Things To Do
in Phon
Phon is a tranquil Isan town in northeast Thailand, set among rice paddies and gentle hills. Life centers on markets, temples, and warm local hospitality. It's a good base for exploring rural Khon Kaen Province, traditional crafts, and authentic Isan cuisine.
A stroll through Phon's streets offers a calm, authentic glimpse of rural Thai life away from more touristy destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the famous Wat Phra That Cho Hae, a revered temple known for its exquisite architecture. Spend some time absorbing the peaceful atmosphere, taking photographs, and learning about the local Buddhist culture. Don’t forget to enjoy some snacks from nearby vendors as you soak in the views.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for a scenic drive and a hike up to the temple's remarkable golden chedi. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking and perfect for an afternoon of exploration. Take some time to meditate and reflect in this spiritual haven.
As the sun sets, return to Phon and wander through the vibrant night market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and enjoy authentic Thai street food. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps catch a traditional dance performance. Conclude your evening by relaxing at a riverside café, sipping on herbal tea and enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Embark on an early morning trip to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air. Hike along scenic trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, perfect for nature photography. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife as you explore the lush surroundings.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, and then continue your adventure with visits to the park's waterfalls for a refreshing swim. Spend time appreciating the unique rock formations and diverse plant life, which are found in this protected area. Engage in some birdwatching as you relax in this serene environment.
Head back to Phon and experience a traditional Thai dinner at a local restaurant, tasting regional specialties. Immerse yourself in the culture by participating in a cooking class, learning about the use of fresh, local ingredients. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚕Short taxi or tuk-tuk ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night stay in budget hotel | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🌯Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Rich Isan culture with traditional food and markets
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Distances between sights can be long without a car
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (polite masculine/feminine)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
- "ช่วยด้วยได้ไหมครับ/คะ" - Could you help me?
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ขอเป็นน้ำเปล่าหน่อย" - Could I have a bottle of water, please?
Places to Visit in Phon
Visit one of these nice places.
A simple Isan temple with quiet courtyards and pastel morning light—great for architectural details and people-watching.
Low-horizon water views with reed beds and local fishermen; ideal for golden-hour reflections.
Patchwork fields, wooden farmhouses, and distant hills—classic Isan countryside photography.
Food in Phon
Phon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded unripe papaya mixed with chilies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts — piping hot in Isan markets.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced meat with lime juice, herbs, toasted rice powder; often served with sticky rice.
Marinated, charcoal-grilled chicken served with a dipping sauce and sticky rice.
A staple that accompanies almost every meal; ideal for scooping up sauces and dips.
Herbaceous and zesty minced pork salad with lime, chili, and coriander.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with fresh produce, grilled meats, papaya salad stalls, and sweet treats.
Evening stalls offering fried snacks, noodles, and Isan-style sausage.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow with pressed palms; use 'Khob khun ka/krub' to thank others and 'Sawasdee ka/krub' to say hello.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and avoid touching statues. Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
Show respect in conversations and dress modestly when visiting temples or villages.
Safety
Tipping in Phon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most local places, but small tips (5-10%) are appreciated in tourist-oriented establishments or for exceptional service.
Cash (Thai Baht) is widely preferred in markets and small eateries. Cards are accepted in larger venues; mobile payments are increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; expect temperatures often in the high 30s C. Hydration and sun protection are essential; mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; lush green landscapes; plan for sudden rain and muddy trails.
Pleasant temps around 20–28 C; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography; occasional cool evenings.
Phon at Night
Hiking in Phon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with hilltop viewpoints; moderate hike suitable for a half-day trip.
Bird-rich wetlands with boardwalks and easy walking paths; best in dry season.
Airports
How to reach Phon by plane.
Major gateway to the region, about 45–60 minutes by road from Phon; domestic and limited international flights.
Smaller regional airport; feasible for domestic flights and quick access to neighboring areas; longer drive to Phon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region, with a rich culture and language distinct from central Thailand.
Rural residents engaged in rice, cassava, sugarcane, and rubber cultivation; strong sense of community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai kickboxing; local gyms may offer training and watching matches.
Common local recreational games and Community leagues; afternoons are popular in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Isan, dishes often rely on fish sauce and shrimp paste. Choose veggie curries, stir-fries with tofu, or som tam with no fish sauce. Request no shrimp paste or fish sauce and check for broth ingredients.