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Discover Surin

About Surin, Thailand

Surin is a province in northeastern Thailand, located approximately 450 kilometers from Bangkok. It is renowned for its annual elephant festival, showcasing the region's strong cultural ties to these majestic animals. With a population of around 1.4 million, Surin is a key area for rice farming and traditional Thai silk production. Travelers can explore its rich history and cultural heritage, making it a notable destination for those interested in authentic Thai experiences.

Main Points of Interest in Surin
  • Surin Elephant Festival Grounds: Known for the annual elephant roundup event in November, featuring elephant parades and demonstrations.
  • Prasat Sikhoraphum: An ancient Khmer temple with intricate carvings, dating back to the 12th century.
  • Ban Tha Sawang Silk Weaving Village: Experience traditional Thai silk weaving processes and purchase handcrafted silk products.
  • Phanom Sawai Forest Park: Offers hiking trails and panoramic views, along with a large Buddha statue.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Surin

Surin experiences a tropical savanna climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is from November to February, during the cool and dry season, when temperatures average between 20-30°C (68-86°F). The hot season, from March to May, can see temperatures rise to 35°C (95°F), while the monsoon season spans from June to October, bringing heavy rainfall.

Budget and Travel Costs in Surin

Surin is generally budget-friendly, offering affordable options for travelers. Prices are approximate (35 THB to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Hotel: $10 - $20 USD (350 - 700 THB) per night.
    • Mid-Range Hotel: $20 - $40 USD (700 - 1,400 THB) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Market Meal: $2 - $5 USD (70 - 175 THB).
    • Restaurant Meal: $5 - $15 USD (175 - 525 THB).
  • Activities:
    • Entry to Historical Sites: $1 - $3 USD (35 - 105 THB).
    • Guided Tours: $20 - $50 USD (700 - 1,750 THB).
Transportation To and From Surin

Surin serves as a regional transport hub with convenient access to other major cities.

  • Air Travel: The nearest airport is Buriram Airport, approximately 80 km away, offering flights to Bangkok.
  • Rail: Surin Railway Station connects to Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani, providing a scenic route through northeastern Thailand.
  • Bus: Regular buses operate to and from Bangkok, taking around 6-7 hours.
  • Local Transport: Tuk-tuks and songthaews are common for local travel within the city and surrounding areas.

Top Surin Routes by Transport Type

Bus from Surin

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
64
07:00
23:30
9h0m
$8.70
  3.5
1
2
16:40
19:27
14h26m
$25.93
  3.5
1
4
09:45
20:37
10h23m
$17.63
1
5
10:30
21:30
7h30m
$11.16
1
1
11:00
11:00
3h30m
$11.37
1
12
05:15
17:00
3h0m
$3.04
1
1
22:30
22:30
2h40m
$11.16

Train from Surin

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
48
07:20
22:56
7h43m
$5.47
  5.0
1
30
07:20
22:56
1h13m
$0.61
  4.0
1
36
07:20
22:56
3h0m
$2.49
  4.0
1
9
03:17
15:10
2h47m
$2.46
1
24
07:20
22:56
6h1m
$5.08
1
12
07:49
22:56
6h19m
$5.26
  4.0
1
34
03:17
17:40
1h4m
$0.91
  5.0
1
24
07:20
22:56
7h30m
$5.44

Bus to Surin

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
130
08:00
23:30
11h50m
$8.70
  5.0
1
2
13:30
16:17
14h14m
$25.93
  4.0
1
16
09:10
22:25
6h35m
$11.16
1
4
06:30
17:12
11h11m
$17.63
1
6
10:50
23:09
4h57m
$11.16
1
7
06:45
17:45
3h0m
$4.56

Train to Surin

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
55
06:10
23:23
7h50m
$5.47
  3.0
1
22
05:40
20:30
1h53m
$1.22
1
40
00:10
22:49
3h28m
$2.49
  5.0
1
23
02:26
16:17
1h14m
$0.61
1
12
00:17
22:02
6h24m
$5.26
  4.0
1
24
06:37
23:36
7h28m
$5.44
1
19
00:59
22:36
5h56m
$3.22
1
11
06:28
21:24
1h29m
$1.22

Popular Questions

Should you travel to Surin alone?

