The Eastern Cultural Frontier of Isan and a Land of Ancient Khmer Sanctuaries
Sisaket Province is a historically deep-rooted and culturally rich province in Lower Northeastern Thailand (Isan), bordering Cambodia. Known for its ancient Khmer temples, strong Isan–Khmer cultural identity, fertile agricultural lands, and resilient communities, Sisaket stands as one of Thailand’s most authentic and tradition-preserving provinces.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Sisaket’s history reflects centuries of Khmer, Lao, and Thai influence.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| 9th–13th century | Part of the Khmer civilization |
| 18th century | Lao and Khmer settlements expand |
| 1786 | Official establishment of Sisaket town |
| 18th–19th century | Integrated into Siam |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
Sisaket retains one of the strongest Khmer cultural legacies in Thailand.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Sisaket Province |
| Capital City | Sisaket |
| Region | Northeastern Thailand (Lower Isan) |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~8,840 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~1.45 million |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai, Isan, Khmer |
| ISO Code | TH-33 |
⚖️ Government & Administration
Sisaket follows Thailand’s provincial administrative framework.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Sisaket Provincial Hall oversees governance.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Sisaket
Sisaket Province consists of 22 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Sisaket
Yang Chum Noi
Kanthararom
Kantharalak
Khukhan
Phrai Bueng
Prang Ku
Khun Han
Rasi Salai
Uthumphon Phisai
Bueng Bun
Huai Thap Than
Non Khun
Si Rattana
Nam Kliang
Wang Hin
Phu Sing
Mueang Chan
Benchalak
Phayu
Pho Si Suwan
Sila Lat
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Plains, low hills, border highlands
Major Rivers: Mun River tributaries
Borders: Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, Cambodia
Natural & Cultural Features
Dangrek (Dongrek) Mountain Range
Border forests & plateaus
Agricultural plains
Sisaket is highly suitable for rain-fed agriculture.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Sisaket City Municipality
Kantharalak Municipality
Khukhan Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Local governance focuses on rural services and cultural stability.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key development focuses include:
Agriculture & food security
Cross-border trade potential
Cultural & historical tourism
Rural infrastructure development
Community-based economic growth
Sisaket emphasizes grassroots development.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Sisaket Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Border Patrol Police | Border security |
| Disaster Response Units | Flood & drought management |
Sisaket is generally considered a safe and community-oriented province.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Isan–Khmer |
| Local Languages | Isan, Khmer |
| Traditional Arts | Silk weaving, folk rituals |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites
Preah Vihear–related temple complexes (Thai side)
Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai
Prasat Prang Ku
Sisaket City Pillar Shrine
Sisaket preserves some of Thailand’s most significant Khmer ruins.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Rice, garlic, shallots |
| Handicrafts | Silk & weaving |
| Trade | Local & border trade |
| Services | Local commerce |
Sisaket is one of Thailand’s top garlic-producing provinces.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Universities | Sisaket Rajabhat University |
| Major Hospitals | Sisaket Hospital |
Education focuses on teacher training and local capacity building.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Roads | Regional highways |
| Rail | Northeastern Railway Line |
| Nearest Airport | Ubon Ratchathani Airport |
Rail connectivity supports trade and mobility.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Prasat Sa Kamphaeng Yai
Prasat Prang Ku
Huai Ta Mai Reservoir
Dangrek mountain viewpoints
Traditional silk villages
Tourism highlights heritage and rural authenticity.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Khmer heritage stronghold of Thailand
Agricultural backbone of Lower Isan
Cultural bridge with Cambodia
Rural stability & food security province
📝 Summary
Sisaket Province is a land of deep history, resilient agriculture, and living Khmer–Isan traditions. With its ancient temples, fertile plains, and strong community identity, Sisaket stands as one of Thailand’s most culturally authentic and historically important provinces.
📢 News & Articles
“Preserving Khmer Temples in Sisaket”
“Garlic Farming and Rural Economy”
“Cultural Heritage Along the Thai–Cambodian Border”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.