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Relatively few tourists experience the delights
of Isan, and long distances between centres have delayed the
development of the coach touring itineraries so popular in
the North. However, improved domestic air connections now
make things much easier.
Of particular interest is the archaeological
site of Baan Chiang, roughly 50 km. from town of Udon,
where pottery and other artifacts indicate a mysterious civilization
that thrived here some 7000-8000 years ago.
It has been designated a Unesco heritage
site, and is considered to be the most important prehistoric
settlement so far discovered in Southeast Asia. There are
fascinating Khmer ruins at Prasat Phanomwan, Pimai,
and Prasat Phanom Rung, easy driving distance from
the large town of Korat.
Following the Mekong, which forms the border,
it is very pleasant to explore riverside towns of Nong
Khai, Nakhon Phanom, and Mukdahan, all with
a pleasant Lao flavour.
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