Things To Do
in Sakon Nakhon

Sakon Nakhon is a vibrant province in northeastern Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and lush natural landscapes. The area is home to diverse ethnic groups, traditional festivals, and stunning temples, making it a unique travel destination. Visitors can explore the serene lakes and mountains, and indulge in the local cuisine that reflects the region's flavors.

With its warm hospitality and captivating scenery, Sakon Nakhon offers an authentic Thai experience away from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit Wat Phra That Choeng Chum, a stunning temple known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the Sakon Nakhon Cultural Center to learn about the history and traditions of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a stroll around Nong Han Lake to see the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike at Phu Phan National Park, where you can enjoy scenic views and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample street food delicacies.

evening
:

Attend a traditional dance performance at a local venue or enjoy a quiet evening at a lakeside café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$2-5
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20
🥥Coconut Water$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordability compared to more tourist-heavy destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Thai speakers.
  • Fewer amenities and services than larger cities.
  • "สวัสดี" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
  • "ช่วยด้วย" - Help!
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ไหน" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Sakon Nakhon

Visit one of these nice places.

Nong Han Lake

A picturesque lake offering stunning sunset views and vibrant local life.

Wat Phra That Choeng Chum

A beautiful temple with intricate details and serene surroundings, perfect for photography.

Phu Phan National Park

A natural paradise with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sakon Nakhon

Sakon Nakhon offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the flavors of northeastern Thailand, often featuring rice, fresh herbs, and spicy ingredients.

Sakon Nakhon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Som Tum

A spicy papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a spicy dressing.

Must-Try!

Khao Niew Mamuang

Sticky rice served with ripe mango and drizzled with coconut cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sakon Nakhon Night Market

A bustling market where visitors can find an array of street food, local snacks, and fresh produce.

Phu Phan Market

A local market offering a variety of traditional Thai dishes and fresh ingredients.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sakon Nakhon experiences a tropical savanna climate with three main seasons: a cool dry season from November to February, a hot dry season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) during the hot season, while the cool season sees pleasant temperatures around 20-30°C (68-86°F). Rainfall is abundant during the rainy season, often leading to lush greenery across the province.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Dress modestly when visiting temples, and avoid touching monks, especially women.

The Wai Greeting

A traditional Thai greeting involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sakon Nakhon is generally safe for travelers; however, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places, and avoid wandering alone at night in unfamiliar areas. It's also recommended to drink bottled water and be cautious when trying new street foods.

Tipping in Sakon Nakhon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; ensure to carry enough as not all places accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.

Hot Season (March to May)

Very hot temperatures; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Frequent rain showers; beautiful lush landscapes but be prepared for muddy trails.

Festival Season

Various local festivals occur throughout the year, offering unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Sakon Nakhon at Night

Sakon Nakhon's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a focus on local bars, night markets, and cultural performances. Visitors can enjoy live music in casual settings or relax in cafés and restaurants that stay open late. Night markets are also popular, offering delicious street food and local crafts.

Hiking in Sakon Nakhon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phu Phan Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and diverse wildlife.

Khao Kaeo Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that leads to the summit of Khao Kaeo, providing panoramic views of the area.

Airports

How to reach Sakon Nakhon by plane.

Sakon Nakhon Airport (SNO)

The nearest airport, located about 5 km from the city center, offers domestic flights to and from Bangkok and other destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sakon Nakhon is generally walkable, especially around the city center and popular tourist attractions. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. Walking is a pleasant way to explore local markets and parks, although public transportation may be needed for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai-Lao Ethnic Group

A significant population in the region, sharing cultural traditions with Laos.

Indigenous Communities

Various indigenous groups contribute to the rich cultural diversity and heritage of Sakon Nakhon.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art popular in the region, with local training camps and events.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sakon Nakhon is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are convenient for short distances. During peak hours, traffic can get congested, but it is manageable compared to larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sakon Nakhon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many dishes can be made vegetarian; be sure to ask for no fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Rice dishes are commonly gluten-free, but check with vendors regarding sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sakon Nakhon is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing medical services. The main hospital, Sakon Nakhon Hospital, offers a range of services, including emergency care. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide