Surin Travel Information

Surin Province travel information by mr.hotsia

I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to visit Surin Province for the first time after hearing about the stories and attractions of this province for a long time. Back when I was a military craftsman student, I shared a dormitory with a friend from Surin who spoke Khmer fluently. That’s when I learned that this place has Khmer culture woven into the local way of life. I wanted to see it with my own eyes someday, but the opportunity didn’t come until now when I finally traveled to Surin.

Surin Province is divided into many interesting districts such as Mueang Surin, Chumphon Buri, Tha Tum, Chom Phra, Prasat, Kap Choeng, Rattanaburi, Sanom, Sikhoraphum, Sangkha, Lamduan, Samrong Thap, Bua Chet, Phanom Dong Rak, Si Narong, Khwao Sinarin, and Non Narai. I stayed two nights in Surin town to soak up the atmosphere and plan further trips to other districts.

Transportation and Accommodation

I drove from Buriram after visiting Phanom Rung Stone Castle. In the evening, I stayed at Thongtharin Hotel, a large hotel in the province offeringWiFiand comfortable services. The staff here speak the local Khmer dialect, creating a homely atmosphere that I really liked. Most hotels in Surin end with the word “Resort” even though they are standard hotels with breakfast and full amenities, unlike some resorts in Bangkok which sometimes mean temporary lodging.

Diverse Ethnic Lifestyles and Cultures

Surin is a province with diverse cultures. The locals include Thai, Isan, Khmer, and Kuy ethnic groups. The Kuy people are famous for elephant raising and are a key tourist attraction in the province. I intended to watch the elephant show at Ban Taklang Elephant Village but got lost and missed the chance. It’s a pity I have no clips or photos of the elephant show to share.

For those interested in Ban Taklang Elephant Village, you can read more in the articleBan Taklang Elephant Village, Surin Elephant Villagewhich mr.hotsia has detailed, including booking information for shows and homestays to truly experience the elephant keeper lifestyle.

Surin Morning Market: Khmer Atmosphere and Fresh Local Fish

One of the places I was very impressed with in Surin is the province’s “morning market.” This market is unlike typical morning markets because locals speak Khmer enthusiastically while selling goods, especially local fish and fresh natural products. It feels like walking through a market in Cambodia. As a farmer’s son, I felt warm and connected to the local way of life here.

I also tried a local Surin dessert called “Khanom Chok,” a green fried dough used in important Surin ceremonies. It tastes sweet and rich. Although it’s a bit oily, it’s an experience not to miss. For those interested in the morning market and local food here, try reading the articleSurin Province Morning Marketwhich I have recorded.

Surin Walking Street: Evening Local Life

Surin’s walking street is open daily and is a place where locals come to buy food and goods in the evening. Though not as lively as big cities, I like the homely atmosphere. There is a variety of local food and bright youthful fashion clothes, showing that this province still has the energy and freshness of youth. Anyone who enjoys deep cultural travel should not miss this.Surin Walking Streetwhich I highly recommend.

Surin’s Famous Restaurant: Mae Pim Grilled Fish

One night, I drove around Surin town looking for delicious food and was drawn to “Mae Pim Grilled Fish,” a crowded restaurant with cars parked along the street. I didn’t hesitate to try it because good places always have many customers, and I was not disappointed. My favorite dish was “Miang Sea Bass” — sea bass cut into bite-sized pieces and fried crispy, eaten with fresh vegetables, noodles, and a spicy dipping sauce. It was so delicious I want to recommend it. If you visit Surin, don’t miss trying it.

You can read more restaurant details and reviews in the articleMae Pim Grilled Fishby me.

Travel to Chong Jom Checkpoint - Connecting Thailand and Cambodia

Besides the attractions within the province, Surin is also an important connection point to Cambodia via the Chong Jom - O Smach checkpoint, a small international border crossing with a casino and nearby hotels. Traveling from Surin town to Chong Jom checkpoint is very convenient with minibuses and vans departing every half hour, taking about 1.5 hours. The fare is around 60 baht. Those interested in traveling to Siem Reap or Samrong city in Cambodia can use this route but must arrange a taxi or shared taxi afterward, with negotiable fares not exceeding about 1,500 baht.

I have shared travel tips and preparation for crossing this checkpoint in the articleChong Jom Checkpoint - Surin Province / O Smach - Oddar Meanchey Provincewhich provides recommended details before traveling.

Summary of mr.hotsia’s Impressions of Surin

Surin is a province that perfectly blends diverse cultures, local lifestyles, fresh markets full of natural and Khmer culture, exciting elephant shows, and delicious local food with unique charm. I, mr.hotsia, felt the sincerity of Surin people and experienced something different from other places in Thailand. Visiting Surin brings both knowledge and happiness. I recommend everyone to see it with their own eyes at least once.

For more photos and stories, you can watch my video at:

• Elephant Keeper Village Ban Taklang Surin SURIN elephant village
• Rattanaburi District, Surin Province
• Chong Jom Checkpoint O Smach