Things To Do
in Nam Som

Nam Som is a charming district located in the northeastern part of Thailand, known for its lush landscapes and friendly locals. It serves as a gateway to explore various natural attractions and cultural sites in the region. The area is less touristy compared to other parts of Thailand, offering an authentic experience of Thai rural life.

Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and engage in outdoor activities while savoring the local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nam Som Waterfall, where you can hike and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Head to a local market to experience authentic Thai culture and try some street food, such as pad thai.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Thai dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll through the village to meet locals.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Go for a cycling tour around Nam Som, exploring rice paddies and local farms.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Wat Nam Som temple to appreciate its architecture and serene environment.

evening
:

Relax at a riverside café and enjoy a sunset while sipping on fresh coconut water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pad Thai$2
Coconut Water$1
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$5
🚲Bike Rental$3/day
🛍️Local Craft Souvenirs$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Thai cultural experience
  • Less touristy and quieter than other destinations
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Transportation can be challenging without a vehicle
  • Language barrier may be an issue in some areas
  • "สวัสดี" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "อาหารอร่อย" - Delicious food
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "ราคานี้เท่าไร" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Nam Som

Visit one of these nice places.

Nam Som Waterfall

A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Wat Nam Som

The stunning architecture of this temple offers great photo opportunities.

Rice Paddies

The vibrant green rice fields provide a beautiful backdrop for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nam Som

Nam Som offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of local dishes that reflect the flavors of Northeastern Thailand.

Nam Som Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad that is a staple in Thai cuisine.

Must-Try!

Larb

A flavorful minced meat salad, often made with pork or chicken and seasoned with lime and mint.

Sticky Rice

A traditional side dish that pairs well with many meals, especially in Isaan cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nam Som Night Market

A bustling market where you can find various street foods, snacks, and local crafts.

Local Food Stalls

Scattered around the village, these stalls offer delicious and affordable meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nam Som experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: the rainy season (May to October), which brings heavy rainfall; the cool season (November to February), characterized by pleasant temperatures; and the hot season (March to April), where temperatures can soar. Overall, the best time to visit is during the cool season when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Dress modestly when near temples and do not touch monks.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering homes and some public places.

Greetings

A slight bow with palms together (wai) is a common greeting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nam Som is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when exploring remote areas alone. Health services are available, but it's advisable to have travel insurance for emergencies.

Tipping in Nam Som

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (May to October)

Expect heavy rains; it's lush but can limit outdoor activities.

Cool Season (November to February)

Ideal for visiting, with cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

Hot Season (March to April)

Hot and humid; be prepared for high temperatures and seek shade.

Festival Season

Join local festivals during the cool season for cultural experiences and celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Nam Som at Night

Nam Som's nightlife is quiet compared to big cities, with a few local bars and restaurants open late. You can enjoy traditional Thai music and dance performances, mainly during festivals. Some riverside cafes offer live music on weekends, creating a relaxed atmosphere for evening relaxation.

Hiking in Nam Som

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phu Pha Dong National Park

Offers various trails with stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Nam Som Mountain Trail

A scenic hike that leads to panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Nam Som by plane.

Udon Thani International Airport

Located about 60 km from Nam Som, it serves both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nam Som is generally walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The village streets are often quiet, making it pleasant to stroll around. However, for longer distances or to reach rural areas, renting a bicycle or motorbike is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Isaan People

The primary ethnic group in the region, known for their unique culture and dialect.

Thai Farmers

Many locals are engaged in agriculture, particularly rice farming, which is a significant part of the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional form of martial arts that is popular among locals.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nam Som is generally light, with few vehicles on the roads. Public transportation options are limited, but local songthaews (shared taxis) are available for travel to nearby towns. Most travelers prefer to rent bicycles or motorbikes for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nam Som.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the vendor.

Gluten-Free

Rice is a staple, but be cautious with sauces and marinades.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Nam Som are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious health issues, it is advised to travel to larger towns or cities nearby. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide