To be honest, I don't really remember why I put Nakhon Phanom on my list many years ago when I was planning what was then my most extensive trip through Thailand's Isaan region. On paper, the sparsely populated province doesn't particularly stand out.

Well, at least not back then. Obviously, that's also why I'm picking up a pen (virtually) and writing (digitally) today, because I want to change that.

If my list of sights in Nakhon Phanom hasn't piqued your interest yet, I hope my pictures will convince you. Are you ready to let me take you to where the Isaan region ends?

When I say "Nakhon Phanom", I mean "This phenomenon".

Before I get to the actual content of my travelogue for Nakhon Phanom, I should probably clear up a few misunderstandings. Although there is much to see in the rural areas of Jangwat Nakhon Phanom, my focus here (and, frankly, that of most foreign travelers) is on the town of That Phanom. Its name, as I should explain, is pronounced more like the adjective "tot" (as in "tator tot") than like the demonstrative pronoun "that." But I digress.

This might sound disappointing at first, but it's actually an advantage: This small (but charming) city on the Mekong is a much more relaxed and peaceful destination than the surrounding province. After sightseeing, you'll have plenty of time to unwind! Some travelers take their purchases from the night market back to their hotel rooms and enjoy them, while others might try their luck at a British online casino.

My favorite activities in Nakhon Phanom

Perform a prayer at Wat Phrathat Phanom

Compared to other Thai religious buildings, Wat Phrathat Phanom is quite small. Nevertheless, it is by far the tallest and most imposing building in That Phanom; it can be seen from almost anywhere. Its significance becomes immediately apparent upon entering the grounds, where hundreds, even thousands, of worshippers are praying.

Indulge in the culinary delights of Nakhon Phanom's night market

It's no surprise that many visitors to Nakhon Phanom think primarily of the food. I'm referring specifically to the night market. Here you can try both Thai specialties and those from the Isaan region. My favorite is Sai Krok Isaan, a type of fermented sausage, but I recommend you feel free to try something new.

Walk down to the Mekong River.

Whether you gaze across the water and say "Sabaidee" to Laos, or simply relax in peace, the banks of the Mekong are a tranquil place to reflect on your time in Nakhon Phanom. You'll likely encounter some friendly locals there, who might even strike up a conversation if you speak or understand Thai!

The journey continues to Sakhon Nakhon or Udon Thani.

After completing my trip through Nakhon Phanom, I traveled back to Udon Thani counter-clockwise. Although I could have driven the entire route (the journey takes only 3-4 hours – no longer by American standards), I made a stop in Sakhon Nakhon, a rural province even less well-known than Nakhon Phanom.

Or make a stopover in Mukdahan along the way.

On my way to That Phanom, I made a worthwhile detour to Mukdahan. Located north of Ubon Ratchathani, this is a part of Thailand that's easy to miss but impossible to forget. The unique Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom (with its towering white Buddha and large Naga statue) is one of the most impressive places I've ever visited in Thailand!

How to get to Nakhon Phanom (and get around there)

Surprisingly, Nakhon Phanom has an airport and is served several times daily by Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air to Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. This is good news if you are starting or ending your trip in the province. However, the reality for most travelers is different. Instead, you will likely make stopovers on your way from one place in Isaan to another (probably between Mukdahan and Sakhon Nakhon or Udon Thani).

That's a good thing. While you can certainly explore my list of sights in Nakhon Phanom (at least in the city of Nakhon Phanom) on foot, a rental car is recommended for excursions into the wider Isaan region. You'll find the best rental car options at a major airport. I myself visited Nakhon Phanom on a counter-clockwise tour that took me from Udon Thani via Roi Et, Ubon Ratchathani, and Mukdahan (and back).

Other frequently asked questions about visiting Nakhon Phanom

What is Nakhon Phanom famous for?

To the extent that Nakhon Phanom is known at all, it is primarily for the magnificent Wat Phrathat Phanom stupa. But that is precisely what makes this place so special: it is not famous. In fact, it is very unlikely that you will encounter other foreign tourists there.

How do I get to Nakhon Phanom?

Although you can fly directly from Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok to Nakhon Phanom, traveling through the Isaan region by car is a better option. In particular, I think Nakhon Phanom fits well between the neighboring provinces of Mukdahan and Sakhon Nakhon, ideally in that order.

In which country is Nakhon Phanom located?

Nakhon Phanom is in Thailand, even though it might be easy to think so. It lies directly opposite Laos, across the Mekong River, and Laos is clearly visible from the water. As in most parts of the Isaan region, the locals understand (and some even speak) Lao.

Conclusion

The bad news? A list of things to see in Nakhon Phanom alone might not be enough to convince you to visit. Of course, I've done my best to counteract this tendency; I want to believe my pictures give a realistic impression of the city. However, the fact is that a place so far off the beaten track—and let's be honest, Nakhon Phanom really is extremely remote—isn't for everyone. It does, however, reward those who make the effort to travel there. Want to ensure your next trip to Thailand is a complete success, whether you visit Nakhon Phanom or not? Then let me plan your personalized Thailand itinerary!