Nong Khai

Nong Khai is a long, narrow northeastern province on the south bank of the Mekong, facing Laos and serving as one of Thailand's main gateways to Vientiane. Nong Khai town is the practical base for the river promenade, markets, temples and onward transport, while the wider province includes farmland, riverside communities and hillier scenery toward Sangkhom. The Mekong is central to local trade, food, festivals and daily life.

In Mueang Nong Khai, visit Wat Pho Chai for the revered Luang Pho Phra Sai image, walk the riverside and browse Tha Sadet Market; Sala Keoku's sculpture park is another well-known stop outside the centre. Phra That Bang Phuan is an important historic religious site in Tha Bo, while Sangkhom offers Mekong viewpoints and a quieter rural base. Around the end of Buddhist Lent, communities including Phon Phisai host events associated with the Naga fireball tradition; dates follow the lunar calendar and accommodation can fill early.