5 things you need to know about Korat
The city of Korat, also written as Khorat, is the capital of the Nakhon Ratchasima Province and Nakhon Ratchasima district. It is located on Khorat plateau and was the historical boundary between Laos and Siamese. It is considered the Gateway to the northeast or Isan in Thai and is thus referred to as one of the Big Four of Isan.
Listed below are some things that you may need to know about Korat before you visit.
1. Tourist Attractions - Being one of the 4 cities that form the gateway to Thailand's northeast, it is one of the most popular destinations in the country. Below is a list of the most popular attractions.
- Bung Ta Lau Park - The locals relax here by jogging biking or just picnicking.
- Korat Zoo or Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo - Here you get to see some African animals such as African elephants, rhinoceros, cheetahs, lions, zebras, and giraffes.
- Phimai - Here you get to see the Buddhist temples that were built during the Khmer Empire.
- Wat Phra Yap - This is a temple carved out of Stalactites.
- Maha Viravong National Museum - You will get to see the wood, stone and bronze Buddha statues
- City gates & moat and many more attractions.
2. Getting Around - The city of Korat is connected to Bangkok by a Railway line. You can also get to Chiang Maia or Bangkok aboard a Happy Air Aircraft. International tourists arrive via the Nakhon Ratchasima Airport and for ground transportation; you can use taxis, tuk tuks or buses.
3. Climate
The city experiences a relatively warm tropical climate with the lowest recorded temperatures being 12 degrees Celsius. The city has three seasons including; Hot (February - May), Rainy (May - October), Cold (October - February). You are well advised to visit from February to May.
4. Shopping - The city is home to over 20 major shopping malls and complexes. Make sure you buy something made in Thailand to remind you of your trip here. Among the most popular shopping malls include; Tesco Lotus Nakhon Ratchasima 1 Hypermarket, The Mall Nakhon Ratchasima and Big C Supercenter.
5. Beware of the nightlife - Although not as active as Bangkok, the city's nightlife has ruined many vacations. Be wary of who you spend your nights with...you do not want to be plundered as you sleep, do you?
Korat is a great city to vacation especially for those with large families. It is cheap and offers good value for money.
by Kennedy Runo on 03/14/2014 in Escorted or Guided Tour