2024 Nong Khai Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Phra That Bang Phuan

Phra That Bang Phuan covers an area of ​​102 rai. Phra That Bang Phuan Chedi is a square-shaped chedi built with laterite and baked clay bricks in 2210 B.E. It received the royal charter of the boundary of the boundary of the temple. The ancient objects in Wat Phra That Bang Phuan include 1 large Buddha image, 1 Buddha image in the reclining Buddha posture, 1 stone inscription, Phra That Bang Phuan, 3 prangs, and 7 small chedis. To know the origin of Phra That Bang Phuan, according to the legend of the Urankathu, it is stated that Phraya Suwannapingkhan, the lord of Nong Han, Sakon Nakhon, Phra Kham Daeng, the lord of Nong Han Noi, Udon Thani, and Phraya Chulani Phromthat, the lord of Chulani (Northern Laos, Sip Song Chu Thai region), Phraya Inthapatthanakorn, the lord of Inthapatthanakorn (Khmer), and Phraya Nandasen, the lord of Si Khot Buri Luang, all 5 kings supported Phra Mahakassapa Thera along with other Arahants. 500 The construction of Phra That Phanom was completed and he attained Arahantship later. The five kings traveled to India to invite 45 relics of the Lord Buddha to be enshrined in four locations.

The magic of Nong Khai

Situated along the mighty Mekong river nong khai is such a beautiful place to relax and chill out. The Issan hospitality is amazing, these are the friendliest people in the friendliest country in the world! The riverfront has been well done with a lovely broad walk that stretches out for 3 kilometres. There is also the old railway station which has been#hippy preserved and is delightful to walk around. Do yourself a favour and go to Nong khai … TODAY!#nong khai#issan#hospitality #riverfront

Best view of Mae Khong river

First stop, we visit Wat Pha Tak Sua. I must say it has the best view of Mae Khong river. The temple itself is also beautiful, very peaceful and very sacred. The first skywalk in Thailand is also here. Going up on to the skywalk we need to wear plastic shoe cover to prevent glass scratch. Then we visit Than Tong waterfall which is not much to see. I do not recommend this place. We stayed at Vera Costa hotel in Sangkhom district. Mae Khong river from the hotel is breathtaking. After raining all night, there were beautiful fogs across the river in Laos.

Mekong River

Mekong River is a trans-boundary river in East Asia and Southeast Asia. It is the world's twelfth longest river and the third longest in Asia. Nong Khai is mainly viewed as a gateway to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. #urbanexplorer #borderline #riverwalk #river #statue

Nong Khai - The gateway to Thailand from Laos

Nong Khai is a province in Thailand on the left bank of the Mekong River bordering Thailand and Laos. Its town centre ("Mueang District") consists of Friendship I Bridge, bus terminal, train station, and other tourist facilities. Most tourists skip this relaxing town and merely use it as a border crossing point for Vientiane or Udon Thani. This time, I decided to overnight in Nong Khai and explored it a little bit. I found Nong Khai to be not so laid back as I had expected. There are 3 minor roads parallel to Mekong River and all are bustling especially at night with restaurants and shops. On weekends, the walking street and Tha Sadet Market operate. I suggest you take a leisure walk along the waterfront pedestrian walkway, which is also suitable for jogging due to its uninterrupted length (3-4 km I think). You can find many guesthouses by the river. If you miss modern shopping malls, Asawann Shopping Complex might help. One thing I don't like about Nong Khai is that it lacks trees on the road, making walking during day time unbearably hot. The constant flow of trucks hauling containers cross-border might annoy some visitors. Overall, I did not regret I made this overnight transit. There are many other provinces in Isan (Northeastern Thailand) that have similar Mekong River vibes, so I would not recommend more than 1 night in Nong Khai unless you have specific interests or more time.

Sala Keoku: A Hidden Gem in Thailand

In northern Thailand, there is a hidden gem that few tourists have visited—Sala Keoku. Located in Nong Khai, Thailand, it is separated from Laos by a river, and the majestic scenery of the Mekong River adds a unique touch to the place. However, despite its unique geographical location, this mysterious place is little known and is often regarded as a transit station to Laos. When it comes to Sala Keoku, one cannot help but mention the mysterious Sala Keoku Sculpture Park. Located in Nong Khai, the park is the work of the mysterious Bunleua Sulilat, whose father Luang Pu's creative journey began when he fell into a mysterious cave as a child and met an ascetic monk who taught him about Buddhism and Hinduism. The monk's name was Kaewku, and the park was built in his honor. Since 1978, Luang Pu has been working on the construction of this sculpture park. Under his leadership, many fans joined in, providing materials and labor for free. After years of effort, the park now has more than 200 large cement statues. These statues include Buddha statues, Bodhisattva statues, and Hindu gods. Each statue has inscriptions in Lao and Thai explaining the background and meaning of the work. When you visit Sala Keoku, you must not miss the "Seven Dragon Buddha." It tells the story of the Buddha converting a snake, and the scene of the snake sheltering the Buddha from the rain while he was meditating under the Bodhi tree. How do you get to this mysterious attraction? You can search for Sala Keoku's location information, enter the address on your phone, and call a car to get there. You can reach your destination with a budget of about THB 100–150. The ticket price is THB 40 per person. After exploring this mysterious place, you will find that the trip is worth it. In and around Nong Khai, in addition to Sala Keoku, there are many other attractions and delicacies waiting for you to discover. Here, you can experience the tranquility and mystery that is different from ordinary tourist destinations. Whether it is a sculpture park, a Brahma temple, or other cultural relics, you can feel the diversity and unique charm of Thai culture. We hope you will have an unforgettable travel experience in this little-known destination.

