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The MekongJourneys along the River of LifeGuidebook for travel destinations along the Mekong River in Thailand

4 Sam Phan Bok, Ubon Ratchathani Province 5The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

A journey to explore and enjoy the flow oflife along the Mekong RiverAn inspiration for travellers who wish to take a memorable journey along the astonishing course ofthe mighty Mekong River, 'The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life' is a guidebook that allowsreaders to follow the stream of this mysterious river along the border of Thailand. Running throughThailand in the provinces of Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, and UbonRatchathani, the Mekong River creates life, culture, peace, and friendship within the country andbetween countries along its course from the instant it enters Thailand to the moment it departs toLao PDR.This guidebook is equipped with information that enables readers to gain a deeper understandingof the Mekong River and the relationships with the country and each city it passes through. Atravel guide of the 6 major routes - The River of the Three Cultures (Chiang Rai Province), A Bondbetween Two Cities (Nan Province), Pact of the River (Loei Province), Small Houses by the River(Loei Province and Nong Khai Province), Gateway to the Neighbour (Nong Khai Province andNakhon Phanom Province), and Mystical Mix of Culture and Natural Phenomenon (MukdahanProvince and Ubon Ratchathani Province) - of areas that the Mekong River flows through is alsopresented in the book, providing useful information and helpful tips for readers to plan anunforgettable journey.Tourism Authority of Thailand6 Kaeng Khutkhu, Loei ProvinceThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

N6 Routes along the Mekong RiverTable of ContentsAmphoe Mae SaiAmphoe Chiang KhongChiang Rai111PhitsanulokNakhon SawanNanPhraeAmphoe Chiang KhanAmphoe Na HaeoAmphoe Dan Sai11020103 101Huai Kon CheckpointAmphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat1080108311Amphoe PuaPhetchabun212195 20121Mekong River211LoeiNakhon RatchasimaAmphoe Sangkhom12Nong Khai2Udon ThaniKhon KaenAH122Lao PDR.Amphoe Bueng KanAmphoe Bung Khla212Amphoe RattanawapiNakhon PhanomAmphoe That PhanomAmphoe Wan Yai2322621322223MukdahanAmphoe Khong ChiamUbon RatchathaniAmphoe Tha UthenAmphoe Khemmarat24Mekon gR2112iver217Route 1 : The River of Three Cultures, Chiang Rai Province 17Route 2 : A Bond between Two Cities, Nan Province 41Route 3 : Pact of the River, Loei Province 67Route 4 : Small Houses by the River, Loei Province - Nong Khai Province 87Route 5 : Gateway to the Neighbour, 109Nong Khai Province - Nakhon Phanom ProvinceRoute 6 : Mystical Mix of Culture and Natural Phenomenon, 137Mukdahan Province - Ubon Ratchathani Province8 9The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The roof of the world, the sacredsource of the Mekong River“Highly treasured as thelifeline of many countries,the Mekong River is the 10 thlongest river in the world,with a total length of 4,909kilometres, and runs through6 countries.”Originating from melting glaciers high on theTibetan Plateau above Dali Prefecture and LijiangPrefecture, the Mekong River is a natural wonderwith a magical legend as it journeys for thousandsof kilometres through steep mountain gorges. TheMekong starts near the Yangtze and Salween Riverswith the former flowing east while the latter and theMekong head south before pursuing their own paths.The Mekong and Salween are connected with theThai-Lao myth that symbolises the rivers as the twoNagas. According to this myth, the two Nagas weresiblings who competed against each other to get tothe ocean. The Salween chose the shorter butrougher path to reach the sea by passing throughrugged mountains and jungles, unlike the Mekongthat took a longer path, inspiring each of the areasthat it touched by its existence. The Mekong RiverBasin is a source of ecological abundance for manyareas, but it also plays a significant role in creatingenormous cultural diversity. The journey of the MekongRiver comes to an end when the Naga is transfiguredinto the Nine Dragons, the branches of the river thatmake up the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, beforeemptying into the South China Sea.Sandbank at the Mekong River in Amphoe Sangkhom, Nong Khai Province10 11The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Highly treasured as the lifeline of many countries, the Mekong River is the 10 th longest river in theworld, with a total length of 4,909 kilometres, and runs through 6 countries - China, Myanmar, LaoPDR., Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The Mekong River Basin has an area of 804,481 squarekilometres and is a melting pot of approximately 200 million people from around 100 tribes and ahome to over 450 species of fish, making it the third richest area of biodiversity in the world.Flowing through countries rich in ethnic and cultural diversity, the Mekong River creates unity amongdiversity and is a fundamental part of the communities that live by this mighty river.The Mekong River is known in Tibet as the Dza-Chu River and as the Lancang River by the peopleof Xishuangbanna. It stretches 2,198 kilometres through China, its final waters being at Guan Lei,an important cargo port with close connections with several ports in Lao PDR., Myanmar, andThailand.The Mekong River first enters Thailand in Chiang Rai Province at Sop Ruak joining the Ruak Riverand marking the meeting place of Thailand, Myanmar, and Lao PDR. The Ruak River feeds downfrom the mountains of Amphoe Tha Ton in Chiang Rai Province and passes through Amphoe MaeSai, serving as the border between Thailand and Myanmar before uniting with the Mekong Riverat Sop Ruak, the junction of the three countries forming the Golden Triangle. This area was knownfor its opium production and trade, activities now prohibited and replaced with a thriving touristindustry discovering the crossroads of the three cultures.The first district that welcomes the Mekong River to Thailand, Amphoe Chiang Saen is located onHiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang Chiang Saen, a significant city in Thai history. Opposite Tambon BanSaeo in Amphoe Chiang Saen is Suwan Khom Kham in Lao PDR., to which visitors can cross theriver to explore. Situated around 60 kilometres to the south of Amphoe Chiang Saen is AmphoeChiang Khong, a small town sitting on the banks of the Mekong River known amongst tourists asthe gateway to Lao PDR., China, and Vietnam. The journey from Amphoe Chiang Saen to AmphoeChiang Khong provides splendid views of the river with stunning mountain ranges in the background.Along this route is a Thai Lue village where visitors can observe the ancient craft of makinghand-woven fabric.Wat Nong Bua, Nan Province“The first district that welcomesthe Mekong River to Thailand,Amphoe Chiang Saen is locatedon Hiran Nakhon Ngoen YangChiang Saen, a significant cityin Thai history.”Amphoe Chiang Khong is the location of the 4 th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to HouayxayDistrict of Bokeo Province in Lao PDR. This Friendship Bridge plays an important role in thelocal economy as it links to the R3A route leading to several districts in Lao PDR. as well asJinghong and Kunming in China. Amphoe Chiang Khong was a place where peoplecommonly caught the giant catfish but at present, people refrain from catching them aspart of a controlled breeding programme to protect the world's biggest freshwater fish.The Mekong River continues as the international border from Amphoe Chiang Khong toAmphoe Wiang Kaen and then flows into Lao PDR., no longer defining the Thai-Lao borderas a result of the treaty between Thailand and France in 1904. The Luang Prabang Mountainsthen replace the river to serve as the natural border between Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan,Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Loei Provinces of Thailand and the Sainyabuli Province of Lao PDR.The Mekong makes it return to Thailand at the Hueang River Estuary in Ban Di Mi, located inAmphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province. The journey along the Mekong River resumes at AmphoeChiang Khan, a once prosperous city. The river then makes its way southwards through AmphoePak Chom and Amphoe Sangkhom, presenting the picturesque sight of the river and roadchasing alongside each other.In Nong Khai Province, the Mekong River separates Amphoe Si Chiang Mai from Vientiane,the capital city of Lao PDR., clearly visible from the Thai side. From here, the river flows throughAmphoe Tha Bo heading towards Amphoe Mueang of Nong Khai Province, the location ofthe 1 st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. This bridge is an integral key in the economic, social,political, and transport development of the relationship between Thailand and Lao PDR.Kaeng 12 13The Khutkhu, Mekong: Loei Journeys Province along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

“A little further south is ahuge bend in the rivercalled ‘Woen Buek,’ theplace where the MekongRiver leaves Thailand and isreplaced by the PhanomDong Rak Mountain Rangeas the Thai-Lao border.”Wat Si Thep Pradittharam, Nakhon Phanom ProvinceThe Mekong River then journeys towards Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary which consists of severalscenic waterfalls and colourful displays of flowers. Here, the river is the site of several activities thatbond Thailand and Lao PDR. together; such as, boat races, illuminated boat processions, and themysterious Naga Fireballs Festival. There are other cultural connections that cross the waterincluding Lao music that is modified into folk and pop music in Thailand, becoming popular inboth countries.Nakhon Phanom then welcomes the Mekong River to the land of the sacred chedis, highly reveredby people on both sides of the river. During important Buddhist events, people from both nationscross the river to make merit at Phrathat Phanom and Phrathat Tha Uthen on the Thai side andPhrathat Si Khotrabun and Phrathat Ing Hang in Lao PDR.Across the Mekong River from Mukdahan Province is Savannakhet, the third largest province ofLao PDR. Visitors can cross here by the 2 nd Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to explore several attractions.The Friendship Bridge not only serves as a gateway between the neighbouring countries, but italso enables Mukdahan to boost its tourism, trade, and administrative capabilities. Mukdahan isalso home to several ethnic groups; such as, Phu Thai, Thai So, and Thai Kaloeng, each with theirown unique customs and traditions.The natural surroundings of the Mekong River change as the river flows out of Mukdahan and headstowards Ubon Ratchathani. The terrain becomes steep cliffs and the river is studded with stunningrock platforms. The fascinating attractions; such as, Pak Bong, Hat Salueng, Sam Phan Bok, PhaChana Dai, and Pha Taem National Park provide visitors with spectacular rock formations, cool andrelaxing waterfalls, beautiful wildflowers, and the constant flow of the river.The Mekong River meets the Mun River at Amphoe Khong Chiam in Ubon Ratchathani, thecombination of the two large rivers providing an abundant source of food for fish andconsequently a great place for fishing. The meeting place of the rivers has a magnificent view ofthe mountains in the background, especially captivating at sunrise when the sunlight shines on thesurface of the water.A little further south is a huge bend in the river called ‘Woen Buek,’ the place where the MekongRiver leaves Thailand and is replaced by the Phanom Dong Rak Mountain Range as the Thai-Laoborder.The length of the Mekong River in its second course in Thailand totals 800 kilometres, and when thestretch of the river in Chiang Rai is included, the grand total is 900 kilometres of spectacularnatural resources and captivating cultural heritage.Friendship Bridges, Gateway to the NeighbourFour Friendship Bridges span the mighty Mekong River linking Thailand and Lao PDR. The four bridges, servingas gateways between the two countries, are:• The first Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, connecting Nong Khai Province to Vientiane, the capital city of Lao PDR.and enabling visitors to travel further to Wang Wiang and Luang Prabang.• The second Thai-Lao PDR. Friendship Bridge, joining Mukdahan Province to Savannakhet of Lao PDR. thatalso links to Highway 9 and onto Da Nang, Vietnam.• The third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is under construction and once completed in the end of 2011, will belinking Nakhon Phanom Province to Tha Khaek city, Kham Muan Province of Lao PDR.• The fourth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is under construction and once completed in 2011, will connect AmphoeChiang Khong of Chiang Rai Province to Houayxay city of Bokeo Province of Lao PDR. and leading to thesouthern part of China via the R3A route.Way of life by the Mekong River, Nong Khai Province14 15The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Doi Mae Salong1089Lao PDR.Amphoe Mae SaiDoi Tung1290Golden Triangle11491Chiang Rai111551174AH3Mekong Rive1129Amphoe Chiang Saen1016Amphoe Chiang KhongAmphoe Mae Chan Amphoe Wiang KaenrThe River of Three CulturesStarting in the glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau, theMekong River runs through China and Myanmarbefore making its grand entrance to Thailand inthe Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai Province. Atthe junction of Thailand, Myanmar and Lao PDR.,the Golden Triangle is the place where the MekongRiver merges the differences of these countries tocreate an exotic blend of the three cultures.A journey to get a first glimpse of the mightyMekong River in Chiang Rai reveals a rich, multiculturalatmosphere, shown by its architectural styles andlocal cuisine, and a peaceful life by the river of thethree countries.123411301126AH21NPhayao16 17The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Welcoming the River of Life to ThailandRunning through 7 provinces in Thailand, the Mekong River makes its entrance tothe country in Chiang Rai at the Golden Triangle at Amphoe Chiang Saen andruns through Amphoe Chiang Khong to Kaeng Pha Dai in Amphoe Wiang Kaen.After forming a natural border between the Shan State of Myanmar and Bokeo Province ofLao PDR., the Mekong River meets the Ruak River which divides Thailand and Myanmar, atSop Ruak. The last place where the Mekong River is within Myanmar’s territory, Sop Ruakis the junction of the 2 rivers that forms the international borders between Myanmar,Thailand, and Lao PDR., and constitutes the famous ‘Golden Triangle,’ a majorattraction for many tourists when visiting Chiang Rai.The Golden Triangle is famous for its beautiful, natural scenery but is also well-knownhistorically as one of the world’s leading opium-and heroin-producing areas. Today, theproduction of and trade in opium is prohibited, but visitors can find out about the history ofand general information about opium through the exhibition in the Hall of Opium, which ismanaged by the Mae Fah Luang Foundation.About 15 kilometres from the Golden Triangle is Amphoe Chiang Saen, one of the majorports in the northern region of Thailand. The Chiang Saen Port plays an important role intransport, specifically as part of an international shipping route between Thailand and itsneighbouring countries.History suggests that Chiang Saen was amongst the cities that were founded during theestablishment of the Lanna Kingdom. The capital city was relocated several times beforemaking Chiang Mai as the new capital of Lanna Kingdom while the other cities continuedto flourish. Located on the ground of the ancient city of Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang ChiangSaen, Amphoe Chiang Saen today merges the twenty-first century with the remains ofthe Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang city’s walls and moats beautifully. Among the major touristattractions in Chiang Saen are Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao, Wat Phrathat Chom Kitti, and ChiangSaen National Museum, established as the centre of arts and history of Chiang Saen city.“Sop Ruak is the junction of the 2rivers that forms the internationalborders between Myanmar, Thailand,and Lao PDR., and constitutes thefamous ‘Golden Triangle’.”Phra Phuttha Nawa Lan Tue located on the bank of the Mekong Riveraround the Golden Triangle area, Chiang Rai Province

Wat Phra Kaeo, Chiang Rai ProvinceAcross the river from Chiang Saen is the ancientLao town of Ton Phueng, sister city of Hiran NakhonNgoen Yang. Another important ancient town inLao PDR. is Suwan Khom Kham. Here, tourists cantravel by boat from Ban Saeo Sub-district in AmphoeChiang Saen to Suwan Khom Kham to explore theconnection between Thailand and Lao PDR. by viewingarchaeological objects and ruins similar to the onesin Chiang Saen.From Chiang Saen, the majestic Mekong River flowssouth to Chiang Khong, accompanied for 60 kilometresby the road with magnificent scenery that has inspiredthe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to work withthe Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organisationin promoting this section of road as a major drivingand cycling route. Travellers pass several templesand villages of the Thai Lue people who specialisein the manufacture of hand-woven products. Onesuch village is Hat Bai.“Chiang Khong is theonly town along thissection of the river andis a tranquil gateway forThai and foreign travellerswho wish to go to LuangPrabang in Lao PDR.”Doi Pha Tang, Chiang Rai ProvinceChiang Khong is the only town along this section of the river and is a tranquil gateway for Thai andforeign travellers who wish to go to Luang Prabang in Lao PDR. Most visitors stop for a short timeat Chiang Khong before taking the boat across the Mekong River at the Chiang Khong-Houayxayborder. Chiang Khong is the planned location of the 4 th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge which, whencompleted, will make crossing the border easier and promote economic opportunities betweenThailand and the northern part of Lao PDR. and the southern part of China.The Mekong River then journeys from Chiang Khong to Amphoe Wiang Kaen, running alongsidestate Highway 1120. Here, there are views of the highlands on the Lao side and the steep cliffs ofThailand on the other. The road leads to the much-visited Doi Pha Tang, Doi Pha Mon, and PhuChi Fa, passing through several hill-tribe villages of the Hmong, Akha, and Khamu groups, and anold settlement of the former Chinese 93 rd Division.Once the Mekong River reaches Kaeng Pha Dai at Ban Huai Luek, it enters Lao PDR. It re-entersThailand as the border at the Hueang River Estuary, located at Ban Tha Di Mi in Amphoe ChiangKhan, Loei Province.20 21The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Located at the northernmost point of Thailand, ChiangRai is one of the country’s most popular traveldestinations, endowed with a great wealth of naturalwonders, cultural diversity, charming traditions, and aremarkable history. Come and give yourself a newtravel experience with a combination of breathtakingviews of seas of fog, a fascinating river-based way oflife, and intriguing ancient temples.Getting to Know Chiang RaiOnce the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Rai is Thailand’snorthernmost province featuring a combination of beautifulnatural resources and unique history and culture. Apart frompossessing a variety of flora and fauna, mountains and rivers,Chiang Rai is also the home of several indigenous and ethnichill-tribe people of Thailand; such as, Karen, Akha, Lahu, Hmong,and Mien. The identity of Chiang Rai is derived from themelting pot of different, distinctive cultures and is reflected inthe traditions and arts that can be seen in the ancient templesand historical sites scattered around the city. Not only is ChiangRai the northernmost point of Thailand, it is also the place wherethe mighty Mekong River first touches Thailand.Fascinating Attractions in Chiang RaiWhile in the city of Chiang Rai, visit the scenic 70-metre highKhun Kon Waterfall. Located along the same route as thiswaterfall is the famous Wat Rong Khun or White Temple. Thisis an unconventional Buddhist temple in a contemporaryLanna style. Here, you can enjoy a variety of breakfasts, rangingfrom delicious rice congee to spicy southern style rice andcurry at the Clock Tower before roaming around the city toobserve the incredible Lanna arts at the many ancienttemples.One of the essential temples to visit in Chiang Rai is Wat PhraKaeo at which the world-renowned Emerald Buddha nowlocated at Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok was discovered. Not faraway is Wat Phra Sing which housed the highly revered PhraPhuttha Sihing before being enshrined in Chiang Mai. Thewooden door panel at Wat Phra Sing was designed and carvedby a notable National Artist who resides in Chiang Rai. Visitors getto explore the world of Lanna arts and culture through theextensive collections of valuable artefacts at Oub KhamMuseum, about a kilometre from the centre of the city. Travela little further to the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park tovisit Ho Kham, the Golden Pavilion, a Lanna-style buildingmade of timber and teakwood displaying important ancientLanna artefacts and religious objects. Also, take a short trip toHat Chiang Rai, the sandy beach on the banks of the KokRiver, and enjoy the local food in a scenic and relaxedatmosphere.Doi Pha 22Tang, Chiang Rai Province23The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Before leaving, stop to pay respect to King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Rai, at the Monumentof King Mengrai the Great. Not far from the city centre is Baandum Museum, the Black House, atwhich the famous artist, Thawan Duchanee, exhibits numerous wood carvings in a unique style.On the way to Amphoe Mae Chan, visit Doi Mae Salong to enjoy the magnificent views of thehigh-quality tea plantations, followed by paying respect to Phra Borommathat Santi Khiri on thetop of the mountain. Doi Mae Salong is the home of the descendents of Chinese soldiers andoffers a variety of Yunnan specialties; such as, pork leg stew and Chinese buns, and roastedChinese mushrooms in soy sauce. From here, visit the splendid Doi Tung Palace, the royal retreatof the late Princess Mother which is located on the way from Doi Mae Salong to Doi Tung. In thefront of the palace is Mae Fah Luang Garden, featuring beautiful winter flowers and decorativeplants. A journey to the top of Doi Tung allows travellers to pay homage to the holy relics enshrinedin the most significant Lanna chedi, Phrathat Doi Tung.From Doi Tung, visitors head towards Amphoe Mae Sai, thenorthernmost part of Thailand that forms the border withMyanmar. The Mekong River is not part of Thailand in AmphoeMae Sai but the journey along the Ruak River which joins theMekong River at the Golden Triangle creates an introductionto the journey along the mighty River of Life.The journey along the Mekong starts with the route along theRuak River in Amphoe Mae Sai. The Ruak runs into the MekongRiver at the Golden Triangle. From here, travellers can explorethe ancient Lanna culture and the historical settlements inAmphoe Chiang Saen which is the location where theLanna Kingdom was first established. The Mekong journeythen reaches Amphoe Chiang Khong, the backpackers’favourite place as a gateway to neighbouring countries,followed by Amphoe Wiang Kaen where the Mekong Riverleaves Thailand and flows into Lao PDR. before re-enteringThailand in Loei Province.Chiang Rai offers magnificent views of seas of fogs in themountainous terrain on the route from Amphoe Wiang Kaento Doi Pha Tang and Phu Chi Fa, two of the region’s mostpopular attractions.Interesting Info• The route from Chiang Khong to Wiang Kaen requires the driver to be very cautious and experienceddue to the curves and hills.• The Phu Chi Fa Forest Park does not provide any accommodation, but visitors are welcome to campat the park by bringing along their camping equipment with them, or they may stay at one of themany resorts at the entrance to the forest.• Tour the temples on a tricycle. Get a ‘samlor’ or tricycle to roam around the city of Chiang Rai forthe Nine Temples Tour, taking about half a day. For more information, please contact the TourismAuthority of Thailand (TAT), Chiang Rai Office +66 (53) 744 674-5 for more information on the 9temples.24 25The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Welcoming the River of Life to ThailandAmphoe Mueang - Amphoe Mae Sai - Amphoe Chiang Saen - Amphoe Chiang Khong - Amphoe WiangKaenThe route allows visitors to welcome the mighty Mekong River, the river of the three cultures,to Thailand. This area has unique ways of life, mysterious beliefs, and exquisite arts and culture,and the route traces the histories of the three countries in this region and retells many storiesthrough the amazing attractions.Delicious breakfast in downtown Chiang RaiStart the day with a local breakfast selecting from rice congee, hog’sentrails soup to rice and curry around the Clock Tower in the middle ofthe city.Explore Lanna arts at the Mae Fah Luang Artand Cultural ParkA great way to begin the journey is to explore the Lanna culture at the Mae Fah Luang Artand Cultural Park featuring beautiful Lanna architecture and valuable artefacts. Themagnificent wooden building of Ho Kham, the Golden Pavilion, houses Buddhist artistic andreligious items. Alongside this building is Ho Kaeo displaying teak carvings and a botanicalgarden.From Amphoe Mueang, take Highway 1232; pass Mengrai Maharat Military Campand drive 4 km. towards Wat Hong Li. Tuesday-Sunday 08.30-17.00 hrs.+66 (53) 716 605-6 www.maefahluang.org N 19°57’33” E 99°51’14”A collection of arts in black atBaandum MuseumA creation of intriguing arts in black by ThawanDuchanee, the famous Thai artist, is exhibitedwithin the cluster of houses in the area of BaandumMuseum. The 36 houses are decorated with exquisitecarved wood, horns, and unique structural designs,while the masterpiece of this museum is the MahaWihan displaying a collection of rare artefacts.From Amphoe Mueang, take Phahonyothin Rd. and drivepast the airport and Rajabhat University, and turn left at the‘Baandum Nanglae’ sign.Everyday 09.00-17.00 hrs. Free admission+66 (81)454 9449, +66 (53) 705 834, +66 (53) 776 333www.thawan-duchanee.comN 19°03’21” E 99°02’31”Shopping at Mae Sai MarketMae Sai Market, one of the country’s biggestborder markets, offers many shoppingopportunities; for example, electricalappliances at bargain prices, and productsfrom China; such as, dried food and fruits, snacks,and quality jade and gemstones.Located at the end of Highway 1 within Amphoe MaeSai, about 62 km. from Amphoe Mueang.07.00-18.00 hrs. N 20°26’39” E 99°52’44”Interesting InfoThose who visit Mae Sai Market can walk acrossthe border to Tachileik Province in Myanmar.Foreign visitors receive a single-day entry permitcosting 10 US dollars but they have to leave theirpassports at the Immigration Checkpoint andcollect them when they return. A 14-day visa isalso available if visitors wish to travel around theTachileik area.Chiang Rai Immigration Checkpoint (Mae Sai)+66 (53) 731 008-9Pay respect to the pagoda atWat Phrathat Doi WaoOne of the oldest and most highly revered pagodasof the local people of Mae Sai is Phrathat Doi Wao.It houses the sacred strands of the Lord Buddha’s hair.Located on the top of the hill, visitors who come topay respect to Phrathat Doi Wao can enjoy thepanoramic view of Amphoe Mae Sai of Thailand andTachileik of Myanmar.The entrance to the temple is on the left of the main road,located about 200 m. before the Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint.+66 (53) 731 527 N 20˚26’33” E 99˚52’40”Interesting InfoOnce across the bridge into Tachileik Province,Myanmar, visitors can explore the city by takinga ride on a tricycle to see the imitation of thetemple of the Jade Buddha, Shwedagon Pagoda,the Bayinnaung Monument, and the Long NeckKaren Village.Interesting InfoNam Su, the main accompaniment with KhaoRaem Fuen, is made from fermented sugarcanejuice and apple cider vinegar. The fermentationprocess allows the natural yeast of the apple juice toturn sugar into alcohol, creating a great tastingKhao Raem Fuen full of nutritional value.Healthy Tai foodKhao Raem Fuen is the healthy local dish of theTai ethnic group. It is made from 18 kinds ofbeans, and contains no meat. The shape andtaste are similar to tofu and is eaten with sweetand sour dipping sauce called Nam Su, makingit one of the foods you must try when visitingMae Sai.26 27The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

