Understand

Discover the vibrant city of Maha Sarakham, also known as the "city of great education"! With seven prestigious institutions of higher learning located here, including Rajabhat Maha Sarakham University and Mahasarakham University, this city is a hub for students and scholars. In fact, the student population here surpasses that of larger cities like Khon Kaen. As a result, Maha Sarakham offers affordable living costs, making it an ideal place for both locals and foreigners. But this city is not only about education; it is also a treasure trove of Buddhist heritage. You'll find numerous archaeological artifacts and relics, including those of Lord Buddha, showcasing the deep-rooted Buddhist culture of the region. Be sure to visit the magnificent pagoda that stands as a testament to Maha Sarakham's glorious Buddhist past. With its central location, Maha Sarakham serves as a convenient base for exploring neighboring countries like Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Whether you're interested in crossing the Mekong River, visiting ancient temple ruins, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Isaan, Maha Sarakham has it all!

Get in

If you're traveling to or from Bangkok, there's a first-class/VIP bus service that provides direct transportation between Bangkok and Maha Sarakham. With about 8 buses running daily, you have plenty of options. The overnight buses from Maha Sarakham to Bangkok depart between 20:30 and 22:30. The fare for this journey is around 400 baht. Departing from Morchit Northeastern Bus Terminal in Bangkok and from a location one block south of the SermThai shopping plaza in Maha Sarakham, these buses offer convenience and comfort. If you're exploring Isaan, there are regular bus services from nearby cities as well. Ticket purchasing can be done before boarding or paid in baht once onboard. For example, a one-way bus ticket from Maha Sarakham to Khon Kaen costs 48 baht, and the fare from Roi Et to Maha Sarakham is 45 baht. Keep in mind that the last bus out of town usually departs around 18:00 or 19:00, so be sure to inquire about the schedule to avoid any inconvenience. For a quick and affordable option, a minibus from Kalasin takes less than an hour to reach Maha Sarakham, with a cost of only B40. The bus station in Maha Sarakham is conveniently located in the city center.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing