Exploring Loei

Along the Mekong from Chiang Khan to Pak Chom

Loei adjoins the Mekong for a distance of about 96 kilometers from Chiang Khan to Pak Chom. This watercourse is narrow and meandering, on both sides by imposing mountains. The riverbed is filled with small gravel.

Highway 211 along the Mekong River from Nong Khai to Chiang Khan, unquestionably one of the most scenic routes in Thailand, promises a memorable and comfortable drive. Summer time offers even more fascinating scenery, as the low water level in the Mekong reveals hidden islands, islets and sandy beaches along the way. Tourist can also break the journey at many tourist attractions nearby.

1. Si Khun Muang

The temple was constructed before 1834 by Phra Khru Butdi, a former abbot of the temple, and his follows. Then ubosot, wihan and Buddha statue were built further by Phra Anu Phinat, the Governor of Pak Hueang or Chiang Khan together with his wife Nang Kuai, his children and the Pak Hueang officials. Wat Si Khun Muang observes the artistic stales of both Lanna which is a historical Kingdom in the present-day northern region of Thailand and Lan Xang. For instance, the ubosot’s roof is multi-tiered along Lanna’s architectural preference. The temple possesses many important artifacts, particularly a Lan Xang gilded carved wooden statue of posture of giving pardon. Presumably built in the 18th – 19th centuries, this statue has short curls and long pointed ears. The gilded carved wooden pulpit upon which monks preach sermons is also noteworthy.

Another distinguished artifact in this temple is the Hang Hot, which was once commonly found in the northern region but is rarely seen today.

Hang Hot is along thin water pathway in the shape of a Suphannahong Royal Barge. When people pour water into one end of the pathway, water flows to the revered, high-ranking monks, or sometimes to the governor himself, who sits at the other end. This is a symbolic act of paying respect and well wishing.

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2. Phu Thok

The summit of Phu Thok offers a good viewpoint overlooking Chiang Khan, the Mekong and Laos, especially at sunset.

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3. Kaeng Khut Khu

Kaeng Khut Khu is formed with a large rock obstructing a curve of the Mekong River causing strong currents. During the rainy season, Kaeng Khut Khu is concealed under water, but during summer time in February-May, the rock and its surrounding sandy beaches spectacularly reveal themselves. Visitors can leisurely walk on some parts of it. Fish abound around this place, similar to Kaeng Fa and Kaeng Chan in Amphoe Pak Chom.

Tourists who yearn for the close touch of the Mekong and its natural environment can take a 20-person boat to cruise for about 1 hour for a distance of 4 kilometers past Kaeng Khut Khu, Phu Khwai Ngoen and Phu Pha Baen.

Kaeng Khut Khu is also famous for many local food stalls operated by Ban Na Noi people. Apart from common mouthwatering dishes such as rossted chicken and papaya pha, kung ten and tomyam. These dishes are clean and reasonably priced.

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4. Wat Phra Phuttha Bat Phu Khwai Ngoen

The Buddha’s Footprint is enshrined in the sala (or pavilion) on the right of the parking lot. The Footprint, registered as a historic site in 1935, is about 1.2 meters long and about .8 meter wide. This highly revered temple was once so barely accessible that it is believed only those of high virtue can do. Those of lesser virtue would be barred by one way or another, despite their strong intention, from reaching the temple. On every 15th day of the waxing moon in February the temple holds a grand celebration.

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5. Ban Hat Bia

This small village by the Mekong bank is a popular stopover to admire the captivating and colorful rocks in the river.

Site Map: Loei

::: Introduction

::: Festival

::: Tour Programs

::: Local Cuisine

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