About Roi Et
Roi Et is a city in Isaan built around a large artificial lake, Bueng Phlan Chai, where a large walking Buddha stands on a small island. A promenade runs around the lake where locals stroll and eat. Wat Burapha Phiram holds the Phra Phuttha Ratana Mongkhon Maha Mongkhon, said to be Thailand's tallest standing Buddha image in the blessing posture. The Roi Et National Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday and tells the local history. There is also the Somdet Phra Srinakharin Park. The town is calm and less touristy than other Isaan cities, and fits well as a quiet stop. Nearby lie villages with weaving workshops and rice fields, especially pretty after the rainy season when everything is green.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry. March to May is very hot; June to October is the rainy season, with green rice fields. From February to April there can be haze from burning fields. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by flight (about 1.25 hours) or bus (about 7 to 8 hours); from Khon Kaen about 2 hours. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Roi Et
- Bueng Phlan Chai A lake with a promenade and a walking Buddha on the island.
- Wat Burapha Phiram A temple with a large standing Buddha in the blessing posture.
- Roi Et National Museum A museum on local history, open Wednesday to Sunday.
- Somdet Phra Srinakharin Park A large city park for walking and relaxing.
