About Si Sa Ket
Si Sa Ket lies in southern Isaan, close to the Cambodian border, and is a calm provincial capital with its own culture. The province is known for its Khmer temples, such as Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai, and for Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo, the 'temple of a million bottles', decorated entirely with glass bottles. Nearby lies Khao Phra Wihan National Park, with views towards the temple of Preah Vihear in Cambodia. The surroundings have rice fields, fruit plantations and small villages with Khmer and Kuy populations. The town itself is simple and practical, with markets and eateries. Si Sa Ket suits travellers on a route along Khmer temples in Isaan, and is a good stop between Surin and Ubon. Drive with your own transport if possible.
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 train or bus (about 8 to 9 hours); from Ubon Ratchathani about 1.5 hours. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Si Sa Ket
- Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo The ‘temple of a million bottles’, decorated with glass bottles.
- Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai A Khmer temple in the region, quiet and little visited.
- Khao Phra Wihan National Park A park with views towards Preah Vihear in Cambodia.
- Villages and fruit Rice fields, fruit plantations and villages of Khmer and Kuy people.
