Day Six: Isan Famil Trip
The group departed Udon Thani for the Phu Phrabat Historical Park on day six of the Isan Famil trip. Located within the Phakhuanum national park, the area’s infamous sandstone structures once stood an underwater plateau.

Phu Phrabat is an ancient archaeological site with relics that date back to both prehistoric and historic times. While the sandstone structures have occurred naturally, the shelters were transformed into religious monasteries during the 14th Century B.C. This is evident in the many Buddha images in the structures.

After a hiking tour of Phu Phrabat, the group was treated to a home-cooked meal by the local Udon Thani people. The group then set out towards the city of Nong Khai, also affectionately known as the “City of Nagas”.

Nong Khai is home to the first Friendship Bridge between Thailand and the capital of Laos, Vientiane. The bridge was a cooperative project between the Thai, Laotian and Australian governments. While local Thai visitors can purchase a border pass to travel into Laos, foreigners must apply for a visa before they can cross over.

The group enjoyed a stroll through Nong Khai’s bustling Talat Tah Sadet markets before heading towards the province of Khon Kaen in the late afternoon. Upon arriving in Khon Kaen, the group met with the Director of Thailand Authority of Tourism, Nuan Sarnsorn over dinner. The group was also treated to a performance by Sombar Sinlarb on the traditional Kaen flute.