Things To Do
in Nam Som
Nam Som is a small northeast Thai town set in a lush valley of limestone hills and paddies. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with friendly locals and a market-driven culture rooted in Isan traditions. The surrounding scenery offers river walks, temple visits, and easy access to nature without long travel times.
Visitors typically use Nam Som as a base for day trips to nearby hills, villages, and viewpoints, enjoying authentic rural Thai life along the way.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Nam Som and check into your hotel to freshen up. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll to explore the nearby markets and enjoy the local flavors. Sample some delicious street food as you get a first taste of Thai culture.
Visit the beautiful local temples like Wat Phu Khiao, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and stunning architecture. Capture some photos and perhaps interact with local monks to learn about their way of life. Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring authentic dishes.
As night falls, take a walk along the scenic riverbank, experiencing the peaceful ambiance as the day winds down. Consider joining a local cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Thai dishes. End your evening with a relaxing massage at a local spa.
Start your day early with a hike in the nearby national park, immersing yourself in the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast as you take in sweeping views from lookout points. Keep an eye out for unique plants and animals as you trek through the trails.
After your hike, visit a nearby waterfall where you can cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim. Have lunch at a local eatery along the way, indulging in some of the freshest ingredients. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the waterfall or picnicking in the shade.
Return to Nam Som and enjoy a dinner at a restaurant known for its regional specialties. Engage with locals and learn more about their traditions and lifestyle over dinner. Consider taking a nighttime boat ride on the river to see the stars and experience the tranquility of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🚲Bike rental (half-day) | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Isan culture
- Beautiful limestone scenery and rivers nearby
- Affordable cost of living and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some facilities may be basic or far from larger cities
- Weather can be hot in summer and humid during the wet season
- "Sawasdee ka" - Hello (female)
- "Sawasdee krab" - Hello (male)
- "Khop khun ka" - Thank you
- "Khor thot" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hong nam yoo thi nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nee tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Aroi mak" - Delicious
- "Mai kao jai" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Nam Som
Visit one of these nice places.
A calm vantage point along the riverbank ideal for dawn and sunset shots with reflections and boats.
Stunning limestone outcrops, forested slopes, and sweeping valley views perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
Temple rooftops and gold stupa silhouettes framed by rolling hills and distant ridgelines.
Wooden pier and boats framing silhouettes against a warm sky as the river flows by.
Food in Nam Som
Nam Som Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded green papaya tossed with chilies, lime, fish sauce, and palm sugar; often includes long beans, peanuts, and dried shrimp.
Must-Try!
Herbaceous minced meat salad with lime juice, mint, chili, and toasted rice powder; commonly eaten with sticky rice.
Marinated grilled chicken served with sticky rice and a spicy garlic-chili dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fresh produce, herbs, noodles, grilled meats, and ready-to-eat Isan dishes.
Evening stalls along the riverfront serving grilled fish, larb, som tam, jasmine tea, and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a wai (hands pressed together) with a gentle bow; address people with Khun before their name and avoid overly familiar touch.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and remain quiet in sacred spaces; never climb on religious statues.
Show respect for elders, avoid public displays of affection in rural areas, and accept the local pace of life.
Safety
Tipping in Nam Som
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up taxi or restaurant bills is common. For guides or drivers, small tips in cash are appreciated but not expected.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with the possibility of isolated thunderstorms; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent heavy showers, lush greenery, and slick trails; some roads may be muddy or flooded after rains; keep rain gear handy.
Pleasant daytime temps and cool evenings; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography; dress in layers.
Nam Som at Night
Hiking in Nam Som
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep, scenic hikes with cool temperatures at higher elevations and panoramic valley views.
Short to moderate hikes among karst formations with interesting rock features and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Nam Som by plane.
Major regional gateway offering domestic and limited international flights; about a few hours by road from Nam Som.
Small domestic airport serving the Loei region; convenient for regional travel and short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main demographic group in rural northeast Thailand; strong agricultural and cultural traditions.
Some residents share linguistic and cultural ties with neighboring Laos, especially near border areas.
Visitors from other parts of Thailand and bike touring groups passing through the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing is widely practiced and occasionally observed in local gyms and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nam Som.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in most eateries; request tofu or mushroom dishes and confirm no fish sauce or shrimp paste in sauces.