Kaeng Khud Khu

📍 Location of Kaeng Khud Khu 🚘 Directions to Kaeng Khud Khu

About Kaeng Khud Khu

Kaeng Khud Khu, a riverfront viewpoint located 8 kilometers from Chiang Khan, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Despite its popularity, some visitors find the place to be a typical Thai tourist trap, complete with vendors, lottery ticket sellers, concession stalls, and loud music. The area can get overcrowded and parking can be limited. However, for those who can look past these inconveniences, the viewpoint offers a unique experience.

The viewpoint overlooks the Mekong River, with the backdrops of Xanamkhan, Vientiane District, Laos. It is situated at a bend of the river, with many islets visible during the dry season from November to May. During the rest of the months, these islets are submerged in water. The area also features a Buddhist temple, Wat Tha Kaek, which has a few original show houses of the late monks that are very well preserved. Beside the main hall at the car park, there are some souvenirs and handicraft stalls, as well as a handful of restaurants selling Thai dishes by the riverfront.

The viewpoint is also known for its local delicacies, particularly the coconut treats that are sold along the riverfront. The most popular dishes here were the Khung Ten (Dancing Shrimp) - fresh water shrimp served live on the bowl, and Khung Nawn (Sleeping Shrimp) - crispy deep fried shrimp in mash egg. However, these dishes are no longer available at the viewpoint, but can be found at the Chiang Khan Walking Street in the evening.

Despite its popularity, some visitors find the place to be overrated, with concerns about the food hygiene level. However, for those who are adventurous, the local street food can be a unique experience. There are steps that lead down to the Mekong River, to a sandy beach when the water subsides.

One of the highlights of the viewpoint is the beautiful sunset. Visitors are advised to visit just before sunset to witness the spectacular view. The boat ride is worth the cost and the sight of sparrows migrating from Laos to Thailand side at night is a great sight.

The viewpoint is also known for its local food, with a canal view. There is a myth of this rapid told by years that involves a huntman named ‘Jueng-Khueng Red Nose’ and a buffalo called “Ngern”. This tale adds to the charm of the place. Visitors can enjoy the good view while having local dishes, and also buy souvenirs for their loved ones or local clothes for themselves. They can also taste the fresh sweet coconut (Ma Prao Kaew) before leaving. When the rapid has a neap tide, visitors can go down and take good photos.

Kaeng Khud Khu is about 5 kilometers from the center of Chiang Khan, heading out on the road to Pakchom. It is a scenic part of the Mekong where a beach area develops in the dry season. There are stalls where visitors can buy souvenirs, food, and drink. There is also a very nice resort, whose restaurant overlooks the river, where visitors can sit and have an ice cool beer or two and a bite to eat in this picturesque area.