Traveling to Surin alone can be a rewarding experience, as it's generally safe and offers unique cultural insights, especially during the Surin Elephant Round-up Festival held annually in November.

Transportation: Public transport is limited, so renting a motorbike or bicycle is a convenient option to explore the area. Taxis and tuk-tuks are available, with typical fares starting at 50 THB ($1.50) for short distances.

Local Customs: Surin is known for its silk production and traditional Khmer-style temples. Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Dining: Enjoy local delicacies like 'Som Tam' (papaya salad) and 'Khao Niew' (sticky rice) at street markets, with meals typically costing 60-150 THB ($2-$4.50).

Safety: Surin is generally safe for solo travelers. However, it's advisable to keep valuables secure and be cautious at night.

Water Cleanliness: Tap water isn't safe to drink; opt for bottled water. Swimming is not a common activity, but any local pools are maintained to standard.

Which is the famous street food of Surin?

Surin is well-known for its local street food, particularly grilled sticky rice with egg, known locally as "Khao Jee." This snack features sticky rice shaped into patties, dipped in a mixture of egg and spices, and grilled over charcoal. It's a popular choice among locals and tourists alike for its savory flavor and unique texture.

Another street food staple in Surin is "Som Tam," a spicy green papaya salad that is a favorite throughout Thailand. Vendors often customize it with local ingredients, making it a must-try for those exploring the local food scene.

Prices for these street food items typically range from 20 to 50 THB ($0.60 to $1.50), making them an affordable option for a quick and satisfying meal. Exploring the night markets is a great way to experience these traditional dishes in Surin.

How much does it cost to stay in Surin for 3 days?

A 3-day stay in Surin, Thailand, can vary widely in cost depending on accommodation type and personal preferences. Budget travelers can find guesthouses or hostels starting at around 500 THB per night ($14), totaling approximately 1,500 THB ($42) for three nights. Mid-range hotels typically range from 1,000 to 2,500 THB per night ($28 to $70), resulting in a three-night cost of 3,000 to 7,500 THB ($84 to $210). Luxury options might cost 3,500 THB per night ($98) or more, totaling at least 10,500 THB ($294) for the duration.

Additionally, daily expenses for meals, transportation, and activities might range from 500 to 1,000 THB ($14 to $28) per day. Therefore, the overall cost for a 3-day stay, including accommodation and daily expenses, could be as low as 3,000 THB ($84) for budget options or significantly higher for luxury experiences.

Is Surin a good place?

Surin is a culturally rich destination known for its annual Elephant Round-Up festival, which showcases the region's historical relationship with elephants. Visitors can explore the Prasat Sikhoraphum, an ancient Khmer temple with impressive carvings. For those interested in local crafts, Surin is famous for its silk weaving, and the Surin National Museum offers insights into the province's history and culture.

Transportation: Surin is accessible by train, bus, or car from Bangkok, approximately a 6-hour journey. Local transportation mainly consists of tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared taxis).

Dining: The city offers a variety of dining options, from street food markets to restaurants serving traditional Thai cuisine. Don’t miss trying local specialties like Surin silk and jasmine rice.

Water Cleanliness: Tap water is not recommended for drinking; visitors should opt for bottled water. There are no significant swimming areas in the city, but nearby natural attractions may have clean water for recreational activities.

Surin offers a unique cultural experience for those interested in history and traditional Thai customs.

Does Surin have Uber?

Surin does not have Uber services. However, travelers can use local transportation options such as tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and traditional taxis. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are common for short distances, with fares starting around 50 THB ($1.40) depending on the distance and negotiation. For longer distances, traditional taxis are available, and it is advisable to agree on a fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used.

Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Grab are available in Surin, offering a convenient alternative to Uber. Users can book rides via the app with upfront pricing. Prices vary based on distance and demand, starting around 60 THB ($1.70) for short trips. Public buses are another option for budget travelers, providing routes within the city and to nearby areas at lower costs.