Discover Si Saket: 11 Amazing Things to Do and More

11 Best Things to Do in Si Saket

Out of all the Khmer temples you will see in Si Saket, Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai is one of the largest, well-preserved, and most revered archaeological complexes in the province. The temple was built in the 11th Century as a Hindu Temple, but was later converted into a Buddhist temple during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, who also built Angkor Wat.

What’s cool about this temple is that after the ruins were rediscovered, a modern temple was built around them. The site remains an active place of worship to this day, while the ancient Khmer structures have been preserved and protected within these modern temple walls.

It’s rare to see ancient Khmer temples still integrated into daily religious life like this. Most Khmer ruins are either swallowed by the jungle or turned into historical parks for tourists.

This one is a little different, as the surrounding area is still used as an active temple ground, which means you don’t have to pay to access the temple. There are also many other stunning structures—albeit modern ones—that create a beautiful contrast between the old and the new, something I haven’t seen anywhere else, but here.

You can spend some time exploring the old Khmer ruins, but before you leave, be sure to check out some of the newer structures as well. I especially love the stunning seated Buddha images, perfectly aligned in layers—it’s quite a sight to behold.

The temple is technically open from 8 AM to 5 PM, but since it functions as an active place of worship rather than a historical site, the hours can sometimes start earlier or extend later depending on temple events. Entry is free, so if you’re a history buff, be sure to stop by and check out Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai.

Where to Stay in Si Saket?

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Boonsiri Boutique Hotel

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Siri Ville Hotel

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Gallery Design – SHA Extra Plus

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2. Admire the Beauty of Wat Pa Sri Mongkhon Rattanaram 💎 Hidden Gem

One of the most unique attractions in Si Saket—and one that definitely caught me by surprise—is Wat Pa Sri Mongkhon Rattanaram. At first glance, it seems like a random temple in the middle of nowhere, but it’s actually one of the most beautiful in the province. The temple features stunning cave-like prayer halls filled with intricate sculptures covering every surface, from floor to ceiling.

When I first pulled up to the temple, I was expecting a small cave shrine with a few Buddha images here and there, and maybe just a handful of people. But I was completely caught off guard by the sheer scale of the temple grounds—and the number of devoted worshippers it attracts!

The main hall of the temple, called the Naga Cave, embodies the legend of the serpent (Naga) that protected the Buddha during meditation. Inside the cave, you will find a prominent white Buddha statue in the meditation posture at the center, sheltered by a seven-headed Naga.

The cave’s interior is absolutely incredible. It is adorned with simulated stalactites and stalagmites, together with colorful lighting, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an underwater realm. The dedication to creating such a mythical atmosphere is truly awe-inspiring.

If you’re exploring the western part of the province or driving from Surin to Si Saket, be sure to stop by Wat Pa Sri Mongkhon Rattanaram. The temple is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and entry is free.

3. Be Amazed by Wat Lan Khuad 💎 Hidden Gem

Another unique temple you are going to want to see in Si Saket is Wat Lan Khuad, or the Million Bottles Temple, which as the name suggests, is built using all kinds of leftover bottles. They really took recycling to the next level here.

When I first heard about this, I assumed only the main ordination hall was built using bottles—but I was completely wrong. Most of the main structures here are made from bottles, including the pagoda, the prayer area, and even the crematorium!

Inside these structures, you’ll find that the walls, pillars, altars—even the entrances—are all built using glass bottles. From what I observed, they used green beer bottles and brown Red Bull bottles to create contrast: green for the roof and decorative elements, and brown for the walls and pillars.

I think it’s an absolutely genius idea! With so many of these bottles lying around in villages, creating unwanted waste—why not turn them into a temple, right? If you’re looking to see something truly unique and cool, be sure to check out Wat Lan Khuad. The temple is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, and entry is free.

4. Drop By Prasat Ban Prasat Sanctuary

If you love a well-preserved ancient structure, you might want to drop by and check Prasat Ban Prasat Sanctuary, a Khmer temple complex built between the 10th and 11th centuries located in the Baan Prasat district bordering Surin province.

Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, the sanctuary comprises three brick towers aligned along a north-south axis, all facing east. These towers are set on a laterite base and were once enclosed by a perimeter wall with a single entrance. Over time, the temple underwent modifications and was eventually converted into the Buddhist temple you see today.

It’s a small temple, but I think it’s incredibly well-preserved—especially the three spires of the prangs, which remain almost fully intact. At many other ancient temples, the spires are often damaged or missing altogether. But not at this one.

