What is Roi Et famous for?

Roi Et is famous for Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkol (101-meter golden pagoda), Bueng Phalan Chai lake, ancient Khmer temples, and authentic Isan silk weaving.

How do I get to Roi Et from Bangkok?

Take a 7-8 hour bus from Bangkok's Mo Chit station, a 1-hour flight to Roi Et Airport (limited flights), or a train to Khon Kaen followed by bus (total 8-9 hours).

Is English widely spoken in Roi Et?

Basic English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas, but limited in rural regions. Learning basic Thai phrases is helpful.

What local dishes should I try?

Must-try dishes include Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Som Tam (papaya salad), Laab (spicy minced meat salad), and fresh fish from Bueng Phalan Chai.

Are there ATMs and credit card facilities?

ATMs are widely available in Roi Et city. Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for markets and rural areas.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 30-day visa exemption. Check with Thai embassy.

What currency is used?

Thai Baht (THB). ATMs widely available in town.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited. Basic English at hotels and tourist spots; learn a few Thai phrases.

Can I drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water.

What is the local food like?

Isaan cuisine: spicy papaya salad (som tam), grilled chicken, sticky rice, and larb.

Are credit cards accepted?

Only at larger hotels and some restaurants; cash is king.

Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, with usual precautions. Dress modestly and avoid isolated areas at night.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Handwoven silk, Isaan-style handicrafts, and local snacks.

How do I get to Roi Et?

Fly to Roi Et Airport (ROI) from Bangkok, or take a bus from Mo Chit station (8-10 hours).

Are there any festivals?

Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival) in May, and the Lotus Festival in December.

Yes, at the airport or in town. Drive on the left; international license required.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Not expected but appreciated. Round up taxi fares or leave small change at restaurants.

Roi Et

ProvinceThailand, Asia

Roi Et is a STATE in Thailand, Asia.

Roi Et, meaning 'One Hundred and One' in Thai, is a captivating northeastern province that offers authentic Isan culture away from the tourist crowds. The province is dominated by the magnificent 101-meter-tall Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkol, a glittering golden pagoda that serves as the region's spiritual heart and offers panoramic views from its observation deck. Roi Et surprises visitors with Bueng Phalan Chai, one of Thailand's largest freshwater lakes, perfect for sunset strolls along its scenic boardwalk and sampling local freshwater fish dishes. The province boasts remarkable ancient Khmer temples like Ku Ka Sing and Ku Phra Kona, showcasing intricate sandstone carvings from the 11th-13th centuries. Roi Et's vibrant cultural scene comes alive during the annual Silk and Phukhaoma Festival, where you can witness traditional silk weaving and purchase exquisite local textiles. Food enthusiasts will delight in authentic Isan cuisine, from fiery som tam (papaya salad) to succulent grilled chicken, best enjoyed at the bustling night markets. The province's rural landscapes feature picturesque rice paddies, traditional stilt houses, and friendly villages where you can experience genuine Thai hospitality.

Best time to visit Roi Et

November to February (cool season) with pleasant temperatures (20-30°C) and minimal rainfall. This period includes the beautiful Loy Krathong festival (November) and cool weather ideal for temple exploration. March to May (hot season) is very hot (up to 40°C) but less crowded. June to October (rainy season) brings lush greenery but frequent downpours and potential flooding in rural areas.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Rainy 23-31°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

End of monsoon

Know before you go

Getting there

ROI

Roi Et Airport

Domestic

10 km away

KKC

Khon Kaen Airport

Domestic

110 km away

UBP

Ubon Ratchathani Airport

Domestic

160 km away

Getting around

"Songthaews (converted pickup trucks) are the primary public transport within Roi Et city (fixed routes, cheap fares). Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are available for shorter trips (negotiate fare first). Car rentals are available but driving in rural areas requires caution. Motorbike rentals are popular but helmets are mandatory. Local buses connect towns within the province. For intercity travel, use buses from Roi Et Bus Terminal. Grab taxi app operates in the city. Bicycles are excellent for exploring the lake area."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in city center

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $3

Calling code

+66

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime; occasional overcharging for tourists.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime; occasional overcharging for tourists.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Roi Et is generally safe with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night. Traffic accidents are the primary risk - be extremely cautious when crossing roads. Common scams include overcharging tourists and gem scams. The city center and tourist areas are safe. Rural areas are generally secure but maintain awareness. Political protests are rare but avoid any gatherings. Respect local customs to avoid offense."

Police

191

Ambulance

1669

Fire

199

Tourist Police

1155

Entry and health

Health information

"Roi Et has adequate medical facilities including Roi Et Hospital (government) and private clinics. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance. Recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis (for rural stays). Dengue fever is present - use mosquito repellent. Tap water is not drinkable - use bottled water. Heat exhaustion is common - stay hydrated. Pharmacies are widely available for minor ailments. For serious conditions, evacuation to Bangkok may be necessary."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes and temples. The head is considered sacred - never touch someone's head. Feet are considered low - avoid pointing feet at people or Buddha images. Use right hand for giving/receiving. Respect the monarchy - never criticize. Tipping is not expected but appreciated (10% in restaurants, small amounts for services). Greet with 'wai' (palms together). Speak softly and avoid public displays of affection."

ThaiIsan (Lao dialect)English (limited in tourist areas)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Thai Baht (THB) · ฿

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $2-5

Hotels

$15-40 | budget hotels range $15-40/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Very affordable destination; luxury options limited.

Timezone

Asia/Bangkok +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,300,000

Area

8,299 km²

Government

Provincial administrative organization with elected governor

ISO code

TH-25

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Faritanin'i Roi Et, จังหวัดร้อยเอ็ด, ខេត្តរយឯត, Ройет, ຈັງຫວັດຮ້ອຍເອັດ, रोइ एत प्रान्त, Provinsi Roi Et, Roi Et Hú, Province de Roi Et, Provincia Roi Et, ローイエット県, محافظة روي إت, TH-45, Propinsi Roi Et, Changwat Roi Et, صوبہ روئی ایٹ, Provincia de Roi Et, Roi Et Province, Roi Et, চাংৱাত রোই এত, Roi Et Hū, 橫逸府, Provincia di Roi Et, रोइएत प्रान्त, Роєт, استان روی ات, RET, پارێزگای ڕۆی ئێت, روئی ات صوبہ, 로이엣주, Prowincja Roi Et, 黎逸府, Вилояти Рои Ет, Amphoe Nong Hi, Ban Nong Hi, King Amphoe Nong Hi, Nong Hi, hn xnghi, หนองฮี

Major HubHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyCulturalNature