Talk:Nong Khai/Listings

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Understand

Nong Khai is a border town on the bank of the Mekong River. This province is a gateway to Vientiane, the capital of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR.), with a friendship bridge linking between the two countries. The history of Nong Khai dates back to over 200 years ago. Initially, this riverside area was spotted with small towns; namely, Phran Phrao, Wiang Khuk, Pakho, and Phai (Ban Bueng Khai). At present, traces of ancient places have been found in temples along the Mekong River on the route Tha Bo – Si Chiang Mai. During the reign of King Rama III of the Rattanakosin era, Chao Anuwong, the ruler of Vientiane, staged a rebellion. King Rama III appointed Chao Phraya Ratchathewi to lead an army to attack Vientiane. The army won with the important forces supported by Thao Suwothanma (Bunma), the ruler of Yasothon, and Phraya Chiangsa. The king, therefore, promoted Thao Suwo to be the ruler of a large town to be established on the right bank of the Mekong River. The location of Ban Phai was chosen for the town called Nong Khai, which was named after a very large pond to the west.

Nong Khai is 615 km. from Bangkok, covering an area of around 7,332 sq km. This province has the longest distance along the Mekong River; measuring 320 km. The area is suitable for agriculture and freshwater fishery. It is also a major tourist attraction where visitors can easily cross the border into Laos. There are temples, culture and folk ways of life, which are interesting. Hotel accommodation is available and comfortable. There are various kinds of food and souvenir products. By all these charms, people have been drawn to visit this riverside town.

Get in

By car

From Bangkok, drive along Highway 1, past Saraburi and switch to Highway 2, via Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, to Nong Khai, totalling 615 km.

By bus

The Transport Company Limited has a regular bus service both ordinary and air-conditioned to Nong Khai every day. For further information, contact the Mo Chit 2 (Chatuchak) Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 2936 2852-66, or visit the website www.transport.co.th. In addition, there is a private bus service: 407 Phatthana, Tel. 0 2992 3475-8, 0 4241 1261; Chan Tour Limited, Tel. 0 2618 7418, 0 4241 2195; Barami Tour, Tel. 0 2537 8249, 0 4246 0345; and Cherdchai Tour, Tel. 0 2936 0253, 0 4246 1067.

By train

The State Railway of Thailand has a train service from Bangkok to Nong Khai every day. For further information, contact the travel service unit, Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334, 0 2220 4444, or visit the website www.railway.co.th.

By plane

There are flights to Udon Thani. A further bus trip for 51 km. to Nong Khai is required. For further information, contact the Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI): Bangkok office, Tel. 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000; Nong Khai office, Tel. 0 4241 1592; or visit the website www.thaiairways.com.

Intra-provincial Transport

Visitors can use car rental services operated by many tour companies in town. They may choose a tricycle service called “Skylab” for visiting tourist spots in town and nearby areas, such as Tha Sadet Market, Wat Pho Chai, Sala Kaeo Ku, and Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge.

From the Nong Khai Bus Terminal, there is a bus service from Nong Khai to Loei, past Amphoe Tha Bo, Amphoe Si Chiang Mai and Amphoe Sangkhom in Nong Khai, and Amphoe Chiang Khan in Loei. The route runs along the Mekong River. In these districts, there are guesthouses available for visitors. Inter-provincial Transport

Apart from a Nong Khai – Bangkok bus service, the Nong Khai Bus Terminal also provides its service on other routes: Nong Khai – Rayong (both ordinary and air-conditioned), and ordinary buses on the Nong Khai – Loei, Nong Khai – Nakhon Phanom, and Nong Khai – Udon Thani routes. Contact the Nong Khai Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 4241 1612.

Trains are available from Nong Khai to Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Bangkok three times a day. Contact the Nong Khai Railway Station, Tel. 0 4241 1582.

See

Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai

Prap Ho Monument (อนุสาวรีย์ปราบฮ่อ) is located in front of the old city hall. The cremated bones of those who lost their lives in the suppression of the Ho in 1886 have been contained inside the monument which was built by an order of Luang Prachaksinlapakhom, the suppression commander, to honour the good deeds of those who sacrificed their own lives for the nation. There are inscriptions in Chinese, English, Laotian and Thai on all four directions of the monument. A worshipping ceremony and a fair to celebrate the monument are held every year on 5 March.

Wat Pho Chai (วัดโพธิ์ชัย) is a royal temple, located on Pho Chai Road in the Mueang Nong Khai Municipality. Luangpho Phra Sai, a sacred Buddha image of the town which is respected by the people of Nong Khai, is housed here. This Buddha image sitting cross-legged, which was cast from bright yellow gold in the posture of subduing Mara, has graceful features. According to legend, three daughters of the King of Lan Chang had three Buddha images cast and named each to associate with their names: Phra Soem, Phra Suk, and Phra Sai to the eldest, middle, and youngest siblings, respectively. Originally, the three images were housed in Vientiane. In the reign of King Rama III, they were invited to Nong Khai by boat. On the way to Nong Khai, Phra Suk was drowned by a storm. Phra Soem and Phra Sai were invited to house in Nong Khai. Later on, in the reign of King Rama IV, Phra Soem was taken to Bangkok. Phra Sai is still housed at Wat Pho Chai in Nong Khai. Every year on the full moon day in the seventh lunar month, the people of Nong Khai always hold a rocket merit-making fair or Bun Bang Fai to worship Phra Sai at Wat Pho Chai.