A journey from war to peaceHall of Opium, the GoldenTriangle ParkThe Hall of Opium has an exhibition of themysterious world of opium. The display includesinformation about the ecology of opium, itsproperties and effects on users and society, howthe use of opium spread, and the history of theOpium War. The modern edutainment multimediasystem of the Hall of Opium makes the exhibitiona worthwhile visit.From Amphoe Mae Sai, take Highway 1290 and the Hall of Opium is located around the 27 th km. marker, about 1km. from the Golden Triangle. Tuesday-Sunday 08.30-16.00 hrs. +66 (53) 784 444-6 www.maefahluang.orgN 20°21’49” E 100°04’34”The origin of the namethe ‘Golden Triangle’The name ‘Golden Triangle’ came from the pastcultivation and trading of opium in the Ban Pa Sakarea. In that time, silk, consumer products, and goldwere commonly used as a means of trade betweencountries, making Ban Pa Sak one of the mostflourishing areas. The convergence of the threecountries coupled with the use of gold to pay forproducts, especially opium, gave this area the name‘Golden Triangle.’The River of Life amidst threecountries at The GoldenTriangleThe Golden Triangle, the place where Thailand, LaoPDR., and Myanmar meet, is where visitors getto greet the Mekong River for the first timeas it makes its grand entrance into Thailand.Often referred to as Sop Ruak since it is wherethe Mekong River meets the Ruak River, theGolden Triangle offers a great view of the 3countries separated only by the river.About 30 km. from Amphoe Mae Sai by Highway 1290.N 20°21’12” E 100°04’52”Interesting InfoCruising along the Mekong RiverEveryday 07.30-18.00 hrs.4-6 passengers trip costs around 400 Baht.• A cruise to Amphoe Chiang Saen or Buck Pier in Amphoe Chiang Khong is alsoavailable.• Those who wish to cruise further to the southern part of China; such as, Xishuangbannaor Kunming, can contact the travel agencies located around the Chiang Saen Port.Pay homage to the Buddha imageon the hill at Wat Phrathat Phu KhaoBuilt around the year 759, Wat Phrathat Phu Khao is ahistorical site that comprises a cluster of the remains ofwihans and chedis. Situated on a hill, Wat Phrathat PhuKhao offers a magnificent view of the Golden Triangleto those who come to pay homage to Luangpho ChiangSaen Sing Nueng, the highly revered Buddha imagemade about 1,300 years ago.Located on the top of the hill and the entrance to the temple isopposite the replica of Phra Phuttha Nawa Lan Tue of the GoldenTriangle. N 20°21′11″ E 100°04′52″The chronicle of Wat Phrathat Doi Phu KhaoExperience a river-based way of life ona boat excursion along the MekongRiverA long-tail boat trip along the Mekong River takes visitors toenjoy the beautiful scenery of the meeting place of Thailand,Lao PDR., and Myanmar and to witness the way of life of thelocal people who live by the river. The one-hour journey startsby cruising along the border of Myanmar and taking a turn tocontinue the trip along the Lao border. There is a stop to explorethe duty-free products at Don Sao, the Lao duty-free market,before returning to the pier at Sop Suak.The pier is located at the Golden Triangle.N 20°21’14” E 100°04’55”Delicious local dishes atChiang SaenA local specialty when visiting Chiang Saen isKhanom Chin Nam Ngiao, a kind of rice vermicelliin a Nam Ngaio soup. The delicious blend ofthe salty and sour soup is influenced by theTai recipe of adding fermented soybean andred cotton flower. Not only Khanom Chin NamNgiao is popular, other dishes; such as, KhanomChin Nam Chaeo, Namphrik Num (chili dip),and spring rolls are also delicious localdishes of Chiang Saen.During the period of the Mengrai Dynasty, a giant crab rampaged throughtown and created a lot of damage to the rice fields and killed manyanimals. Phraya Lao Kao Kaeo, the second king of the Mengrai dynasty,and troops searched for the crab. The hunt drove the crab into a hole inthe hill so the villagers joined hands to block the hole and built a chedion the hill in commemoration.28 29The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Pay respect to the sacred Buddha of Chiang SaenOpposite the entrance of Wat Phrathat Phu Khao is Phra Phuttha Nawa Lan Tue,the golden Buddha made of gilded bronze sitting on a boat. This Buddha of FourReigns was built to replace the original one that sank in the Mekong River duringthe period of King Rama III. Visitors who come to pay respect to Phra PhutthaNawa Lan Tue are able to enjoy a distinctive view of the Golden Triangle.Located at the Golden Triangle.N 20°21’12” E 100°04’52”Relax amidst the tranquility of the Mekong RiverFinish off the day by relaxing at a hotel by the Mekong River around the Golden Triangle.The riverside hotels provide the opportunity for guests to enjoy the panoramic view over theserene Mekong River, especially beautiful at night when the lights on the Lao side of the riverare turned on.Discover the magic of the ancient city of the formerLanna KingdomChiang Saen, once a capital of the Lanna Kingdom, is a flourishing city and the centreof Buddhism in the East Lanna region. Built by several kings who ruled Chiang Mai, manytemples in Chiang Saen have become significant historical sites worth preserving as partof an impressive cultural heritage. Within the area of the enormous city wall, the ancientruins and Buddha images coexist with the houses of the local people today, illustrating anastonishing overlap between the ancient community of the Lanna Kingdom and moderntimes.* Stop at the Chiang Saen Information Centre run by the Fine Arts Department to get more information;such as, maps and travel guides. The centre is located opposite the Chiang Saen National Museum.Interesting Info• The history of Chiang Saen dates back hundreds of yearsto the formation of the Lanna Kingdom. The first era ofChiang Saen was Suwan Khom Kham followed byYonok Nakkhaphan or Nakhaphan SinghanawatNakhon. The third era was Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yangand finally we have the Chiang Saen era that everyoneknows today.• The origin of the name ‘Chiang Saen’‘Chiang’ or ‘Wiang’ are the words used to describe alarge city in the ancient Tai language and ‘Saen’ camefrom the name ‘Phrachao Saen Phu,’ the grandson ofKing Mengrai the Great.Explore the eating culture at theChiang Saen morning marketStart the day by going to the morning market where localsusually buy their groceries as well as Lanna-style food; suchas, Khao Soi, Kaeng Hanglae and Kaeng Ho. Popularamongst the locals, tasting the delicious rice congee at thismarket is one of things you must do while visiting ChiangSaen.Located at the main road of Amphoe Chiang Saen.N 20°16’27” E 100°05’13”Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Rai Province30 31The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Visit Wat Chedi Luang to seeChiang Saen’s biggest chediSituated within the city wall of Chiang Saen is WatChedi Luang, the leading temple of Chiang Saen,which houses the biggest bell-shaped, Lanna stylechedi in Chiang Saen. The wihan of the wat ismade of wood and houses the highly respectedLuangpho Chiang Saen Sing and the remains offour ancient chedis that surround the principalchedi lay in the grounds of the temple.Located on Phahonyothin Rd., next to Chiang Saen NationalMuseum and opposite the Tourist Information Centre.N 20°16’25” E 100°04’50”The serenity of the Teak Forest atWat Pa Sak‘Wat Pa Sak,’ Teak Forest Temple, is over 700 yearsold and surrounded by teak trees. Enshrining therelics of the Lord Buddha, the stacked square tiersof the chedi at Wat Pa Sak show the influence ofthe Hariphunchai Kingdom and the ruins of the stonefoundations can be found scattered around the area.From Phahonyothin Rd. (Chiang Saen’s main road), headtowards the Pa Sak Gate of the old city wall and turn right atthe intersection and proceed further for 200 m. to see Wat PaSak on the left-hand side.08.00 -17.00 hrs. 30 BahtN 20°16’27” E 100°04’40”Going back to the Yonok Eraat Wat Phrathat Chom KittiLocated not far from the city wall, on the top ofDoi Chom Kitti, is Wat Phrathat Chom Kitti. Here,visitors can pay homage to the chedi as well asenjoy the amazing view of the Mekong River. TheNaga stairway leads visitors to a significantchedi built during the early Yonok Kingdomperiod, containing the Lord Buddha’s relics.From the city wall and Wat Pa Sak, take Highway 1290 forabout 2 km. and Wat Phrathat Chom Kitti is located on thehilltop. N 20°17’03” E 100°04’35”Learn silk weaving at Ban San ThatSericulture VillageNot far from Phrathat Pha Ngao is Ban San That Sericulture Village, a placeendowed with valuable local handicrafts preserved for future generations.Visitors are welcome to observe and learn about silk production, includingrearing silkworms, designing patterns, and weaving.Take the Chiang Saen-Chiang Khong route and follow the ‘Ban San That’ sign. It is locatednear Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao.Every day except during Songkran and the New Year periodN 20°12’50” E 100°05’50”The story behind Ban San That Sericulture VillageHidden in the history and cultural heritage is the amazing local wisdom of the people of Chiang Saen. Due tofloods in Maha Sarakham Province, the villagers migrated to Ban San That in Tambon Yonok, Amphoe ChiangSaen and started rearing silkworms and weaving silk for household use. The reputation of the beautiful patternsand quality of Ban San That’s silk became established and the Queen Sirikit Sericulture Centre in Nan provincenow offers assistance in the silk production process. As a result, the village is now known as the Ban San ThatSericulture Village. It is not only famous for the quality of its silk, but also the exquisite patterns; such as, the ‘WithLove’ pattern, the signature pattern of Ban San That designed by Chaloemchai Khositphiphat from the inspirationof combining Isan and Lanna cultures.Interesting InfoSituated onthe hilltop behind WatPhrathat Pha Ngao is PhraBorommathatPhutthanimit Chedi whichoffers a panoramic viewof the great Mekong River.Pay homage to the ancient Buddhastatue at Wat Phrathat Pha NgaoVisit Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao to witness the naturalphenomenon of the stone that looks like a bell-shapedchedi with the Phrathat Pha Ngao situated on top.Built during the Yonok Period, the wihan houses severalBuddha statues, one named by locals as LuangphoPha Ngao believed to be between 700 and 1,300 yearsold.From Amphoe Chiang Saen, take Highway 1129 towards AmphoeChiang Khong for about 5 km. Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao is located atthe Km. 49-50. markers. N 20°14’41”E 100°06’31”Phrathat Chom Kitti, Chiang Rai ProvinceThe perfect landscape of Huai Sai Man ViewpointSituated between Amphoe Chiang Saen and Amphoe Chiang Khong, HuaiSai Man Forest Park offers a spectacular view of the Mekong River separatingThailand and Lao PDR. and the fishing boats in the middle of the river, reflectingthe simple way of life along this mighty River of Life.From Amphoe Chiang Saen, take Highway 1129 and drive towards Amphoe Chiang Khong forabout 40 km. Huai Sai Man View Point is located on top of the hill on the left-hand side.N 20°20’59” E 100°21’58”32 33The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Enjoy eating several kindsof fish by the riverOn arrival at Chiang Khong, take a breakat the restaurants by the Mekong River andenjoy eating the scrumptious local foodand the scenery of the slow, driftingMekong River. Chiang Khong’s famousdishes are made from fish from the MekongRiver; such as, stir-fried giant catfish withchili paste and Tom Yum Pla Khang.• This area was once a centre for catching giant catfish, the biggestfreshwater fish in the world. Today, however, because of itsendangered status, the fishing communities of Ban Hat Khrai havestopped indiscriminate catching of the fish and now host theAnnual Giant Catfish Festival to allow controlled breeding andfishing.• In April of every year, Kai, the freshwater seaweed, is collectedfrom the Mekong River and made into tasty, crispy seaweed bysun-drying and seasoning with herbs; such as, sesame, galangal,and lemongrass.Observe bean sprout cultivation and harvestingby the riverThe fertility of the soil on the sandbank in the middle of Mekong River makesChiang Khong an excellent place to cultivate quality bean sprouts. The simpleprocess of cultivating and harvesting bean sprouts is a good example of theriver-based way of life of the locals.*Locals usually harvest bean sprouts by the Mekong River in the late afternoon.At the Pha Than Port, along the Mekong River, around 1.5 km from Hat Khrai.Interesting InfoInteresting InfoRelax amidst the tranquility with the ChiangKhong peopleStop by at a lovely homestay or pleasant guesthouse after a long day oftravelling. Not only do guests get to relax amidst the tranquility of nature,but they also experience the way of life and culture of the Chiang Khongpeople and the opportunity to exchange travel stories with other guests.The fascinating culture and way of life of the Akha or Ekor ethnic group can beexplored while visiting Chiang Saen. The group migrated from China and Myanmarand now lives at Doi Sa-ngo, the site of the Doi Sa-ngo Royal Project initiated toimprove the quality of life of these people. Visitors get the opportunity to experiencetheir way of life through various agricultural activities; such as, orange and cornplantations and herb gardens, and through the festivities; such as, the Swing Festivalin August and the Ancestor Worship Festival in April.Sa-ngo Royal Project Development Centre, Ban Doi Sa-ngo, Tambon Si Don Mun,Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province 57150. From Amphoe Chiang Saen, make aleft turn onto Highway 1290, pass the Golden Triangle and turn left at the Km. 18 marker andcontinue for 3 km.Extend your travels at Buck PierThe bustling atmosphere of Thai and Lao peoplecrossing the border for a shopping trip can beseen at Buck Pier, a small pier from which travellersmake their way to Ban Houayxay in Lao PDR. Fromhere, the journey can be extended to LuangPrabang and on to China and Vietnam.Ban Hua Wiang in Amphoe Chiang Khong.N 20°16’33” E 100°24’20”Interesting InfoForeign visitors apply for a visa on arrival at theHouayxay Immigration Checkpoint for a fee ofaround 30-40 US dollars.Chiang Khong Immigration Checkpoint08.00-18.00 hrs.+66 (53) 791 663, +66 (53) 791 332,+66 (53) 791 817Kaeng Pha Dai, where the Mekong Riverleaves Thailand and enters Lao PDR.Kaeng Pha Dai, a scenic area which offers a magnificent viewof the mighty Mekong River running in a beautiful curve is on theroad from Amphoe Chiang Khong to Amphoe Wiang Kaen. Thisis where the Mekong River bids farewell to Thailand and flowsinto Lao territory.From Amphoe Chiang Khong, take the Chiang Khong-Wiang Kaen routeand Kaeng Pha Dai is about 48 km. from Amphoe Chiang KhongN 20°08’52” E 100°30’18”Useful Contact Information in Chiang RaiCrossing the border on aboat tripA boat trip from Buck Pier to Ban Houayxayintroduces visitors to this small but livelytown in Bokeo Province, Lao PDR. Here,visitors can experience the similarities anddifferences between the 2 countries.Embark from Buck PierTourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Chiang Rai Office +66 (53) 744 674-5, +66 (53) 711 433Chiang Rai Tourism Association +66 (53) 742 493Chiang Rai Provincial Public Relations +66 (53) 150 163Tourist Police +66 (53) 717 779Highway Police +66 (53) 150 180Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (53) 711 444Mae Fah Luang - Chiang Rai International Airport +66 (53) 798 000Chiang Rai Bus TerminalInteresting InfoOnce at Ban Houayxay in Bokeo Province,visitors can negotiate a price (about 50Baht) for a minibus to the Chinesemarket. There are also other interestingtourist attractions; such as, the Chinesemorning market, Wat Chom Kaeo Manirat,Wat Phrathat Tak Pha Thong, and theKaysorn Phomvihane Memorial Museum.+66 (53) 711 224 (old terminal),+66 (53) 773 898 (new terminal)Chiang Rai Hospital +66 (53) 711 300Chiang Saen Hospital +66 (53) 777 01734Chiang Khong Crown Prince Hospital +66 (53) 791 206-735The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

AccommodationLive in the Lanna-styleAnantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa299 Mu 1, Ban Sop Ruak, Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang RaiProvince 57150 +66 (53) 784 084http://goldentriangle.anantara.comN 20°21’50” E 100°04’40”Baan Thai Resort525 around the Golden Triangle, Mu 1, Amphoe Chiang Saen,Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (53) 652 152, +66 (81) 664 4967N 20°20’58” E 100°04’55”Ban Khun Yom155 Thanalai Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai Province57000+66 (53) 744 733, +66 (53) 717 458, +66 (53) 745 028www.bankhunyom.com N 19°54’49” E 99°47’51”Ben Guesthouse351/10 Mu 15, Soi 4, San Khong Noi Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 716 775 www.benguesthousechiangrai.comN 19°54’24” E 99°49’41”HomestayBan Fai Guest House108 Mu 8, Amphoe Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 391, +66 (86) 192 2907N 20°16’01” E 100°24’23”Ruanthai Sophaphan Homestay83 Mu 8, Sai Klang Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 023N 20°16’05” E 100°24’23”Sawadee Homestay526 Mu 1, Amphoe Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (81) 565 9362Sawadee_homestay@hotmail.comN 20°16’39” E 100°24’16”Doi Hom Fha Resort23 Mu 9, Ban Pa Miang, Amphoe Mae Chan, Chiang RaiProvince 57110+66 (53) 918 440 www.doihomfharesort.comN 20°09’48” E 99°47’39”Du Doi Suay Resort399 Phahonyothin Rd., Km. 879, Amphoe Mae Sai,Chiang Rai 57130 +66 (53) 709 313, +66 (53) 709 800N 20°20’27” E 99°53’11”Golden Iyara Resort272 Mu 1, Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (53) 784 226-7, +66 (81) 387 6145N 20°21’40” E 100°04’38”Pankled Villa (Buffalo Hill Guesthouse)481 Mu 24 (Doi Khao Khwai), Amphoe Mueang, Chiang RaiProvince 57000+66 (53) 717 552, +66 (53) 717 288www.pankledvilla.com N 19°53’37” E 99°49’18”Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort and Spa388 Mu 4, Ban Mae Salong Nai, Amphoe Mae Chan, ChiangRai Province 57110+66 (53) 910 500 www.phu-chaisai.comN 20°12’13” E 99°47’33”Near the Mae Sai BorderKhanthongkham Hotel40 Mu 7, Phahonyothin Rd., Amphoe Mae Sai,Chiang Rai Province 57130+66 (53) 734 222, +66 (53) 734 555www.ktkhotel.com N 20°26’34” E 99°52’53”Thai Thong Hotel6 Mu 7, Phahonyothin Rd., Amphoe Mae Sai,Chiang Rai Province 57130+66 (53) 731 975-6 http://thaithonghotel.comN 20°26’27” E 99°52’56”The Victory333 Mu 3, Amphoe Mae Sai, Chiang RaiProvince 57130+66 (53) 733 333, +66 (53) 733 019www.victoryhotelchiangrai.comN 20°25’51” E 99°53’15”Wang Thong Hotel299 Mu 7, Phahonyothin Rd., Amphoe Mae Sai,Chiang Rai Province 57130+66 (53) 733 389-95wangthong_maesai@hotmail.comN 20°26’36” E 99°52’54”Relax by the riverBaan Tammila Guesthouse113 Soi 1, Ban Wiang Kaeo, AmphoeChiang Khong, Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 234baantammila@hotmail.comN 20°16’06” E 100°24’23”Ban Rim Nam166/2 Mu12, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 655 680, +66 (81) 884 4586banrimnam@hotmail.comN 20°15’43” E 100°24’29”Chom Khong Guesthouse149 Mu 12, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 655 661, +66 (85) 526 1913N 20°15’39” E 100°24’32”De River Boutique Resort455 Mu1, Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (53) 784 466, +66 (84) 321 0700 www.deriverresort.comN 20°19’28” E 100°05’31”Ing Khong Hotel141/1 Mu 12, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 659 N 20°15’34” E 100°24’30”Le Meridien Chiangrai221/2 Mu 20, Khwae Wai Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 603 333http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/chiangraiN 19°55’20” E 99°51’14”Namkhong Riverside Hotel174-176 Mu 8, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 796, +66 (83) 482 9511www.namkhongriverside.netN 20°16’28” E 100°24’37”Rai Saeng Arun2 Mu 3, Ban Pha Kup, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 918 643, +66 (2) 381 7555-6http://www.raisaengarun.comN 20°23’47” E 100°17’53”Rimkok Resort6 Mu 4, Chiang Rai-Tha Ton Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57100+66 (53) 716 445-60 www.rimkokresorts.comN 19°55’31” E 99°49’24”Serene at Chiang Rai569 Mu 1, Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (53) 784 500-4, +66 (81) 171 5751www.sereneatchiangrai.comN 20°20’54” E 100°04’59”The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort andSpa124/15 Mu 21, Ko Loi Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 910 400, +66 (2) 642 5497www.thelegend-chiangrai.comN 19°55’04” E 99°50’43”36 37The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

ShoppingAmphoe MueangFermented Pork Sausage at Nam Nuntawan(Kong Kham)68/4 Mu 2 (by the Kok River Bridge),Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 751 116, +66 (53) 751 133N 19°55’7” E 99°50’39”Pao Pao Tender Pork Bun and Black SesameBun at Sabiang425/3 (Clock Tower) Banphaprakan Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 752 108, +66 (81) 980 1767N 19°54’25” E 99°49’49”The original recipe of Thai sausage at Sujin Muyo425/8 Banphaprakan Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (53) 712 477, +66 (53) 715 209N 19°54’26” E 99°49’50”DiningAmphoe MueangPhu Lae Restaurant Local dishes673/1 Thanalai Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Chiang RaiProvince 57000 +66 (53) 600 500N 19°54’23” E 99°50’10”Saha Rot Chinese-style soup made with hog’sentrails and curdled blood416/3 Banphaprakan Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Chiang Rai Province 57000+66 (85) 040 8830 N 19°54’24” E 99°49’46”Salungkham RestaurantOn the right hand side of Phahonyothin Rd., a little furtherfrom the Pho Khun Mengrai intersection.+66 (53) 717 192, +66 (53) 612 155N 19°54’23” E 99°50’10”Ratchaburi / Phetchaburi / Si TrangNear the Clock Tower in Banphaprakan Rd., AmphoeMueang, Chiang Rai Province N 19°54’25” E 99˚49’47”Amphoe Mae SaiSukhothai-style tomyum noodleWithin Mae Sai Market+66 (81) 530 1997, +66 (89) 635 2365Amphoe Mae SaiDoi Tung Development Project under the RoyalInitiativeMulti-Purpose Hall, Doi Tung Villa, Amphoe Mae Fa Luang,Chiang Rai Province 57420+66 (53) 767 015-7 www.doitung.orgN 20°17’14” E 99°48’34”Dried Fruits at Mae Sai MarketMae Sai Market N 20°26’39” E 99°52’44”Amphoe Chiang SaenSouvenirs and hand-woven clothes made byhill-tribe people, the Golden TriangleAlong the road by the Mekong River at the GoldenTriangle N 20°21’14” E 100°04’55”Amphoe Chiang KhongHand-woven Products at Ban Fai108 Mu 8, Amphoe Chiang Khong,Chiang Rai Province 57140+66 (53) 791 391, +66 (86) 192 2907N 20°16’01” E 100°24’23”Amphoe Chiang SaenCongee with minced pork and eggat Chok ChitIn front of Sin Sombun Market,Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province 57150N 20°16’27” E 100°05’13”Heaven on Earth Coffee ShopWithin the area of Wat Chedi Luang.635 Mu 3, Ban Wiang Tai, Amphoe Chiang Saen,Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (53) 777 587 N 20°16’25” E 100°04’50”Mae Chinda Restaurant Khanom Chin Nam Ngiaoand Nam Chaeo328 Mu1, Amphoe Chiang Saen,Chiang Rai Province 57150+66 (86) 420 2802, +66 (86) 654 31168.00-16.00 hrs. N 20°19’28” E 100°05’31”Amphoe Chiang KhongNang Nuan Restaurant277 Mu 79, Amphoe Chiang Khong, Chiang RaiProvince 57140 +66 (53) 791 271, +66 (81) 583 1 132N 20°26’39” E 99°52’44”N 20°15’07” E 100°24’47”* For more information on accommodation, restaurants, and attractions in Chiang Rai,please visit www.tourismthailand.org/chiang-raiThe road from Phu Chi Fa to Doi Pha Tang,38Chiang Rai Province39The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Phayao10911279Amphoe Thung Chang1080Amphoe Chiang KlangAmphoe PuaAmphoe Tha Wang PhaNANAmphoe Wiang SaAmphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat10811080 1169101222511681256Amphoe Bo KlueaAmphoe Mae CharimLao PDR.A Bond between Two CitiesEven though Nan Province is not geographically connecteddirectly to the Mekong River, there is an invisible connectionwith the river based on the historical link between Nan andLuang Prabang. Strolling along the road in the city of Nan isalmost a mirror image of walking in Luang Prabang. Nestled ina breathtaking valley, the charm of the city of Nan has stoodthe test of time, shown by its glorious collection of art,architecture, and religious sites. Scattered across the city areseveral ancient temples full of magnificent art and statues,especially drawings, paintings, and sculptures of Naga, thesymbol of the Mekong River.10110261162PhraeAmphoe Na Noi102610811234N40 41The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Nanthaburi, the historic Nan KingdomTo avoid invasion by the French, King Rama V decided to trade theterritory to the east of the Mekong River in exchange for the freedomof Chanthaburi Province in 1904. This treaty gave possession of theMekong River below Kaeng Pha Dai to Lao PDR., at that time underthe administration of the French.Mueang Ngoen, Mueang Chiang Lom, Mueang Khon, and Mueang ChiangHon, situated on the east side of the Mekong River and once part of MueangNan, became part of Lao PDR. This major part of Mueang Nan then belongedto Lao PDR., becoming Sainyabuli Province, consisting of districts; such as,Paklai, Kenthao, Ngeun, and Hongsa.“Nan has a long history dating back to1257 when Phaya Phukha ruled a smalltown called Mueang Yang in AmphoeTha Wang Pha. He and his adoptedson established a new capital citycalled Mueang Woranakhon orMueang Pua.”Nan was once a powerful kingdom thathad a great relationship with LuangPrabang as well as the recognition ofBangkok, the capital city of Thailand. It hasa long history dating back to 1257 whenPhaya Phukha ruled a small town calledMueang Yang in Amphoe Tha Wang Pha.He and his adopted son established a newcapital city called Mueang Woranakhonor Mueang Pua. Rich in sinthao or rock saltaround the Bo Kluea area and having manycraftspeople who were specialists inpottery-making, Nan became a tradecentre for salt and pottery. It enjoyed astrategic position and good relationshipswith the Lanna, Sukhothai, and AyutthayaKingdoms.Phra Phuttha Maha Udom Mongkhon Nanthaburi Si Nan at42 43The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Wat Phrathat Journeys along Khao the Noi, River Nan of Province Life

“The inimitable Lannaarts and culture thatNan possesses allows itto maintain a specialrelationship with LuangPrabang.”After many wars and periods of peace, Nan became a dependent of Chiang Mai city ofthe Lanna Kingdom and, together with Chiang Mai, was associated with the AyutthayaKingdom. At the end of the Ayutthaya Period, Burma took control of Chiang Mai and Nan,and subsequently Nan was abandoned after numerous wars during the Thon Buri andRattanakosin Periods.The area flourished again with the strategic and brave move of Chao Atthaworapanyowho attacked the cities in Xishuangbanna and escorted a vast number of Tai Lue peopleback to Nan. The growth in the population coupled with the location of Nan in relation toLuang Prabang caught the attention of Bangkok, and the 9 rulers of Nan enjoyed a specialstatus compared to other rulers of cities of the Lanna Kingdom.The return of prosperity to Nan can be seen in the exquisite temples scattered around thecity; such as, Wat Chang Kham, the royal temple, and Khum Luang, the residence andadministrative office of the ruler of Nan, today the Nan National Museum. The mostdistinctive example of the architectural art and cultural heritage of Nan is Wat Phumin, theancient temple built around the end of Ayutthaya Period. Wat Phumin is famous for itselegant exterior and interior design. The exterior of Wat Phumin shows that it wasconstructed so that the ubosot looks like it is located on top of the Naga while, inside theubosot, there are four Buddha images facing the four entrances of the ubosot, as well asrenowned mural paintings depicting the way of life of the people of Nan.The temples are magnificent works of art that reflect the identity of Nan. They extendbeyond the city wall to other districts within Nan Province; such as, Wat Phrathat ChaeHaeng at Phu Phiang Chae Haeng, Wat Nong Bua at Amphoe Tha Wang Pha, Wat TonLaeng, and Wat Nong Daeng at Amphoe Thung Chang.Nan is able to preserve its uniqueness without being influenced by the outside world. Theinimitable Lanna arts and culture that Nan possesses allows it to maintain a specialrelationship with Luang Prabang.The local ladies portray the ancient way of life as presented in the mural paintingwithin the ubosot of Wat Phumin, Nan Province44 45The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Set in a spectacular mountain range, Nanhas stood the test of time and nurtured acultural legacy and the fascinating traditionsof its diverse people. Even though Nan is asmall town, its history goes back to the periodsof the Sukhothai and Lanna Kingdoms. A visitto the city of Nan is like opening a door toreveal the region’s natural and culturalheritage.Fascinating attractions in NanGetting to Know NanNan is surrounded by mountainous terrain,with 70% of the area being steep slopes,making it a special destination and not apassageway to other provinces. Nan is aremote retreat that waits to welcome visitorswith its untouched natural beauty and theincredible mix of Lanna, Lan Xang, Sukhothai,and the hill-tribes’ cultures.To get an understanding and a memorable experience of visitingNan, start the journey at Amphoe Mueang before travellingaround to see the unique customs, ancient cultural legacy, andhistorical temples of other areas of the province. Visitors areintroduced to the fascination of Nan by beginning their trip atWat Phumin, the centre of the Nan community containing worldfamousmural paintings. Stop by at Wat Phrathat Chang Khamto pay respect to Phra Phuttha Nanthaburi Si Sakkayamuni andcross the street to learn more about Nan and its history at the NanNational Museum - make sure you see the black tusk.Another important place to visit in Nan is Phrathat Chae Haeng,the sacred chedi that is important for people born in the Year ofthe Rabbit. To get a glimpse of how the local people of Nan live,get up early in the morning and enjoy a local breakfast whilewatching people do their morning errands at the Nan MorningMarket.From Amphoe Mueang, travel onto Amphoe Tha Wang Pha,Amphoe Pua, Amphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat, and Amphoe ThungChang, a group of the northern part of Nan’s cities hidden in lushmountain ranges. This route takes visitors to the Nan Riverside ArtGallery, a world-class gallery established by Winai Prapripu, a Nanartist who wants to preserve the city’s works of art. Continue thejourney to observe the simple yet beautiful wihan and muralpaintings in Tai Lue style at Wat Nong Bua in Amphoe Tha WangPha.Phu Langka 46 National Park, Phayao Province – Nan Province47The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Interesting InfoNan is blessed with a number ofrivers that nourish the life of itspeople, with Nan River being thelifeblood of the province. NanRiver is also important as it flows tojoin the Ping River in Nakhon SawanProvince to form the principal riverof Thailand, the Chao Phraya River.The other rivers are the Pua and SaRivers that join the Nan River at WiangSa, and the Wa, Samun, and HaengRivers which share their origins in thevalleys in Amphoe Thung Chang.Tai Lue style temples are not only present in Amphoe ThaWang Pha but also in Amphoe Pua. An example is WatTon Laeng with its exquisite but simple architecture. Visitorsshould also call in at Phrathat Beng Sakat, the highlyrevered chedi of Nan Buddhist devotees.Those who are keen on driving are invited to take theroute from Amphoe Tha Wang Pha, passing Amphoe ThungChang, to Amphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat, the location ofthe Huai Kon Checkpoint and Border Market. Drive furtheralong the picturesque road with a background of ricepaddies to Amphoe Bo Kluea, a venue for sinthao salt orrock salt production. Visitors can witness the traditionalsalt boiling method and then enjoy shopping for productsmade by the hill-tribe people at Phu Fah DevelopmentCentre, which is patronised by HRH Princess Maha ChakriSirindhorn. Visit Doi Phu Kha National Park, the only placeScenery from the way to Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan Provincein Thailand where visitors get to see the ancient palm tree called Tao Rang Yak.The Park is especially beautiful during February and March when the rareChomphu Phu Kha flowers blossom.The northern part of Nan is charming, but the southern part of Nan is also endowedwith amazing natural and cultural attractions. Amphoe Wiang Sa welcomesvisitors with ‘Pan Songlo Pho Wiang Sa,’ an innovative activity involving cyclingaround the town to visit the important temples; such as, Wat Bun Yuen whichenshrines the principal Buddha image in a unique posture. Before leaving AmphoeWiang Sa, stop by to explore the ancient bicycles at the Huean Rot Thip Makao,the one and only bicycle museum in the area.Interesting InfoVisitors are able to crossthe border at the HuaiKon Checkpoint inAmphoe Chaloem PhraKiat to Mueang NamNgoen in Lao PDR. andthen travel 152 kilometresto Luang Prabang. Visaon arrival is available atthe checkpoint.Wat Phrathat Chang Kham Worawihan, Nan Province48 49The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Sao Din Na Noi at Si Nan National Park, Nan ProvinceTravellers who are keen on adventurous activities should visit Mae Charim NationalPark in Amphoe Mae Charim. Here there are options of 3 days-2 nights or 2 days-1night whitewater rafting trips along the Nam Wa River. The lower part of the NamWa River is suitable for beginners while more experienced rafters enjoy the thrill of themiddle part of the river.Located between Amphoe Na Noi and Amphoe Na Muen is Khun Sathan NationalPark, which is exceptionally romantic when the Thai Sakura blossoms and embracesthe hillside in pink during winter. The journey of the southern part of Nan ends at theBan Pak Nai Fisherman Village in Amphoe Na Muen. A trip in Nan would not becomplete without exploring the fishing community’s way of life at the freshwater lakeabove the Sirikit Dam and tasting the mouthwatering fish dishes cooked to localoriginal recipes.Whether it is the magnificence of nature or the fascination with the cultural treasuresthat visitors encounter while visiting Nan, the experience warms the hearts of all.Indulge in the spectacular sight of a sea of fog and the panoramic view from the top ofthe mountain at Si Nan National Park in Amphoe Na Noi. Accommodation and camping areasare available for visitors here. Take a picture with Sao Din Na Noi, what the locals callHom Chom, a natural phenomenon of a mound of earth eroded into attractive shapes.A visit to Pha Chu allows visitors to get a panoramic vista of the meandering Nan Riveras well as a breathtaking glimpse of a sea of fog in winter. A not-to-be-missed viewpointwhen visiting Nan is Doi Samoe Dao and Pha Hua Sing which both cast a magical spellon visitors with their 360 degree outlook of the surroundings, especially stunning at sunrise.Interesting InfoAccommodation at thenational parks requires at least30 days’ notice, as there are alimited number of housesavailable. Camping sites areavailable in the park area fora much smaller fee. For moreinformation and reservations,please visit www.dnp.go.th.The myth of Pha ChuLegend has it that Pha Chu or the Cliff of Affairs got itsname from the story of a love triangle involving a man andtwo ladies. The man could not decide which one he lovedthe most, so he committed suicide by jumping off the cliff.Heartbroken by the man’s actions, both ladies jumped offthe cliff too.Whitewater rafting on the Nam Wa River at Mae Charim National Park, Nan Province50 51The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : The Cultural Trail of NanAmphoe MueangUntouched by the influence of the outside world, the centuries-old cultural heritage and unique wayof life of Nan is well preserved, emphasising the charming character that is a mystery for visitors todiscover.Nan Morning Market,where the day beginsWalk along Kha Luang Road early in themorning and visit the vibrant Nan MorningMarket where many local people start theirday. Freshwater fish from the Nan River,mushrooms collected from the forests, andkai or freshwater seaweed are examplesof what can be found on the roadsidestands.Located on Kha Luang Rd., near Dhevaraj Hotel.N 18°46’39” E 100°46’35”Explore the charm of Nan at the Nan National MuseumAt Ho Kham, once a residence of the ruler of Nan, the Nan National Museum is a place wherevisitors are invited to explore the history, culture, and identity of this small town. The exhibitionranges from displays of the way of life and customs of the people of Nan to evidence of humansettlements and valuable antique artefacts, the most prominent treasure being the Black Tusk.On Pha Kong Rd., near Wat Phrathat Chang Kham Worawihan.07.00-16.00 hrs. every day except Monday, Tuesday and public holidays30 Baht N 18°46’34” E 100°46’15”Interesting InfoBelieved to be brought fromChiang Tung, the highlytreasured Black Tusk is of adark brown colour with aLanna and Thai inscriptionstating that the tusk weighs18 kilogrammes.Silverware of Nan,a precious handicraftThe intricate skills and creativity of the craftspeople makes thesilverware of Nan timeless and unique. One of the mostcelebrated silverwares made in Nan is the giant bowl, aproduct that requires a lot of effort, time, and experience.The making of silverware is an ancient art that has its originaround the same time as the establishment of Nan. The craftbecame more common during the reign of King Rama IVwhen prisoners who were goldsmiths, blacksmiths, andsilversmiths were taken to Nan from other cities; such as,Mueang Yong and Chiang Saen during the expansion ofthe Nan Kingdom to the Xishuangbanna or the Sipsong ChuTai region. Their techniques and skills have been passeddown from generation to generation, and today this rareancient art can still be seen at Boonchuai Handicraft andSilver, where Boonchuai Hiranyawit makes silverware by thetraditional method.Ban Pratu Plong, Chai Phasuk Rd., Tambon Nai Wiang, AmphoeMueang, Nan Province 55000 N 18°47’21’ E 100°47’03’Interesting InfoThe traditional boat races play a significantrole in reflecting the outstanding characterof Nan’s local people and itsorigin. The special featureof the boat race, apartfrom showing the unityof the paddlers, isthe astonishingfigureheads of theboats that are carvedin the shape of Naga.Spend time with the Mien hill-tribe peopleat Ban Klang Phatthana VillageOne of many tribal groups residing in Nan, the Mien or Yao hill-tribepeople live a fascinating way of life embracing unique customs andvaluable wisdom. A visit to Ban Klang Phatthana allows visitors to observeand learn the Mien’s way of life as well as the art of embroidery andmaking hand-made silverware. If visitors spend a night at a homestaythey are able to witness the Mien’s traditional Tray Dance.Located on the Nan-Phayao Rd., an asphalt road, about 16 km. fromAmphoe Mueang Nan District Office. N 18°49’10” E 100°39’46”The meticulous works of artat the Chompu Phuka Silverand Handicraft CentreThe silverware and jewellery at ChompuPhuka Silver and Handicraft Centre are madeby the Hmong and Mien hill-tribe artisans.Whether it is a silver necklace, bangle, earrings,or any other type of product, the intricateartwork reflects expertise that has beenhanded down through generations.At the Km. 2 marker on the Nan-Phayao Rd.Monday-Saturday 08.00-17.00 hrs.N 18°46’49” E 100°45’14”52 53The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The world of art for art lovers atthe Nan Riverside Art GalleryEstablished to preserve the local arts for art lovers andfuture generations, the Nan Riverside Art Gallery isthe result of the aspiration and determination of WinaiPrapripu, an artist who wants to give something backto the community of his hometown. Not only is NanRiverside Art Gallery an exhibition hall, but it is alsointended to be an art learning centre to encouragepeople to share their passions for art and culture.At the Km. 20 marker on the Nan-Thung Chang Rd.Wednesday-Sunday 10.00-17.30 hrs.+66 (54) 798 046, +66 (81) 322 2912www.nanartgallery.com N 18°56’46” E 100°45’59”Travel back in time at ChaoRatchabut HouseEven though it is newly built, the materials used inbuilding Chao Ratchabut House were taken froman ancient two-storey teakwood house, producinga house filled with traces of the prosperity of Nanin the past. History of the Nan rulers, ways of life ofNan’s local people in ancient times, and prehistoricartefacts are displayed in the building that combinesa Western style of architecture with Thai stylecarved wood.On Mahawong Rd., Tambon Nai Wiang Amphoe Mueang.Every day but please contact in advanceNo admission fee. +66 (54) 710 605, +66 (89) 970 4291N 18°46’40” E 100°46’19”Tour the city of Nan ona tricycleWandering around the city of Nan on a tricycle,a common mode of transport since ancient times,is convenient and offers a great opportunity forvisitors to observe the significant tourist attractionsin the middle of the city.Within Amphoe Mueang Nan.Please contact Nan Provincial Public Relations Office at+66 (54) 773 047 during office hours for more information.Interesting InfoThere are several routes for the Nan City tour on atricycle. These include:Route 1 : Take a tricycle to tour the temples and payhomage to Nan’s sacred items and revered Buddhaimages.Route 2 : Take a tricycle to tour Nan and trace itshistory through its historical sites.Route 3 : Take a tricycle to pay homage to PhrathatChae Haeng, the chedi of people born in the Year ofthe Rabbit.Route 4 : Take a tricycle to Khao Noi and pay respectto Phrathat Khao Noi.Apart from a tricycle tour, there is also a tram serviceavailable to take visitors to the main tourist attractionsaround the Nan municipality starting at 16.30 hrs. onweekdays and 10.30 hrs. and 16.30 hrs. on weekends.Please contact the Tourist Information Centre,Nan Municipality Office at +66 (54) 750 247,+66 (54) 751 169Kat Mua Khua SinStroll around to get a new shopping experience at KatMua Khua Sin. This is where art blends perfectly withculture. An extensive list of products ranging from handwovensilk, stylish hand-made clothing and accessories,to paintings shows the artistic soul hidden beneath thesmiling faces of the Nan people.Located in the area around the Tourist Information Centre next to WatPhumin. Every Friday and Saturday 16.00-22.00 hrs. +66 (54) 751 169N 18°46’29” E 100°46’20”Nan Walking StreetBefore saying goodbye, enjoy strolling along the vibrantNan Walking Street where visitors get to shop for localproducts; such as, silverware and hand-woven silk.Stalls sell mouthwatering local foods among the musicof the unique cultural show that can only be seen inNan.The location changes every month. Please contact AmphoeMueang Nan Municipality Office at +66 (54) 710 234 or+66 (54) 771 630 for more information.Every Friday and Saturday from 16.00 hrs. onwards.The culture of Miang leaf cultivation at Ban Si Na PanThe Ban Si Na Pan community migrated from Xishuangbanna to the stretch of Huai Luang Brook inNan city. They live together in a small group, but they have an interesting way of life based onagricultural activities. They brought with them Miang or Assam tea plants from Xishuangbanna.The cultivation of the Miang leaf has played an important role in the life of the people of BanSi Na Pan. A visit to this community provides the opportunity for visitors to understand andwitness the local agricultural practices from cultivating the leaf to the tea-making process, andthen to taste the aromatic tea. A 1.5-kilometre route takes visitors to explore many interestingattractions; such as, the Chao Luang Pa Miang Shrine, the Hai tree that symbolises the abundanceof the natural resources of this area, the animal conservation centre, Pulu turtle or tailed turtlehabitats, and a camping site.Ban Si Na Pan is located in Tambon Rueang, Amphoe Mueang. N 18°46’56” E 100°39’16”54 55The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Nine Temples Tour in NanAmphoe MueangMake merit at the temples for good luck and pay respect to the highly revered Buddhaimages of Nan on the Nine Temples Tour. This tour provides the opportunity for visitors tolearn the art and culture of the area.Interesting InfoNan holdsseveral Buddhist meritmakingevents; such as, HokPeng Waisa Phrathat ChaeHaeng in March, and the KinSalak Fair held from Octoberto December.Wat Phumin features an example of Lannaarchitecture that constructed a shrine hall andwihan together in the same building with acruciform plan. In the building are muralsdepicting the ways of life and culture of thelocal people of Nan in the past. The mostprominent painting is the world-famous ‘TheWhisper,’ the logo of Nan.Located near Nan National Museum and Wat PhrathatChang Kham Worawihan. N 18°46’28” E 100°46’18”First Temple: Sacred temple for the Yearof the Rabbit, Wat Phrathat Chae HaengStanding for over 600 years, Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng is one ofthe most sacred temples for Nan people. Influenced by the chedi ofHariphunchai, Phrathat Chae Haeng is a special relic-containingchedi for people born in the Year of the Rabbit. Also, look for thetwo Nagas intertwined on the gable of the wihan, a distinctivefeature of Lan Chang architecture.Second Temple: Explore thelegendary murals at Wat PhuminCross the Phatthana Phak Nuea Bridge on the Nan-Mae Charim Rd. andthe temple is located on the top of the hill at Ban Nong Tao, Phu PhiangSub-district. N 18°45’29” E 100°47’27”Interesting Info• The unique cruciform wihan of Wat Phumin wasfeatured on the one Baht banknote during the reignof King Rama VIII. This exceptionally rare banknoteis valuable to the people of Nan and is displayedat Wat Phumin.•‘The Whisper,’ showing aman whispering to a lady, isthe creation of a Tai Lue artist,Nan Buaphan, and is believedto have been painted at WatPhumin during the reign of KingRama V.Third Temple: The only chedi surrounded by elephants, WatPhrathat Chang Kham WorawihanWat Phrathat Chang Kham Worawihan symbolises the relationship between Nan and theSukhothai Kingdom. Chedi Chang Kham is surrounded by elephant reliefs that appear to besupporting the structure. The front of the temple has the biggest scripture hall in Thailand,housing golden walking Buddha image Phra Phuttha Nanthaburi Si Sakkayamuni.Located at the intersection on Suriyaphong Rd. The gate of the image hall normally opens only at weekends.N 18°46’34” E 100°46’21”Fourth Temple: Handiwork ofNan artisans, Wat Hua KhuangWat Hua Khuang reflects Lanna culture throughits exquisite architecture crafted by Nan artisans.Apart from the wihan of the temple, the antiqueHo Trai shows delicate wood carving on thefront gable.From Pha Kong Rd., drive past Nan National Museumand the temple is on the left-hand side, on the corner ofMaha Phrom Rd.N 18°46’37” E 100°46’12”56 57The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Fifth Temple: Worshipping the Buddha for plentiful rain atWat Phaya WatOne of Nan’s ancient temples, Wat Phaya Wat features a chedi that was influenced by thearchitecture of Lamphun that was popular during the Lanna Kingdom period and spread to Nan.Enshrined in the wihan is the Phrachao Sai Fon, a 2-metre high wooden Buddha image coveredin sheets of gold leaf. This image is highly respected by the local people of Nan who come topray for rain.From Khao Noi Rd. at Ban Phaya Wat, turn at the intersection of Highway 1025 and drive for another 300 m. Thetemple is on the left. N 18°46’13” E 100°45’46”Sixth Temple: Pay homage to Buddha’sSeventh Temple: Pay respectto the sacred Phrachao ThongThip at Wat Suan TanWat Suan Tan, ‘The Sugar Palm Grove Temple,’owes its name to the fact that the site used tobe a sugar palm grove. Housed within thetemple is Phrachao Thong Thip, a huge bronzeBuddha statue cast by Phrachao Tilokkarat of theChiang Mai Kingdom to celebrate his victory inseizing Nan in 1450. Nan’s local people come tomake merit and sprinkle water to bathe theBuddha statue every Thai New Year.On Mahayot Rd., Amphoe Mueang.N 18°47’03” E 100°46’27”relics at Wat Phrathat Khao NoiWat Phrathat Khao Noi features Phra Phuttha Maha UdomMongkhon Nanthaburi Si Nan, a 9-metre tall Buddhaimage situated on the top of Khao Noi Hill. Within thearea of the temple is Phrathat Khao Noi, a chedi thatenshrines the Lord Buddha’s relics. Visitors who come tomake merit at Wat Phrathat Khao Noi also enjoy themagnificent views of Nan and the lush valleys.Travel 2 km. past Wat Phaya Wat and turn right at the intersection.N 18°46’10” E 100°45’01”Interesting InfoNan City PillarOriginally made ofteakwood during the reign ofChaofa Atthaworapanyo, the 57 thruler of Nan, Nan City Pillar was built inWat Ming Mueang to bring good fortuneto Nan. Over time, the City Pillar becameworn out and it was refurbished by thepeople of Nan in 2007 to honour HisMajesty the King’s 80 th Birthday.Ninth Temple: The biggestBuddha statue of Nan atWat Phaya PhuNamed after its founder, Wat PhayaPhu is one of the most importanttemples in Nan as it houses the city’sbiggest Buddha image, believed tobe around 580 years old. The intriguingfeature of this temple is the woodendoor of the wihan which is carved inthe shape of guardian demons.At Ban Phaya Phu, around 500 m. from NanCity Hall.N 18˚36’25” E 100˚46’28”Eighth Temple: Pay homageto the City Pillar at Wat MingMueangShowing a blend of Lanna and modern styles, WatMing Mueang is a beautiful white temple thatattracts visitors with its detailed design of stuccoreliefs and architecture. Wat Ming Mueang is alsothe place where the City Pillar, ‘Ming MueangPillar,’ is situated. A visit to pay homage to theCity Pillar is believed to bring good luck to visitorsand to make their trip to Nan complete.At Ban Ming Mueang in the town centre, Tambon Nai Wiang.N 18°46’30” E 100°46’09”58 59The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Driving from Amphoe Pua to Amphoe Bo KlueaA road trip to Amphoe Pua and Amphoe Bo Kluea is a memorable experience,as it provides the opportunity for visitors to feel the rich culture in the embraceof tranquil nature.Ban Rong Ngae, the one andonly Tai Lue community inAmphoe PuaSituated not far from Wat Ton Laeng is Ban RongNgae, the only Tai Lue community in Amphoe Puadescended from Xishuangbanna, YunnanProvince. Not only do visitors get to explore thehistoric sites, but they also experience the ancientTai Lue culture that has been well-preserved andpassed down through generations.Ban Rong Ngae is located on the route to Doi Phu Khain Tambon Woranakhon, Amphoe Pua.N 19°10’33” E 100°56’10”Ton Dik Diam, a tree with a senseof humourDiscover Ton Dik Diam, a tree with an extraordinarycharacter at Wat Ban Prang. Not only does it turn itsback to the sun and face the temple, Ton Dik Diamis the only tree in Thailand that shakes its leaves, asif it is being tickled, when touched.Situated at Wat Ban Prang. Visitors can look at Ton Dik Diam everyday but touching the tree is prohibited. To see its reactions to beingtouched, visitors must ask the abbot of the temple to touch the tree.N 19°11’02” E 100°54’53”Witness the refined Tai Lue style ofthe wihan at Wat Ton LaengWat Ton Laeng is over 400 years old but has succeeded inpreserving its breathtaking architecture. The ancient Tai Lue artis the main attraction for visitors. The three-tiered roof representsNan’s humble belief in Buddhism, whereas the gable iscolourfully decorated in a Tai Lue style.From Amphoe Pua Intersection, drive about 1 km. and turn right at the oldmarket. Continue driving for another 1.5 km. and turn left at the Ban Ton Laengsign. Proceed to a bridge and drive another 1 km. further to the temple.N 19°11’20” E 100°54’24”Interesting InfoApart from itsfamous silverware, Nan is alsorenowned for its textile weaving,unique in terms ofdesign, pattern, and weavingtechnique. The most distinctive pattern thatshows the originality of Nan is ‘Lai NamLai,’ meaning ‘running water pattern,’symbolising the way of life of Nan’speople who share a great bondwith water.Discover the pink ChomphuPhu Kha at Doi Phu KhaNational ParkOne of the must-visit tourist destinationsin Nan is Doi Phu Kha National Park. Itfeatures the tallest peak in Nan and hasseveral rare flora; such as, the ancientpalm tree Tao Rang Yak, and the spectacularChomphu Phu Kha. Found only at this park,Chomphu Phu Kha blooms around February toMarch of every year, adding a romantic pinkcolour to the green mountain.Take Highway 1256 (Amphoe Pua-Amphoe Bo Kluea) forabout 24 km. and the Tourist Information Centre is locatedon the right and the checkpoint on the left. Drive past thecheckpoint for around 600 m. to the park. www.dnp.go.thN 19°12’01” E 101°04’50”Useful Contact Information in NanThe centre of the Amphoe Puacommunity, Wat Phrathat Beng SakatA visit to Pua would not be complete without a trip to WatPhrathat Beng Sakat, the sacred temple which enshrinesLord Buddha’s relics. Believed to be built in 1283, the roofof the wihan is a low slope, reflecting the Tai Lue style ofarchitecture. The location of the temple on a hilltop offersa panoramic view of the villages below, especially beautifulat rice-growing time during the rainy season.Located in Amphoe Pua. Take Highway 1080 and make a u-turnbefore turning left onto Highway 1256. Drive 200 m. to the entrancewhich is opposite Woranakhon School, and it is then another 200 m. tothe temple. N 19°10’42” E 100°55’04”Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Phrae Office +66 (54) 521 118-9Tourist Police +66 (54) 710 216Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (54) 710 032Nan Bus Terminal +66 (54) 711 661Nan Hospital +66 (54) 710 138-9Pua Crown Prince Hospital +66 (54) 791 104Nan Airport +66 (54) 710 270Bo Kluea, Thailand’s onlysalt pit on a mountainNamed after the discovery of a salt pitunder the ground, Bo Kluea is the onlysalt pit in Thailand that is situated on amountain. In the past, salt was extremelyvaluable and, being the centre of saltproduction, Bo Kluea made Nan as prosperousas the Sukhothai Kingdom. Visitors are ableto observe the traditional method ofboiling sinthao salt or rock salt.At Ban Bo Luang in Tambon Bo Kluea Tai. TakeHighway 1256 heading towards Amphoe Pua foraround 200 m. and follow the sign by making a leftturn to Ban Bo Luang. Go another 200 m.N 19°09’02” E 101°09’23”60 61The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

