Nakhon Ratchasima
Khmer ruins and the The city of various famous statue of Khun Ying Mo named Nakhon Ratchasima or commonly known as Khorat is situated on a plateau, about 259 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. Administration of this province is divided into 26 Amphoes and 6 King Amphoes. The city itself serves as the gateway to the Northeastern Region.
Borders
North : Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen
South : Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok
East : Buriram
South : Chaiyaphum, Saraburi and Nakhon Nayok
How to get there
By Car
Route 1 : Take Highway No. 1 (Phahon Yothin) from Bangkok to Saraburi and then take Highway No. 2 (Mitraparp Highway) from Saraburi to Nakhon Ratchasima. The total distance is 259 kilometers.
Route 2 : Take Highway No. 304 from Bangkok and proceed past Min Buri, Chachoengsao, Phanom Sarakham, Kabin Buri, Pak Thong Chai, to Nakhon Ratchasima. The total distance is 273 kilometers.
Route 3 : Take the Bangkok-Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok route then take Highway No. 33 to Kabin Buri and Highway No. 304 past Wang Nam Khiao, Pak Thong Chai to Nakhon Ratchasima.
Food
Isan is known for its spicy and delicious food and Khorat lies at the heart of it all. While delicious street food may be found everywhere, an eclectic mix of offerings have popped up in more recent years.
In terms of street food, local favorites like pad mee Khorat (similar to pad Thai but more savory than sweet), tofu tod (deep fried tofu), and ran fang nom (little sandwiches with sweet fillings) may be found on every corner alongside traditional Thai favorites like khao mun gai (chicken and rice), khao ka moo (slow roasted pork with rice), and kwit tiew nahm (noodle soup). If you're a tried and true Thailand street foodie, you'll love Khorat. If not, we recommend giving it a shot -- vendors are happy to share their offerings with foreigners, even if it requires a great deal of pointing. Believe us, the extra effort is worth it; some of the best food in Khorat is consistently found on the street, typically for 10-50 baht
Festivals & Events
Thao Suranari Commamoration
The annual event is held from March 23 to April 2 to commemorate the victory of Thao Suranari, the heroine who saved Nakhon Ratchasima from in evaders in the Reign of King Rama III. Cultural displays, exhibitions and fireworks are the highlight.
Phimai Boat Races
These popular races take place on the Moon River near the old Khmer city of Phimai during the second week of November. Besides the regatta there will be competitions of boats decorated to resemble the famous Royal Barges, entertainments, and stalls selling local products.
Phimai Festival
This colorful event is held at the same time as the Phimai boat Races in Phimai historical Park. Among the important activities are; the light and sound presentation; Buddhist, historical and cultural exhibitions.