Tha Sadet Market (ตลาดท่าเสด็จ) is located along the Mekong River in the Mueang Nong Khai Municipality. This is a source of products from Indochina and East Europe, including dried food, processed food, and utensils, such as electric appliances, clothes, watches, kitchenware, etc. It is open daily from 07.00 - 18.30 hrs. Many visitors, both foreign and Thai, come to see and purchase products for sale here. Furthermore, this is a checkpoint for local people to cross the border into Laos, while visitors in general have to go through the Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge checkpoint.

Phrathat Nong Khai or Phrathat Klang Nam (พระธาตุหนองคาย หรือ พระธาตุกลางน้ำ) is a broken pagoda in the middle of the Mekong River. According to the legend of Urangkhathat (Phrathat Phanom), nine pieces of the Lord Buddha’s foot relics were kept here. The underwater survey of the Archaeological Unit Region 7 found that the pagoda which has an indented square base of 17.2 m on each side, with around 28.5 m in height, was broken into three pieces. It was presumed that the pagoda was built in around the 15th – 17th Century since its form was mostly similar to Phrathat Bang Phuan. Section 70 of the Chronicles says that “Phrathat Mueang Nong Khai collapsed on the ninth day of the waxing moon in the ninth lunar month in Buddhist Era 2390.” The river bank was eroded, so the pagoda is presently seen almost in the middle of the Mekong River.

Sala Kaeo Ku or Wat Khaek (ศาลาแก้วกู่ หรือ วัดแขก) is located 3 km. from the town of Nong Khai on the right side of the route to Phon Phisai. Presently, it is under the care of the Nong Khai Buddhist Association. This place which looks like an open museum of religious statues was created with an inspiration of Luangpu Bunluea Surirat who built it around 1978, out of his own belief that the teachings of all regions could be mixed together. Therefore, there are Buddha images in different attitudes, Hindu gods, Christian religious icons, as well as character figures from the Ramayana epic and folk legends. It is open daily during 07.00 - 17.00 hrs. Admission fee is 10 Baht per person.

Hat Chom Mani or Chom Mani Beach (หาดจอมมณี) is located around 2 km. from town, along the Mekong River. It is a sandy beach stretching about 200 m and only emerging during the dry season. April is the appropriate time for a visit. There are so many visitors, both from town and nearby provinces, that it is called the “Pattaya of Isan.” In addition, the Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge can be viewed clearly from the beach.

Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge (สะพานมิตรภาพไทย-ลาว) is a link over the Mekong River between Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai of Thailand and Tha Duea of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the town which is around 20 km. from Vientiane the capital. It was built with cooperation from three countries: Australia, Laos, and Thailand. It is the bridge that strengthens the Thai – Lao relationship on cultural, economic and social aspects. Visitors in general are required to cross the border from Nong Khai to Vientiane via this channel. This bridge is 1,174 m long and 12.7 m wide, with two driving lanes and the middle space spare for the establishment of a train track. At a foot of the bridge, there is an immigration checkpoint.

Phrathat Bang Phuan (พระธาตุบังพวน) is located in Wat Phrathat Bang Phuan, Ban Don Mu, Tambon Phrathat Bang Phuan. This ancient pagoda which contains the Lord Buddha’s relics has long been respected and worshipped by the people of Nong Khai. The original pagoda was built with bricks in the local style of architecture, featuring an Indian stupa of the same age as Phra Phathom Chedi. Then, its base collapsed in June 1970. The present pagoda which was renovated by the Fine Arts Department is an angular bell-shaped Chedi supported by a square relic chamber similar to that of a Prang, with a tapering finial crowned by an umbrella. Its lower base has five tiers and is 17.2 m wide. The pagoda measures 34.25 m from the ground. The people of Nong Khai hold a fair to worship the pagoda on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in the second lunar month every year. Within the temple compound, there are other interesting ancient places such as Sattamahasathan or the seven important places in the history of the Lord Buddha after his enlightenment, where he stayed seven days each in Bliss of Emancipation, and Sa Pappharanak or Sa Phaya Nak (pond of the Naga serpent) where in the past the water was taken to bathe a newly appointed ruler of the town as an auspicious gesture.

To get there Phrathat Bang Phuan is 23 km. from town. Take Highway 2 (Nong Khai – Udon Thani) for around 11 km. and turn right to Highway 211 toward Tha Bo. Drive on to Km 10, the temple is on your right.

