Nong Khai

Lying on the southern bank of the Mekong River in Northeast Thailand, Nong Khai is a lively town just 20 minutes from Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The entire city is filled with images of the Naga, the giant serpent of the Mekong. There are several waterfalls, riverside villages, forest temples, and many serene landscapes. Known as the Naga city, Nong Khai is a model for the Issan culture of north-east Thailand, which is very different from the cultures followed in the rest of Thailand. This town has a growing tourist industry with many foreigners visiting year after year. The most important attractions are Sala Keaw Khu, the huge and magnificent sculpture park, Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha image, the Tha Sadet Market which boasts Thai-Lao culture and the Phu Phra Bat Historical park. The town is known for its super kind and warm locals who truly respect the Issan culture and history of Naga and Lord Buddha. Nong Khai is also home to the famous Buddhist Lent festival.