A 320-kilometer stretch of the Mekong lies within Nong Khai Province. In Nong Kai, the river offers a range of experiences: from the skywalk, you can look out across it to the landscape of Laos; during the Thai-Lao Boat Race Festival, it becomes the setting for longboat races. There are also viewpoints, local products and festivals held at different times of the year.
Viewpoints and nature on the Mekong
Wat Pha Tak Suea Skywalk is a U-shaped clear-glass structure that projects out from a cliff edge. From there, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Mekong and the landscape of Laos. Wat Pha Tak Suea is accessible by car and has a parking lot.
The climb to the Phu Pha Dak viewpoint is about 800–900 meters long and has a gradient of approximately 45–60 degrees. The two figures complement each other: the route is short, but also notably steep.
At Than Thong Waterfall, a spacious area offers opportunities to swim, relax and eat. Conditions may vary seasonally. If you plan to visit the waterfall, it is advisable to check conditions before your visit.
Festivals held at different times
The festival honoring Phra That Bang Phuan lasts five days and five nights and is held every year on the full moon of the third lunar month. The annual celebration at the Prab Hor Monument takes place in early March. The monument contains the ashes of people who died in 1886 during the suppression of the Haw Rebellion.
The Nong Khai Rocket Festival is held every year in May and includes a rocket competition. The Thai-Lao Boat Race Festival takes place at the end of Buddhist Lent and includes longboat races on the Mekong. Thailand and Laos host the festival in alternating years. The Naga fireballs are another annual event on the Mekong, not far from the city.
The timing varies considerably: the full moon of the third lunar month, early March, May or the end of Buddhist Lent each provide different points of reference. If a particular festival is important to your trip, check the exact dates in advance.
Culture, local products and discoveries
All seven Satta sites at Wat Phra That Bang Phuan are fully preserved. Khao Mao is a local snack made from young sticky rice that is roasted, pounded and carefully seasoned. Mud Mee silk is also produced in Nong Khai and is popular with the Thai royal family.
The Nong Khai Aquarium, on the Nong Khai University campus, features marine fish, fish from the Mekong and other freshwater species, including species from Thailand and other regions of the world. This brings the river connection and species from different regions together in one exhibition.
For cross-border orientation, the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is a useful landmark: it connects Nong Khai Province with Vientiane Prefecture in Laos. If you are looking for a hotel in Nong Kai, choosing according to your interests can help structure your plans: focus your stay on viewpoints and nature, a festival date, or cultural and culinary discoveries.
Discover more destinations: Phan Phrao, Khok Chang, Sangkhom, Kaeng Kai, Khai Bok Wan, Udom Phon, Nai Mueang, Ban Thon.
For the main travel overview: Thailand.