Nong Khai border in Laos.

#laos If you are crossing the border by car, you will enter and exit from here.

Nong Khai Aquarium

Nong Khai Underwater World is also known as Sirindhorn Marine Life Museum. It is located within the Khon Kaen University Campus near the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge and border gate in Nung Khaing, Thailand. In addition to viewing many species of fish and marine wildlife, it has also been built as a marine life center, a place where you can learn about fishing and marine studies. The first floor is for fresh water and the second floor is for salt water, showing 9 types of marine animals. You can see many species of fish from inside the 34-meter long underwater tunnel. 🕰️ Opening time Open from Tuesday to Sunday. (Closed on Mondays except public holidays). 🎟️ Entrance fee Adults - 50 baht Students and children - 30 baht Monks, disabled persons, and children under 90 cm - free

Sala Keoku

Sala Keoku, also known as Wat Khaek, is located in the Samakkhi community, Wat That subdistrict. It was built as a park of faith with numerous unique cement and brick statues displayed outdoors. Open for visitors from 08:00 to 18:00, it attracts both Thai and international tourists. Currently, it is managed by the Buddhist Association of Nong Khai Province. The site also exhibits related ancient artifacts, including the mummy of Sulilat.

Phra That Bang Phuan

#thailandtrip Address: Phra That Bang Phuan Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province, Thailand 🇹🇭 Phra That Bang Phuan is an ancient and important pagoda for the people of Nong Khai. It is a square shaped Chedi made laterite and baked clay bricks. There is also a group of ancient sites called Satta Maha Sathan, which were built according to Buddhist beliefs, meaning a replica of a place related to the Lord Buddha. There is also Sa Mucalinda or Sa Phra Ya Nak. an ancient sacred pond with a history related to the Lord Buddha, for people to pay homage and worship, for good fortune. #nongkhai #thailand

Salakaew Ku

#thailandtrip Address: Wat That Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province, Thailand 🇹🇭 Sala Kaew Ku is an ancient temple park in Nong Khai. there are many statues from the past. at the base of each statue, there is an inscription explaining the work and the concept, a reminder in lsan language and Thai language. which was built with the faith and belief of Pu Bunluea Sureerat or Pu Luea. It is a beautiful and unusual sculpture. looks ancient and worth preserving. #archaeological #nongkhai #thailand

Cà phê Việt Restaurant in Nong Khai

Cà phê Việt Restaurant Authentic Vietnamese cuisine by native Vietnamese chefs A famous riverside restaurant decorated in Vietnamese style Offers Isaan dishes, desserts, and beverages Delicious and affordable Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai 43000

Wat Pho Chai, Nong Khai

Luang Pho Phra Sai, the tranquility of the temple, the lush greenery, and the peacefulness inside make this visit to pay respects to the Buddha even more magical. We can meditate in the chapel without much disturbance. The management is orderly, especially in the area for renting sacred objects, making the temple serene and peaceful, a pleasant place to visit.

Best shot

#trip

Nong Khai, Thailand

Bong Khai, Thailand

Jimmy’s Restaurant & Bar

#thailandtrip Address - 1162/4-5, Soi Mitthipat, Thanom Pachak, Nongkhai, Thailand. Ambiance/Facilities - this is a tiny yet cosy restaurant and bar located in Nongkhai downtown. They serve plenty of authentic Thai cuisines, from dishes to desserts in the choices. We tried some of the recommended dishes in the menu, all are so delicious. Avg. Price per Person - friendly pricing.

Nong khai north thailand

Nong khai Thailand absolutely love this place. anyone travelling here must visit kiki bar. Great Market on Saturday and plenty of temple visits to go on.. relaxed area and lots of people from all over the world.. close to the friendship bridge also.

not bad for backpakers

There is convenience store around the corner.

