Discovering Korat: Gateway to Isan, Where Heritage Meets Modern Vibes
Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) is a city where ancient heritage meets contemporary lifestyle. Blending rich Isan culture with exciting travel destinations, it’s a must-visit spot for travelers seeking authenticity and energy in one place. Ready to explore? Here are the top 9 spots you shouldn’t miss!
1. Chumpon Gate
Chumphon Gate is one of the key landmarks of Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat). Located in the city center, it is the only remaining city gate out of the eight that once existed. The gate is renowned for its beauty and historical significance. Visiting Chumphon Gate not only allows you to admire its ancient architecture but also to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of old Korat. Built during the reign of King Narai the Great, the gate was part of the city wall constructed to protect against enemy invasions. It is also home to the Thao Suranari Monument — a symbol of courage and patriotism of Korat locals.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SjtwJ6KKAAgNKSwL9
Website: https://thai.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/%E0%B8...
Contact: -
2. Thao Suranari Monument (Ya Mo)
Korat is a city that deeply values its history and heroes, and this is beautifully encapsulated in Thao Suranari Monument. Erected in honor of Lady Mo, or Thao Suranari, the monument stands as a tribute to her bravery and leadership in defending the city against Laotian invaders in 1826.
Located in the bustling heart of Korat, the monument is a focal point for cultural activities and public gatherings. Locals and visitors pay their respects by laying flower garland at the monument, a tradition that relays the enduring legacy of Thao Suranari's heroism. The monument is more than just a tribute; it is a symbol of strength and resilience, embodying the spirit of Korat locals.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qW5nAo2wbjqb6gaU7
Website: https://www2.nakhonratchasima.go.th/travel/detail/8/data.html
Contact: -
3. Wat Sala Loi
Wat Sala Loi is an important historical temple located in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat). Founded by Thao Suranari (Lady Mo) and her husband, Chao Phraya Mahisorn, the temple is renowned for its distinctive floating ordination hall. The hall is uniquely designed in the shape of a Chinese-style junk boat, symbolizing a spiritual journey from earth to heaven. The combination of remarkable architectural style and intricate Thai artistry makes the temple both visually stunning and culturally meaningful. The interior is adorned with beautiful and symbolic mural paintings that enrich the temple’s spiritual atmosphere. With its historical roots, unique floating architecture, and artistic value, Wat Sala Loi is a must-visit cultural landmark for travelers exploring Korat and opting for a spiritual quest.
Activities: making merits, sightseeing nature, historical tour
Opening Hours: 08.00 am - 06.00 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BkWy64d3osmu3tsi7
Website: https://www2.nakhonratchasima.go.th/travel/detail/9/data.html
Contact: +66 83 461 2999
4. Wat Muen Wai
Wat Muen Wai is one of the most distinctive religious attractions in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), best known for its 300-year-old floating ordination hall—a rare example of late-Ayutthaya architecture. Built during the reign of King Narai, the hall was constructed in the middle of a pond as a representation of purity, peace, and separation from the outside world. The interior is decorated with the sacred Pang Pa Lelai Buddha image, while the rear chamber enshrines the highly revered Khreng Kaew Chulamani Relic, attracting both locals and tourists seeking spiritual journey. With its rich history, serene atmosphere, and exceptional architectural charm, the temple stands out as Korat’s top cultural and religious destination, ideal for travelers who are enthusiastic in historical tourism and spiritual quest.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 08.00 am - 06.00 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1LDy2SwbdGL6kCmZ7
Website: https://www.facebook.com/WATMUENWAI
Contact: +66 89 945 5729
5. Phimai Historical Park
Phimai Historical Park or Prasat Hin Phimai, is the largest stone Khmer-styled sanctuary complex in Thailand. Located in Nakhon Ratchasima, this ancient site is rich in history, intricate architecture, and cultural significance—making it a must-visit destination for culturally, historically and archaeologically curious travelers. Once a flourishing ancient city along the Mun River, Phimai sanctuary offers visitors the chance to explore its impressive stone structures, capture stunning photos, and learn the deep historical roots of the ancient Khmer kingdom. In recent days, Prasat Hin Pimai remains one of Korat’s most iconic landmarks and an essential stop for anyone touring Northeastern Thailand.