AccommodationStay in Boutique StyleApirata Resort171 Mu 11, Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 774 823, +66 (87) 176 3206www.apirataresort.comK1 Modern Art Hotel2 Worawichai Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (82) 390 4911, +66 (81) 882 5373N 18°47’55” E 100°46’58”Nan Boutique Hotel1/11 Khao Luang Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 775 521www.nanboutiquehotel.comN 18°46’54” E 100°46’48”Nan CityDhevaraj Hotel466 Sumon Thewarat Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 751 577 www.dhevarajhotel.comN 18°46’43” E 100°46’53”Close to Town, Near NatureSasidara Resort629 Mu 4, Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 774 483, +66 (54) 773 936www.sasidararesort.comN 18°46’28” E 100°45’21”Nan Fasai Resort105 Mu 8, Amphoe Phu Phiang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 701 222, +66 (89) 482 9875www.nanfasairesort.comN 18°47’01” E 100°46’04”Nan Valley Resort229 Mu 4, Nan-Thung Chang Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 682 251, +66 (54) 682 286www.nanvalley.com N 18°54’21” E 100°45’46”The Waterside Resort and Camping293 Mu 10, Ban Pha Khwang, Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 798 018, +66 (81) 365 0404www.nanthewatersideresort.comN 19°00’59” E 100°46’55”Relax in the middle of therice fieldTanong Home-stay96/4 Ban Don Sathan, Amphoe Pua, Nan Province 55120+66 (89) 761 8013, +66 (54) 791 731www.homestay-tanong.comN 19°12’06” E 100°55’56”Accommodation in Amphoe Bo KlueaBoklua View209 Ban Bo Luang, Amphoe Bo Kluea, Nan Province 55220+66 (54) 778 140, +66 (81) 809 6392www.bokluaview.comN 19°09’11” E 101°09’12”ShoppingAmphoe MueangBoonchuai Handicraft and Silver27/1 Chai Phasuk Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 751 069, +66 (85) 705 4953N 18°47’21” E 100°47’02”Nan’s OTOP Centre82/1 Mahawong Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 711 739, +66 (81) 764 9981N 18°46’35” E 100°46’48”Accommodation in Amphoe PuaChompu Phukha Resort381 Mu 8, Nan-Thung Chang Rd., Amphoe Pua,Nan Province 55120+66 (54) 791 160, +66 (54) 791 483www.chompuphukharesort.comN 19°10’53” E 100°54’44”Oopkaew Resort329 Mu 5, Amphoe Pua, Nan Province 55120+66 (54) 756 587-9, +66 (81) 764 8685N 19°10’20” E 100°54’54”Pa Pua Phukha Hotel141 Mu 4, Pua-Nam Yao Rd., Amphoe Pua,Nan Province 55120+66 (54) 792 111, +66 (54) 792 113N 19°08’40” E 100°56’47”Amphoe PuaDoi Silver Factory205 Mu 1, Ban Na Pan, Amphoe Pua,Nan Province 55120+66 (81) 568 2434, +66 (54) 791 650www.doisilverfactory.comN 19°11’45” E 100°55’35”Phaeo Handmade Cotton Products141 Mu 1, Ban Hia, Amphoe Pua, Nan Province 55120+66 (81) 473 3627, +66 (89) 854 0987N 19°09’42” E 100°56’16”62 63The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

DiningAmphoe MueangChai Mueang, Milk Club andArchitecture Gallery39/3-4 Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (87) 183 2080, +66 (89) 956 1835Milkclub_nan@hotmail.comN 18°46’41’″ E 100°46’18”Huean Chaonang Restaurant The classic recipesBan Tha Lo, on the east side of Nan River, Amphoe Phu Phiang,Nan Province 55000+66 (89) 073 4688, +66 (81) 808 5588N 18°46’43” E 100°47’02”Hot Bread (Bakery & Veggie Food)08/1-2 Suriyaphong Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (89) 635 9375 N 18°46’31” E 100°46’11”Loet Rot Pork Congee349/11, Sumon Thewarat Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 772 961, +66 (54) 774 145N 18°46’39” E 100°46’31”Pa Nim DessertTeng Trai-Rat Intersection, Mahawong Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (85) 036 6108, +66 (81) 469 5082N 18°46’44” E 100°46’09”Pum 3 Restaurant Thai food87/2 opposite to Bank ofAyudhaya, Ananta WoraritthidetRd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province55000+66 (54) 772 100N 18°46’49” E 100°46’23”Ruenkaew Restaurant Crispy Chicken1/1 Sumon Thewarat Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 710 631, +66 (89) 558 2508N 18°47’32” E 100°47’25”Sai Nam Tawan-ok Restaurant Khanom ChinNamyaKhaluang Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Nan Province 55000+66 (81) 473 3333, +66 (81) 671 3333N 15°46’26” E 100°46’34”Ton Nam Restaurant Khao Soi08/1-2 Suriyaphong Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (89) 635 9375N 18°46’31” E 100°46’11”Wanda Restaurant Khanom Chin Nam Ngiao100/3 Khaluang Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Nan Province 55000+66 (54) 772 149, +66 (89) 838 5382N 18°46’27” E 100°46’34”Amphoe PuaKhrua Linda Ma-Khwaen Chicken355 Mu 5, Amphoe Pua, Nan Province 55120+66 (89) 264 0964N 19°10’34” E 100°54’47”*For more information on accommodation, restaurants, and attractions in Nan,please visit www.tourismthailand.org/nan64The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThai Sakura at Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan Province

Mekong River1268Lao PDR.Amphoe Na Haeo2113iverHueang RLoeiAmphoe Dan SaiThai-Lao Friendship Bridge21452294203Amphoe Tha LiAmphoe Phu RueaTo Amphoe Chiang Khan23992115To Amphoe Mueang LoeiPact of the River, Loei ProvinceThe Hueang River forms the international borderbetween Thailand in Loei Province and Lao PDR. inBoten and Kaen Thao districts in Sainyabuli Province.The meandering course of the Hueang Riversymbolises the collaboration of the two countriesinstead of division and/or competition. An exampleof this collaboration is Phrathat Si Song Rak, the‘chedi of love between the two nations,’ built hundredsof years ago by King Maha Chakkraphat of Ayutthayaand King Chaiyachetthathirat of Lan Xang as a pactof peace and mutual respect between the 2 countries.The Hueang River is rich in culture and tradition andprovides a remarkable journey when approachingthe Mekong River in Amphoe Chiang Khan.N203To Amphoe Lom Sak, Phetchabun Province66 67The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Dan Sai, the land of promise and friendshipThe Luang Prabang Mountain Range is the natural border betweenThailand and Lao PDR. from Amphoe Bo Kluea and Amphoe Na Noi ofNan Province, Amphoe Ban Khok, Amphoe Fak Tha, and Amphoe NamPat of Uttaradit Province, to Amphoe Na Haeo in Loei Province. Phu SuanSai National Park and Na Haeo National Park, located in Amphoe NaHaeo, cover a vast forested area that is the source of the small butimportant Hueang River that replaces the Luang Prabang Mountain Rangeas the Thai-Lao border for approximately 120 kilometres.“Dan Sai is the location of achedi known as Phrathat Si SongRak. This Chedi was built tocommemorate the agreementbetween the Ayutthaya andLan Xang Kingdoms that theywould not invade each other’sterritory.”The Hueang River flows 20 kilometres downthe mountain and meets a river from theother side of Luang Prabang MountainRange in Lao territory and, from this point,becomes the border between the 2countries. There are strong links betweenthe countries in this area, connections thatwill become even stronger when the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge across the HueangRiver is completed. This will allow people toeasily cross the river between Amphoe ThaLi on the Thai side and Kenthao District inLao PDR. However, before the HueangRiver reaches the site of the FriendshipBridge, it is joined by Man River at thebeautiful hilltop city of Dan Sai.Phrathat Si Song Rak, Loei Province

