Thailand

Nakhon Ratchasima is the capital of the province of the same name. Also known as Khorat, it is the largest province in Thailand. Located in the northeastern region, it connects the Isan region with central Thailand. Its lush landscapes, expansive plateaus, and mountain ranges reflect the authenticity of its charm.

Located in the heart of Isan, Nakhon Ratchasima captivates tourists with its warm hospitality, stunning scenery, and fascinating traditions.

History

Initially influenced by the Dvaravati culture, Nakhon Ratchasima came under Khmer influence in the early 14th century. At that time, it was known as Nokor Reach Seyma or Koreach; today, it is generally known as Khorat.

While Khorat is now the industrial and economic center of Isan, it has been the administrative center of Thai kingdoms since the 16th century.

During the 17th century, Ayutthaya was the capital of the kingdom. Therefore, King Narai of Thailand chose the city of Nakhon Ratchasima as an effective defense against potential invasions from Laos.

In the 19th century, the city was captured by the Laotian King Anouvong and liberated by the famous Thao Suranaree, or Jhun Ying Mo (Lady Mo). Since then, the liberated people have revered the heroine's statue and celebrated her annually at the beginning of April.

Today

Nakhon Ratchasima is often associated with the Thao Suranaree Festival. It is a major annual celebration where locals commemorate Thao Suranaree's victory over the invading king and pay homage to the heroine.

The city is also known for its silk weaving and high-quality craftsmanship.

Once less visited, Khorat is now increasingly popular among tourists. It offers comfortable hotels, good restaurants, stylish cafes, and a variety of shopping centers.

This agricultural city currently hosts 100 savings and agricultural cooperatives. In addition to fruit tree cultivation, its inhabitants primarily engage in rice farming and the cultivation of sugarcane, cassava, maize, sesame, and peanuts.

Exploring Nakhon Ratchasima

The city offers plenty of tourist attractions to delight visitors.

If you are in Nakhon Ratchasima, do not miss the famous statue of Thao Suranaree, the city's heroine.

Chumpon Gate also bears witness to Khorat's history. Take a tour to discover the remains of the ancient city wall that once protected it from Laotian invasions.

The city is also home to several temples worth visiting. The largest is Wat Sorapong, and the most famous is Wat Phra Narai Maharat, built in wood with a sandstone representation of the deity Vishnu. Others include Wat Sala Loi and Wat Payap. Near Khorat, Wat Ban Rai and Phanom Rung are also interesting sites.

The Phimai Historical Park, located a few kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima, features the ruins of several Khmer temples.

Climate

Nakhon Ratchasima experiences a tropical savanna climate. Rainfall is regular during the summer, while the winters are dry and pleasant. The average temperature throughout the year is 28.2 °C, with an average annual rainfall of 1,717.9 mm.

The best time to visit the city is from November to March. During these five months, you can enjoy mild sunshine with minimal rainfall.

Getting to Nakhon Ratchasima

To reach Nakhon Ratchasima from Bangkok, you have several options:

• By plane: Both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in Bangkok provide flights to Khorat.
• By train: Approximately ten trains depart daily from Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima.
• By bus: Direct buses are available from Mo Chit terminal.
• By minivan: This mode of transport takes about 4 hours to reach Khorat.

Getting around Nakhon Ratchasima

The city has two bus terminals. The older one connects to most cities within the province, while the second connects to the northern and northeastern regions of the country.

Within the city, you can walk, rent a scooter, bicycle, or car. For public transportation, buses, songthaews (pickup trucks with benches), tuk-tuks, and samlors (bicycle rickshaws) are readily available.