Amphoe Tha Bo

Luangpho Phrachao Ong Tue (หลวงพ่อพระเจ้าองค์ตื้อ) is housed in Wat Si Chomphu Ong Tue, Ban Nam Mong. This large Buddha image was cast from bronze by the royal artisans of the northern city and Lan Chang. Having graceful features, the 4 metre-high image is sitting cross-legged in the attitude of subduing Mara with a lap width of 3.29 m. It is a holy image which has gained much respect from the peoples on both of the banks of the Mekong River. According to a stone inscription, this image was built in 1562 by the royal command of Phra Chaiyachettha, King of Nakhon Wiang. The metals used included gold, brass, and silver, weighing a total of one Tue (an ancient scale of Isan) and it took seven years and seven months to finish the cast. The province has a fair to pay homage to Luangpho Phrachao Ong Tue every year on the full moon day in the fourth lunar month.

To get there From the town of Nong Khai, take Highway 2 to Udon Thani and switch to Highway 211 (Nong Khai – Tha Bo). At Km 31, follow a road sign on the left to the temple for around 1 km.

Tobacco-making Village (หมู่บ้านทำยาสูบ) is along the route from Amphoe Mueang to Amphoe Tha Bo on Highway 211. The villagers grow tobacco plantations along the area parallel to the Mekong River. Here, there are picturesque views of nature.

Freshwater Fishery Village (หมู้บ้านประมงน้ำจืด) is located in Tambon Kong Nang on the Tha Bo – Si Chiang Mai route. The villagers here have freshwater fishery as a profession. Freshwater species of fish raised in their farms are Pla Taphian, Pla Nai, Pla Nuan Chan, Pla Yisok Thet, Pla Klet Ngoen, Pla Hua To, Pla Duk Thet, etc. Their produce is delivered for sale in Bangkok, the North and Isan regions.

Krayo Pastry-making Village (หมู่บ้านทำแผ่นกระยอ) is located on the route from Nong Song Hong to Amphoe Tha Bo. Here, bamboo trays are seen with Krayo pastry being sun-dried along the roadsides. Krayo pastry is used for Vietnamese food such as Popia (spring rolls) and Naem Nueang (wrap of pork and vegetables with spicy sauce). Krayo pastry is an export product as well.

Amphoe Si Chiang Mai

Phra Sutham Chedi, Wat Aranyabanphot (พระสุธรรมเจดีย์ วัดอรัญญบรรพต) is located on the Si Chiang Mai – Sangkhom Road, Tambon Ban Mo. Relics of the Lord Buddha are enshrined in this Chedi which also serves as a museum. The Chedi was constructed by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand as a tribute to Luangpu Rian Woralapho, a religious master of many followers. An annual merit-making fair is held at the temple in January.

Wat Hin Mak Peng (วัดหินหมากเป้ง) is located at Ban Thai Charoen, Tambon Phra Phutthabat. The temple compound is spacious, clean and shady with various species of plants amidst tranquility. Its area on one side borders the Mekong River where a scenic view can be seen. Originally, this place was a Dharma practice place of Luangpu Thet Thetrangsi, a famous meditation master of Isan, who initiated it as a Dharma practice centre for Buddhist monks, nuns and pilgrims. After his death, a Chedi was built to enshrine his remains. Inside the temple, there is a statue of Luangpu Thet on display with the eight requisites (the three robes, the bowl, a razor, a needle, the girdle and a water-strainer) and his biography.

To get there Wat Hin Mak Peng is 75 km. from town. Take Highway 211 (Nong Khai – Si Chiang Mai) and switch to Highway 2186. The temple is on your right.

Amphoe Sangkhom

Namtok Than Thong (น้ำตกธารทอง) is located in Ban Pha Tang, Mu 1, Tambon Pha Tang. This waterfall has its stream flowing along the rocky ground. There is a pond where visitors can swim. Tiers of small cascades line below for a distance of around 30 m before merging with the Mekong River. The time to visit when the waterfall holds plenty of water is between June and October. The surrounding area is an arboretum with a thick forest.

To get there Take the Nong Khai – Si Chiang Mai – Sangkhom route (Highway 211) past Ban Chai Charoen to Ban Pha Tang (Highway 2186). At Km 74, around 11 km. before reaching the town, Than Thong Waterfall is on your right, while the car park is on the left.

Namtok Than Thip (น้ำตกธารทิพย์) is a high and beautiful waterfall amidst a lush forest. It has three tiers. The first tier is around 30 m high and its long white body of water rushes into a pond below. The second tier of about 100 m high can be reached through a marked trail. The third tier is around 70 m high with water flowing all year round, especially in the rainy season there will be plenty of water.

To get there Drive along Highway 211. At Km 97-98, follow a road sign to turn left and go on for around 2 km. (It is about 9 km from Amphoe Sangkhom.) From the parking area, walk another 100 m.

King Amphoe Rattanawapi

Nong Khai Horticultural Research Centre (ศูนย์วิจัยพืชสวนหนองคาย) is located on the Nong Khai – Bueng Kan route (Highway 212). From the town of Nong Khai, drive on for around 63 km. Then, follow a road sign to turn right at Ban Na Yang and go on for another 200 m. Being not far from the Mekong River, this area is very moist and various species of plants have been grown here for an experiment to see their development. Visitors can walk the area to view groves of fruits, such as durian, mangosteen, Long Kong, cashew nut, etc., and local plants for conservation, such as Makiang which is used for making wine and juice. There are also furrows of local vegetables, such as Krachiao, Phakkat Ya, Som Mong, Phak Wan Pa, etc., which are eaten with Namphrik (spicy sauce) or Lap (spicy dish of minced meat) by the people of Isan. Besides, local herbs and more than 100 species of fragrant flowers are gathered here. During the cool season, colourful temperate flowers will be grown as well. This is an interesting place of agro-tourism. For further information, call 0 4242 1257.