If you love Khmer ruins and temples as much as I do, make sure to visit Prasat Ban Prasat Sanctuary. It’s open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, and there’s no entrance fee.

5. Explore Pha Mor E Daeng (Prasat Preah Vihear)

Obviously, there is a long history between Cambodia and Thailand due to their proximity and the mutual influence each country has had on the other over time. That said, there have also been conflicts that led to bloody skirmishes and shootouts, with one of the most recent clashes taking place right here at Pha Mor E Daeng.

So why am I suggesting you visit? Well, hear me out. For one, the conflict took place in 2011, which is now more than a decade ago. The outcome of that conflict was that Thailand lost access to Prasat Preah Vihear, the Khmer temple that has been the subject of a territorial dispute ever since Cambodia declared independence in the 1960s.

Up until 2011, Thailand occupied the temple and the sacred site attracted tourists from all over the kingdom. But after the latest spat, the International Court of Justice declared the temple Cambodian and ordered Thais to retreat, which we did.

Currently, Pha Mor E Daeng is only accessible to Thais. While we may have lost the crown jewel of the attractions, there is still plenty to see here. For one, Pha Mor E Daeng offers an incredible viewpoint where you can enjoy the stunning landscape of the Cambodian lowlands.

We’ve built stunning walkways along the ridge of the cliff, where you can stroll and take in the breathtaking scenery. There are also impressive Bas Relief stone carvings of Hindu gods on one of the cliff faces, which are definitely worth checking out. It’s quite a sight to behold.

You can also walk all the way to the Twin Stupas, which is as far as you can go before crossing into Cambodia. The area is highly militarized, and landmines are not uncommon, so be sure to stick to the path!

From the viewpoint, you can also get a glimpse of Prasat Preah Vihear, with its iconic arc perching off from the treeline, but that’s all you see from the Thai side. I am hoping that one day, the site will be opened to both Thais and Cambodians, much like the new initiatives launched that opened 2 temples in Surin to both countries.

Pha Mor E Daeng is open from 5 AM to 4 PM every day. The entrance fee is 100 THB per person, with an additional 30 THB per car or 20 THB per motorcycle. Also, be sure to drive over to Prasat Daun Tuan, another Khmer temple located not far from Pha Mor E Daeng, right on the border between the two countries. It’s a fine specimen worth seeing!

6. Relax at Koh Klang Nam

One of the most popular spots for locals to visit in Si Saket city center is Koh Klang Nam, an artificial island in the middle of a reservoir. It was created as a recreational park where visitors can relax and find solitude away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Here, you will find a beautiful and spacious green park with several attractions like an observation tower, an aquarium, and a network of walking paths that run along the bank of the reservoir that you can enjoy.

The place is especially lovely in the evening, when most locals come here to hang out, jog, and wind down as the day comes to a close. After a long day of exploration, if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax in Si Saket City, Koh Klang Nam is the perfect place. The park is open 24/7, and entry is free.

7. Go Up Si Saket Tower 🏛️ Best Museum

At the center of Koh Klang Nam, you’ll find Si Saket Tower, an observation tower where you can take an elevator to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Si Saket City. The tower also houses the city’s museum on the first and second floors, where you can learn more about the city’s history, its people, local cultures, and much more.

As you enter the tower, you will find several exhibitions on the first floor, each explaining a different aspect of Si Saket. Did you know that back in the day, Si Saket was called Khu Khun, and it was set up by the Tai Lao people who migrated from the north? I only learned about it after visiting this museum.

There are also some old photographs taken by a French explorer during the colonial period, showing Si Saket and its people. These photos have always fascinated me as they offer a glimpse into what life in the countryside was like back in the day.

Once you’re done with the museum, you can head up to the top of the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Si Saket. The observation deck is air-conditioned and has several seats where you can relax, escape the midday heat, and admire the view at your own leisure.

The tower is open from 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesday to Friday, and from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekends. It is closed on Mondays. The entrance fee is 30 THB per person. If you are looking for a nice viewpoint of the city, be sure to come and check out Si Saket Tower.

8. Stroll Around Phrathat Ruang Rong Temple

There are many small but unique temples that are not too far from Si Saket center you can visit, and one of those temples is Phrathat Ruang Rong, a Buddhist temple known for its collection of massive and colorful statues that incorporate elements from four ethnic groups in the lower Northeastern region of Thailand: Lao, Suai, Khmer, and Yoe.

The temple’s centerpiece is a six-story stupa standing 49 meters tall. Each floor serves a distinct purpose: the ground floor is used for religious rites; the first and second floors house a museum; the third floor is an image hall; the fourth floor is a meditation room; and the top floor contains Buddha relics and a great vantage point over the surrounding areas.

