Dan Khun Thot

Dan Khun Thot (Thai: ด่านขุนทด) is a district in the western part of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, approximately 84 km from the provincial capital. With a population of around 126,000 (2000) across 16 sub-districts, it is one of the larger districts in the province. The town dates back to before the reign of King Taksin and was formally established as a district in 1908. The name "Dan Khun Thot" refers to its historical role as a frontier checkpoint (dan) on the western approach to the Khorat Plateau. The area is predominantly agricultural, with rice and sugarcane as major crops.

By Plane

The nearest airport with scheduled flights is Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (NAK), about 90 km east, but it has no scheduled services. Most travellers fly into Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and continue by road.

By Train

The northeastern railway line passes through Sikhio district, about 35 km south. The nearest railway stations are Sikhio and Sung Noen.

By Car / Road

Dan Khun Thot is accessible via Hwy 204, which connects to Mittraphap Road (Hwy 2) at Sikhio (35 km south). Buses from Nakhon Ratchasima and from Chaiyaphum province serve the town.

The town centre is compact and walkable. Songthaews and motorbike taxis connect the centre with outlying villages.

• Dan Khun Thot Market — a traditional Thai market selling fresh produce, local snacks, and household goods.
• Wat Pho Chumphon — a historic temple that predates the modern town; the original settlement was located near this temple before being moved westward.

The rural landscape around Dan Khun Thot is characterised by rice paddies, sugarcane fields, and small farming villages. It is a good area for cycling or motorbike rides through the countryside. The district has several local temples worth a brief visit, including Wat Pho Chumphon on the site of the original settlement.

Several Thai restaurants and noodle stalls are found near the market and along the main road. Grilled meat, som tam (papaya salad), and sticky rice are staple local dishes.

Coffee and tea are available at market stalls and small eateries around the town centre. Beer and soft drinks can be purchased at convenience stores and local restaurants.

A few small Thai-style guesthouses and basic hotels are located near the market and the main road, with fan and air-con rooms from around 250–500 baht. For a broader selection of accommodation, Nakhon Ratchasima city (85 km east) is the nearest major centre.

The morning market is the main shopping destination, with fresh produce, rice, and local Isaan food products. Small shops along the main street sell everyday essentials.

• Sikhio (35 km south, 30 minutes) — a town on Mittraphap Road with a railway station and Wat Luang Phor Toh.
• Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) (85 km east, 1 hour) — the provincial capital with museums, monuments, and excellent transport connections.
• Khao Yai National Park (100 km southeast, 1.5 hours) — Thailand's first national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with hiking and wildlife.
• Chaiyaphum (70 km north) — a neighbouring province with national parks including Sai Thong and Tat Ton.