Amphoe Pak Khat

Wat Sawang Arom or Wat Tham Si Thon (วัดสว่างอารมณ์ หรือ วัดถ้ำศรีธน) is located on the rocky ground of a hill. It is shady with trees and a small stream flows through it. The Ubosot (ordination hall) stands on a giant boulder. Down below, a reclining Buddha image is housed for the people to pay homage to. From here, a view of Laos can be seen in the distance.

To get there From the town of Nong Khai, drive along Highway 212 to Amphoe Pak Khat. Follow a road sign to turn right and go on for another 500 m.

Amphoe Si Wilai

Phu Thok (ภูทอก) means an isolated mountain in Isan dialect. Located in Ban Na Kham Khaen, Tambon Na Sabaeng, this sandstone range stands out and can be seen from a distance. It consists of two hills: Phu Thok Yai and Phu Thok Noi. Previously, this area was dense woods with many wild animals. Because of its tranquility, Phra Achan Chuan Kunlachettho, a meditation master, initially established a meditation place here for Buddhists to practise the Buddha’s teachings.

Phu Thok Noi is where Wat Chetiya Khiri Wihan (Wat Phu Thok) is situated. This temple is the starting point of a walk up to the top of Phu Thok, via a wooden bridge winding around the steep mountain. The bridge was built with faith from monks, novices and villagers. The construction began in 1969 and took five years to complete. This bridge is compared to a path of virtue that leads a righteous man to leave a world and enter into emancipation by their own efforts and determination. Phu Thok is still a meditation practice centre and a place for the community’s religious affairs. Visitors shall be calm in manner and pay respect to the place. The bridge’s stairs to the mountain top are divided into seven sections.

The first and second sections leading to the third section wind around the mountain which is covered by a dense dark forest with boulders and rocky grounds. At the end of the third section, a left turn is a very steep shortcut through the channel-like rock formation straight to the fifth section, but a right turn provides a path up to the fourth section.

The fourth section climbs around the mountain and overlooks small hills dotting the ground below called “Dong Chomphu” whose area to the west borders Phu Langka which is a rain forest in Amphoe Seka. Here, it is a residence for nuns. The section is around 400 m in circumference and is provided with rest areas here and there along the path.

The fifth section has pavilions and monk’s residences. There are several caves along the route to the sixth section. Many spacious rest areas are available on the sixth section, including cliffs, such as Pha Thep Nimit, Pha Hua Chang, Pha Thep Sathit, etc. To the north, visitors can see a natural stone bridge to Phra Wihan (hall) where the Lord Buddha’s relics are enshrined. Here, a mountainous line of Phu Thok Yai can be seen clearly. Most visitors often end their walk here. Since a further move to the seventh section goes along the winding bridge which clings to an edge of the high steep cliff, for around 400 m before reaching the shady forested hilltop destination. To visitors, this may seem horrifying and too dangerous.

To get there Phu Thok is around 185 km. from the town of Nong Khai. Take Highway 212, past Pho Chai, Pak Khat and Bueng Kan districts. Then, turn left to take Highway 222 and head for Si Wilai district. From Si Wilai, take a left turn and go on for another 30 km., past Ban Na Sing, Ban Sai Ngam, to Ban Na Kham Khaen and Phu Thok.

Amphoe Bung Khla

Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าภูวัว) is located in Ban Don Chik; 3 km from Bung Khla district and take a right turn for a further trip of around 6 km. It has an area of around 186 sq. km. or 116,562 rai, covering some part of Bueng Kan, Bung Khla, Seka and Bueng Khong Long districts, and nearly bordering Laos. This sanctuary is around 150-300 m above sea level. Types of forest here are mostly Deciduous Dipterocarp Forest, Dry Evergreen Forest and Moist Evergreen Forest. Some parts of the area are sandstone mountain ridges, rocky grounds and grass fields.

Places of Interest

• Namtok Tham Fun (น้ำตกถ้ำฝุ่น) is located in Ban Phu Sawat, Tambon Nong Doen. Drive on Highway 212, and 7 km. before reaching Bung Khla district, turn right to go on for around 4 km. The waterfall is encompassed by a timber forest with a scenic view of the northern Phu Wua. A walking trail passes a rocky ground to the cascade which is seen along the long narrow channel on the sandstone cliff. There is water only in the rainy season.

• Namtok Chet Si (น้ำตกเจ็ดสี) is located in Ban Don Siat, Tambon Ban Tong, Amphoe Seka. This very beautiful waterfall, especially during the rainy season, originates from a stream of Huai Ka-am and flows along a high sandstone cliff to spread over a long line. The falling water that hits the rocks below causes a spray of water which gives rainbow colours when seen in sunlight. So came the name “Namtok Chet Si,” which means a waterfall of seven colours.

