Surin Travel Guide: Elephants, Ancient Temples, and Isaan Heritage

24 май 2025 г.

Surin, located in northeastern Thailand (Isaan), is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, deep historical significance, and strong ties to elephants. Often called the “Elephant Province,” Surin is home to the world-famous Elephant Round-Up Festival, as well as ancient Khmer ruins that reflect its historic connection to the Angkor Empire. With its tranquil rural landscape, traditional silk weaving villages, and warm, welcoming locals, Surin offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for culture lovers, history buffs, and adventurous travellers.

Popular Tourist Destinations

1. Ban Ta Klang Elephant Village

Located in Tha Tum District, this village is at the heart of Surin’s elephant culture. It’s home to the Kui people, traditional elephant keepers who live side-by-side with elephants. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation, help with feeding and bathing, and understand the cultural bond between humans and elephants.

2. Surin Elephant Round-Up Festival

Held every November, this internationally recognised event celebrates Surin’s elephant legacy. Highlights include parades, historical reenactments, tug-of-war contests, and choreographed performances featuring over 200 elephants. The festival is a celebration of culture, conservation, and community pride.

3. Prasat Sikhoraphum

This stunning 12th-century Khmer temple features five sandstone prangs (towers) adorned with intricate carvings of Hindu deities, Apsaras, and mythical creatures. It’s one of the finest examples of Khmer architecture in Thailand and is still used for spiritual ceremonies today.

4. Prasat Phum Pon

Smaller and more remote than Sikhoraphum, this lesser-known ruin is surrounded by serene rice fields. Its quiet setting and ancient charm make it a great spot for photography and reflection.

Temples in Surin

Wat Burapharam

The most revered temple in Surin Town, housing the sacred Buddha image Luang Por Phra Chi. Locals often visit to make merit, and the temple plays a central role during religious festivals.

Wat Phrom Rangsi

Famous for its artistic murals and tranquil grounds, this temple is ideal for meditation and admiring traditional Isaan Buddhist art.

Wat Nong Bua

Located near the Cambodian border, this temple features an enormous reclining Buddha statue. It’s a peaceful sanctuary that’s less visited by tourists.

Nightlife and Evening Culture

Surin offers a quiet nightlife scene with a local vibe:

Surin Night Market: The hub of evening activity. Expect sizzling street food, souvenir stalls, and live music.
Riverside Restaurants: Scenic places to enjoy traditional Thai food and drinks along the water.
Local Bars: Small venues in Surin Town where you can sip local whisky or Chang beer and enjoy acoustic Thai music.

For more energetic nightlife, nearby Buriram offers sports bars and clubs.

National Parks and Nature Spots

Phanom Dong Rak Wildlife Sanctuary

This protected area on the Thai-Cambodian border is perfect for trekking, birdwatching, and experiencing the region’s rich biodiversity. Wild elephants, macaques, and hornbills are commonly spotted.

Huai Saneng Reservoir

A tranquil lake popular for boating, fishing, and sunsets. The surrounding wetlands attract migratory birds, especially in the cooler months.

Namtok Huai Saneng

A seasonal waterfall just outside town, ideal for cooling off during the rainy season.

Sports Bars and Entertainment

Though not a sports bar hotspot, you can catch matches at:

Local pubs and hotel lounges: Especially during Premier League season.
Larger hotels: Like Thong Tarin Hotel, where sports broadcasts are often shown in the bar or restaurant.

Beaches

Surin is landlocked, so there are no beaches. But riverside and reservoir settings like Huai Saneng offer a relaxing, nature-filled alternative.

Where to Stay: Hostels, Hotels & Eco-Resorts

Surin Majestic Hotel: Budget-friendly with good amenities in the heart of town.
Martina Hotel: Mid-range option with comfortable rooms and great service.
Thong Tarin Hotel: One of the oldest hotels in Surin, often hosting guests for the Elephant Round-Up.
Local homestays and eco-resorts: Available near Ban Ta Klang and silk weaving villages, offering authentic cultural immersion.

Transportation in Surin

Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks: Easy and cheap for local travel.
Motorbike Rentals: Great for exploring rural temples and villages.
Trains: Surin Railway Station connects to Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani.
Buses and Minivans: Fast, frequent service to Isaan provinces and the capital.

Fun Things to Do

Visit Ban Khwao Sinarin: Watch silk weavers in action and shop for some of the best Thai silk.
Join a Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Isaan dishes like larb, som tam, and kai yang.
Attend a Local Festival: In addition to the Elephant Round-Up, Surin hosts temple fairs and silk festivals throughout the year.

Muay Thai in Surin

Local Gyms: Offer beginner-friendly training and advanced classes.
Matches During Festivals: Held during temple fairs and the Elephant Round-Up.
Nearby Buriram: Offers professional Muay Thai training centres and fight nights at local stadiums.

Fun Facts About Surin

Elephant Bond: Surin is the only Thai province where elephants are deeply integrated into local family life.
Silk Capital: Surin’s silk weaving dates back hundreds of years. Traditional looms are still used in many villages.
Khmer Legacy: Many locals speak both Thai and Khmer. The province was once part of the ancient Khmer Empire.
Festivals: The Surin Elephant Round-Up began in 1960 and is now one of the largest elephant festivals in the world.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November to February – dry, cool, and perfect for festivals and outdoor adventures.
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and always greet elders with respect.
Currency: ATMs are widely available in Surin Town, but cash is still king in rural markets.
Language: Thai is spoken everywhere; Khmer is also common in border communities. English is limited outside the main town—learn a few Thai phrases.

Conclusion

Surin Province offers a beautiful blend of tradition, history, and authenticity. From elephant villages and ancient Khmer temples to silk weaving and vibrant festivals, it’s a place where culture is alive and thriving. Whether you’re travelling for the Elephant Round-Up or simply to escape the tourist trail, Surin promises a deeply rewarding Thai experience.