Things To Do
in Nong Khai
Nong Khai is a picturesque town located on the banks of the Mekong River in northeastern Thailand. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, the town offers stunning views of the river and the neighboring country of Laos. Visitors can explore the vibrant local markets, sample delicious street food, and visit the impressive Sala Kaew Ku Sculpture Park.
Nong Khai is also a popular destination for those looking to experience the unique blend of Thai and Lao cultures.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk along the Mekong River. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views as the sun rises.
Visit the local markets to sample delicious Thai street food. Take some time to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Relax at a riverside restaurant while watching the sunset. Savor authentic Thai cuisine and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day by visiting Wat Phra That Bang Phuan, known for its unique architecture. Spend some time exploring the temple grounds and taking photos.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, then take a short walk to the local art galleries. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene.
Head back to the temple to witness evening prayers. Experience the peaceful ambiance and reflect on your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery along the Mekong River
- Rich cultural heritage with various temples and festivals
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Thailand
- Affordable living costs and food options
- Limited public transportation options
- Language barrier as English is not widely spoken
- Hot and humid weather can be challenging for some
- Fewer modern amenities compared to larger cities
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Nong Khai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the iconic Nong Khai landmark and viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mekong River.
Explore the fascinating park featuring large, intricate sculptures inspired by Buddhism and Hinduism.
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque riverside, with various restaurants and bars offering views of the Mekong River.
Enjoy the scenic route and the peaceful atmosphere by cycling along the Mekong River, offering a great way to explore the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nong Khai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nong Khai
Visit one of these nice places.
This temple offers stunning views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape.
This park is home to giant sculptures and offers breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the neighboring country of Laos.
Located in the town center, this viewpoint provides panoramic views of Nong Khai and the Mekong River.
Food in Nong Khai
Nong Khai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Som Tum, or green papaya salad, is a quintessential Isaan dish featuring shredded unripe papaya, cherry tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and chilies, all mixed in a zesty and tangy dressing. This refreshing and spicy salad can be found at street food stalls, local restaurants, and markets throughout Nong Khai.
Must-Try!
Laab, a traditional Isaan minced meat salad, combines ground meat (usually pork or chicken) with roasted rice powder, shallots, mint, cilantro, lime juice, and fish sauce, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic dish. This savory and herbaceous delicacy is widely available at Nong Khai's street food vendors and casual eateries.
Pla Pao, or grilled fish, represents a popular choice in Nong Khai due to its location near the Mekong River. Whole fish, often stuffed with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, are grilled to perfection, creating a smoky and succulent dish. Numerous riverside restaurants in Nong Khai offer this delectable specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nong Khai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday evening, Nong Khai Walking Street comes alive with a vibrant market offering an abundance of street food delights, including grilled skewers, savory crepes, fresh fruit smoothies, and an array of regional snacks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere while sampling an assortment of local treats.
Tha Sadet Market, situated near the Mekong River, showcases a diverse selection of fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat dishes, making it an excellent destination to experience authentic Isaan flavors. The market's street food vendors present an array of delicacies such as spicy sausages, papaya salad, and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nong Khai, it is important to show respect for the monarchy. Avoid making any disrespectful remarks or gestures towards the royal family.
When entering someone's home or certain establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the space and its occupants.
The traditional Thai greeting, known as 'wai,' involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. This gesture is used to show respect to others, especially elders and those in positions of authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nong Khai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nong Khai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nong Khai, Thailand, tipping is not generally expected, especially in local restaurants or small food stalls. However, at higher-end restaurants or in tourist areas, a small tip of 10-20 baht for good service may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Nong Khai, especially in local establishments. Credit cards may be accepted in some hotels, larger restaurants, and upscale shops, but it's always best to carry some cash. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nong Khai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Nong Khai as the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperatures are lower, and there is less chance of rainfall. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation.
During this time, Nong Khai experiences hot and dry weather. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) or more. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy water activities as the Mekong River is a popular attraction, but be prepared for the intense heat.
Nong Khai experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity during these months. While the countryside becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. It's also the least crowded season, and you can find better deals on accommodations.
Nong Khai at Night
Hiking in Nong Khai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park that offers diverse hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs, providing a great opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Known for its stunning cliff views and prehistoric rock paintings, this park offers a variety of hiking paths that lead to breathtaking landscapes along the Mekong River.
Located in the nearby area, this park features trails through scenic mountain terrain, unique rock formations, and lush forests, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.
A serene hiking spot that features a temple located on a hill with stunning views; trails lead to different levels of the mountain, providing spiritual and physical rewards.
An excellent spot for hiking with picturesque views of the Mekong River and surrounding landscapes, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nong Khai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nong Khai by plane.
Located in Vientiane, Laos, approximately 25 kilometers from Nong Khai, this is the main international airport in the country, with flights to regional and some international destinations.
Situated in Udon Thani, Thailand, around 55 kilometers from Nong Khai, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing access to major cities in Thailand and some international locations.
Located in Bangkok, Thailand, approximately 600 kilometers from Nong Khai, this is the main international gateway to Thailand, offering flights to destinations worldwide.
About 150 kilometers from Nong Khai, Khon Kaen Airport serves domestic flights primarily and is a hub for travel in the northeastern region of Thailand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group, representing the majority of the population in Nong Khai.
A significant ethnic group in the region, sharing cultural and linguistic ties with Laos.
A notable minority group that has integrated into local culture, often involved in trade.
An ethnic group primarily from neighboring Cambodia, present in smaller numbers.
A minority group, often associated with historical migrations and trade.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities and migrant populations.
The Soul of Nong Khai
Discover the essence of Nong Khai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art from Thailand that combines strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
A widely popular team sport in Thailand, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans.
A popular sport in schools and communities, enjoying both recreational play and competitive tournaments.
A traditional sport native to Southeast Asia, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and using feet, knees, and chest.
Gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and schools promoting the game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nong Khai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Nong Khai offer vegetarian and vegan options, including street food vendors, local restaurants, and international eateries. Dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu-based curries, and fresh fruit smoothies are readily available to cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options within Nong Khai's food scene. Many local dishes, particularly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and rice-based meals, naturally align with a gluten-free diet. Additionally, some restaurants and cafés offer gluten-free alternatives and are willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nong Khai with these cultural adventures.