Wat Si Pho Chai Saeng Pha, Loei ProvinceDan Sai is the location of a chedi known as Phrathat Si Song Rak. This chedi was built tocommemorate the agreement between the Ayutthaya and Lan Xang Kingdoms that theywould not invade each other’s territory and would oppose any efforts to be invaded byBurma. Even though the Ayutthaya and Lan Xang Kingdoms joined forces, they could notresist the attacks of King Bayinnaung, known in Thailand as the Conqueror of TenDirections. Vientiane in the Lan Xang Kingdom was destroyed and the Ayutthaya Kingdomwas captured by the Burmese army. It was King Chaiyachetthathirat who finally regainedcontrol of these kingdoms and set them free from the Burmese invaders.Dan Sai was the hub of the Lan Xang and Ayutthaya Kingdoms, even though it was notcentrally located in the region. One explanation for its significance may be that its positionon the river made it strategically important as a transport centre for the movement of goodsand/or people. From Ayutthaya, travellers followed the Pa Sak River through Saraburi to SiThep, Phetchabun, Lom Sak, Lom Kao, and then the tributaries to Dan Sai. Travellers fromLan Xang used the Mekong River to the intersection at Sanakham. One branch of theintersection leads the Mekong River to Luang Prabang and the other goes to the HueangRiver and finally Dan Sai. Using these routes, the Lan Xang and Ayutthaya Kingdoms wereable to collect their combined forces at Dan Sai ready for battle, a remarkable illustrationof historical military collaboration leading to the construction of the Phrathat Si Song Rakover the Man River in Dan Sai.“Dan Sai was the hubof the Lan Xang andAyutthaya Kingdoms,even though it was notcentrally located in theregion.”The fascinating history of Dan Sai does not end there. When Phrathat Si Song Rak was built, agroup of people were selected to watch over the chedi. This group became highly respectedand carried out all duties related to the chedi as well as acting as organiser during the importantmerit-making events of the city. This highly respected group became known as Chaopho Kuan,Chaomae Nang Thiam, and Pho Saen. The strong cultural legacy of Dan Sai exists because of thecustoms, traditions, way of life of the local people, and the special events conducted by thisselect group of people.Phi Ta Khon Festival, a festival in a small district in Loei Province has become world-famous, dueto its unique origins, masks, and costumes displayed in the procession. The Phi Ta Khon Festival isdesigned to rid the locals of problems via the Man River. These problems then flow to the HueangRiver which joins the Mekong River at Phu Khok Ngio in Ban Tha Di Mi, again becoming theborder between Thailand and Lao PDR. In this way, the misery of the people of Dan Sai is washeddown the course of the Mekong River.Peaceful natural surroundings bythe Hueang River, Loei Province70 71The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The Hueang River might not be as majestic as theMekong River, but it has played an important rolein the lives of the people of Loei since ancienttimes. A journey along the Hueang River takesvisitors’ breath away as the river meanders its waythrough the natural beauty of the mountainranges and the unique cultural heritage and wayof life of the local people.Getting to know LoeiLoei, which means ‘beyond,’ deserves itsname as it is situated in the extreme northwestcorner of the northeastern region ofThailand, with its stretch of the MekongRiver constituting the international borderwith Lao PDR. It has a marvelous historyand many attractions to uncover.Fascinating Attractions in Loei(Amphoe Dan Sai - Amphoe Na Haeo - Amphoe Tha Li - Amphoe Phu Ruea)Some of the waters of the Hueang River come from the Man Riverwhich has its origin in the highlands of Amphoe Dan Sai, the locationof the famous Phi Ta Khon Festival or Ghost Festival. Visitors can explorethe origins, traditions, and story about Phi Ta Khon and the Bun LuangCeremony at the Phi Ta Khon Museum at Wat Phon Chai. Wat PhonChai is an ancient temple believed to have been built around thesame time as Phrathat Si Song Rak, the centre of faith of the Dan Saipeople. Pay homage to Phrathat Si Song Rak, a symbol of friendshipand unity between Thailand and Lao PDR., before making a visit topay respect to the replica of Phra Phuttha Chinnarat image at WatNeramit Wipatsana, enshrined in the only ubosot in Loei made oflaterite. While in Dan Sai, visitors should make sure that they taste PamKhai, an ancient recipe of oilless omelet, at Auntie Nu Restaurant.From Amphoe Dan Sai, continue the journey to Amphoe Na Haeo andvisit Wat Pho Chai Na Phueng to pay homage to Phrachao Fon SaenHa, the highly revered Buddha image of Na Haeo community. Wat SiPho Chai is another place that visitors can see the strong religiousbeliefs of the Loei people. Follow this with a visit to Phrathat Din Thaen,a chedi built of soil by the Na Haeo community, illustrating their simplelife in unison with their strong faith in Buddhism. From Phrathat DinThaen, travel to Phu Suan Sai National Park and catch a glimpse ofthe spectacular natural sights at Phu Hua Hom and refresh your mindand soul at the Tat Hueang Waterfall. If lucky, Tao Pu Lu or Siamesebig-headed turtle might pop up to wish visitors a safe journey fromAmphoe Na Haeo to Amphoe Tha Li.Tat Hueang Waterfall at Phu Suan Sai National Park, Loei Province 73The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Wat Si Pho Chai Saeng Pha, Loei ProvinceThe journey of the Hueang River continues onto meet the Mekong River in Amphoe ChiangKhan, but there is another route to explore forvisitors who want to get a different experience byvisiting Amphoe Phu Ruea, the place renownedas the coldest spot in Thailand. Sample the freshair of the Phu Ruea National Park, a famoustourist attraction that provides a camp site forvisitors to enjoy the cool breeze. Phu Ruea isone of the famous agro-tourism sites in Thailandand visitors can enjoy the beautiful sight ofwinter flowers that grow along the roadside,visit a vineyard, and buy fresh vegetables, fruit,and the famous fresh shiitake mushroom.Let your imagination run free and seize themoment of an unforgettable experienceamidst the cool breeze and stunning naturalsurroundings of memorable Loei.Wat Phon Chai, Loei ProvinceA journey along the Hueang River from AmphoeNa Haeo to Amphoe Tha Li takes visitors to theThai-Lao Friendship Bridge across the HueangRiver, where visitors can cross to Sainyabuli Provincein Lao PDR. Crossing the bridge allows visitors todo some duty-free shopping in Lao PDR. or travelfurther to marvel at the panoramic scenery ofthe Mekong River at Kenthao and Paklai districts.Once back in Thai territory, stop to take a pictureas a souvenir at the Mekong Gate before visitingPhrathat Satcha, the highly revered chedi thatwas built to continue the spirit and existence ofthe collapsed Phrathat Phanom. For Isan foodlovers, Kaeng Ton is the place to go-savourdelicious local dishes while enjoying an amazingview of the river flowing through a cataract.Interesting InfoAmphoe Phu Ruea, the coolest placein ThailandAbout 20 kilometres from the centre ofAmphoe Phu Ruea is Ban Hin So Village,the coldest place in Thailand. Withtemperatures dropping below zeroduring winter, Ban Hin So is a popularattraction for those who want to witnessthe sparkling ‘Mae Khaning’ frozen dewdrops on the grass.Outlook from the road between Amphoe Tha Li-Amphoe Phu Ruea, Loei Province74 75The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Pact of the River, Loei ProvinceAmphoe Dan Sai - Amphoe Na Haeo - Amphoe Tha LiBeneath the history and culture, the Pact of the River route is rich in tranquility and naturalbeauty. Amphoe Dan Sai, Amphoe Na Haeo, and Amphoe Tha Li of Loei Province interest visitorswith a way of life that exists in harmony with nature.Phrathat Si Song Rak, the chedi ofpromise and goodwillPhrathat Si Song Rak, the centre of faith for the Dan Saicommunity, is the most significant historical site in Loei. Builtas a symbol of good faith and friendship between Krung SiAyutthaya of Thailand and Krung Si Sattana Khanahut ofLao PDR., the chedi reflects the strong relationship betweenthe two countries that has existed for over 450 years.Located on Highway 2113, around 1 km. before reachingAmphoe Dan Sai. N 17°16’15” E 101°08’29”Interesting InfoMake merit at Phrathat Si Song Rak with Ton PhuengOn the full moon day in May, the local people ofDan Sai join hands in making Ton Phueng. This ismade of bamboo, leaf sheath of banana trees,candle wax, and flowers, and is offered to PhrathatSi Song Rak. It is believed that paying homageto the chedi with Ton Phueng brings good luckand makes one’s wishes come true.The exquisite laterite ordination hall,Wat Neramit WipatsanaStart the trip by visiting Wat Neramit Wipatsana,featuring the only laterite ordination hall - ubosot - inLoei Province. It houses a replica of the highlyvenerated Phra Phuttha Chinnarat and also featuresmurals that illustrate the marvellous artistic skills ofthe Dan Sai artists.Located on the hilltop near Phrathat Si Song Rak, around1 km. before reaching Amphoe Dan Sai.N 17°16’05” E 101°08’30”Interesting InfoRed… The forbidden colourAn important tip before visitingPhrathat Si Song Rak is that offering redobjects and/or flowers and wearing and/or carrying anything red in the area ofthe temple is prohibited. This is becausered symbolises blood and violence, acontradiction of friendship and unitywhich is the purpose of the chedi.Introduction to Phi Ta Khon at Wat Phon ChaiWat Phon Chai is an ancient temple that plays a great role in the history of Loei. It isbelieved to have been the residence of the monk who conducted the ceremony whenbuilding Phrathat Si Song Rak. At present, the famous Phi Ta Khon or Ghost Festival andMaha Chat Merit Making Ceremony of Amphoe Dan Sai are held in the 7th lunar monthof every year at this temple.Around 1 km. before reaching Dan Sai District Office. N 17°16’27” E 101°08’56”Interesting InfoThe mystery of Wang WoenAbout 300 metres from Wat Phon Chai is the ManRiver and a dune called Wang Woen. The legendbehind Wang Woen is that people built a wihan tocover a hole believed to be where the Naga lived.Traces of mud that look like they were caused by thetail of the Naga on the walls of the wihan and theback of the Buddha image are evidence of themysterious Wang Woen story.The origin of ‘Phi Ta Khon’Interesting InfoThe Phi Ta KhonFestival at Wat Phon ChaiThe Phi Ta Khon or Bun LuangFestival is held annually at Wat PhonChai in Amphoe Dan Sai. The localpeople of Dan Sai, hosted by ChaophoKuan, Pho Saen, Chaomae Nang Thiam,and Maenang Taeng, gather at thetemple to listen to 13 chapters of the“Maha Chat” or the Great BirthSermon.The origin of Phi Ta Khon is ambiguous, the best known explanation coming from a Buddhist Jataka. PhraWetsandon - Prince Vessantara (who is believed to be the last incarnation before the last rebirth ofBuddha) and his consort were sent away to live in the forest. When they were asked to return to town,the ghosts and animals joined the procession, called ‘Phi Tam Khon’ or ‘ghost follows humans.’ Overtime, Phi Tam Khon became ‘Phi Ta Khon,’ as it is known today. Full of locals and visitors who come toenjoy the intriguing celebration, the Phi Ta Khon Festival features 2 types of Phi Ta Khon, the big Phi TaKhon and the small Phi Ta Khon, with differences in sizes and costumes.76 77The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The local wisdom of Dan Saiat the Phi Ta Khon MuseumOnce an abbot’s cell, the Phi Ta Khon Museumis full of examples of local knowledge of Dan Sai,ranging from food, traditions, and beliefs, to thewell-known Phi Ta Khon story. Apart fromexploring the 6 rooms of exhibits in the museum,visitors are allowed to try on the costumes andmasks used during the Phi Ta Khon Festival.The Museum is located within the area of Wat PhonChai. N 17°16’27” E 101°08’56”Freshly-made Khanom Chin, the localfood of Dan SaiA staple diet and specialty of the people of Amphoe Dan Sai isKhanom Chin or rice vermicelli, freshly made from rice flour. Fordifferent flavours, local people enjoy eating Khanom Chin withNamya Pa or Nam Phrik soup.Several Khanom Chin restaurants are located on the Dan Sai-Na Haeo Rd.in Amphoe Dan Sai.Pam Khai, tasty ancient foodIn ancient times, Pam Khai or Dan Sai style omelet was the food that the localpeople cooked as an offering to Phrathat Si Song Rak. At present, Auntie NuRestaurant is the only place that preserves the origins of Pam Khai and recountsits history and tradition to those who visit. Pam is the local word for ‘scattering,’as the omelet is cooked by spreading the eggs on a banana leaf and boilingwater. Auntie Nu adapts the original recipe of Pam Khai, which consists onlyof eggs, by adding vegetables and herbs for more colour and taste. Visitorsnot only find Pam Khai at Auntie Nu Restaurant, but other traditional and healthydishes; such as, the tantalising Somtam Nam Phak Sathon and the traditionaldish of vegetable soup with sesame.Auntie Nu is a small wooden house in Soi Thetsaban 6 or Soi Suan Kha.N 17°16’55” E 101°08’39”Na Thum Nam Thaeng HomestayLearn the way of life and local wisdom of Dan Sai.Na Thum Nam Thaeng Homestay is a place where onecan explore the fascinating tales of Phi Ta Khon andthe lifestyle of the Dan Sai community. It providesseveral activities that are a valuable and fun experiencefor visitors; such as, watching the Bai Si Su KhwanCeremony and Kring Drum Dance Show, makingmerit at Phrathat Si Song Rak, and learning how to makePhi Ta Khon masks. Apart from enjoying these activities,visitors get to taste bamboo shoots, a famous productof Loei Province, as well as learning the local way oflife from the friendly people of Dan Sai.On the Dan Sai-Na Haeo Rd., around 2 km. from thecentre of Amphoe Dan Sai.Interesting InfoOne of the 6 rooms in the museum is a small shop sellingsouvenirs from Amphoe Dan Sai; such as, miniature Phi TaKhon masks and Phi Ta Khon ceramics. The income fromthe sales goes to taking care of and renovating the museum.Interesting InfoThere are no petrolstations on the way fromAmphoe Na Haeo to AmphoeTha Li, so please ensure that youfill up the petrol at AmphoeDan Sai beforetravelling further.Ban Mueang Phrae Thai-LaoCheckpointContinue the journey to Ban Mueang Phrae, the area wherethe Hueang River becomes the border between Thailandand Lao PDR. The Hueang River here is about 8 metreswide and people can cross on a bamboo raft to ‘Ban FakNam’ on the opposite side in Boten District of SainyabuliProvince of Lao PDR. The Territory Protection Voluntary Unitsallow Thai and Lao residents to cross the border everyBuddhist holy day.12 km. from Wat Pho Chai Na Phueng.N 17°30’16” E 101°04’38”Sand-roasted peanuts atBan Mueang PhraeThe rich soil of Amphoe Na Haeo provides greatopportunities for agricultural activities, especiallygrowing peanuts. The Na Haeo people make the most oftheir peanut cultivation by making sand-roasted peanutsas the OTOP product of their community.Near the Ban Mueang Phrae Thai-Lao Checkpoint.N 17°30’15” E 101°04’36”Witness the magnificent ubosotof Wat Pho Chai Na PhuengTravel to Amphoe Na Haeo to witness the marvellousblend of Lanna and Lan Xang art, illustrated by theancient ubosot of Wat Pho Chai Na Phueng. Themurals inside and outside the hall depict the life ofLord Buddha and presents the exquisite artistic skills ofthe craftspeople who painted the wall.At Ban Na Phueng in Amphoe Na Haeo. Take Highway 2113which is the Dan Sai-Na Haeo route and travel for another 23 km.N 17°24’33” E 101°02’58”Interesting InfoThe legend of Phrachao Fon Saen HaWat Pho Chai Na Phueng also housesPhrachao Fon Saen Ha, a Chiang Saenstyled Buddha image. The legend hasit that Phrachao Fon Saen Ha floatedthrough the air to be enshrined in WatPho Chai Na Phueng alongsidePhrachao Ong Thiam. It is believed thatif Phrachao Ong Saen is separated fromPhrachao Ong Thiam, the town will becursed with accidents, sickness, anddrought.78 79The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Visit the historical temple,Wat Si Pho ChaiAnother centuries-old temple of Amphoe Na Haeo,Wat Si Pho Chai, features an ancient ubosotsimilar to the one at Wat Chiang Thong in LuangPrabang. Constructed beautifully in a combinationof Ayutthaya, Lan Xang, and Chinese styles, theubosot houses Luangpho Phet and precious objectsrelating to Buddhism.At Ban Saeng Pha, Tambon Saeng Pha, Amphoe Na Haeo.From Na Haeo, take Highway 1269 for about 9 km. to SaengPha Village and the temple is on the left.N 17°29’31” E 100°59’52”Interesting InfoWitness the biggest flower tree in the worldDuring the Thai New Year which is on the 13 to 15 April, Wat Si Pho Chai has been hosting theGiant Flower Tree Ceremony every year for over 100 years. The biggest tree in the world madeof wild flowers by the villagers is carried 3 times around the ubosot before the ceremony.Phrathat Din Thaen, the symbol of faithPhrathat Din Thaen is one of the most unique chedis in Thailand. Since 1603, it has been madeentirely of soil by the people of Saeng Pha Village. The legend states that a pilgrim came tothis village and taught the local people to abide by the Five Precepts and asked them to lenda helping hand in the construction of the chedi.At Ban Saeng Pha, Tambon Saeng Pha, Amphoe Na Haeo. Turn right at the sign to Phrathat and drive for another1 km. N 17°29’46” E 100°59’30”Interesting InfoThe Phrathat worshipping ritualThe people of Saeng Pha Village strictlyfollow the teaching of the pilgrim who ledthe construction of the Phrathat Din Thaen.They abide by the precepts, do not wearshoes or step on the chedi, do not kill, andare not involved in black magic. Thosewith problems are believed to be set freeif they add soil to the chedi and make awish.Interesting InfoVisitors to Phu Hua Hom canstop by at several placeswithin the National Park; suchas, the waterfalls. There are alsocamping sites, restrooms, andcar parks available for visitors.Tat Hueang WaterfallMesmerised by the natural beauty at Phu Hua HomPhu Hua Hom is one of the best places to watch the sea of fog in LoeiProvince, offering a magnificent panoramic mountain view of Thailandand Lao PDR. Camping overnight at Phu Hua Hom enables visitors toenjoy the spectacular sight of the sun rising over the rice fields of NaHaeo and the fog settled over Lao PDR.In Phu Suan Sai National Park in Amphoe Na Haeo. From the National Park office,drive uphill for 30 km. to Phu Hua Hom. Please contact Phu Suan Sai National Park toreserve accommodation through www.dnp.go.th or +66 (2) 562 0760.N 17°31’27” E 101°0’21”Originating from the Hueang River, Tat Hueang Waterfall is 30metres high and comprises 3 tiers with water flowing throughoutthe whole year. A visit to Tat Hueang Waterfall ensures amoment with the noises of nature as the sounds of the birds andwind in the trees mix with the music of the waterfall.In Phu Suan Sai National Park in Amphoe Na Haeo.Every day 08.00-17.00 hrs. N 17°33’58” E 100°59’30”Interesting Info‘Tha’ means‘dock’ and ‘Li’ refersto the tools used in fishingaround 200 years ago bythe people who lived in thisarea.Continuing the religioussymbolism at Phrathat SatchaOn the way to Amphoe Tha Li, stop by to pay homage toPhrathat Satcha or the chedi of Truthful Pledge, one of themost revered chedis in Loei. Consisting of a 7-tieredumbrella of sovereignty on the top and blossoming lotuswith 3 layers of petals around the chedi, Phrathat Satchawas built to continue the legacy of Phrathat Phanom ofNakhon Phanom Province which collapsed in 1975.On the way to the bridge crossing the Hueang River on the Tha Li-BanA-hi Road in Amphoe Tha Li. N 17°38’39” E 101°24’25”80 81The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge acrossthe Hueang River, gateway to theWorld Heritage SiteThe 363-metre long bridge across the Hueang Riverconnects Amphoe Tha Li of Thailand and SainyabuliProvince of Lao PDR., and is a gateway to LuangPrabang, the World Heritage Site. Visitors crossing thebridge can enjoy duty-free shopping and the tranquilscenery of Lao PDR. before taking photos of the MekongGate.The Friendship Bridge is at Ban Na Kraseng. Take the Loei-Tha Liroute and drive 47 km. and turn right at the district centre. Thendrive another 2 km. Turn right at Phrathat Satcha and drive foranother 7 km. before reaching the bridge.N 17°41’23” E 101°23’39”Relaxing amidst the nature atKaeng TonComplete the trip with a visit to Kaeng Ton, the cataractthat blocks the flow of Hueang River, creating a scenicwaterfall-like sight. During the rainy seasons, visitors canenjoy the beautiful view and listen to the sound of thewater, whereas during the dry seasons, visitors are ableto try a little adventure by bamboo-rafting along theriver.At Ban Pak Huai, Tambon Nong Phue, around 10 km. from Tha LiDistrict Office. N 17°42’00” E 101°24’24”Interesting InfoKenthao-Pak Lai, other Idyllic cities by the riverA visit to Kenthao District in Sainyabuli Province enablesvisitors to experience the simple way of life of the localpeople. Sixty-two kilometres from Kenthao District isPak Lai District which offers a stunning view of theMekong River dividing Sainyabuli from Vientiane. PakLai serves as an important resting area for the boat tripfrom Houayxay to Vientiane, inviting visitors to enjoy thedelicious freshwater fish menu amidst the peacefulambiance of the small community in a French colonialstyle of architecture.82The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeInteresting InfoSay hello to the neighboursTo cross the bridge to Lao PDR. visitors with avisa can use their passports, but there is novisa on arrival at this checkpoint. Other visitorsneed to apply for documentation and permitsfrom Tha Li District Office. This only allows theholder to travel in Sainyabuli Province. Pleasecontact the Tha Li District Office at+66 (42) 889 359 or Tha Li ImmigrationCheckpoint at +66 (42) 889 208 for moreinformation.Learn the local customs throughrattan weaving at Ban Na KrasengWeaving their souls and way of life on each piece offurniture and fabric, the people of Ban Na KrasengRattan Furniture and Fabric Weaving Village preservetheir local wisdom and skills in demonstrations tovisitors. The high quality rattan furniture and fabrics ofBan Na Kraseng reflect not only the weavers’ exquisiteskills but also the ancient local heritage that has beenpassed on through generations.Take the Loei-Tha Li route and travel for 47 km. andturn right at the district centre to Ban A-hi. Continuedriving for 9 km. before turning right to Ban Na Krasengand then drive another 5 km.N 17°41’39” E 101°22’53”Useful Contact Information in LoeiFriendship across the river withthe Thai-Lao Songkran FestivalTo emphasise the good relationship between Thailandand Lao PDR., the Thai-Lao Songkran Festival is heldevery year. People from the two countries join handsin organising and participating in the festival. Apartfrom splashing water, the festival also features aSongkran Beauty Contest, Flower Tree ProcessionCompetition, and the unique Klong Seng or drumshow.Enjoy Isan food with flowing water as abackgroundA visit to Kaeng Ton is a visual experience, but also it rewardsthe sense of taste. Several delicious Isan menus; such as, fishor shrimp cooked to the traditional recipe, coupled with acool breeze, makes this trip an unforgettable one. However,the restaurants by Kaeng Ton only operate during the dryseason from October to April.Ban Pak Huai, Tambon Nong Phue, around 10 km. from Tha Li District Office.N 17°42’00” E 101°24’24”Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Loei Office +66 (42) 812 812, +66 (42) 811 405Loei Provincial Public Relations +66 (42) 811 258Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (42) 861 691Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Dan Sai +66 (42) 891 310Tha Li Immigration Checkpoint +66 (42) 889 208Loei Hospital +66 (42) 862 123Dan Sai Crown Prince Hospital +66 (42) 891 276, +66 (42) 891 38999 Transport Co., Ltd. +66 (42) 811 706Loei Transport Co., Ltd. +66 (42) 811 737Loei Bus Terminal +66 (42) 833 586

AccommodationSleeping in the parkPhu Suan Sai National ParkTambon Saeng Pha, Amphoe Na Haeo, Loei Province 42170+66 (42) 807 616 www.dnp.go.thN 17°29’03” E 100°55’20”Relax amidst the natureBan Sabaidee Resort489 Mu 3, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (80) 748 1555N 17°16’54” E 101°09’53”Phunacome Resort461 Mu 3, Ban Doen, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (42) 892 005-6 www.phunacomeresort.comN 17°16’54” E 101°09’43”ShoppingAmphoe Dan SaiBamboo Bowl at Ban Hua Na Yung156 Mu 14, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (86) 863 2629 N 17°16’21” E 101°08’30”Phi Ta Khon Souvenirs at Kawin Thip Handicraft75 Mu 1, Kaeo A-sa Rd., Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (42) 892 339, +66 (86) 862 4812phitakhone@yahoo.com N 17°16’43” E 101°08’48”Amphoe Tha LiBan Na Kraseng Rattan Handicraft and Native Woven Fabric GroupLocated on the bank of the Hueang River in Tambon A-hi, Amphoe Tha Li,Loei Province +66 (89) 840 9317, +66 (42) 863 526 N 17°41’39” E 101°22’53”DiningAmphoe Dan SaiAuntie Nu Pam Khai OmeletNear Dan Sai Police Station31 Mu 1, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (84) 468 6367 N 17°16’55” E 101°08’39”Ban Im Un Stir-fried Giant Catfish with herbsAuntie Nu Pam Khai OmeletIn front of Dan Sai Crown Prince Hospital423 Mu 3, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (42) 891 586, +66 (85) 760 3352Phu Pha Nam Resort252 Mu 1, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (42) 078 078-09www.phuphanamresort.comN 17°20’27” E 101°13’41”Rungyen Resort92 Mu 7, Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei Province 42120+66 (42) 809 511-2 www.rungyenresort.comN 17°19’37” E 101°16’59”Amphoe Na HaeoSand Roasted Peanut at Sut Khet SiamNear the Thai-Lao Checkpoint at Ban MueangPhrae, Ban Mueang Phrae Women Club92 Mu 3, Amphoe Na Haeo, Loei Province 42170+66 (42) 897 189 N 17°30’15” E 101°04’36”Woven Bamboo ProductsNear the Thai-Lao Checkpoint at Ban MueangPhrae, 21 Mu 3, Amphoe Na Haeo, Loei Province 42170N 17°30’16” E 101°04’38”Thit Daeng The ancient recipe of KhanomChin Nam YaNear Phrathat Si Song Rak64 Mu 14 Ban Hua Na Yung, Amphoe Dan Sai,Loei Province 42120 +66 (42) 891 906, +66 (89) 577 5585N 17°16’26” E 101°08’29”Amphoe Tha LiChai Di Kaeng Ton Traditional Isan FoodFrom Phrathat Satcha, drive for 2 km. and turn left at theintersection, then drive for another 11 km.N 17°42’00” E 101°24’24”N 17°16’28” E 101°09’22”*For more information on accommodation, restaurants, and attractions in Loei, please visitwww.tourismthailand.org/loei84 85The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeLocal art on the ubosot’s door at The Wat Mekong: Si Pho Chai Journeys Saeng along Pha, the Loei River Province of Life