To get there Drive on Highway 212, and 12 km. before reaching Bung Khla district, turn right at Ban Chai Phon. Head for the waterfall, past Ban Phu Ngoen and Ban Don Siat, for 28 km. Or from Phu Thok, take the route via Ban Na Tong and Ban Don Siat, totalling 14 km.

• Namtok Phu Tham Phra (น้ำตกภูถ้ำพระ) is located in Ban Tham Phra, Tambon Sok Kam, Amphoe Seka. It is around 34 km. from Seka district. Like other waterfalls at Phu Wua, it has water only in the rainy season. A monastic residence or Samnak Song here is tranquil and shady. Walking down to the rocky ground at the back, visitors will find a valley with a deep bottom of around 200 sq. m. where a waterfall flows down the valley. The waterfall is on a cliff of around 100 m wide and 50 m high. Visitors can play in the pool.

To get there It is rather a difficult trip. From Bung Khla district, drive on Highway 212 for 24 km. to Ban Tha Dok Kham. Turn right to take a dirt road to Huai Bang Bat and go further by boat to the waterfall.

• Namtok Chanaen (น้ำตกชะแนน) is located in Ban Phu Ngoen, Amphoe Seka. Originally, it was called “Namtok Tat Sanaen.” “Tat” literally means a place where water flows. “Sanaen” refers to “summit” or “excellence.” This waterfall has its origin from Lam Huai Sanaen. It is 100 m wide and has two tiers with an interval of 300 m. This is a large and beautiful waterfall which has water only in the rainy season. The path to the waterfall passes Khua Hin or a natural stone bridge of around 100 m long, where a phenomenon of water disappearing under the bridge can be witnessed. A walk up to the second tier passes along a stream dotted with boulders. Following the stream on its left bank, visitors will find a broad ground by a large pool. There is another small waterfall called Namtok Bueng Chorakhe, rushing down to the pool.

To get there Use the same route to Namtok Chet Si. Take the Ban Chai Phon – Ban Phu Ngoen route for 13 km. Follow a small road off the route for another 5 km. Go further for the final distance on a bumpy narrow dirt road accessible by only motorcycle.

Travel to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic through the Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge

Visitors can visit Laos by themselves. For those who prefer convenience, there are licensed companies offering a tour service. The immigration checkpoint at the Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge is open daily during 06.00 – 22.00 hrs.

Travel Documents

Foreigners (ชาวต่างชาติ) must have a passport and visa. A visa application can be submitted to the Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in Thailand at 520/1-3 Soi Ramkhamhaeng 39, Wang Thong Lang, Bang Kapi, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2539 6667, or the Consulate-General of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Khon Kaen, at 18/1-3 Phothi Sathit Road, Ban Non Than, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang, Khon Kaen, Tel. 0 4322 1861, 0 4322 3688. This must be done at least 3 official days in advance of travel, or contact a tour company for the service. A period of 30 days will be allowed for a stay in Laos. Otherwise, contact the immigration checkpoint in Laos for a visa-on arrival, allowing a period of 15 days.

To bring a car in and out of the country, a document is required with a fee as imposed. Contact a tour company in Nong Khai for the service. For further information, contact the provincial customs checkpoint, Tel. 0 4241 1518, 0 4242 1468-9, fax: 0 4241 2654.

Tour Service to Laos Visitors can contact tour companies in Nong Khai for more details. Rates of the service are subject to travelling days and the number of visitors.

Festival

Prap Ho Monument Fair (งานอนุสาวรีย์ปราบฮ่อ) Being held at the Prap Ho Monument around the month of March every year. Activities in the fair include shows, games, and booths of goods at reasonable prices.

Trut Songkran Fair (งานตรุษสงกรานต์) Being held at Wat Pho Chai on Songkran Day every year. Luangpho Phra Sai and important Buddha images from other temples will be put on a procession to go around town for the general public to pay homage to and bathe the holy images. There are booths of local products at reasonable prices.

Bun Bang Fai Fair (งานบุญบั้งไฟ) Being held in the sixth lunar month (May) every year. There is a rocket contest to worship Phaya Thaen or god of the rain. It is a way the local people do to ask for rain. A temple fair will be organised in the grounds of Wat Pho Chai. Rocket shooting will be done on the field around 10 km. from Wat Pho Chai.

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (บั้งไฟพญานาค) This extraordinary miracle always occurs at the beginning of the full moon night in the eleventh lunar month (End of Buddhist Lent). It can be seen along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom. Bang Fai Phaya Nak is a term used for red and pinkish fire balls, which according to belief, belong to Phaya Nak or the great serpent of the underwater world. On the day marking the End of Buddhist Lent, a great number of people come to witness this phenomenon.

Tak Bat Thewo and Thai - Lao Friendship Boat Race (งานตักบาตรเทโวและแข่งเรือมิตรภาพไทย-ลาว) Being held during the end of the Buddhist Lent festival every year. People come to offer alms to Buddhist monks in the morning. Long boat competitions, which the Thai and Lao sides will take turn to host, will be held on the Mekong River during the day.

