Isan Province Profile

Yasothon

According to historical chronicles of Yasothon, in 1797, Phra Chao Voravongsa, and his followers migrated and established a new settlement at Dong Phi Singh. It was later named Ban Ta Singh. In 1814, King Rama II upgraded the settlement into a town and the rank of Phra Rachavongsa was given to the governor. Considered the nation’s smallest province, it gained its autonomy in 1972 after separating from the large province of Ubon Ratchathani. The province is well known for its high-quality jasmine rice and for the annual, colorful Rocket Festival.

yasothon map

Provincial Attractions

Phra That Yasothon (Phra That Anon) is one of the major chedis in the northeast. Square shaped with the top similar to Phra That Phanom, the chedi enshrines the ashes of Phra Anon (one of the Buddha’s chief disciples). The architecture reflects the influence of Lao popular art during the Late Ayutthaya Period and Early Rattanakosin Period (7th century). The Phra That has a square base and four curvilinear sides. The four arches on the four compass points are adorned with standing Buddha statues. Phra That Anon is celebrated in an annual fair during the month of March.

Phra That Kong Khao Noi is a chedi dating back to the late Ayuthaya period (18th century). Its name literally translates as “small sticky rice basket”. According to local legend, a young farmer murdered his mother in a fit of rage after she brought his lunch late – and in a very small sticky rice container. The farmer, eating his lunch over his mother’s body, realized that the small basket contained more rice than he could eat. As an act of repentance, he built the chedi.

Phu Tham Phra (Buddhist Cave Mountain) contains numerous sacred, ancient Buddha images housed inside a vast cavern area. It is rather easy to transverse across the simple cavern network. Explorations are possible at other nearby caves. Because of the thick foliage, the mountain air is constantly cool and pleasant.

Mae Nam Chee Beach is a 2km stretch of river bed along the banks of the Chee River. The area is exposed when the river recedes during the dry season from December to May. During this time vendors set up food stalls and the beach becomes a recreation area.

Festivals

The Rocket Festival takes place annually in Phaya Thaen Public Park. A small stream encircles the 18-rai (29 km²) park with landscaped gardens, children playground and a fitness park. The park obtained its name from the Rain God, Phraya Than, who, according to northeastern beliefs, must be presented with shooting rockets to ensure regular rainfall. Parades and a spectacular rocket show draw many visitors from all over Thailand.