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Northeast
Known by Thais as I-san (pronounced E-San), the
sprawling Northeast Plateau comprises 19 provinces
(Changwats) : Amnat Charoen, Buri Ram, Chaiyaphum,Kalasin,Khon
Kaen, Loei,Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Ratchasima,
Nakhon Phanom, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Nong Khai, Roi
Et, Sakon Nakhon, Si Sa Ket, Surin,Ubon Ratchathani,
Udon Thani and Yasothon.
I-san is noted as the center of an age-old civilization
dating back to pre-historic time and to the period
when the Khmer people held away in the region.
Relics and monuments still stand, attesting to
the splendors and majesty of the ancient era.
The Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, the Prasat
Hin Khao Phanom Rung in Buri Ram and the Prasat
Hin Phimai in Khorat, are some of the most important
and interesting structures in the area. Ban Chiang
village in Udon Thani, where remains of pre-historic
skeletons and tools have been discovered, serves
as concrete evidence of a Bronze Age civilization
flourishing 5,000 to 7,000 years ago.
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The Northeast's ancient traditions and customs
are still reflected in fairs and festivals found
nowhere else in the country.
These include the colorful Bun Bang Fai (rocket
festival), the Candle Procession and the Wax Castle
Festival.
Probably the most well-known local products of
the Northeast are the world - famous Matmee silk,
wickerware, earthenware and edible items such
as sausages, Mu Yong and Mu Phaen.
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