Here you will find an oversized man riding a horse, welcoming you at the entrance, a sculpture of a golden Buddha image as a centerpiece, and 2 massive cows, painted in bright red, dragging the cartwheel that is the temple. I mean, need I say more? 😂

If you’re looking for a fun and unique temple to visit upon arriving in Si Saket city center, be sure to check out the sculptures at Phrathat Ruang Rong Temple. The temple is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, and entry is free.

9. Check Out the Boat-Shaped Temple at Wat Phra That Suphannahong

Can’t get enough of temples with unique designs? Then you’ll love Wat Phra That Suphannahong, a temple built atop a base carved to resemble a Suphannahong Royal Barge.

The golden structure, designed to resemble a royal barge and adorned with intricate patterns and Buddhist artwork, is truly a sight to behold. It is pretty small, and it will take you no more than 10 minutes to walk around and see the temple’s unique design.

This small temple is located not too far from Phrathat Ruang Rong Temple, so if you’re already in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit. Wat Phra That Suphannahong is open from 5 AM to 6 PM daily and it is free to enter the temple.

10. Check Out Wat Phrai Phatthana

Another unique temple and one very revered by the locals is Wat Phrai Phatthana, a remarkable temple located near the border between Thailand and Cambodia. This temple is famous for housing the mummified remains of the revered monk Luang Pu Suang, affectionately known as “The Angel Who Walks the Earth”.

His preserved body is enshrined within the temple, attracting devotees from across the province to come and pray. The temple’s architecture is also very striking, featuring a red sandstone structure that showcases intricate Khmer-style designs, reflecting the cultural influences of the region.

Surrounding the temple are numerous large rooster statues, which are believed to symbolize vigilance and prosperity—a common sight in Buddhist temples across Thailand. But what really stands out to me is the temple’s architecture.

The vibrant crimson-red ordination hall is absolutely stunning. How often do you get to see something like that? The temple is open from 6 AM to 6 PM daily, and the entry is free.

11. Relax at Pha Phaya Goopree National Park

Last but not least, since you are already near the Thai-Cambodian border, visiting Wat Phrai Phatthana, you might want to consider driving a little further and checking out Pha Phaya Goopree National Park, a beautiful roadside viewpoint with a nice cafe and a lovely view over a reservoir.

Other than that, there’s not much to do except enjoy the viewpoint. I did drive to Chong Sangam border crossing, hoping it would be bustling with activities like other border crossings, but it’s pretty dead there with no markets or shops to see. I wouldn’t recommend driving further.

That said, I still enjoy the view at Pha Phaya Goopree National Park. If you are looking for a place to break your trip while exploring the far fringe of Si Saket, this is a great place to check out.

What to Drink & Eat in Si Saket?

One of my favorite breakfast places in Si Saket is Chio Kee, a local breakfast place that has been in operation since 1942! They serve Thai traditional breakfast dishes like Khai Grata (egg on a pan), congee, and different types of rice menus, as well as coffee, Thai tea, and more.

They have a set breakfast that I really like, the Khai Grata set, which comes with the egg on a pan dish, Isaan-style Vietnamese bread (not the same as Banh Mi), a glass of orange juice, and a Thai-traditional coffee, priced at 110 THB.

I find the price a tad expensive but the restaurant is extremely popular in Si Saket and considered a must-try when you are here. The restaurant is open from 6 AM to 1:30 PM daily. If you want a cheaper place, you might want to check out Rocket restaurant, just across from Chio Kee. They serve the same menu items, but a bit cheaper.

Have Braised Pork Leg Dish at Khao Kha Moo Yunnan

For those looking for a good place for dinner in Si Saket city center, you might want to check out Khao Kha Moo Yunnan. They serve the famous Thai braised pork leg dishes but with a twist, and I really enjoyed it.

The braised pork was soft and delicious, while the sauce was spicy and tasty. They also serve other Chinese-inspired dishes like stewed pork leg buns, noodle dishes, and more.

If you are craving something tasty for dinner in Si Saket, be sure to check out Khao Kha Moo Yunnan. The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 7:30 PM every day except on Sundays.

How to Get to Si Saket?

By Plane: The fastest way would be to fly to Ubon Ratchathani Airport via AirAsia and from there, you can rent a car from the airport and drive to Si Saket, which should take around 1.5 hours. For the best price of flights, check out Skyscanner or Expedia.