Mekong RiverAmphoe Pak ChomAmphoe Chiang Khan211Lao PDR.Mekong RAmphoe Sangkhom211 211NiverAmphoe Si Chiang MaiAmphoe Tha BoNong KhaiSmall Houses by the RiverThe sight of small wooden houses lined along the greatMekong River is one of the charms of Amphoe ChiangKhan, a place of serenity and unique identity wherethe river makes its entrance to Thailand once again.Amphoe Chiang Khan is a destination that portraysthe intriguing combination of the powerful MekongRiver and the simple way of life of the local people.The journey along the majestic Mekong River begins atthe city of Amphoe Chiang Khan and passes throughthe Kaeng Khutkhu Rapids revealing magnificentlandscapes and an idyllic river-based way of life ofthe local people. The long and winding road that runswith the river makes for an impressive journey, offeringscenic views of this stretch of the Mekong River all theway to Nong Khai province.201Loei86 87The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Chiang Khan, a small city by the mighty riverA traditional, recorded history tells us that Chiang Khan was an ancient settlementfor centuries and was located in Chana Kham District in former Lao PDR. and wasestablished in 857 by Khun Kham, the son of Khun Khua of the Lan Xang Kingdom.Around 1707, Phrachao Sourigna Vongsa, the greatest King of Laos, passed awaywithout an heir. This caused a battle for the throne that resulted in the split of LanXang, and territory up the Hueang River became Luang Prabang and that down theRiver became Vientiane.Later, the people of Luang Prabang established a city by the mouth of the Hueang River on theright of the Mekong River as a fortress and Vientiane established Chana Songkhram or ChanaKham as a fortress also. In 1777, King Taksin of Thailand commanded his troops to take control ofVientiane, bring back the Emerald Buddha, and re-assembled the Lan Xang Kingdom. However,during the reign of King Rama III in 1827, King Anouvong of Vientiane attempted to regaincontrol of the area and took Nakhon Ratchasima. He was later captured and died in prison andThai troops took control of Nakhon Ratchasima and moved the people to the city by the mouthof the Hueang River, to which they gave the new name ‘Chiang Khan.’“Historically, Chiang Khanwas a trading city withSanakham District of LaoPDR. and other citiesalong the Mekong River.Chiang Khan Market waslocated among woodenhouses by the river.”During the reign of King Rama V in 1874, theHaw, a Chinese group from Yunnan, destroyedVientiane, Luang Prabang, and Sanakham. Thepeople of Sanakham moved to the ‘MueangChiang Khan Mai’ but, as more and morepeople re-located to the new city, it becametoo crowded and was eventually moved to BanTha Na Chan, near the city’s present location.When Thailand lost territory along the MekongRiver to the French colonial power in 1893, thecity by the mouth of the Hueang River cameunder the control of the French. A district officewas established in Mueang Chiang Khan Maiaround Wat That called Chiang Khan Town Halland was later moved to the area of Wat PhonChai. In 1909, Phraya Si Akkahat was namedthe first Chiang Khan District Chief Officer andin 1941 the office was moved to where it is nowlocated.Sunrise at Kaeng Khutkhu, Loei Province

“No matter how much thingschange and how much timepasses, Kaeng Khutkhu will alwaysremain one of the most beautifulplaces to witness the mesmerisingsunrise by the Mekong River.”Historically, Chiang Khan was a tradingcity with Sanakham District of formerLao PDR. and other cities along theMekong River. Chiang KhanMarket was located amongwooden houses by the river butwhen the relationship betweenThailand and Lao PDR. at one pointwas suspended, the trade betweenthe countries stopped. When relationswere restored, a road was constructedthrough the area, isolating the houses.As a result, the old market amongthe wooden houses was leftunattended, and these housesbecame a solitary cluster ofresidences for retirees.As time passed, a groupof artists travelled toChiang Khan and discoveredthe charm of this small andslow-paced city. These artistsjoined hands with the localartists and re-created theenergy and charisma of the wooden houses by the river. Souvenir shops, coffee shops,and guesthouses were established and the news of this fantastic, new travel destinationspread through the most effective means of communication-word of mouth.Nobody can predict how popular and developed Chiang Khan will be in the future butno matter how much things change and how much time passes, Kaeng Khutkhu willalways remain one of the most beautiful places to witness the mesmerising sunrise bythe Mekong River. Several temples in Chiang Khan illustrate the original Vientianearchitecture that cannot be seen in Vientiane anymore. The influence from the outsideworld might eventually have an impact on Chiang Khan, but its unique identity willalways make it a special place to visit at least once in your life.Interesting InfoThe ancient Thai-Lao taleOne of many great legends about the Mekong River is the tale about a giant called ‘Saluekhue.’ Saluekhuepossessed a huge male sexual organ that dragged on the ground wherever he went. This gouged out awide watercourse that eventually became a river called the ‘Khong River’ (‘khong’ is the Lao word formale or female sexual organs). One day, Saluekhue wandered along the Khong River and saw a wildwater buffalo with silver horns. He threw a stone at the buffalo causing it to drown in the river. Saluekhuemade a dam with large trees and rocks and tried to scoop out the water to find the drowned buffalo. Thewooden dam made of the trees (‘khan’ in Thai) could not hold the weight of the rocks and broke intomany small pieces (‘siang’ in Thai). The broken timber and the rocks are the origin of the name ‘SiangKhan,’ later becoming ‘Chiang Khan.’ The rocks in the middle of the river became Kaeng Khutkhu and thegigantic buffalo turned out to be the mountain, ‘Phu Khwai Ngoen’ or ‘silver buffalo hill.’Ancient wooden house on Chai Khong Rd.in Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province90 91The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Give yourself a special treat with the unspoilt naturalresources of Loei, the unique province nestled in a fertilebasin. Surrounded by mountain ranges, every footstepfrom Amphoe Phu Kradueng to Amphoe Mueang Loei isblessed with natural mystery. The sight of the sea of fogfrom the peak of Phu Kradueng at sunrise and the sunsetwhen the sun kisses goodbye to the earth at Pha Lom Sakare dreams come true for those who take the time andeffort to accept the challenge of climbing the hills. Alsovisitors can trek in Phu Kradueng National Park and enjoythe freshness of the water at Tat Hong Waterfall.Not only are the mountains attractive destinations in Loei Province, but also there is the breathtakingscenery of the 225 million-year-old Suan Hin Pha Ngam in King Amphoe Nong Hin. This limestonearea is believed to have been inundated in the past.Visitors are invited to take a moment away from the sheer beauty of the natural resources and payrespect to the important religious figures of Loei in Amphoe Mueang Loei. The City Pillar Shrine andFascinating Attractions in Loei(Amphoe Phu Kradueng - Amphoe Mueang - Amphoe Chiang Khan)Interesting Info‘Phi Khon Nam,’ the amusing Ghost FestivalBan Na Sao enjoys a simple but fun Phi Khon Nam Festival in whichpeople wear costumes and masks similar to the ones at Phi Ta KhonFestival but in darker colours. This festival is held around the time ofthe Rocket Festival in the 6th lunar month as a gesture of respect andappreciation to the ancestors who are believed to grant happinessand rain for their descendants.the Chaopho Kut Pong Shrine, located in the heart of thecity, are good places to start, followed by paying respectto Phra Bang Mueang Loei, the highly revered Buddhaimage of this city housed in Wat Si Sutthawat.Explore the way of life and the charming local culture atthe Loei Cultural Centre before travelling to Phu Pha LomForest Park to discover the fascinating wildlife along thetrails in the steep limestone mountains. Travel further tosee the incredible natural wonders of the bamboo forestat the Upper Huai Nam Man Reservoir and Huai KrathingReservoir, the main source of water for the Loei people.Continue the journey to Amphoe Chiang Khan, a placewhere visitors can enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle and thefriendliness of the locals as they stroll along the road bythe Mekong River. It is places like Chiang Khan that makethis journey a memorable experience that warms yourheart.Let your mind and soul drift freely along with the flow ofthe Mekong River on a boat excursion and enjoy theriver-based way of life that dances in harmony withnature around Kaeng Khutkhu.The route from Amphoe Chiang Khan to Amphoe SiChiang Mai in Nong Khai Province that runs alongside theMekong River allows visitors to discover the breathtakingviews and tranquility of nature. The activities of the localpeople living by the river are mostly water-based, butthey always take time to welcome visitors to their part ofthe world.Interesting InfoEvery second day of the waxingmoon in the Thai calendar iswhen the people of ChiangKhan gather for a flea marketcalled ‘Talat Nat Song Kham’or the ‘second day of thewaxing moon flea market.’ Newand second-hand productsfrom all around are sold forcheap prices at this specialevent.Pha Lom 92Sak, Loei Province93The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Small Houses by the River, Chiang Khan's Way of LifeAmphoe Chiang KhanThe simple wooden houses by the river on Chai Khong Road of Chiang Khan welcome visitors.The houses are an extraordinary place enriched with the slow-paced and charming way of lifethat puts everyone under a magical spell.Relax your body with a Thai massageAt ’Khitthueng Na Chiang Khan’ souvenir shop, visitors canbuy gifts and also relieve their tension with a traditionalChiang Khan style of massage. Urairat Mangmeesi (AuntieKoi) is a masseuse who practices pressure techniques andfoot massages, as she believes that healthy feet are thesecret to an efficient nervous system.Chai Khong Road Soi 19, near Wat Tha Khok.06.00 -21.00 hrs. +66 (87) 037 6968N 17°53′49″ E 101°39′35″Interesting InfoSticky rice and foodused when offering almsare available at the ChiangKhan Morning Market.Offering sticky rice as alms to the monksChiang Khan’s day starts early when people give alms to themonks. This beautiful ritual is similar to that of Luang Prabang,reflecting the bond between the two countries on either side ofthe Mekong River.Hand-woven quilts at NiyomthaiHaving practised the art of hand-weaving quilts for 3 generations,Niyomthai is where visitors can find a good quality quilt. Niyomthairecognises the value of its cultural heritage and is determined to preservethis treasure for future generations.Chai Khong Road between Soi 13 and Soi 14. N 17°53′46″ E 101°39′22″Sticky rice in bamboo tubesThe local people of Chiang Khan normally take stickyrice in bamboo tubes as gifts when visiting otherpeople. Tourists can find delicious sticky rice in thelongest bamboo tube in Thailand and homemade donutsare available as well.Visitors can observe the cooking of sticky rice early in the morning every day.Chai Khong Road Soi 0, about 150 m. from Soi 1 heading towardsAmphoe Tha Li.N 17°53′29″ E 101°38′40″94 95The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Classic wooden houses atSoi 11-Soi 13Those who want to see traces of the ChiangKhan of olden days blending with moderntimes enjoy taking a stroll along Soi 11 and Soi13. The wooden houses have been modifiedand are now guesthouses, restaurants, coffeeshops, or souvenir shops, but they still preservethe classic atmosphere of Chiang Khan.The culture of the Thai Dam people at Ban Na Pa Nat VillageTravel back in time at the retro cinemaSuwan Rama is one of the most popular coffee corners in Chiang Khan. It was oncea cinema, but now locals and visitors enjoy coffee and 'khai kratha' or hot pan-friedeggs. Still maintaining the atmosphere of the cinema, Suwan Rama offers a retroambience to visitors with its old chairs, movie projectors, and posters.In front of the entrance to Chiang Khan Market, at Si Chiang Khan Road Soi 9.07.00-19.00 hrs. N 17°53’36” E 101°39’17”Time for ice-creamA scoop or two of Uncle Toep’sThai-styled coconut milk icecream is perfect to cool you downafter spending some time roamingaround the city of Chiang Khan.Visitors can find Uncle Toep goingaround the city on his motorbike onweekdays or in front of his houselocated between Soi 13 and Soi 14of Chai Khong Road on weekendsand public holidays.Chiang Khan’s classicrecipesFood-lovers enjoy coming to ChiangKhan as there are several recipes thatcannot be found anywhere else; suchas, Khao Pun Nam Chaeo, Kaeng Senor rice vermicelli with pork spare ribssoup. ‘Maeng dong daeng,’ similarto rice drop noodles, is a local foodof Chiang Khan that should not bemissed and you can choose to enjoyit in soup or in somtam.Interesting InfoAn original recipe of the ThaiDam people that should not bemissed when staying at Ban NaPa Nat is ‘Chaeo Ot,’ a kind ofnam-phrik made of fermentedand dried caladium leaf.About 17 kilometres from Chiang Khan is Ban Na Pa Nat Village,the only place in the northeastern region of Thailand where theThai Dam community resides. Brought over from Phuan in LaoPDR. during the Thai suppression of the Haw tribe around 1885,the Thai Dam people preserve their local traditions, way of life,and cultural heritage handed down through generations. Oneof their distinctive customs is the manufacture of products bya traditional weaving process that visitors can observeand purchase as souvenirs. Homestay accommodation is alsoavailable.Take the Loei-Chiang Khan Route for about 38 km. and turn righttowards Ban Na Si; continue driving for another 10 km. to Ban Na PaNat N 17°47’52” E 101°44’13”Interesting InfoThai Dam people have their own specialflower called ‘Tum Nok Tum Nu’ that isbelieved to be a kind of talisman for goodluck and happiness.96 97The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Nine Temples Tour in Chiang KhanChiang Khan, an ancient city by the river, is endowed with numerous temples that perform ascentres of faith for Buddhist devotees. The nine temples tour in Chiang Khan not only providesthe opportunity for visitors to make merit, but also to enhance their understanding of ChiangKhan’s history and culture.First Temple: Wat Phu Chang NoiStart the tour by making merit to the big Buddha inthe ubosot of Wat Phu Chang Noi, a temple locatedon a hill. The natural surroundings of the temple areacombined with the view of Chiang Khan from thetop of the hill provide visitors with a sense of serenityand inner peace.From the Chiang Khan Intersection, go straight for 1.2 km.then turn right and travel for 1.5 km. before making another rightturn and going another 2.1 km. N 17°52’53” E 101°38’54”Second Temple: Wat Santi WanaramKnown by the locals as Wat Non Pa Cha, the 70-year-oldWat Santi Wanaram was once named Wat Pa Siri PhithakAranyawat. Visitors are invited to pay homage to thereplica of the revered Phra Phuttha Chinnarat image inthe ubosot and other Buddha images situated around theubosot, as well as the Buddha’s footprint.Located at Ban Chiang Khan on Maliwan Road.N 17°53’22” E 101°39’15”Third Temple: Wat Phon ChaiBuilt in 1900, Wat Phon Chai illustrates exquisitearchitecture. Housed in the temple is the principalBuddha of the Chiang Saen style in the sittingposition as well as a wooden Buddha standingin the forbidding position.Chai Khong Road between Soi 2 and Soi 3.N 17°53’32” E 101°39’19”Fourth Temple: Wat Tha KhokLocated on the bank of the Mekong River, Wat ThaKhok has been one of the highly revered temples ofChiang Khan since 1852. The Lan Xang style ubosotfeatures ancient murals and houses three Buddhaimages made of granite in Lan Xang style. The stoneinscription in front of the ubosot reflects the Lannainfluence.Liap Chai Khong Road between Soi 20 and Soi 21.N 17°53’49” E 101°39’36”Fifth Temple: Wat Si PhanommatBuilt by residents of Chiang Khan in 1954, Wat SiPhanommat presents beautiful mural paintings bylocal people depicting the life of the Buddha. Thetranquil ambiance of the temple makes a visit to WatSi Phanommat a calming experience.From Si Chiang Khan Road, drive past the traffic lightsand the temple is on the right-hand side.N 17°53’22” E 101°39’37”98 99The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Sixth Temple: Wat Si Khun MueangA place that illustrates a pleasant blend of Lanna and Lan Xang art, Wat Si Khun Mueang,or what the locals call ‘Wat Yai,’ is a temple that has been with Chiang Khan for manygenerations. Registered as a National Heritage, Wat Si Khun Mueang exhibits several uniqueancient artefacts worth exploring.Chai Khong Road between Soi 6 and Soi 7. N 17°53’39” E 101°39’10”Seventh Temple: Wat Pa TaiAn ancient temple over a hundred yearsold, Wat Pa Tai today is the Centre forBuddhism Study. The ubosot featuresexquisite mural paintings by the peopleof Chiang Khan depicting the life of theBuddha. Wat Pa Tai also serves as a culturalcentre displaying ancient artefacts relatingto Buddhism and the cultural heritage ofChiang Khan.Near Si Chiang Khan Road, Soi 17 (upper part).N 17°53’40” E 101°39’33”Eighth Temple: WatMatchimaram (Wat PaKlang)Wat Matchimaram is the result of WatKlang and Wat Pa joining when erosionof the banks of the river caused damageto both temples. Situated in the ubosot isa Buddha image in the subduing Maraposition and the temple also features awell-preserved ancient restroom, a uniqueand interesting reason to give this templea visit.Si Chiang Khan Road Soi 10.N 17°53’40” E 101°39’21”Interesting InfoWhat is ‘Hup Taem?’Hup Taem is a mural painting byIsan people of the Northeast usuallyfound in the ‘sim’ or ubosot. Mostof the Hup Taems were painted bylocal artists using natural productsand colours depicting Buddhiststories or local legends.Ninth Temple: Wat Maha ThatOne of the oldest temples in Chiang Khan,Wat Maha That houses Luangpho Yai, a highlyrespected Lan Xang style Buddha image. Severalhistorical objects; such as, a scripture cabinet,Khong Chai or gong, and the governor’s throne,are displayed at Wat Maha That. A not-to-bemissed item when visiting this temple is ‘Hup Taem,’ancient mural paintings.Si Chiang Khan Road, at the Soi 14 (upper part).N 17°53’44” E 101°39’25”100 101The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Driving along the Mekong RiverAmphoe Chiang Khan-Amphoe Pak Chom-Amphoe Sangkhom-Amphoe Si Chiang Mai-Amphoe Tha BoThe Mekong River is a symbol of peace and happiness and the journey from Amphoe Chiang Khanto Amphoe Pak Chom, Amphoe Sangkhom, Amphoe Si Chiang Mai, and Amphoe Tha Bo is a paththat leads travellers to contentment.Welcome the return of the MekongRiver to Thailand at Phu Khok NgioSay hello to the Mekong River in Thailand once againat Phu Khok Ngio, situated at Ban Tha Di Mi in AmphoeChiang Khan. The Mekong River flows back intoThailand to meet with the Hueang River here, creatinga stunning sight of a bi-coloured river. At Phu KhokNgio, visitors can pay respect to the Phra Yai Phu KhokNgio, the big Buddha in a walking posture beforetravelling around 7 kilometres to the Hueang Riverviewpoint. Here, visitors can walk across the sandbankto Lao PDR. during the dry season.Take Highway 2195 from Chiang Khan to Ban Tha Di Mi Schooland turn right to go another 2 km. to see the big Buddha image.N 17°49’10” E 101°33’17”Kaeng Khutkhu the spectacular cataract at the curve ofthe riverA visit to Chiang Khan would not be complete without going to Kaeng Khutkhu, a largecataract in the middle of the Mekong River. Consisting of many rocks of different sizes andcolours submerged under the water for a long time, the picturesque rapids at Kaeng Khutkhuare especially beautiful at sunrise as the rays of light reflect on the rocks and water.From Chiang Khan Intersection, drive 3.5 km. before turning left and going another 2.5 km.N 17°54’26” E 101°42’05”Interesting InfoFrom summer to the beginning of the rainyseason or around February to May is themost suitable time to visit Kaeng Khutkhu asthe lower levels of water clearly reveal thebeautiful cataract.Interesting Info• A boat trip along Kaeng Khutkhu is also available for visitors to get a closer view of this amazingnatural phenomenon. The trip costs 30 Baht per person but visitors have to wait until the boat is filledwith 15 people. Those who want to take a charter boat can do so for a fee of 400 Baht for a half-hourtrip or 700 Baht for a one-hour trip.• Along the road that leads to Kaeng Khutkhu are several shops selling dried glace coconut, a famoussouvenir from Kaeng Khutkhu. Visitors are invited to observe the making as well as the tasting of thefreshly-made sweet coconut at the shops.Pay respect to the Buddha’s footprintat Phu Khwai NgoenOne of the most revered Buddhist items of theChiang Khan people is the Buddha’s footprint,enshrined on a whetstone at Wat Phra PhutthabatPhu Khwai Ngoen. On the full moon day in the 3rdlunar month, the temple holds an annual event inwhich people pay respect to the Buddha’s footprint,making this one of the major events in Chiang Khan.Located at Ban U-mung, from Phu Thok take Highway 211for around 3-4 km. and follow the signs to Wat Phra PhutthabatPhu Khwai Ngoen. N 17°53’52” E 101°45’01”Interesting InfoStart the day by witnessing astunning sea of fog at Phu ThokThe sea of fog at Phu Thok is something worthgetting up early for, as visitors are greetedwith a panoramic view of Chiang Khan underthe swirling fog illuminated by the sunlight.A popular spot to enjoy the sea of fog is onthe top of the hill, near Chiang Khan’stelecommunication station.Around 5-6 km. from the centre of Amphoe ChiangKhan. Take Highway 211 towards Wat Ho Song Nangand follow the signs to Phu Thok.Thai-Lao folklore, the origin of the name “Phu KhwaiNgoen”One day, the giant Saluekhue saw an enormous wildwater buffalo with shimmering silver horns and threw astone at the buffalo, causing it to drown. The giant triedto find the buffalo by building a dam of large trees andthen scooping the water out of the river. The dam thenbecame the cataract in the middle of the Mekong Riverknown as 'Kaeng Khutkhu' today and the buffalo becamethe huge mountain or ‘Phu Khwai Ngoen.’N 17°50’10” E 101°40’56”102 103The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Driving among the picturesque scenery from AmphoePak Chom to Amphoe Si Chiang MaiThe road from Amphoe Pak Chom of Loei Province to Amphoe Si Chiang Mai of Nong KhaiProvince might be a long journey, but the scenic views of the Mekong River with themountain ranges as a backdrop along the way, as well as the lively locals’ way of life bythe river, makes the journey a pleasant travelling experience.Interesting InfoVisitors are welcome tomake a journey along this routeno matter what time of the year it is.A different season offers a differentambiance to the trip as the dry seasonmakes the cataract clearly visibleamidst the flowing river, whereas therainy season presents an evergreennatural beauty before youreyes.Pay homage to Luangpu Rian atWat AranyabanphotWat Aranyabanphot was built to honour Luangpu RianWoralapho, a renowned monk in insight development.The temple features a museum and chedi enshriningthe Lord Buddha’s relics in tranquil surroundings suitablefor meditation practices.From Wang Nam Mok Village, drive 4 km. and turn left at theintersection. Drive another 2.5 km. and turn right at a T-junction.Continue driving towards Amphoe Tha Bo for about 9.3 km. beforearriving at the temple. N 17°57’56” E 102°30’01”Strolling along the sandy beachby Kaeng FaAt Kaeng Fa at Ban Hat Bia, Thailand and Lao PDR.are less than 10 metres apart. The area is full of whitesandbanks and beautiful rocks of different shapesand sizes and was once a place where peoplepanned for gold. Today, during the dry season,the Ban Hat Bia villagers collect rocks to sell asdecorations and souvenirs.Located within Amphoe Pak Chom, around 7 km. from BanKhok Phai. N 18°03’46” E 101°43’37”Wang Nam Mok, a village of warmth and smilesExperience peace of mind atWat Hin Mak PengSurrounded by shady trees and overlooking theserene Mekong River, Wat Hin Mak Peng offers amoment of inner peace to people who visit thistemple. Wat Hin Mak Peng was established byLuangpu Thet Thetrangsi as a dhamma retreat formonks, nuns, and Buddhist devotees.Located at Ban Thai Charoen in Tambon Phra Phutthabat,Amphoe Si Chiang Mai. Take Highway 211 (Nong Khai-SiChiang Mai) and the temple is located at the Km. 64 on theright-hand side. N 17°58’43” E 102°25’37”Useful Contact Information in LoeiPay respect to LuangphoPhrachao Ong TueLuangpho Phrachao Ong Tue at Wat Si ChomphuOng Tue is a large Buddha image in a sittingposture cast in gold by local and Lan Xangcraftspeople. It is 3.29 metres wide and 4 metrestall, and is highly revered by Thai and Laopeople.Located at Ban Nam Mong in Tambon Nam Mong. TakeHighway 2 (Nong Khai-Udon Thani) and then Highway 211(Nong Khai-Tha Bo) and the sign to the temple is visible atthe Km. 31 at Amphoe Tha Bo.N 17°52’35” E 102°34’32”The friendliness of the people of Ban Wang Nam Mok in Amphoe Si Chiang Mai of NongKhai Province touches visitors. The village is proud of its cultural heritage and naturalresources and has won an award as an outstanding tourism development andpromotion organisation of the northeastern region for its efforts to share these withtourists. Visitors are invited to enjoy a homestay experience, observe the hand-madeTourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Loei Office +66 (42) 812 812, +66 (42) 811 405fabric weaving process, roam around the village on a bike led by a tour guide, take a walkLoei Provincial Public Relations +66 (42) 811 258amongst the natural settings, and participate in a ‘baisi su khwan’ ceremony. Before leaving,Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (42) 811 254do not forget to purchase a delicate Pha Laeng lamp, the well-known OTOP product of this village.Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Chiang Khan +66 (42) 821 181From Wat Hin Mak Peng, drive 200 m. before turning right and continuing the journey for another 6 km. (towardsLoei Hospital +66 (42) 862 123the Wang Nam Mok Waterfall). Turn right at the Huai Hai Health Centre. Drive another 3 km. and pass Ban WangNam Mok School, then cross the bridge to see the Tourist Information Centre located on the left.Chiang Khan Hospital +66 (42) 822 181+66 (42) 423 783, +66 (86) 232 5300 N 17°59’14” E 102°22’41”99 Transport Co., Ltd. +66 (42) 811 706Loei Transport Co., Ltd. +66 (42) 811 737Loei Bus Terminal +66 (42) 833 586104 105The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