Buy

Local Products and Souvenirs

Nong Khai has many local products for souvenirs, especially local food products such as Isan-styled sausage, Mu Yo (pork bar), Naem (fermented pork), and Vietnamese food such as Naem Nueang. In addition, there are products made of hand-woven cotton, basketry and silver ornaments available for sale at shops in town. Products being promoted on the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) programme include Huat or Muai, used to cook sticky rice, from Tambon Khai Bok Wan, Amphoe Mueang; Kluai Tak (dried banana) and Kluai Muan (rolled banana) from Amphoe Sangkhom; Khao Mao Op Krop (crispy shredded rice) from Amphoe Pak Khat; Sapparot Kuan (pineapple conserve) from King Amphoe Rattanawapi; Ya Sen Op Thang (tobacco cured in a tank) from Tambon Ban Thon, Amphoe Tha Bo, etc.

Local Product and Souvenir Shops

• Kap Ngoen (กาบเงิน) 1066 Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4242 0421.
• Daeng Naem Nueang (แดงแหนมเนือง) Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4241 1961.
• Nisachon (นิสาชล) 115 Mu 11, Mittraphap Road, Ban Nong Song Hong, Tambon Khai Bok Wan. Tel. 0 4241 2457.
• Big Chiang Super Centre (บิ๊กเจียงซุปเปอร์เซ็นเตอร์) 304 Mittraphap Road. Tel. 0 4246 5575-6.
• Phonthip (พรทิพย์) 302 Rim Khong Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1278.
• Phrae Mai (แพรไหม) 294 Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4241 2095.
• Fa Mai Saikrok (ฟ้าใหม่ไส้กรอก) 546 Mi Chai Road. Tel. 0 4241 2297.
• Mum Ngoen Mai Thai (มุมเงินไหมไทย) 292 Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4241 1235.
• Racha Saikrok (ราชาไส้กรอก) 578/1-2 Mi Chai Road. Tel. 0 4241 2174.
• V T Naem Nueang (วี ที แหนมเนือง) Pho Si Road. Tel. 0 4234 8551.
• Si Chai (ศรีชัย) 1088-9 Si Sa Ket Road (Tha Sadet), Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1752.
• Hatthakam Singtho (หัตถกรรมสิ่งทอ) 1151 Soi Chittapanya, Prachak Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1236.
• Mu Yo Mae Thuan (หมูยอแม่ถ้วน) 657 Mi Chai Road. Tel. 0 4242 0088.

Tour Agency and Car Rental

• Kantana Tour (กานตนาทัวร์) 192 Mittraphap Thai - Lao Road. Tel. 0 4241 1132, Fax: 0 4246 7870.
• Chirathip Tour (จีระทิปต์ทัวร์) 186 Mittraphap Thai - Lao Road. Tel. 0 4242 1450.
• Thai - Lao Riverside Tour (ไทย-ลาว ริเวอร์ไซด์ทัวร์) 051 Kaeo Worawut Road. Tel. 0 4246 0263-7, 0 9186 0744.
• Naruemon Tour (นฤมลทัวร์) 179 Nong Khai - Vientiane Road. Tel. 0 4241 2565, 0 4246 7406, 0 1873 3128.
• Nakha Travel (นาคาทราเวล) 519 Rim Khong Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 3666, Fax: 0 4241 3699.
• Mittraphap Tour (มิตรภาพทัวร์) 170 Mu 3, Tha Udom Market, Mittraphap Thai - Lao Road. Tel. 0 4246 7880, Fax: 0 4246 7359.
• Cho Enterprise Part. Ltd. (หจก.โจ เอ็นเตอร์ไพรส์) 181 Mittraphap Thai - Lao Road. Tel. 0 4242 3912, Fax: 0 4241 1408.
• Phu Phaya Travel Service (ภูพญา ทราเวล เซอร์วิส) 299 Mittraphap Thai - Lao Road. Tel. 0 4246 7466.