By Train: You can also take a train from Bangkok’s Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Si Saket Train Station. There are about 12 trains running between the 2 cities with a variety of classes you can choose from – from a third-class seat to a second-class seat with AC or fan, with prices ranging from 246 THB to 600 THB respectively. The journey should take about 7-10 hours depending on which train you choose. You can see the schedule and book online here.

By Bus: Another great way to get to Si Saket is by buses and vans. They often leave from Morchit Bus Station, operated by several companies. The price ranges from 500 to 770 THB and takes between 8 – 12 hours depending on the bus size and the traffic. You can find the schedule and book online here.

By Car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can also drive from Bangkok to Si Saket. It’s a pretty straightforward journey, thanks to the newly built M6 Highway, which takes you directly to Korat. From there, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive to Si Saket. The entire trip should take around 7 – 8 hours. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars.

How to Get Around Si Saket?

By Car: Honestly, the best way to get around Si Saket is by renting a car. Most of its attractions are quite spread out, and the Isaan heat is no joke.

While renting a motorbike is possible, it’s not the most comfortable option—plus, you’ll often be riding on highways, which can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders. Since Si Saket is also not really a tourist town, you might find it hard to find a shop to rent one for you.

For the most convenient experience, I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself. You can rent one directly from Ubon Ratchathani Airport and drive to Si Saket, or pick one up at Bangkok’s airports and make the journey from there. You can book a rental through DiscoverCars.

What to Pack for Si Saket?

As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Si Saket, Thailand:

• Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
• Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
• Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi’s jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
• Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It’s lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
• Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker’s towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
• Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Si Saket, Thailand in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.
• Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
• Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
• Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It’s a total game-changer.
• Universal Adapter: You’ll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
• Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
• Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It’s large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it’s stylish as hell!
• Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can’t go wrong with Osprey.

For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.

Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand

Looking for more information about your trip to Northeastern Thailand? Here is a collection of articles about Northeastern Thailand that you might find useful:

• As the gateway to Isaan, you can’t travel to the region without passing through Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat for short. To help guide you through the province, check out 10 Impressive Things to Do in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).
• Home to Phanom Rung, one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand, Buriram is an awesome place to visit as you explore Southern Isaan. If you plan to visit Buriram, check out Discover Buriram: 11 Awesome Things to Do and More.
• One of the best times to visit Phanom Rung is during the Phanom Rung Festival, where you’ll find parades, light and sound shows, and more. Here’s a complete guide to visiting the Phanom Rung Festival: Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide
• Passing through Surin and wondering what to do? Check out this travel guide: Visit Surin: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More
• One of the best places to visit in Isaan is Ubon Ratchathani. If you’re looking for things to do there, check out: Ubon Ratchathani: 14 Amazing Things to Do and More
• If you’re passing through Ubon Ratchathani and only have time to explore the city, be sure to check out: Ubon City Guide: 10 Best Things to Do and More
• Planning to cross the land border between Thailand and Cambodia to visit Siem Reap? You might want to stop by Sa Kaeo, a Thai border province full of awesome things to do. For the full guide, check out: Exploring Sa Kaeo: 8 Best Things to Do and More
• Interested in learning more about the unique music of Isaan? Check out this guide: The Sounds of Isaan: Thai Psychedelic Music Unknown to Many – A Guide to Mor Lam.
• Looking for a complete travel guide to Southeast Asia? You should check out our 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary for Southeast Asia.
• Looking for an itinerary for Thailand? Check out One Month Itinerary for Thailand.
• If you are traveling to Thailand, it is important for you to know what you should and shouldn’t do. Here are 10 Tips for Traveling in Thailand.
• Thai Street Foods are among the best in the world, and to help guide you through the street food cuisine of Thailand, be sure to check out the 15 Best Street Foods in Thailand to Try.
• Learning a bit of Thai phrases will go a long way for you when you visit Thailand. Here are 15 Thai Phrases You Should Know.
• Photos are worth a thousand words, but what is worth more than photos? A video. Here are travel videos I made for Thailand: Timeless Thailand, a journey into the North of Thailand, Long Tail Thailand, exploring the beautiful south of Thailand, and taking it slow with Slowed Down Bangkok travel video.
• Wondering where to go after Thailand? How about continuing on to Malaysia, Myanmar, or Indonesia?
• Want to explore other parts of Thailand? How about exploring Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Central Thailand?
• For all articles about Thailand, visit the Thailand Travel Guide page.
• Looking to travel to Southeast Asia? Check out all my articles about Southeast Asia here: Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
• You can see all my Asia-related articles here: Asia Travel Guide page.
• For more of my travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.