As you journey beyond Pak Chong, Highway 2 and the railway tracks gracefully split to frame Lam Takong Reservoir – one of Thailand’s most scenic stretches where emerald waters reflect lush forested hills. This final green oasis marks a dramatic transition into the Khorat plateau’s sweeping landscapes. The roads reunite at the northeastern frontier’s historic gateway: Khorat (officially Nakhon Ratchasima), whose Khmer-derived name literally translates to “Frontier Country”.
While Khorat makes a less than ideal first impression with its chaotic streets and lack of standout attractions, this bustling metropolis serves as the perfect launchpad for Isaan adventures. As the region’s transportation hub, the city connects you to several extraordinary sites including the magnificent Khmer temple complexes at Phimai and Phanom Rung, the ancient archaeological finds at Ban Prasat, and the famous pottery village of Dan Kwian. Khorat’s extensive bus network not only covers Bangkok and key Isaan destinations, but also offers direct routes along Highway 304 to Pattaya, Rayong and Chanthaburi – saving travelers the backtrack through the capital.