Sleep

Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai

• Kaeo Khun Resort (แก้วคูณ รีสอร์ท) Beside Nong Khai Grand Hotel (an entrance to Sunthrawan Housing Estate). Tel. 0 4246 0293, 0 1717 9915. Website: www.janhom.com. 22 rooms; 220 – 1,200 Baht.
• Gold Lucky Resort (โกลด์ ลักกี้ โฮเต็ล) 230/1 Soi Chom Mani 2, next to the Nong Khai Technical and Boat Building Industrial College. Tel. 0 4242 3189, 0 4242 3275. 50 rooms: 200 – 650 Baht.
• Chan Hom Apartment (จันทร์หอม อพาร์ทเมนต์) Mi Chai Road, Soi Wat Chom Chuen. Tel. 0 4246 0293, 0 1717 9915. 28 rooms: 250 – 350 Baht.
• Chongkon Guesthouse (จงกล เกสต์เฮาส์) 649 Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4246 0548, Fax: 0 4241 2229. 10 rooms: 100 – 300 Baht.
• Thip Nong Khai (ทิพย์ หนองคาย) 9 Mittraphap Road, Tambon Pho Chai. Tel. 0 4246 4514-5, Fax: 0 4242 3099. 119 rooms: 500 –1,000 Baht.
• Thai – Lao Riverside (ไทย-ลาว ริเวอร์ไซด์) 051 Kaeo Worawut Road. Tel. 0 4246 0263-7, Fax: 0 4246 0317. 72 rooms: 500 – 1,000 Baht.
• Prachak Bungalow (ประจักษ์บังกะโล) 1178 Prachak Road. Tel. 0 4242 0510, Fax: 0 4241 2644. 35 rooms: 200 – 600 Baht.
• Phong Wichit (พงษ์วิจิตร) 1244/1-2 Banthoeng Chit Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1583, Fax: 0 4241 1958. 38 rooms: 200 – 500 Baht.
• Phan Thawi (พรรณทวี) 1241 Hai Sok Road. Tel. 0 4241 1568-9, Fax: 0 4246 0850. 80 rooms: 300 – 600 Baht.
• Phan Thawi Resort (พรรณทวี รีสอร์ท) 210 Kaeo Worawut Road, Chom Mani Soi 5 (by the Mekong River). Tel. 0 4241 1008, 0 4242 6200, 0 4242 0059. 36 rooms: 400 – 1,000 Baht.
• Phun Sap (พูลทรัพย์) 843 Mi Chai Road. Tel. 0 4241 1031. 14 rooms: 200 – 300 Baht.
• Mat Mi Garden Guesthouse (มัดหมี่ เกสต์เฮ้าส์) 1111/4 Kaeo Worawut Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4246 0717, 0 1261 2642, Fax: 0 4241 2182. 30 rooms: 130 – 500 Baht.
• Man Khong Apartment (มั่นคง อพาร์ทเมนต์) 268/3 Prachak Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4246 0756-9. 58 rooms: 350 Baht.
• Mekong Guesthouse (แม่โขง เกสต์เฮาส์) 519 Rim Khong Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4246 0689, Fax: 0 4242 0797. 20 rooms: 100 – 300 Baht.
• Mekong Royal Nong Khai (แม่โขง รอยัล หนองคาย) 222 Phanang Chonprathan Road, Tambon Kuan Wan. Tel. 0 4242 0024, 0 4246 5777-81, fax: 0 4242 1280. Bangkok reservation office, Tel. 0 2272 0087-9, Fax: 0 2272 3118, or www.welcome.to/royal_mekong. 198 rooms: 1,200 - 3,000 Baht.
• Mekong River (แม่โขง ริเวอร์) 179 Kaeo Worawut Road (opposite the old railway station). Tel. 0 4241 1277, 0 4246 5557, Fax: 0 4246 5558. 30 rooms: 400 Baht.
• Mekong Resort (แม่โขง รีสอร์ท) 134 Nong Khai – Udon Thani Road (Km 6). Tel. 0 4242 0901. 24 rooms: 350 Baht.
• Rim Khong Guesthouse (ริมโขง เกสต์เฮาส์) 815/1-3 Rim Khong Road, beside Wat Hai Sok. Tel. 0 4246 0625. 80 – 150 Baht.
• Sarawut Resort (ศราวุธ รีสอร์ท) 180 Mu 4, Nong Khai – Phon Phisai Road. Tel. 0 4241 1006, 0 4241 1222. 15 rooms: 200 – 400 Baht.
• Suk San Motel (สุขสันต์ โมเต็ล) 1164 Prachak Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1585. 30 rooms: 200 – 300 Baht.
• Sawatdi Guesthouse (สวัสดี เกสต์เฮาส์) 402 Mi Chai Road (opposite Wat Si Khun Mueang), Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 2502. 14 rooms: 100 – 380 Baht.
• Nong Khai Grand Thani (หนองคายแกรนด์ธานี) 598 Mu 5, Nong Khai – Phon Phisai Road. Tel. 0 4242 0033, 0 4242 0044, Fax: 0 4241 2026. Bangkok office, Tel. 0 2237 6809-12, or www.nongkhaigrand.com. 130 rooms: 900 – 3,500 Baht.
• Heng Heng Guesthouse (เฮง เฮง เกสต์เฮาส์) 117 Prachak Road (next to Sarika Kindergarten). Tel. 0 4241 3676. 22 rooms: 200 – 400 Baht.
• Khiangkhong guesthouse (เคียงโขง เกสต์เฮาส์) 541 Mu 4, Rimkhong Road. Tambon Nai Mueang,

( near indochina market )Room: 300-400 Baht. Tel. 042422870

Amphoe Tha Bo

• Kasalong Resort (กาสะลอง รีสอร์ท) 333 Tha Bo – Ban Phue Road. Tel. 0 4240 0820, 0 1946 2555. 10 rooms: 150 – 400 Baht.
• Khum Tai Resort (คุ้มใต้ รีสอร์ท) 219 Tha Bo – Si Chiang Mai Road. Tel. 0 4243 1192. 10 houses: 300 Baht.
• Tha Bo Bungalow (ท่าบ่อ บังกะโล) 98 Choradon Sawan Road, Tambon Tha Bo. Tel. 0 4243 1196. 8 rooms: 150 – 280 Baht.
• Rong Raem 141 (โรงแรม ๑๔๑) 141 Mittraphap Road (Tha Bo - Nong Song Hong), Tambon Tha Bo. Tel. 0 4243 1807, 0 4243 1941. 29 rooms: 250 – 350 Baht.

