Surin Province Guide 2025
Discover Surin, the elephant capital of Thailand. Famous for its annual Elephant Round-up, Khmer culture, and silk weaving traditions.
About Surin
Surin, located in northeastern Thailand's Isaan region, is renowned for its elephant heritage and rich Khmer culture. This authentic Thai province offers a glimpse into traditional rural life, famous silk production, and the spectacular annual Elephant Round-up festival that draws visitors from around the world.
With a population of around 40,000 in the city proper, Surin provides an affordable, peaceful lifestyle away from tourist crowds while maintaining essential amenities and a growing expat community interested in authentic Thai culture.
Best Areas to Live
Surin City Center
Best for: Convenience, amenities, social life
The provincial capital offers the best infrastructure with markets, hospitals, schools, and government offices. Most modern amenities including shopping centers and restaurants are concentrated here.
Ban Ta Klang (Elephant Village)
Best for: Cultural immersion, rural life
Famous elephant village 58km from city center. Home to the Suay people and their elephants. Extremely rural but culturally rich. Best for those seeking authentic village life.
Prasat District
Best for: History buffs, quiet living
Home to ancient Khmer temples and archaeological sites. Quieter district with basic amenities. Good for those interested in history and archaeology.
Climate & Weather
Hot Season
Mar - May
35-40°C, very dry. April can be extreme.
Rainy Season
Jun - Oct
28-33°C, afternoon storms. Countryside very green.
Cool Season
Nov - Feb
20-30°C, perfect weather. Elephant festival in November.
Things to Do
- •Elephant Round-up: Annual festival in November with elephant shows and parades
- •Khmer Temples: Prasat Sikhoraphum, Ban Phluang, Ta Muen temples
- •Silk Villages: Traditional silk weaving in Ban Tha Sawang
- •Local Markets: Surin Night Market, weekend markets
- •Cultural Sites: Surin National Museum, Elephant Study Center
Cost of Living
Basic Lifestyle
฿15,000-20,000
Simple apartment, local food, motorbike
Comfortable Lifestyle
฿20,000-35,000
Nice house, varied dining, car
- •Rent: ฿3,000-8,000 for apartment, ฿8,000-15,000 for house
- •Food: Local meal ฿30-50, restaurant ฿100-200
- •Transport: Motorbike rental ฿2,000-3,000/month
- •Utilities: ฿1,000-2,500/month
💡 Living in Surin Tips:
- • Learn basic Thai - English is rarely spoken
- • Visit during Elephant Round-up (November) for the full experience
- • Explore local silk markets for authentic products
- • Try local Isaan cuisine - different from central Thai food
- • Respect local Khmer cultural traditions
- • Prepare for very hot summers and basic amenities
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