Inhabited since at least the Khmer era, Sisaket is a provincial capital that was established in 1759 during the Ayutthaya period. It serves as a gateway to the famous ruins of Preah Vihear, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed temple complex that straddles the Dângrêk Mountains on the border between Thailand and Cambodia.
Things to do in Sisaket
A short drive north of Sisaket is Phra That Ruang Rong, which blends architectural influences from the Laos, Suais and Khmers. It centres around a 49-metre-high stupa, with relics of the Lord Buddha housed on the top floor. Explore the small museum or enjoy a moment of silence in the meditation hall before soaking up the elevated views across the region.
Also known as the “Temple of a Million Bottles” is Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew, which has been constructed almost entirely using glass bottles. Originally established in 1984, it has been continually added to over the years, with green Heineken and brown Chang beer bottles the main building blocks. Not only were the local monks trying to keep the bottles out of the landfill but also reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Sisaket makes an excellent base for exploring Khao Phra Wihan National Park, which lies along Thailand’s border with Cambodia. It encompasses large tracts of evergreen forest that provide habitat for barking deer, gibbons and civets, as well as several ruins dating back to the 11th-century Khmer Empire. Don’t miss the red sandstone Twin Stupas and the three-tiered waterfall above Khun Sri Cave.
Getting around Sisaket
Ubon Ratchathani International Airport is around one hour’s drive from Sisaket and has flights to destinations across Thailand. Regular trains connect from Bangkok to the Sisaket railway station while buses travel to surrounding towns and villages. Taxis and moto-taxis are readily available for getting around Sisaket.