Nong Khai province contains the longest stretch of the Mekong River: 320 km It is also a major tourist Destination and the major launching point for journeys into Laos or exploring greater Isan (northeastern Thailand). Nong Khai features temples, traditional Culture, a beautiful countryside, and a rural folk lifestyle, the most lively EVENT of which centres on the Bung Fi Phaya Nak, the naga fireballs: an annual event whereby mysterious glowing balls of light rise up out of the river, believed to be sent by the naga king in honour of the Lord Buddha.

Nong Khai is a border town on the bank of the Mekong River opposite the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR.). A friendship bridge links the two countries and Nong Khai is a popular stop for Travellers headed to Vientiane and greater Laos. Mud Mee, a special style of silk that is popular with the Thai royal family, is produced in Nong Khai and the naga fireballs, a mysterious annual event, takes place in the Mekong River not far from town.

Some attractions Traveller should not miss are Prab Hor Monument, built to honour those who died in the fight against Chinese Hor rebellion; Luang Pho Pra Sai,  worshipped by many people, located on Pho Chai Road; Hat Chom Manee, the Beach on the Mekong River known as ‘Pattaya E-san’; Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, a bridge over the Mekong River, connecting Nong Khai province with Vientiane Prefecture in Laos. It was founded by the cooperation of Australia, Laos and Thailand with a length of 1.2 km and a width 15 m.

Travel Tips

- Rocket Festival: the EVENT is held every May. There is a rocket competition to worship holy angels and pray for rain.

- Thai-Lao Rowing Festival: at the end of Buddhist Lent, there is a festival featuring offering Food to monks and long Boat races on the Mekong that Thai and Lao will take a turn to host the festival.

- The naga fireball phenomenon occurs most often on Wan Awk Pansa, the Full Moon night of the 11th month of the lunar year that signifies the end of Buddhist rain retreat, usually in October.

- hotel Rooms fill quickly before the Naga Fireballs; book a Room in advance!