Issan, also known as Isan, I-san, or Esarn, is the northeastern region of Thailand. It doesn't have direct train or road access from India, but you can travel by flight to nearby airports and then continue by road or local trains within Thailand. Here's a guide on how to reach Issan from India's top 10 cities:
Reaching Issan, Thailand by Flight:
The nearest major international airport to Issan is Udon Thani International Airport (UTH). Another option is Khon Kaen Airport (KKC). There are no direct flights from India to Issan, so you would usually connect through Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Reaching Issan, Thailand by Train:
Once in Bangkok, you can take a train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station or the newer Bang Sue Grand Station to various cities in Issan. Thailand's State Railway operates services to major Issan destinations like Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, and Khon Kaen.
Reaching Issan, Thailand by Road:
Issan is well-connected by road to the rest of Thailand. From Bangkok, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach different parts of Issan. The journey by road from Bangkok to Issan ranges from 6 to 8 hours, depending on your specific destination in Issan.
How to Reach Issan, Thailand from India's Top 10 Cities:
- Mumbai to Issan: Around 3,130 km
- Flight to Bangkok, then a connecting flight to Udon Thani or Khon Kaen or train/bus from Bangkok to Issan.
- Delhi to Issan: Approximately 2,960 km
- Flight to Bangkok, followed by a domestic flight to Issan or take a train/bus from Bangkok.
- Kolkata to Issan: Roughly 2,095 km
- Flight to Bangkok, and continue with a domestic flight, train, or bus to Issan.
- Chennai to Issan: About 2,570 km
- Flight to Bangkok followed by another flight to Udon Thani or Khon Kaen, or travel by train/bus.
- Bengaluru to Issan: Nearly 3,000 km
- Flight to Bangkok, then on to Udon Thani or Khon Kaen by air, or train/bus journey.
- Hyderabad to Issan: Around 2,870 km
- Flight to Bangkok, followed by a domestic flight, or travel to Issan by train/bus.
- Ahmedabad to Issan: Approximately 3,180 km
- Flight to Bangkok, then continue by air, train, or bus to Issan.
- Pune to Issan: Roughly 3,100 km
- Flight to Bangkok, then proceed by flight to Udon Thani or Khon Kaen, or train/bus.
- Surat to Issan: About 3,150 km
- Flight to Bangkok, then fly to an Issan airport, or travel by train or bus.
- Kanpur to Issan: Nearly 2,850 km
- Flight to Bangkok and transfer to a domestic flight heading to Issan or opt for train/bus travel.
Stopover Options for Road Travel from Bangkok to Issan:
If you choose to drive from Bangkok to Issan, a popular stopover could be in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima), which is roughly at the mid-point of the journey to many Issan locations. This offers a break from driving and a chance to explore one of the major cities in the region.
Nearest Airports and Railway Stations in Issan:
Airports:
- Udon Thani International Airport (UTH)
- Khon Kaen Airport (KKC)
Railway Stations:
- Nakhon Ratchasima Railway Station
- Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station
- Khon Kaen Railway Station
Remember to check the visa requirements and any transit guidelines, especially revolving around COVID-19 restrictions or other travel advisories in place at the time of your journey.
