Founded in 1782, Roi Et literally means ‘one hundred
and one’, believed to be an exaggeration of the number
11 since the prosperous town once ruled 11 vassal states.
The town was abandoned because of the natural disaster
of flooding, but is now a steadily growing province. The
province is part of the 200,000 plus rais of the famous
Tung Kula Rong Hai (Kula Crying Fields), once a wasteland
that was transformed into growing high-quality rice. The
daily life in Roi Et is influenced by a conservative population
with strong Buddhist traditions. The simple way of life
in this mostly rural province in the lower Northeast is
reflected in its arts and crafts, especially in the weaving
of textiles.
Roi Et has an area of about
8,299 square kilometres, consisting of the following
districts: Muang, Thawat Buri, Selaphum, Phon Thong,
Nong Phok, At Samat, Phanom Phrai, Chaturaphak Phiman,
Kaset Wisai, Suwannaphum, Pathum Rat, Pho Chai, Mueang
Suang, Phon Sai, Moei Wadi, Si Somdet, Changhan, Chiang
Khwan, Nong Hi and Thung Khao Luang.
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Khao
Pun Bun Phawet Fair is held every March 1-2 at Bung
Phlan Chai. Many Buddhists attend this merit-making ceremony.
The main activity is the sermon by monks on Maha Wetsandon
Chadok. A procession on the tale is a must-see event,
as are the cultural performances. There are shops selling
local products, particularly Khao Pun (or Khanom Chin
as known in the Central region).