AccommodationThe classic wooden houses by the riverChiang Khan Guesthouse282 Soi 19, Liap Chai Khong Rd., AmphoeChiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (86) 232 8366, +66 (42) 821 691www.thailandunplugged.comN 17°53’50” E 101°39’44”Husband and Wife Guest House241 Mu1, Chai Khong Rd., AmphoeChiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 821 492, +66 (85) 464 8008www.husbandandwifechiangkhan.comN 17°53’41” E 101°39’13”Accommodation en route from Pak Chom to Si Chiang MaiAgalin Holiday Villa133, Ban Thap Sa-ngao, Pak Chom-Si ChiangMai Rd., Amphoe Pak Chom, Loei Province 42150+66 (42) 806 817, +66 (81) 926 5724www.agalin.com N 18°06’08” E 101°57’58”ShoppingAmphoe Chiang KhanBuai Hiang Quilts339/4 Soi 11, Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 821 570, +66 (81) 964 3303 08.00-18.00 hrs. andclosed on every full moon day. N 17°53’40” E 101°39’20”Niyom Thai hand-woven quilts167 Chai Khong Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 821 246 N 17°53’46” E 101°39’22”DiningLoogmai Guesthouse112 Mu 1, Soi 5, Chai Khong Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 822 334, +66 (86) 234 0011 loogmaiguest@thaimail.comN 17°53’37” E 101°39’04”Poonsawasdi B&B Hotel251/2 Mu 1, Soi Chai Khong 9, Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 821 114, +66 (80) 400 8777 www.poonsawasdi.comN 17°53’40” E 101°39’15”Souk Somboon Hotel243/3 Mu 1, Chai Khong Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110+66 (42) 821 064 souksomboon@gmail.com N 17°53’41” E 101°39’13”Wang Nam Mok Homestay2 Mu 5, Amphoe Si Chiang Mai, Nong KhaiProvince 43130+66 (42) 423 783, +66 (86) 232 5300N 17°59’14” E 102°22’41”Pin Kaeo Dehydrated sweet coconutMu 4 Ruam Chai Naruemit Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khan,Loei Provfince 42110+66 (42) 821 938, +66 (82) 835 4976N 17°54’27” E 101°41’40”Yai Mok Khao Lam or sticky rice in bamboo tube11/3 Mu 1, Chai Khong Rd., Amphoe Chiang Khan,Loei Province 42110 Open only in the morning.+66 (89) 526 3688 N 17°53’29” E 101°38’40”Pork in namtok noodle soup Luk Phochana Breakfast and dishesChum Nua Yai Phat 279 Mu 1, Si Chiang Khan Rd. made of fish from Mekong River(local recipe of sukiyaki) between Soi 9 and 10, Amphoe 304 Si Chiang Khan Rd. Soi 9, Amphoe319/1 Mu 1, Si Chiang Khan Rd., Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110 Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110Soi 10, Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei +66 (86) 221 7428+66 (42) 821 251, +66 (85) 098 0985Province 42110 +66 (42) 822 079 N 17°53’38” E 101°39’17” N 17°53’40” E 101°39’1”N 17°53’41” E 101°39’18”Suwan Rama Hot pan-fried egg Fueangfa Pho So 2511Khao Piak Soi 10 with topping285 Mu 1, Si Chiang Khan Rd., AmphoeSi Chiang Khan Rd., Soi 10, in front 265/2 Mu 1, Si Chiang Khan Rd., Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110of Wat Pa Klang +66 (85) 447 3812 Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei Province 42110 +66 (42) 821 296, +66 (84) 034 9885N 17°53’40” E 101°39’20” +66 (42) 821 218, +66 (84) 204 8504 N 17°53’38” E 101°39’18”N 17°53’36” E 101°39’17”*For more information on accommodation, restaurants, and attractions in Loei,please visit www.tourismthailand.org/loei106 107The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeMekong River in the evening in Amphoe Chiang Khan, Loei The Province Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Lao PDR.NLao PDR.Nong Khai2102212Mekong R212Amphoe Phon PhisaiUdon ThaniiverAmphoe Rattanawapi22227KalasinAmphoe Bueng KanAmphoe Bung Khla2222132026212Amphoe Bueng Khong LongAmphoe Ban PhaengAmphoe Si SongkhramSakon NakhonAmphoe Tha UthenAmphoe Phon Sawan22322Mekong RiveNakhon Phanomr212Amphoe Renu NakhonAmphoe That PhanomMukdahan2Maha Sarakham214Roi Et108 109The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

112 113The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

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The Naga, the mystery of the Mekong River118 119The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Nong Khai, the World’s 7thBest Retirement LocationThe remarkable legend of Luangpho Phra Sai120 121The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Discover the unique Isan culture at Ban Si Kai HomestayMeet the friendly people at Ban Chom Chaeng122The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

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Learn about the friendship amongstcultures at Na Chok HomestayThe famous Illuminated Boat Procession126 127The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

128 129The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

A melting pot of ethnic groupsª¹ªŒÒ§´ŒÇ¡Òà Perform an `elephantdual' by drinking “´Ù´ÍØ” `U'130The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Dining132 133The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Dining134 135The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Amphoe Wan YaiN228721692022292212Mukdahan212Amphoe Don Tan2122277Mekong RiverAmphoe ChanumanAmnat Charoen202Lao PDR.Amphoe KhemaratAmphoe Pho Sai2050Mystical Mix of Culture andNatural PhenomenonIn the northeastern part of Thaiand, the MekongRiver runs through hundreds of kilometres of lushplains and stretches of mountainous terrain, actingas the lifeblood of many small settlements of culturaldiversity, and revealing thousands of rock formationscrafted by years of erosion. Visitors can find ethnicgroups with their own unique ways of life and manynatural attractions, including spectacular stonesculptures looming over pockets of emerald greenwater, stunning views from the tops of cliffs, majesticwaterfalls, and magnificent displays of wildflowers.21221122210Ubon Ratchathani2262135Amphoe Khong Chiam2134Amphoe Phibun Mangsahan Amphoe SirindhornLao PDR.136 137The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The legend of the Mekong River atthe easternmost partThe province of Mukdahan welcomes the Mekong River at the beautiful rapids atKaeng Kabao. From then the Mekong River journeys through the mystic history of theland under the water hidden behind the natural phenomenon of rock sculpturesto Ubon Ratchathani, the place where the Mekong River will depart Thailand.“The Mekong Riverjourneys through themystic history of theland under the waterhidden behind thenatural phenomenonof rock sculptures toUbon Ratchathani,where the MekongRiver departs Thailand.”Mukdahan was founded around the sametime as the establishment of the Southern LaoKingdom of ‘Champasak’. After the death ofKing Sourigna Vongsa, the once flourishingLan Xang Kingdom was disrupted by internalfights for power. Phraya Mueang Saen tookcontrol and forced Phrakhru Phon Samek, thehead of the Supreme Patriarch of the Buddhistmonks, to migrate with about ten thousandpeople south along the Mekong River toChampasak. The Champasak Kingdom wasestablished in 1713 and took control of thesurrounding Lao provinces, including Mukdahanlocated around the Phrathat Ing Hang,Champasak’s city pillar.138 139The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life‘Tak Pla’ or ‘scooping fish’ at The Sam Mekong: Phan Bok, Journeys Ubon along Ratchathani the River Province of Life

“Regarded as a city withhigh status under the ruleof Siam with several smallcities as dependents, UbonRatchathani became amajor city of Thailand.”combined efforts eventually destroyed Vientiane from both sides. This event, under thepower of the King of Siam, helped re-unite the three parts of the Lan Xang Kingdom thatwere separated.Chao Kham Phong then was named as Phra Prathum Ratchawongsa and Ubon Ratchathaniwas established at Ban Dong U Phueng on the banks of the Mun River where Chao KhamPhong assembled his troops before battle. Regarded as a city with high status under therule of Siam with several small cities as dependents, Ubon Ratchathani became a majorcity of Thailand. Mukdahan and Ubon Ratchathani were relatively close geographicallyand culturally and both assisted Siamese troops in military disputes in Southern Laos.During the reign of King Rama V, the administration of Siam changed several times andMukdahan was moved under the control of Nakhon Phanom before its establishment asa province in its own right in 1982. Ubon Ratchathani continues to be the administrativecentre of the southern part of northeastern Thailand.Wat Phrathat Nong Bua, Ubon Ratchathani ProvinceIn 1767, Chao Kinnari moved the city across the Mekong River to the mouth of Huai Muk due toits better geographical position and named the newly-established city ‘Mukdahan.’ The history ofMukdahan then became closely connected with that of Ubon Ratchathani which was establishedaround the same time by Chao Phra Wo and Chao Phra Ta, the rulers of Khuean Khan Kap KaeoBua Ban city. These two supported Chao Siri Bun San to seize control of Vientiane from PhrayaMueang Saen.However, Chao Siri Bun San suspected Chao Phra Wo and Chao Phra Ta of posing a threat tohis power so he attacked their forces. Chao Phra Ta was killed in the battlefield while Chao PhraWo sought help from the Champasak Kingdom, and was successful in driving the aggressors toretreat to Vientiane.The Vientiane troops returned and Chao Phra Wo was eventually killed. His son, Chao KhamPhong, requested help from the Thon Buri Kingdom, at that time involved in its own military conflictwith Burma. Requests for assistance were made to Chao King Kitsarat of Luang Prabang, and theFisherman’s way of life by the Mun River, Ubon Ratchathani Province140 141The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Getting to knowMukdahanMukdahan is situated 642 kilometresfrom Bangkok, set on the westernbanks of the Mekong River, theinternational border with Lao PDR.It is home to several diverse culturalgroups and many natural touristattractions that provide a peacefuland unforgettable atmosphere forthe journey.Unfold the mystery and wonders of the Mekong Riverby taking the journey from Mukdahan Province toUbon Ratchathani Province. This part of the tripintroduces visitors to memorable experiences of life,culture, tradition, and nature along the river.Sometimes the simplest things can make an ordinary journeybecome an extraordinary one. Mukdahan is a small province,but it is endowed with many features that fill this journey withhappy and fascinating memories.Getting to knowUbon RatchathaniUbon Ratchathani is the place whereThailand gets its first glance of thesunrise. Located in the easternmostpart on Thailand with the Mekong Riverforming a natural international borderwith Lao PDR., it is a major touristdestination in a region served by theMekong, Chi, and Mun Rivers and fullof unique culture and traditions.Fascinating Attractions inMukdahan-Ubon RatchathaniThe journey begins at Phu Pha Thoep National Park in Amphoe MueangMukdahan. Here travellers can see rocks of different shapes and sizesthat have been eroded by wind, water, and changing climates formillions of year. Travel further to Phu Mu Forest Park that offers 3 viewingpoints on the top of the cliff for visitors to enjoy the magnificent naturalscenery of Mukdahan. Phu Manorom, about 5 kilometres from the citycentre, provides panoramic views of the Mekong River.Nature-lovers should not miss Phu Sa Dok Bua National Park, the ‘mountainof the lotus pool’ and the prehistoric cliff paintings at Phu Pha Taem.The viewing point on Phu Pha Hom offers a spectacular panoramic sightof the Phu Pha Taem mountain, especially captivating during sunset.From Mukdahan Province, pass through Amnat Charoen Province andenter Amphoe Khemarat in Ubon Ratchathani Province. For good luck,visit Wat Pho to pay respect to Phrachao Yai Ong Saen, the ancientBuddha image in subduing Mara posture, followed by paying homageto Phrachao Yai Ong Tue at Wat Phra To located in Ban Pak Saeng.Wat Up Mung houses Phrachao Yai Ong Muen, another ancient Buddhaimage of Ubon Ratchathani with the special feature of being under thecover of 11-headed Naga. The history of Khemarat can be traced backby visiting the Ancient Human Museum that exhibits evidence of humanhabitation in this area from the last 2,000-3,000 years.Continue the journey to Amphoe Mueang, the centre of the Buddhistfaith for the local people of Ubon Ratchathani. Stop by at Thung SiMueang, a beautiful public park located in front of the Town Hall inthe heart of the city. Follow this with a visit to Ho Trai Klang Nam or thePhu 142 143The Pha Mekong: Thoep National Journeys along Park, Mukdahan the River of Province LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Buddhist Scripture Hall situated in the middle of a pond in WatThung Si Mueang, built during the reign of King Rama II. At WatPhrathat Nong Bua visitors can pay homage to Phrathat ChediSi Maha Pho, the chedi that was built in commemoration of the25 th century of Buddhism in 1957.Ubon Ratchathani is full of amazing historical attractions; such as,the National Museum of Ubon Ratchathani, Ban Kan LueangArchaeological Site, and traditional brass-making at the BrassProduct Centre at Ban Pa-ao.After leaving Amphoe Mueang, stop at Amphoe Khueang Naito see the ancient Annamese Lion Pulpit at Wat Si Nuan SaengSawang Arom, a Buddhist pulpit supported by a distinctive lionsculpture.Buddhist Scripture Hall in themiddle of water atWat Thung Si Mueang,Ubon RatchathaniProvinceInteresting InfoWhen the flowers bloomAround the beginning of thewinter season (October toDecember), a wildflower festivalis held annually at Phu Pha ThoepNational Park in Mukdahan. Theterrace of the park is filled withthe fragrance of the colourfulflowers; such as, Soi Suwanna,Yat Namkhang, Nao Duen Ha,Dao Ruam Duang, and the mostdazzling of all, Dusita, a purpleand bright navy-blue colouredflower with a sweet aroma.Follow the footsteps of the highly revered Luangpu Cha Suphattho of Wat Nong Pa Phong inAmphoe Warin Chamrap to learn about his Buddhist practices. Wat Pa Nana Chat is a branchof Wat Nong Pa Phong and is a centre of Buddhist and meditation practice for both Thais andforeigners. Visitors to Amphoe Warin Chamrap can also observe the making of clay stoves at BanChang Mo, a local tradition with a long history.Immerse yourself in the world of natural beauty at Kaeng Saphue,one of the most beautiful rapids on the Mun River in Amphoe PhibunMangsahan. Not far from Kaeng Saphue is the Brass Gong Villagein Ban Sai Mun. Here, locals practice traditional skills of producinggongs by hammering techniques instead of casting. Within thearea of Ban Sai Mun is Wat Don That, a former residence of thehighly respected Luangpu Sao Kantasilo.Relaxation time amidst nature can be taken at the tranquilSirindhorn Dam before enjoying the grandiose natural beauty ofthe forests, flora, fauna, and river of Kaeng Tana National Park inAmphoe Sirindhorn and Amphoe Khong Chiam. Complete the tripin Ubon Ratchathani with a shopping spree at Chong Mek BorderMarket at which visitors can cross into Lao PDR. and enjoy someduty-free and local products.Interesting InfoProcession of candlesThe most important festival forthe local people of Ubon Ratchathaniis the Candle Festival held annuallyin July around the time of AsalhaBucha and Khao Phansa to markthe beginning of Buddhist Lent.Before the event, artists from severaltemples; such as, Wat Nong PlaPak, Wat Tha Wang Hin, and WatPhrathat Nong Bua prepare for thecandle procession by elaboratelymoulding, sculpting, and carvingwax into incredible shapes andsizes. The unique and sophisticatedworks of art reflect the amazingskills of the local artists and attractscountless visitors.There are a number of natural wonders to explore. Huai Luang Waterfall in the Phu Chong-Na YoiNational Park impresses visitors with its spectacular views and cool breezes. Another not-to-bemissedplace is Amphoe Nam Yuen where visitors can see the marching shrimps at Kaeng LamduanWaterfall. This natural phenomenon occurs at the height of the rainy season, when thousands ofshrimps make their journey upstream towards the rapids.Phu Sa Dok Bua National Park, Mukdahan Province144 145The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Suggested Route : Mystical Mix of Cultural and Natural PhenomenonMukdahan Province (Amphoe Wan Yai - Amphoe Mueang - Amphoe Don Tan)Ubon Ratchathani Province (Amphoe Khemarat - Amphoe Pho Sai - Amphoe Khong Chiam)Every journey, long or short, is filled with different details that make you smile and warm your heart.The Mukdahan-Ubon Ratchathani route along the Mekong River has all the elements to make thisjourney a memorable one, whether it is the people you meet along the way, the amazing naturalattractions you see, or the extraordinary cultural experiences you discover.Relax at Kaeng KabaoThe first destination of this trip is Amphoe Wan Yai inMukdahan Province where visitors have the opportunityto relax amidst the natural surroundings. Kaeng Kabao,a rocky section in the middle of the Mekong River, is awell-known leisure spot for locals. The rocks are clearlyvisible in the dry season when the water level is low.Take Highway 212 (Mukdahan-That Phanom) in a northerlydirection for about 20 km. and turn right to Amphoe Wan Yai.Proceed for another 9 km. and follow the signs to Kaeng Kabao.N 16°48’11” E 104°43’60”Interesting InfoKaeng Kabao provides spectacular scenery butdo not forget to try the barbeque suckling pork bythe river.The everlasting faith atWat Song KhonRegarded as the largest and most beautifulchurch in South-East Asia, ‘Wat Song Khon’or ‘Our Lady of the Martyrs of ThailandShrine’ in Ban Song Khon is a significantCatholic church in Thai history. It was builtin commemoration of seven martyrs whosacrificed their lives to proclaim their faithin God around the World War II period.Take Highway 212 (Nong Khai-Ubon Ratchathani)and Wat Song Khon is situated by the Mekong Riverat Ban Song Khon in Amphoe Wan Yai, about 40km. from the Mukdahan city centre.N 16°46’29” E 104°44’14”An ancient ‘sim’ at Wat Phra Si Maha PhoOne of the most beautiful temples in Mukdahan, Wat Phra Si Maha Pho is known for its ‘sim,’the ancient ubosot built in the northeastern style. The beautiful murals inside the sim depictsignificant events as well as the story of the Lord Buddha’s past life.From Wat Song Khon, drive forward for 4.2 km. and turn left at the intersection. Drive 100 m. and turnright before proceeding for another 2 km. N 16°42’50” E 104°45’18”‘Ti Chang Nam Nong’ involves boat crews from Thailandand Lao PDR. competing in annual boat racesin Mukdahan at the end of Buddhist Lent. Apart fromthe boat races, there is also an ancient tradition ofapologising to the river and the Naga in the daytime,and the illuminated boat procession at night.Interesting InfoThe origin of ‘Ti Chang Nam Nong’‘Ti Chang Nam Nong’ is Thai for ‘elephants hittingthe water.’ It describes the spectacular spray ofwater made by the paddling of the boat crews.The spray is similar to that of elephants splashingin the water.Interesting InfoPlease ask thetemple for permission toenter the wihan for reasonsof the security ofthe ancient Buddhastatues.Thai-Lao Boat Race - the tradition of ‘Ti Chang Nam Nong’The classical beauty of WatManophiromWat Manophirom is an ancient temple in the LanXang style of architecture located on the bank ofthe Mekong River. The wihan in Wat Manophiromalso houses Phra Ong Tue, Phra Ong Saen, andPhra Nga, a large ivory that was carved into 8Buddha images.From Wat Phra Si Maha Pho, turn left to the main roadand drive forward for 3.5 km. before turning left andproceeding 100 m., then turn right at the intersection.N 16°40’57” E 104°45’09”146The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The second Friendship BridgeFrom Wat Manophirom, head towards Amphoe Mueang Mukdahan to see the secondThai-Lao Friendship Bridge connecting Tambon Bang Sai of Mukdahan Provinceand Savannakhet of Lao PDR. The 1,600-metre long bridge was built to promote theregion’s economy and to make transport between the two countries more convenient.From Wat Manophirom, drive forward for 5.8 km and turn right at the intersection. Proceed 1 km.and turn left at the Bang Sai Noi Station intersection. N 16°36’02” E 104°44’09”Interesting InfoCrossing the border to Lao PDR.Foreigners can apply for a 15-day visa onarrival with fees depending on nationality.Enjoy shopping at theIndo-China marketBack in Thailand, visitors are invited to wanderaround the Indo-China Market for local productsand goods from across the river. Shoppers canfind OTOP products from Mukdahan and enjoyscrumptious food and the relaxing ambience ofthe local’s way of life by the river.By the Mekong River, next to the Immigration Checkpointon Samran Chai Khong Road.N 16°32’35” E 104°43’51”Savannakhet, the next doorneighbourExplore the city of Savannakhet by visiting theancient temples; such as, Wat Xayaphoum,Wat Lattanalangsy, and Wat Chao. There is aFrench colonial atmosphere to the centre ofthe city and also much shopping to be doneon Si Mueang Road and at Savanxay Market.Pay homage to the sacredBuddha image at Wat SiMongkhon TaiIt is believed that Wat Si Mongkhon Tai was builtbefore the establishment of Mukdahan as a city.Visitors are invited to pay homage to PhrachaoOng Luang, the Buddha image housed at thistemple, for their good fortune.By the Mekong River, near the Indo-China Market onSamran Chai Khong Road. N 16°32’30” E 104°43’52”Interesting InfoThe legend of Wat Si Monkhon TaiAccording to the legend, two Buddha statueswere discovered under a bodi tree during theestablishment of the new city in 1767, the biggerone made of brick and the smaller one made ofsteel. The temple then was built to house these twoBuddha images, but one day the steel Buddhaimage disappeared and was discovered underthe same bodi tree with only the top part stickingout of the ground. The steel Buddha image wasnamed ‘Phra Lup Lek’ and was housed underthe bodi tree, while the brick Buddha image wasnamed 'Phrachao Ong Luang' and enshrinedwithin the ubosot.Pay respect to Phra PhutthaSing Song at Wat Si Bun RueangPhra Phuttha Sing Song, a 1-metre wide Buddhaimage made of bronze, is housed in Wat Si BunRueang. Every year during the Songkran Festival,Phra Phuttha Sing Song is taken from the ubosotand paraded around the town before Buddhistdevotees are allowed to bathe the Buddhaimage for their own blessing.In Mukdahan city centre, on Samran Chai Khong Road.N 16°32’08” E 104°43’59”Marvel at the view of Mukdahan from ‘Ho Kaeo’Ho Kaeo Mukdahan was built to commemorate the 50 th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’sAccession to the Throne in 1996. Each of the 7 floors of the building displays pictures, ancientartefacts, costumes of tribal villagers, and explains the history and different cultures of Mukdahan.The 6 th floor of Ho Kaeo Mukdahan is an observation deck that offers a panoramic view overlookingMukdahan city, the Mekong River, and Savannakhet, while the 7 th floor enshrines a silverBuddha statue and the ‘luk kaeo mukdahan,’ one of the nine gems as described in Thai folklore.On the Mukdahan-Don Tan Road, about 2 km. from the city centre. N 16°31’35” E 104°43’57”148The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

