the colonial French buildings of Tha Rae Village to hidden Khmer temples tucked away in the jungle. Check out this complete travel guide to Sakon Nakhon: Exploring Sakon Nakhon: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Udon Thani is a big city with tons of things to do. If you plan to visit Udon Thani, be sure to check out this travel guide: Discover Udon Thani: 10 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- If you’re driving through Nong Bua Lamphu and wondering if there are any places worth seeing, check out this travel guide: Visit Nong Bua Lamphu: 8 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Khon Kaen is a big province with plenty to do. If you want to visit but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you: Discover Khon Kaen: 12 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- Kalasin may be a small province in Isaan, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. If you’re passing through, be sure to check this out: Kalasin Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Mukdahan may not be as popular as other Mekong towns like Chiang Khan or Nakhon Phanom, but it offers a laid-back vibe and chill atmosphere unlike its larger counterparts. Don’t skip Mukdahan! Here’s a complete travel guide to help you explore this lovely province: Exploring Mukdahan: 10 Cool Things to Do & More.
- If you are passing through Amnat Charoen and are wondering what there is to do there, then check out this guide: Visit Amnat Charoen: 9 Best Things to Do & More.
- Yasothon is where the famous Bun Bung Fai Festival or rocket festival takes place, and it's home to some really charming Isaan attractions not many people know about. Here's a complete guide to Yasothon: Discover Yasothon: 10 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Roi Et is definitely one of my favorite provinces in Isaan, thanks to its beautiful and modern city center, iconic landmarks like the Roi Et Tower, and more. If you’re interested in visiting Roi Et, be sure to check out Explore Roi Et: 12 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you are wondering what to do in Maha Sarakham, this guide is for you: Visiting Maha Sarakham: 9 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you like mountains and are looking for a true hidden gem of Isaan, which is already a hidden gem in itself, you might want to check out Chaiyaphum, all as I called it the land of beautiful cliffs. Here's a complete guide to Chaiyaphum: Discover Chaiyaphum: 12 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Looking for a complete travel guide to Southeast Asia? You should check out our 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary for Southeast Asia.
- Looking for an itinerary for Thailand? Check out One Month Itinerary for Thailand.
- If you are traveling to Thailand, it is important for you to know what you should and shouldn't do. Here are 10 Tips for Traveling in Thailand.
- Thai Street Foods are among the best in the world, and to help guide you through the street food cuisine of Thailand, be sure to check out the 15 Best Street Foods in Thailand to Try.
- Learning a bit of Thai phrases will go a long way for you when you visit Thailand. Here are 15 Thai Phrases You Should Know.
- Photos are worth a thousand words, but what is worth more than photos? A video. Here are travel videos I made for Thailand: Timeless Thailand, a journey into the North of Thailand, Long Tail Thailand, exploring the beautiful south of Thailand, and taking it slow with Slowed Down Bangkok travel video.
- Wondering where to go after Thailand? How about continuing on to Malaysia, Myanmar, or Indonesia?
- Want to explore other parts of Thailand? How about exploring Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Central Thailand?
- Want to travel from Thailand to Vientiane, Laos? Check this guide out: How to Get From Thailand to Vientiane, Laos & Vice Versa.
- Looking to cross the border from Thailand to Pakse in Southern Laos? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Ubon Ratchathani to Pakse, Laos, and Vice Versa.
- Want to cross the border from Mukdahan to Savannakhet in Laos and vice versa? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Mukdahan to Savannakhet, Laos & Vice Versa.
- For all articles about Thailand, visit the Thailand Travel Guide page.
- Looking to travel to Southeast Asia? Check out all my articles about Southeast Asia here: Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
- You can see all my Asia-related articles here: Asia Travel Guide page.
- For more of my travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.
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