Amphoe Si Chiang Mai

• Kuson Suk (กุศลสุข) 14 Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4245 1152. 9 rooms: 120 – 300 Baht.
• Sit Suwan (สิทธิ์สุวรรณ) 35 Mu 2, Soi 17, Rim Khong Road. Tel. 0 4245 1127. 11 rooms: 150 – 350 Baht.
• Manirat Resort (มณีรัตน์ รีสอร์ท) 74 Mu 1, Rim Khong Road, Tambon Phran Phrao. Tel. 0 4245 1311. 19 rooms: 350 – 800 Baht.
• Tim Guesthouse (ติ๋ม เกสต์เฮ้าส์) 553 Mu 2. Tel. 0 4245 1072. 8 rooms: 150 – 200 Baht.

Amphoe Bueng Kan

• Sai Ngoen Resort (ทรายเงิน รีสอร์ท) 149 Bueng Kan – Phang Khon Road, one kilometre from Bueng Kan Market. Tel. 0 4249 1833-4, Fax: 0 4249 1055. 33 rooms: 300 – 500 Baht.
• Mekong Guesthouse (แม่โขง เกสต์เฮาส์) Liap Maenam Khong Road. Tel. 0 4249 1341. 9 rooms: 200 –300 Baht.
• Santi Suk Hotel (สันติสุข โฮเต็ล) 71/2 Prasat Chai Road. Tel. 0 4249 1114. 25 rooms: 150 – 300 Baht.
• A Hang Mekong View (อาฮง แม่โขงวิว) Mu 3, Tambon Khai Si. Tel. 0 4600 0815. 16 rooms: 400 – 650 Baht.

Amphoe Sangkhom

• Pui Guesthouse (ปุ๋ย เกสต์เฮาส์) 60/4 Soi Thanakhan Tho Ko So, Tambon Kaeng Kai. Tel. 0 4244 1065. 10 rooms: 150 – 180 Baht.
• Rabiang Rim Khong Bungalow (ระเบียงริมโขง บังกะโล)) 160/3 Ban Kaeng Kai, Sangkhom – Pak Chom Road. Tel. 0 4244 1106. 4 rooms: 250 Baht.

Eat

• Khrua Saban-nga (ครัวสบันงา) 1038/1 Kaeo Worawut Road. Tel. 0 4246 0838.
• Khrua Suk San (ครัวสุขสันต์) 1164 Prachak Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1585, 0 4241 1797.
• Chok Kanyarat (โจ๊กกัญญารัตน์) Hai Sok Road. Tel. 0 4241 2475.
• Chom Mani (จอมมณี) Inside Mekong Royal Hotel. Tel. 0 4242 0024.
• Chen Chop Thit (เจนจบทิศ) 797 Udon – Nong Khai Road (opposite to Thanakhan Tho Ko So). Tel. 0 4242 0858.
• Cho Khun (เจ้าคุณ) Nong Khai Grand Thani Hotel. Tel. 0 4242 0033, 0 4242 0044.
• Chai Khong (ชายโขง) 003 Kaeo Worawut Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 2308.
• DD Phochana (ดีดีโภชนา) 1155/9 Mu 4, Prachak Road. Tel. 0 4241 1548.
• Daeng Naem Nueang (แดงแหนมเนือง) 256-257 Rim Khong Road, Tel. 0 4241 1961, 0 4242 1202.
• Thantawan (ทานตะวัน) 057/1 Prachak Road, nearby Sawang Witthaya School. Tel. 0 4241 1235, 0 4246 0349.
• Thippharot (ทิพรส) 1069 Mi Chai Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1584.
• Panorama (พาโนรามา) 423 Rim Khong Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 9186 2121, 0 4241 1568.
• Ruean Phae Hai Sok (เรือนแพหายโศก) 484/1 Hai Sok Road, in the compound of Wat Hai Sok, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 2211.
• Ruean Rim Nam (เรือนริมน้ำ) 10 Kaeo Worawut Road. Tel. 0 4246 5212.
• Song Fang Khong (สองฝั่งโขง) Kaeo Worawut Road. Tel. 0 4242 0418.
• Nong Khai Phochana (หนองคายโภชนา) 387/6 Banthoeng Chit Road, Tambon Nai Mueang. Tel. 0 4241 1645.
• Lang Chuan (หลังจวน) 1156/3 Hai Sok Road. Tel. 0 4241 2558.
• Im Em Phochana (อิ่มเอมโภชนา) 1255/3 nearby Phong Wichit Hotel, Banthoeng Chit Road. Tel. 0 4241 1608.

--(WT-en) globe-trotter 20:13, 6 February 2010 (EST)