Nong Khai is a province in northeastern Thailand known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly local people. The province is situated on the banks of the Mekong River. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the unique culture and way of life of the Isan region.
Attractions:
- Sala Kaew Ku: A sculpture park featuring over 150 giant concrete statues of Buddhist and Hindu deities and various other figures and animals.
- Wat Pho Chai: A temple dating back to the 18th century, known for its beautiful traditional Thai architecture and intricate carvings.
- Phrathat Bangchang: A large, ancient temple that is believed to have been built in the 7th century AD.
- Mekong River: Enjoy the beautiful view of the Mekong river and the sunset.
- Wat Khaek: Also called “Temple of the foreigner”, and known for its beautiful murals and frescoes.
Activities:
- Take a boat trip on the Mekong River to see the famous “Mekong Island” and to visit the local villages on the other side of the river.
- Visit a local market to experience the local culture and buy traditional Thai handicrafts or souvenirs.
- Visit one of the province’s many temples and learn about Buddhism’s history and culture in Thailand.
- Take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Mekong River and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Food:
- Nong Khai is famous for its delicious Isan food, which is known for its strong and unique flavour. Some popular dishes to try include som tam (spicy green papaya salad), larb (a spicy meat salad), and Khao niao (sticky rice).
- You can also find a variety of street food vendors selling dishes like grilled meats, noodles, and fresh fruits.
Getting there:
- The best way to get to Nong Khai is by bus from Bangkok. The journey takes around 12 hours.
- Alternatively, you can fly to Udon Thani and then take a bus or a taxi to Nong Khai.
Accommodation:
- Nong Khai has various accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
- You can also find multiple homestay options that offer a unique and authentic experience of local life.
Overall, Nong Khai is an excellent destination for those looking to experience the unique culture and way of life of the Isan region while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of northeastern Thailand.
Best time to visit Nong Khai?
The best time to visit Nong Khai is during the cool season, which runs from November to February. The weather is pleasant, with cool breezes and comfortable temperatures. During this time, the skies are typically clear, making it a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.
The hot season, which runs from March to May, can be uncomfortable with high temperatures and humidity. The rainy season, which runs from June to October, is a less desirable time to visit as the area experiences heavy rainfall, and flooding can occur.
How many days in Nong Khai is enough?
The time required to explore Nong Khai depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. If you want to see the main attractions and have a general overview of the city, 2-3 days might be enough.
However, if you want to take your time and explore the city at a leisurely pace, or if you plan to engage in more specific activities such as visiting temples, taking a boat trip, or exploring the local markets, you may need 4-5 days or more.
Additionally, you will need more time if you plan to visit nearby attractions such as the Salakphet Temple and the Phu Tok mountain.
What is the hottest month in Nong Khai?
The hottest month in Nong Khai, Thailand, in April. The average temperature during this month is around 35-37 degree Celsius (95-99 degrees Fahrenheit) with high humidity, and the sun can be pretty intense during the daytime.
It’s not recommended to visit Nong Khai during April, as it can be very uncomfortable to be outside for extended periods. The best time to visit Nong Khai is during the cool season, which runs from November to February.
During this time, the temperatures are much more comfortable, and the weather is pleasant, with cool breezes and clear skies.
Does it rain a lot in Nong Khai?
Nong Khai, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it has rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season in Nong Khai typically runs from June to October, during which time the area experiences heavy rainfall and flooding can occur.
During this time, there might be better times to visit if you’re looking to spend most of your time outside exploring the city and its surroundings. However, if you don’t mind the occasional downpour, it can also be a great time to visit as the lush greenery and the local landscape is at their most vibrant.
The dry season, which runs from November to May, is generally considered the best time to visit Nong Khai, as the weather is pleasant and the skies are typically clear.
What to wear in Nong Khai?
In Nong Khai, Thailand, it is best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen. The weather can be pretty hot and humid, so it’s essential to dress in a way that will keep you cool. Shorts or skirts and short-sleeved shirts are appropriate for both men and women.
It’s also a good idea to bring a light sweater or jacket for the evenings, as temperatures can drop. Additionally, it is essential to dress modestly when visiting temples and other cultural sites, so avoid revealing clothing and cover your shoulders and legs.