From Phu Manorom to the LordBuddha’s footprintTo get a bird’s eye view of the Mekong River,Mukdahan city and the 2 nd Thai-Lao FriendshipBridge, visitors are invited to visit Phu Manorom.Located at Phu Manorom is Wat Phu Manoromand Phrathat Manorom where visitors canpractice Dharma amidst the tranquil settingas well as see a replica of the Lord Buddha’sfootprint made from sandstone.Take Highway 2034 (Mukdahan-Don Tan) for about 2km. and turn right at the intersection into a non-asphaltroad and proceed for another 3 km.N 16°30’02” E 104°43’44”A melting pot of ethnic groupsMukdahan is home to 8 ethnic groups - Thai Isan, Phu Thai, Thai Kha, ThaiKaso, Thai Kaloeng, Thai Yo, Thai Saek, and Thai Kula. Each of the ethnicgroups possesses a different culture and customs. Every January, the ThaiMukdahan Cultural Heritage Gathering is held in front of the Town Hall topromote the cultural heritage and Mukdahan’s tamarind, which is the famouslocal produce of Mukdahan.Learn the Phu Thai culture at Ban Nong LomThe Ban Nong Lom community is descended fromthe Phu Thai ethnic group that migrated from WiangWang Ang Kham in Lao PDR. around 210 years ago.The homestay at Ban Nong Lom allows visitors toexplore the Phu Thai way of life through a culturalshow and a museum that exhibits their traditions.Visitors to Ban Nong Lom are also invited to payrespect to Phra Mutchalin for their blessing and toenjoy a boat trip along the Mekong River.From Amphoe Mueang, take Highway 2034(Mukdahan-Don Tan) for 12 km. before turning leftto Ban Nong Lom. N 16°24′21″ E 104°51′33″Trace the past with theceremonial kettledrumFrom Ban Nong Lom, take a trip to AmphoeDon Tan to see the ceremonial kettledrum keptat Wat Matchimawat. The biggest in Thailand,this bronze ceremonial kettledrum is believed tohave been made around the 5 th - 6 th century B.E.Located near Don Tan District Office.N 16°18’56” E 104°53’36”Useful Contact Information in MudkahanTourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Nakhon Phanom Office +66 (42) 513 490Mukdahan Provincial Public Relations +66 (42) 632 379Tourist Police (Nakhon Phanom-Mukdahan) +66 (42) 515 773, +66 (42) 502 069Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (42) 611 333Highway Police +66 (42) 694 240Mukdahan Hospital +66 (42) 612 977Mukdahan Bus Terminal +66 (42) 611 478Mukdahan Customs House +66 (42) 611 775, +66 (42) 612 787Mukdahan Immigration Checkpoint +66 (42) 674 043Interesting InfoLegend has it that about 1,000 years ago, anelephant died on this island, leaving a hugefossil, thus giving the place its name ‘KaengChang Mop’ or ‘Crouching Elephant Island.’Beauty and Tranquility at Kaeng Chang MopContinue the journey to Amphoe Khemarat in Ubon RatchathaniProvince and enjoy the sheer beauty of Kaeng Chang Mop. Here,when the water level drops, beautiful shallow basins are revealedin the river. This place is not well-known, so it remains peacefulin its anonymity.Ban Huai Yang, Tambon Khemarat, Amphoe Khemarat.N 16°05’04” E 105°05’38”Get a personal touch of the Mekong River at“Ban Lat Charoen Homestay"Interesting InfoDriving along the Mekong RiverThe winding road along the Mekong River fromAmphoe Chanuman to Amphoe Khemarat providesa pleasant view of the simple way of life amidstthe natural surroundings by the Mekong River.Interesting InfoThai-Lao Flea MarketEvery Tuesday at the ‘Lao KokHai’ area, at the pier wherethe cargo boat crosses theriver between Thailand and LaoPDR., a flea market takes placeat which local products fromboth countries are sold, withthe stunning Mekong River asits background.Apart from serving as a pier to catch a boat to cross the MekongRiver from Thailand to Lao PDR., Ban Lat Charoen is also a homestaythat welcomes visitors who would like to get an up-close experienceof life by the river. Visitors enjoy delicious local dishes made of fishstraight from the river and observe the making of wooden handicraftsusing old timber carried over from Lao PDR. There is also the chanceto travel to ‘woen kai mae fak,’ the river bend where the sound ofthe water on the stones sounds like a hen hatching its eggs, and‘khon mu’ (pig’s perch), a rock in the middle of the Mekong Riveron which the splashing of water sounds like a pig grunting.Ban Lat Charoen, Tambon Na Waeng, Amphoe Khemarat, UbonRatchathani. N 16°00’38” E 105°24’22”151The Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

The natural wonder of Sam Phan BokOne of the must-visit places in Ubon Ratchathani is 'Sam PhanBok’ (Three Thousand Holes). This part of the Mekong Riverconsists of spectacular rock sculptures eroded into stunningshapes by the passage of thousand of years of water. Bestviewed between November and June when the water level inthe river is low, visitors are thrilled by the dazzling effect of thesun’s rays, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon,on the emerald green water.Amphoe Pho Sai, situated about 30 km. from Ban Lat Charoen.N 15°47’43” E105°23’48”Interesting InfoTak Pla FestivalTak Pla Festival or ‘ScoopingFish’ Festival is the annualevent of the Ban Song Khoncommunity and occurs inJanuary/February. The Festival,held at Pak Bong, is differentfrom other fishing festivalsin that participants are notallowed to use hooks or nets,but must use large spoons toscoop up the fish.Interesting InfoThe mysterious legend of SamPhan BokSeveral legends of Sam Phan Bok aretold; such as, the tale of the stone in theshape of a dog’s head at the entranceto Sam Phan Bok, the story about HatHin Si or Thung Hin Lueam, and thelegend of Pu Chok Pu that created thecountless holes. Even though none ofthe legends can be proven, one thingthat is certain is that Sam Phan Bok is anatural phenomenon not to be missed.Touring Sam Phan BokTo get a closer look of Sam Phan Bok, visitors areadvised to take a boat trip along the MekongRiver to the many highlight attractions withinthe immediate area. Start with ‘Pak Bong,’ thenarrowest part of the Mekong River measuring56 metres in width, then ‘Kaeng Song Khon,’ thecataract in the middle of river that separatesthe water into two streams (‘song khon’ in Thai).Continue cruising to ‘Hat Salueng,’ the beautifulbeach by the Mun River, and continue on to ‘PhaHin Sila Lek,’ the rock at which French soldiersmarked the water level of the Mekong River.The cruise around Sam Phan Bok finishes at ‘HatHong,’ an enormous sand ridge by the MekongRiver that is especially stunning at sunset.The hidden secret ofPha ChanPha Chan is a little-known place inUbon Ratchathani similar to Sam PhanBok. It has gigantic rocks resultingfrom erosion by the river and, in thedry season when the water level islow, deep abysses are revealed thatintimidate those travellers exploringthe Mekong River by boat.Ban Pha Chan is en route from Sam PhanBok in Amphoe Pho Sai to Amphoe KhongChiam. N 15°45’35” E 105°29’30”Witness the first sunrise at Pha Chana DaiLocated in the Dong Na Tham Forest area, Pha Chana Dai is a cliff that stretches alongsidethe Mekong River where, it is claimed, people can enjoy spectacular sunrises before anyoneelse in Thailand. In winter, visitors to Pha Chana Dai not only get to say hello to the earliestrays of sunlight across the Mekong River but are also able to see the magnificent colours ofthe wildflowers in bloom.From Amphoe Pho Sai, head towards Amphoe Khong Chiam by taking Highway 2112 for about 43 km. toreach Pa Dong Na Tham. N 15°34’09” E 105°37’21”152 153The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Vines, flowers, and awaterfallAt Thung Na Mueang Waterfall, thereis a giant vine reputed to be 1,000years old. The waterfall is set amongstblossoming flowers and the water cascades30 metres down the cliff before flowing into the MekongRiver.Situated in the 4th Protection Unit of the National Park (Khan ThaKwian). Take the Ban Thung Na Mueang road in Tambon Na Pho Klang.It is around 12 km. from Pa Dong Na Tham.N 15°32’02’’ E 105°35’44’’When the moonlight shinesSaeng Chan Waterfall or ‘Moonlight Waterfall’ attractsvisitors with its special feature of water cascadingthrough a hole. Around noon, the sun shines throughthe hole to create an extraordinary appearance similarto moonlight shining through the waterfall.Around 2.7 km. from Thung Na Mueang Waterfall.N 15°30′58″ E 105°35′25″Interesting InfoA heaven of wildflowersThe fields around Soi Sawan Waterfall are full ofbeautiful wildflowers that bloom at the end of therainy season and the beginning of winter (November/December). Her Majesty the Queen has named 5 ofthese wildflowers - Dusita, Soi Suwanna, Thip KesonMani Thewa, and Sarat Chanthon (purple, yellow,pink, white and violet respectively).Interesting InfoWildflowers of Dong Na Tham ForestFrom October to December is thebest time to visit Dong Na ThamForest as visitors are greeted withdifferent kinds of flowers that bloomat this time. Examples of wildflowers tobe found here are Yat Nam Khang,Lueang Phitsamon, Daeng Ubon,En-A, Dusita, Soi Suwanna, ThipKeson, and Kradum Ngoen.A necklace from heavenSoi Sawan Waterfall or ‘Heaven’s Necklace Waterfall’ is a 20-metre high double waterfall withwater cascading from two sides and joining to form the shape of the necklace.From Saeng Chan Waterfall, take Highway 2112 for 18.6 km. to reach Soi Sawan Waterfall.N 15°27′36″ E 105°34′42″Pha Taem National ParkPha Taem National Park provides visitors with severalfascinating attractions, both natural and cultural.Apart from Sao Chaliang, a rock terrace coveredwith wildflowers, Pha Taem is also famous for itsprehistoric cliff paintings reputed to date back3,000-4,000 years.From Soi Sawan Waterfall, head towards Amphoe KhongChiam on Highway 2112 for about 18 km. to Pha TaemNational Park. N 15°23′55″ E 105°30′27″Explore the world of handicraftsNear Pha Taem National Park are several river-based communities. Two ofthem, Ban Kum and Ban Tha Long, are well-known for their exquisitehandicrafts. Ban Kum produces hand-woven cotton fabric made byusing traditional techniques and natural coloured dyes. BanTha Long is famous for basketry weaving, producing severalkinds of containers for sticky rice and mats woven frompandanus palm tree. This expertise has resulted in Ban ThaLong community being recognised as a manufacturer of4-star OTOP products. This communitybelongs to the Bru ethnic group andis happy to share its culture andtraditions with visitors.Head towards Pha Taem National Park at Ban Nong Phue Noi and turnright to Ban Kum about 500 m. before reaching the entrance gate. Thenturn left to Ban Tha Long, which is around 10 km. from Ban Nong Phue Noi.• Ban Kum, Tambon Huai Phai, Amphoe Khong ChiamN 15°23′26″ E 105°29′39″• Ban Tha Long, Tambon Huai Phai, Amphoe Khong ChiamN 15°24′17″ E 105°33′41″Interesting InfoAccommodation is available in the NationalPark - contact the National Park office at+66 (2) 562 0760 or Pha Thaem National Parkoffice at +66 (45) 318 026 for more information.154 155The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

Strolling among the fruit plantations by the Mekong RiverNot far from Ban Kum and Ban Tha Long is Ban Ta Mui’s Agricultural Garden by theMekong River. This garden welcomes visitors to explore its fruit plantations producing longan,pomelo, guava, and tamarind.About 5 km. from Ban Nong Phue. N 15°23’55” E 105°32’18”Interesting InfoFestivals to mark the end of Buddhist LentTo mark the end of Buddhist Lent, the peoplewho live by the Mekong River in Ubon Ratchathaniorganise several festivals that mirror their way oflife and show their strong connection with theriver. These events involve traditional boat racesand illuminated boat processions in AmphoeKhong Chiam. The Naga fireballs can also beseen in the villages below Pha Taem; such as,Ban Kum, Ban Ta Mui, and Ban Tha Long.Say goodbye to the Mekong Riverat Woen BuekThe Mekong River leaves Thailand and enters Lao PDR.at Woen Buek in Amphoe Khong Chiam. Woen Buekmeans the place where Pla Buek (giant catfish) liveand it is a favourite fishing spot for locals.Take Highway 2134 and cross the bridge over the Mun River.Go 200 m. and turn left at the Ban Tha Phae Intersection andproceed on the asphalt road for another 7 km.N 15°19’08” E 105°33’28”Interesting InfoWho is ‘Bru’?The people in Woen Buek communityare from the ‘Bru’ ethnic group thatmigrated from Lao PDR. to the WoenBuek area around 80 years ago. Theywere formerly called ‘Kha’ but nowuse the term ‘Bru’ meaning people.Pay homage to Luangpu Kham Khaning at Wat ThamKhuha SawanWat Tham Khuha Sawan was built in 1978 by Luangpu Kham Khaning Chunlamani who isbelieved to have gone to the cave of the Naga under the water. Even though LuangpuKham Khaning passed away many years ago, his body is kept in a glass coffin for Buddhistdevotees to pay respect to.From Pha Thaem National Park, head towards Amphoe Khong Chiam and turn left at Highway 2222. Beforereaching Amphoe Khong Chiam, the temple is on the left, a total distance of 16 km.N 15°19’20” E 105°29’19”See the bi-coloured riverAt the meeting place of the Mun and MekongRivers, visitors can marvel at the mix of colours,blue from the Mun and brown from the Mekong.The best time to see this is in April and the bestplaces to see it are from the bridge across andalong the banks of the Mun, along the Mekongin front of Wat Khong Chiam, and in some partsof Huai Mak Tai village.The bridge across the Mun River in Amphoe KhongChiam. N 15°19’05” E 105°30’04”156The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeUseful Contact Information in Ubon RatchathaniTourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Ubon Ratchathani Office +66 (45) 243 770, +66 (45) 250 714Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Public Relations +66 (45) 244 875Tourist Police +66 (45) 245 505Provincial Police Station, Amphoe Mueang +66 (45) 254 216Highway Police +66 (45) 313 220Ubon Ratchathani International Airport +66 (45) 244 073Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal +66 (45) 316 085Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station +66 (45) 321 004Sappasit Prasong Hospital +66 (45) 244 973Chong Mek Checkpoint +66 (45) 485 107

AccommodationMukdahan ProvinceSimple and convenientaccommodationBan Rim Suan18 Mukdahan-Don Tan Rd., AmphoeMueang, Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 632 980-1, +66 (81) 872 2209N 16°32’13” E 104°43’50”Rabiang Muk1 Soi Thaiyanon, Wiwitthasurakan Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, Mukdahan Province, 49000+66 (42) 614 666, +66 (84) 956 6188www.rabiangmuk.comN 16°32’53” E 104°43’36”Submukda Grand Hotel72 Samut Sakdarak Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 633 444, +66 (42) 633 555www.submukda.comN 16°32’32” E 104°43’49”ShoppingAmphoe MueangSa-ngiam Dried food and products from Indochina10 Samran Chai Khong Tai Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 611 904, +66 (42) 632 961N 16°32’33” E 104°43’54”DiningAmphoe MueangGood Mook Coffee and Bakery10 (414/1) Song Nang Sathit Rd., AmphoeMueang, Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 612 091, +66 (85) 841 2185N 16°32’39” E 104°43’51”Khrua Saigon Vietnamese Food105 Samut Sakdarak Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Road 49000 +66 (42) 612 621N 16°32’19” E 104°43’51”Khu Faet 2 Naem Nueang36 Samut Sakdarak Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000 +66 (42) 612 252Relax by the Mekong RiverAnna Vana Resort and Spa189 Samran Chai Khong Tai Rd., AmphoeMueang, Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 612 111, +66 (42) 613 838www.annavanaresort-spa.comN 16°31’28” E 104°44’17”Accommodation in the cityMukdahan Grand Hotel78 Song Nang Sathit Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000 +66 (42) 612 020www.mukdahangrandhotel.comN 16°32’29” E 104°43’19”Ploy Palace Hotel40 Phithak Phanom Khet, Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000+66 (42) 631 111-20 www.ploypalace.comN 16°32’29” E 104°43’24”Yun Thai Silk6/4 Samran Chai Khong Tai Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, MukdahanProvince 49000+66 (42) 612 336, +66 (84) 601 8549N 16°32’35” E 104°43’54”Nat Phop Rim Khong Restaurant91 Samran Chai Khong Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Mukdahan Province 49000 +66 (42) 632 543, +66 (89) 711 6063N 16°31’55” E 104°44’04”Sukhawadi Restaurant24/4 Samran Chai Khong Tai Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, Mukdahan Province 49000 +66 (42) 611 882N 16°32’09” E 104°43’60”Amphoe Wan YaiSirichai Barbeque Suckling Pork71 Mu 10, Ban Na Kae Noi, Amphoe Wan Yai, MukdahanProvince 49150 +66 (42) 643 552, +66 (81) 260 7358N 16°32’20” E 104°43’50”N 16°48’11” E 104°43’60”* For more information on accommodation, restaurants, and attractions in Mukdahan,please visit http://www.tourismthailand.org/mukdahan and www.tatsanuk.comAccommodationUbon Ratchathani ProvinceAccommodation near"Sam Phan Bok"Song Khon Resort60 Mu 6, Ban Pak Kalang, Amphoe Pho Sai,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34340+66 (45) 260 408, +66 (87) 256 1696N 15°49’22” E 105°23’13”Relax by the bi-coloured riverAraya Resort Khongjiam Riverside Hotel632 Khong Mun Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 385 N 15°18’52” E 105°29’58”Tohsang Khongjiam Resort68 Mu 7, Ban Huai Mak Tai, Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 174-6 www.tohsang.comN 15°18’58” E 105°30’44”Small houses in Khong ChiamBan Khiang Nam Resort82/1 Mu 1, Klaeo Pradit Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 374 N 15°19’04” E 105°29’53”Bann Suan Peerada138/1 Phu Kam Chai Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 028, +66 (86) 649 0804www.bannsuanpeerada.comN 15°19’03” E 105°29’38”Hotels in the cityLai Thong Hotel50 Phichit Rangsan Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 264 271 www.laithonghotel.netN 15°14’02” E 104°52’04”Sunee Grand Hotel512/8 Chayangkun Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 283 999, +66 (45) 352 900www.suneegrandhotel.comN 15°15’22” E 104°50’53”Tohsang City Hotel251 Phalochai Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 245 531-6 www.tohsang.comN 15°13’57” E 104°50’42”Accommodation near the cityUbonburi Hotel and Resort1 Si Mongkhon Rd., Amphoe Warin Chamrap,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34190+66 (45) 266 777www.ubonburihotel.comN 15°12’37” E 104°51’33”158 159The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life

ShoppingAmphoe MueangBai Fai Local hand-woven fabrics44 Phonphaen Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 261 244, +66 (89) 721 1244N 15°13’48” E 104°52’04”Dao Thong Thai Sausage173/2-3 Sinarong Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 255 131 N 15°13’42” E 104°51’13”Fai Khen Local hand-woven fabrics782/1 Chayangkun Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 283 111 N 15°15’49” E 104°50’36”Amphoe Khong ChiamBan Kum Hand-woven cotton dyed with natural colourBam Kum, Mu 3, Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 287 N 15°23’26” E 105°29’39”DiningAmphoe MueangIndochin Restaurant168-170 Sapphasit Rd., Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 245 584, +66 (45) 254 126N 15°14’09” E 104°51’29”K.P. HouseNext to Anek Wittaya School, Sapphasit Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani Province34000 +66 (45) 254 629, +66 (81) 730 1099N 15°14’07” E 104°51’42”Phonthip Somtam and grilled chicken228 near Thung Si Mueang, Suriyat Rd.,Amphoe Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani Province34000 +66 (81) 760 4741N 15°14’09” E 104°51’39”Sam Chai Coffee56-58 Pha Deang Rd. (in front of UbonRatchathani Provincial Court), Amphoe Mueang,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 240 241 N 15°13’54” E 104°51’29”160The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeKham Pun Thai Silk124 Pha Daeng Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Ubon RatchathaniProvince 34000 +66 (45) 254 830, +66 (45) 255 701N 15°14’02” E 104°51’28”Mae Hai (First Branch) Thai Sausage76-82 Phalochai Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Ubon RatchathaniProvince 34000 +66 (45) 255 266, +66 (45) 244 465N 15°13’55” E 104°51’07”Mutita’s Aromatic CandleAvailable at the Ubon Ratchathani International Airport ThepYothi Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 361 712 www.mutitacandle.comN 15°14’48” E 104°52’14”Tong Nueng Thai Sausage72-74 Phalochai Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Ubon RatchathaniProvince 34000 +66 (45) 261 552 N 15°13’55” E 104°51’07”Ubon Ratchathani Community Economic Centre7 Chaeng Sanit Rd., Amphoe Mueang, Ubon RatchathaniProvince 34000 +66 (45) 250 248-9 N 15°14’40” E 104°50’50”Basketry at Ban Tha Long31 Mu 5, Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 287 N 15°24’18” E 105°33’41”Amphoe Khong ChiamMaenam Song Si Restaurant346 Mu 1, Rim Khong Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 070, +66 (86) 871 8840 N 15°19’03” E 105°30’03”Phae Araya Restaurant200 Rim Khong Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 015, +66 (89) 624 4004 N 15°19’03” E 105°30’03”Phae Chonlada601 Rim Khong Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34000+66 (45) 351 135, +66 (45) 351 025 N 15°19’11” E 105°29’45”Rim Khong Restaurant426 Klaeo Pradit Rd., Amphoe Khong Chiam,Ubon Ratchathani Province 34220+66 (45) 351 101 N 15°19’07” E 105°29’58”* For more information on accommodation, restaurants, andattractions in Ubon Ratchathani,please visit http://www.tourismthailand.org/ubon-ratchathaniLife in the morning by the Mun River, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Produced byAttractions Promotion DivisionProduct Promotion DepartmentMarketing Services DepartmentTourism Authority of Thailandfor free distribution1600 Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi,Bangkok 10400Tel: +66 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)Fax: +66 2250 5511 (2 automatic lines)Email: center@tat.or.thWebsite: www.tourismthailand.orgTAT Call Center 1672162 163The Mekong: Journeys along the River of LifeThe Mekong: Journeys along the River of Life