Activities: photography, historical tour, cultural tourism
Opening Hours: 07.0 am - 05.30 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bBkLTECW92hxajQj6
Website: https://www.facebook.com/PhimaiHistoricalParkFAD?rdid=9UZoycdZeuhXcJPc&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BhuK6LAnZ%2F#
Contact: +66 44 471 568
6. Wat Ban Rai (Wat Luang Po Khun)
Wat Ban Rai (Wat Luang Pho Khun) is one of the most famous temples in Nakhon Ratchasima. It was the residence of the revered Isaan monk Luang Pho Khun Parisutho, making it a major spiritual landmark that attracts visitors and devotees across Thailand. The temple features a massive elephant-shaped pavilion, Thep Witthayakhom Parisutthapanya Hall, set in the middle of a 30-acre artificial lake. Known for its colorful Buddhist art and unique architecture, it has become a must-visit spot for cultural tourism in Korat, photography lovers, and tourists who enjoy delving in a spiritual journey.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 08.00 am - 05.00 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cGTtS71CxbeiCKBV9
Website: https://www2.nakhonratchasima.go.th/travel/detail/4/data.html
Contact: +66 82 834 9109
7. Wat Luang Pho To (Wat Soraphong)
Wat Luang Pho To, also known as Wat Non Kum, is a famous temple in Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima. Built by renowned Thai actor Sorapong Chatree, the temple is widely nicknamed “Wat Sorapong.” Its main highlight is the majestic golden statue of Luang Pho To (Somdej Phra Phutthachan Toh Phrommarangsi) enshrined inside the sanctuary. It is the largest Luang Pho To statue in Thailand, measuring 8.01 meters wide, 13 meters tall, and weighing 61 tons. Today, Wat Luang Pho To is a significant spiritual landmark where Buddhists and merit-seekers come to pay respect, make merit, and pray for blessings—making it a must-visit destination for Korat’s religious tourism.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 07.00 am - 05.00 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FyNr2TreSZAJfGNe9
Website: https://www.facebook.com/people/%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B9...
Contact: +66 64 663 7710
8. Prasathin Phanom Wan
Prasathin Phanom Wan or Phanom Wan Stone Sanctuary is the fifth-largest Khmer-styled sanctuary in Thailand, located just 12 km from downtown Korat. Built from brick during the 15th Buddhist century, this ancient site once served as a Hindu religious sanctuary (Devasthan).
With its well-preserved architecture—especially the beautifully crafted central prang—Phanom Wan Sanctuary is an unmissable destination for historical and archaeological enthusiasts. It’s one of Korat’s top cultural check-in spots and a perfect stop for anyone exploring the region’s historical heritage.
Activities: cultural tourism and historical tour
Opening Hours: 07.00 am - 05.30 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ttcoGLkNoMK1RYqE7
Website: https://www.finearts.go.th/promotion/view/28685-%E...
Contact: +66 44 471568 (Mon-Fri from 08.00 am - 04.00 pm)
9. Korat City Museum
Korat City Museum is a non-negotiable cultural attraction in Nakhon Ratchasima, showcasing the city’s history, art, and local traditions. Established in 1980, the museum features engaging exhibitions which illustrate Korat’s rich culture and history from past to present. Guided tours are available for cultural enthusiasts who prefer deeper insights. A must-visit spot to culturally and historically discover the soul of Korat.
Activities: making merits, historical tour
Opening Hours: 08.00 am - 06.00 pm daily
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1LDy2SwbdGL6kCmZ7
Website: https://www.facebook.com/WATMUENWAI
Contact: +66 89 945 5729