Pa Tio

Pa Tio (ป่าติ้ว) is a district in east-central Yasothon Province, approximately 40 km east of Mueang Yasothon, with a population of around 35,000. The district covers 308 km² across five sub-districts and 57 villages, making it one of the smaller districts in the province by both area and population.

The area was settled around 1889 when Lao migrants crossed into the Isaan region following the cession of Lao territories east of the Mekong to French Indochina. The village of Ban Pa Tio was established during this migration. In 1933, a highway connecting Yasothon to Amnat Charoen and Khemarat was built through Pa Tio, spurring its growth. It became a minor district in 1966 and was elevated to full district status in 1969. When Yasothon Province was created in 1972, Pa Tio was one of the six original districts assigned to the new province.

Pa Tio is particularly known for the village of Ban Si Than, famous for its handcrafted Khit pillows (Mon Kwan), a traditional Isaan textile craft. The district's name means "Forest of the Tio Tree" (a local tree species). The climate is typical Isaan: hot March–May, rainy June–October, and a pleasant cool season from November to February.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP), approximately 130 km southeast.

By Train

By Car / Road

Pa Tio is on Route 202, about 40 km east of Yasothon town. Buses and songthaews run from Yasothon's bus terminal. From Bangkok, take Highway 1, Highway 2, then Highway 23 and 202 — about 570 km, 8 hours.

The district centre (Pho Sai sub-district) is small. Songthaews and motorcycle taxis connect the sub-districts. A private vehicle is helpful for reaching the craft villages.

• Ban Si Than (บ้านศรีฐาน) — The famous Khit pillow weaving village in Si Than sub-district. Local artisans hand-weave traditional Isaan "Mon Kwan" cushions and pillows using intricate geometric patterns and natural dyes. Visitors can watch the weaving process and purchase directly from the makers.

• Wat Pa Tio — The main temple in the district, serving the local community.

• Khit Pillow Weaving Workshop — Visit Ban Si Than to learn about the traditional art of Khit weaving, a UNESCO-recognised Isaan textile craft passed down through generations.

• Explore the rural landscape of rice paddies, rubber plantations, and traditional wooden stilt houses.

• Attend local festivals and temple fairs at the district's wats.

• Market in Pho Sai sub-district — The district market offers fresh Isaan dishes, grilled meats, and seasonal fruits. Meals 25–50 baht.
• Local restaurants along Route 202 — Simple eateries serving laab, gai yang, som tam, and khao niao.

Bottled water is recommended. Thai iced tea and fresh coconut water are available at the market.

Accommodation in Pa Tio is very limited — no named hotels are available locally. Most visitors stay in Yasothon town (40 km west, B M Grand Hotel 450 baht, Yot Nakhon Hotel 250+ baht) or Amnat Charoen (50 km east).

Pa Tio is the place to buy authentic Khit pillows (Mon Kwan) — handwoven cotton cushions with traditional Isaan patterns. These make excellent souvenirs and support local artisans. Prices vary depending on size and complexity, from 100 baht for small pieces to 500+ baht for large decorative pillows. Jasmine rice and local woven textiles are also available.

• Yasothon — 40 km west. Provincial capital with Wat Maha That, Chedi Sai, and the spectacular Rocket Festival.
• Amnat Charoen — 50 km east. Neighbouring province known for Wat Phra Lao Thep Nimit and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Kham Khuean Kaeo — 30 km west. Visit Phra That Ku Chan ancient pagoda and Wat Song Puey archaeological site.
• Kut Chum — 30 km north. Known for organic rice farming and the Boon Kut Chum community barter system.
• Mukdahan — 120 km northeast. Border town with Indochina Market, the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, and views across the Mekong.