Yasothon Travel Guide: Rockets, Temples, and Cultural Delights in Northeastern Thailand

May 19, 2025

Yasothon is a small, culturally rich province located in the northeastern region of Thailand (Isaan). Best known for its annual Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival, Yasothon blends traditional Thai village life with vibrant cultural heritage. With ancient stupas, peaceful countryside, and thriving handicraft communities, it’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Thai experience.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival

Held every May, this lively event celebrates the start of the rainy season. Locals launch large homemade rockets into the sky to encourage rainfall for rice cultivation. The festival also includes parades, music, dance, and competitions, attracting visitors from across Thailand.

Wat Maha That

Located in Yasothon Town, this important temple features an 18th-century stupa and is a key spiritual site in the region.

Phra That Kong Khao Noi

This 1,000-year-old stupa sits amid peaceful rice fields just outside town. It’s a serene destination for quiet reflection and historical appreciation.

Ban Thung Nang Oak Village

Famous for traditional silk weaving, this village offers hands-on cultural experiences where visitors can observe local artisans and purchase high-quality handmade silk.

Temples

Wat Song Yae

Known for its magnificent all-wooden church structure, Wat Song Yae showcases impressive Isaan craftsmanship and spiritual ambiance in a rural setting.

Wat Phra That Yasothon

A significant religious site with a revered Buddha image, this temple hosts major annual ceremonies and is a quiet retreat for meditation.

Wat Khao Noi

Set on a small hill, this peaceful temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Nightlife and Markets

Local Bars in Yasothon Town

A handful of small bars offer a casual vibe with local beers, live music, and social atmosphere.

Riverside Restaurants

Enjoy traditional Isaan dishes with views over the river, ideal for a relaxed evening out.

Yasothon Night Market

A popular local spot for street food, souvenirs, and an authentic slice of nightly life, perfect for casual exploration.

National Parks and Nature

Phu Tham Phra

This forested area near the provincial border features caves, mountain views, and trekking paths for nature lovers.

Kaeng Thon National Park

Accessible from Yasothon, this park in Roi Et province includes waterfalls, forest trails, and opportunities for camping and birdwatching.

Sports Bars

While Yasothon’s sports bar scene is small, some local restaurants and hotel bars show international football and Muay Thai matches, especially during big tournaments.

Beaches

Yasothon is landlocked and has no coastline, but riverside areas and lakes provide tranquil settings for picnics and local recreation.

Backpacker Hostels and Resorts

Budget Accommodation

Options like Yasothon Hotel and Baan Kong Khao Guesthouse offer affordable, clean lodging in the town centre.

Mid-Range Hotels

JP Emerald Hotel and The Rice Country Village Hotel provide comfortable stays with modern amenities.

Eco-Lodges

Scattered in rural areas, these properties focus on sustainability and peaceful nature stays, perfect for slow travel.

Transportation

Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks

Available around town for short trips and local convenience.

Motorbike Rentals

Affordable and ideal for exploring countryside routes, temples, and villages.

Buses and Minivans

Daily services connect Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, and Bangkok.

Trains

Yasothon has no direct rail access. The nearest train station is in Ubon Ratchathani, about 90 km away.

Fun Activities

Rocket Festival

Plan your trip in May to experience the Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival – a cultural highlight filled with energy, tradition, and spectacle.

Village Handicraft Tours

Visit Ban Thung Nang Oak to watch traditional silk weaving and purchase authentic local textiles.

Ancient Stupa Exploration

Phra That Kong Khao Noi offers historical depth and scenic countryside views ideal for cycling or quiet exploration.

Cycling the Countryside

Flat rural terrain makes Yasothon perfect for leisurely bike rides through rice fields, temples, and villages.

Muay Thai Training

Local Muay Thai Gyms

Visitors can train at small gyms in Yasothon Town offering authentic instruction for beginners and advanced fighters.

Festival Matches

Muay Thai matches are often part of larger local events like the Rocket Festival – ask your guesthouse for schedules.

Nearby Ubon Ratchathani

For professional training, Ubon Ratchathani offers more advanced gyms and regular match schedules.

Fun Facts About Yasothon

Rocket Festival Origins: The Bun Bang Fai festival is rooted in ancient rain-making rituals vital to the rice farming calendar.
Silk Weaving Heritage: Yasothon is renowned for its handwoven silk, crafted with methods passed down through generations.
Sticky Rice Culture: A staple in Isaan cuisine, sticky rice features in almost every local meal and is served with spicy salads and grilled meats.
Authentic Isaan Hospitality: Locals are famously friendly and welcoming, offering a warm introduction to rural Thai life.

Where to Watch or Train Muay Thai

Local Town Gyms: Welcoming to visitors, with regular training and opportunities to watch fighters practice.
Festival Matches: Especially during the Rocket Festival – check local event schedules.
Training in Ubon Ratchathani: For serious training or spectator matches, nearby Ubon is the regional hub.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November to February offers cooler weather. Visit in May for the Rocket Festival.
Dress Modestly: Essential when visiting temples or rural villages – shoulders and knees should be covered.
Language: Most locals speak Isaan dialect and limited English. Basic Thai phrases are useful.
Cash and Connectivity: ATMs are available in town but carry cash when visiting rural markets or villages.

Conclusion

Yasothon is a peaceful, culturally rich province perfect for travellers seeking authenticity, connection, and tradition. With its vibrant festivals, ancient temples, and warm hospitality, this hidden gem in Isaan offers a rare glimpse into rural Thai life and makes for a truly enriching journey.