Nong Khai Travel Guide
Travel to Nong Khai - Relaxed Riverside Retreat
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Looking over the Mekong towards Laos, Nong Khai and the rest of Isan is slowly coming to the attention of travellers looking for the ‘real’ Thailand. Here traditions remain strong and the relative few travellers who come find that there is much to see from little-visited wats to river views, strange lights in the skies and festivals.
Historically the Nong Khai region has belonged to both Thailand and Laos being a part of the Vientiane Kingdom for several hundred years from the 14th century right through to the late 18th century.
In 1827 Rama III ceded it to a Thai lord and the present town was established and over the following years it had to fend off attach by Yunnanese raiders from China and further incursions by Laos. Only with the coming of the French on 1893 was Nong Khai turned into a backwater as the provincial capital was moved to Udon.
Today it has emerged as one of the most pleasant provincial capitals to visit and yet time is against it; its historically important location on the Mekong means development has been steadily increasing – visit now!
Attractions in Nong Khai
The town has the amazing Sala Kaew Ku Sculpture Park, Wat Pho Chai and the Nong Khai Museum, however much of its charm lies in its riverside position and exploring the countryside around town. The strange ‘naga fireballs’ are a must see if in the region in mid-October; this amazing phenomena draws many spectators who come to see the glowing lights travel up, sometimes hundreds of metres, into the sky on full moon night every year: no-one can explain them satisfactorily! It’s a short hop over the Friendship Bridge into Laos and to Vientiane, the laid back capital.
Activities in Nong Khai
Nong Khai is about relaxing. Take a tour of the main sights and then chill out watching the river from your guesthouse. Take a boat trip on the river or explore the countryside by bike. Allow 2 days in the city, unless heading into Laos across the Friendship Bridge – visas available on arrival for most nationalities.
Relaxing
Enjoy views from a boat on the Mekong – a great new perspective on the town.
Getting Around
Nong Khai town is long and spread out but still manageable on foot. Alternatively hire a bike from your guesthouse.
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