6 Things You Must Know Before Going to Sala Keoku Sculpture Park

The only place worth visiting in the small border town of Thailand, Loei, is Sala Keoku Sculpture Park. It is said to be created by the same creator as the Thousand Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khuan) across the river in Vientiane, so the styles are similar. 👉6 things you must know before visiting 1⃣It is said that Sala Keoku Sculpture Park was created based on the creator's dream memory. The large and small Buddha statues in the park, many of them have skulls on their heads, their faces are fierce, and their styles are completely different from the usual benevolent style of Buddha statues. It feels gloomy to be in it, like walking in the ghost domain, so it is necessary to choose a sunny day to go. 2⃣The most convenient way to get there is to use a taxi app to book a motorcycle (more than 5 kilometers one way is about 70 Thai baht) 3⃣There are also buses from Loei Bus Station, but if the place you live is far from the bus station, there is no need to bother. 4⃣Opening hours: 8:00—18:00 The park charges 20 baht for locals and 40 baht for foreigners. The ticket office closes at 5 pm, and you can enter and buy tickets from the ticket inspector after closing. 5⃣It is recommended to visit in reverse order from left to right to perfectly avoid tour groups. 6⃣Respect local beliefs, don't wear revealing clothes and shorts or skirts when entering.

The riverside probably everyone visits

Near the First Friendship Bridge connecting Thai - Laos is a very nice, clean and large walkway along the river. Nong Khai is very famous for this area for sunset views. Within 20 minutes easy walk, I saw signs of 3 markets. I visited the day market and the night market, bought some snacks and foods. There’s a stage at the night market and a live band. Foods cost about 10 to 60 Baht. Sugarcane juice. Sweet snacks in water and dry forms. Fruits. Rice with foods on top. Stir fried noodles. Souvenirs. Clothes…. Quite a relaxing time there as sellers are very inviting and pleasant. Tuktuk from town to this area often costs 40 Baht per person. If you stay in Mut Mee Garden Guesthouse in Nong Khai, you are a few steps from the Night Market and right in front of the river, the beautiful part. If you go far away from this area, the riverside is not that well decorated. #Nong Khai

Awesome view on the Mekong River

Skywalk in Nong Khai, beautiful view. Easy to find and to reach by car.

Daeng Namnuang

Daeng Namnuang is Vietnamese food which is located at Nong Khai, Thailand. There are many Vietnamese dishes. In the restaurant,there are two types of seat which are outdoor (there is no air conditioner.)and indoor (there is air conditioner and it is quite private because it is inside of the restaurant). The toilet is quite clear and the staff is quite nice and friendly. #nong khai #vietnamesefood #daeng namnuang

Asawann Shopping Complex in Nong Khai

Getting There - Tuktuk can bring you here easily Attractions - same like in any mid scale mall in Thailand #nongkhai #asawann

Nong Khai Rim Khong

Chilling Experience along Mae Khong Riverside. Sun Set. Saturday Night Market. Traditional food / Souvenir / local performances / Massage on site. Food : Daeng Nam Nueng Place : Wat Hai Sok night market Hotel : Amanta Cafe : Cake at Toey, Viet Cafe, Baan Tuad, Jogging tract : Nong Thin or Mae Khong Riverside Temple : Wat Phochai , Wat Meechai Tha, Wat Chaiyaporn, Commute : Private skylap (Local Tuk-Tuk)

Local Food

1. Address - Temple Highlights - Temple Rating - 8/10 2. Address - Local food Highlights - Vietnamese buns Rating - 10/10 What a great place to eat and sneak around before getting into Laos #2023travelwish

The Forest Cafe in Nong Khai

One of the must-go cafe in Nong Khai #2023travelwish #mytripvlog

Cafe in Nong Khai

Home Sweet Home

A very rural area of eastern thailand ! I love my village very much and there is so much more to explore! The environment, people, and of course the food! Nong Khai is famous for their Sea Snake Dragon which is called Phaya Naga . Every year in november, The mekong river will shoot out fireballs from the waters. It's pretty interesting in a spiritual way and also scientific way! It's so amazing and wonderful to see such beauty is created in the universe. It is said that the fireballs are meant for the "Angels" or so they say "Monks" that has been meditating in heaven for like a very long time, The fireballs are meant to guide the Angels back down to earth by the Sea Snake Dragons. Sea Snake Dragons or Naga, is known to be the protector of the monks. There is so much to learn and explore in nong khai as they have such a beautiful culture that is mixed between Thailand and Laos! Do travel down to Meung Nong Khai for a new experience. #travel #thailand #nongkhai #isaan #diversity #landofsmiles

Wat Khaew 💜

Address - Wat That, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai 43000, Thailand Avg. Price per Person - 40 Baht for Tourists Rating - 10/10

The corridor is the only way to go to Vientiane to Thailand. Every morning at 8:9 am, the train from Bangkok arrives at the station. However, from Vientiane to Bangkok, it takes a whole day to pass and take the car. Friends who don't have enough time don't recommend this way, but just like us, we don't have time, and we have a plot for the retro green leather train. We can walk all the way to life. Can experience. We chose the time of departure in the afternoon so that we can reach Bangkok around noon the next day.