Kalasin: Welcome to Thailand's Jurassic Park
Forget what you think you know about Isan. We're taking you to a place where prehistoric giants once roamed and where living culture is woven into some of the most beautiful fabric on Earth. Welcome to Kalasin, Thailand's unofficial dinosaur capital!
This quiet province is a must-visit for curious travellers who want to dig a little deeper. Part archaeological wonderland, part cultural treasure chest, Kalasin offers an adventure that’s millions of years in the making.
Why Visit Kalasin?
Kalasin delivers a unique one-two punch of attractions you won't find anywhere else.
- Walk with Dinosaurs: It's home to one of the largest dinosaur excavation sites in Southeast Asia and a world-class museum that brings the prehistoric world to life.
- Witness "The Queen of Silks": Discover the dazzling Phrae Wa silk, an intricate and beautiful textile handcrafted by the local Phu Thai people.
- An Authentic Isan Experience: Enjoy the slow pace of life, the famously friendly locals, and the delicious, fiery food of Northeast Thailand, far from any tourist crowds.
The Prehistoric & the Precious: Top Things to Do
Get ready to unearth ancient bones and discover man-made treasures.
Explore the Sirindhorn Museum & Phu Kum Khao
This is the crown jewel of Kalasin and an absolute must-see. The Sirindhorn Museum is a state-of-the-art facility built right next to the Phu Kum Khao excavation site, where enormous sauropod fossils were discovered.
You can peer down into the actual dig site, where bones remain in situ, exactly as they were found. Then, wander through the museum's incredible exhibits, coming face-to-face with life-sized skeletons of the giants that roamed these very lands over 150 million years ago. It’s a jaw-dropping experience for all ages.
Discover Phrae Wa Silk at Ban Phon Village
Step out of the prehistoric era and into a world of vibrant, living art. The Phu Thai ethnic community in Ban Phon are the masters of Phrae Wa silk, a type of brocade so intricate and beautiful it's known as the "Queen of Thai Silks." Visit the village to see the weavers in action on their traditional looms, learn about the complex process, and perhaps even buy a stunning piece directly from the artisan who made it.
Relax by the Lam Pao Dam
One of the largest reservoirs in the region, Lam Pao Dam is a scenic hub for local life and recreation. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a waterside meal of grilled fish, and watch the sunset. Don't miss a drive across the Thepsuda Bridge, a stunningly long bridge that spans the reservoir. Locals have affectionately nicknamed it the "Dinosaur Bridge" due to the province's fame.
How to Get There
Kalasin is a true Isan province, meaning it’s a bit off the main travel grid, but that’s part of the fun!
The province doesn't have its own airport. The easiest way to get there is to fly into the nearby cities of Roi Et (ROI) or Khon Kaen (KKC). From either airport, you can take a bus or hire a car for the final 1-1.5 hour leg of the journey.
To make the most of your trip and explore the museum and silk villages, renting a car is highly recommended. It gives you the freedom to journey back in time at your own pace!
