When a first-time traveler plans a trip to Thailand, Southeast Asia’s most popular destination, they usually think of cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, or the famous beaches along the Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand. However, those familiar with the country may take an interest in a lesser-known region rarely mentioned in travel guides, despite being the largest in the country.
This region is called Isaan, and Nong Khai is a small province within it that will captivate travelers who enjoy crossing borders on foot.
Northeastern Thailand, or Isaan, is a vast area made up of 20 provinces, covering a landmass nearly half the size of Germany. More than a third of Thailand’s population hails from Isaan. The locals speak a language nearly identical to Laotian, and their cuisine is both spicy and exceptional. Much of Thailand’s folklore originates from this region.
Why is Nong Khai significant within Isaan, particularly for travelers? Primarily, it serves as the main border crossing between Thailand and Laos. The first friendship bridge linking the two countries is located here, making it the closest land border to Bangkok. Once across the bridge, you’ll find Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
Nong Khai is a peaceful town on the banks of the Mekong River, nestled within a small province in Isaan. For first-time visitors to northeastern Thailand, the town offers excellent facilities. The locals are accustomed to foreigners, and many speak English. If you’re planning to enter Laos from Thailand, why not stop in Nong Khai?
Nong Khai is a well-known city in Thailand, especially for those who have historically made visa runs from Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Travelers often come here to cross into Laos, where it’s easy to obtain visas for re-entry into Thailand. However, most visits to Nong Khai are brief, as many travelers head straight for the border crossing.
For those entering Laos, crossing through Thailand is often the more economical option, as flights to Laos, the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, tend to be expensive. Airlines like AirAsia offer flights from Bangkok to Nong Khai, though there is no airport in the city itself. Instead, flights land in Udon Thani, followed by an hour-long van ride to the border.
Perhaps due to the influx of travelers, Nong Khai has developed a rather unique international community, including many retired expatriates drawn to its quiet, affordable lifestyle along the Mekong River. The capital of Nong Khai offers these retirees, and visitors, a peaceful environment with much to explore.
For this northeastern city, the best time to visit might depend more on when you plan to cross the border between Thailand and Laos, but there are notable differences throughout the year:
Since Nong Khai is not a major tourist destination, hotel prices remain stable throughout the year, regardless of the season.
To begin with, we always recommend getting good travel insurance Thailand. This can save you a significant amount on medical expenses and, most importantly, ensures that the insurance covers the costs upfront, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
In the previous article, we go into more detail about healthcare in Thailand, as well as tips on how to get the best insurance (and save money).
Nowadays, finding hotels, guesthouses, or restaurants in Thailand with free Wi-Fi is pretty common. However, there are still those who prefer (or need) to stay connected at all times.
That’s why we’ll show you how to get an eSIM Thailand card with internet— now also available with unlimited data.
Nong Khai, being a border town and a transit hub, offers several ways to reach it. However, we do not recommend taking the vans offered from Khaosan Road in Bangkok, as they are uncomfortable, relatively expensive, and often drive dangerously. Fortunately, you can easily reach Nong Khai by road, rail, or air from Bangkok.
By train: This is the best option. You can book your ticket online via 12goasia or the more complicated Thai government website.
Trains depart from Bangkok between 8 pm and 9 pm, taking about 9 to 10 hours to reach Nong Khai. Ideally, book a second-class sleeper berth, and choose the lower bunk if possible, upper bunks don’t have windows, and the lights are kept on. The journey is comfortable and drops you near the Laos border.
By Bus: Buses are also available, and tickets can be booked online. The bus ride takes about the same time (9 to 10 hours) as the train. Though it’s the least comfortable option, it’s also the cheapest, and buses are the most convenient if you’re coming from places outside Bangkok.
By Air: If you prefer to fly, you can travel to Udon Thani Airport, which has connections to cities like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok. From there, you can take a van for 300 baht (around 10 euros) to Nong Khai, which takes about an hour.
Given Nong Khai’s location on the Laos border, most transport options will drop you off near the border, making it an easy destination to reach.
Although Nong Khai might not be featured prominently in guidebooks, it still offers plenty to enjoy. The city’s charm lies in its proximity to the Mekong River, which it shares with Vientiane, the Laotian capital across the river. The riverside area is one of Nong Khai’s greatest attractions.
You can stroll for several kilometers along the river in the Thai part of the city, which is considered its most picturesque area. Here, you’ll find bars, restaurants, and shops, but the atmosphere remains authentically local, avoiding the typical tourist trap. You’ll notice a few international establishments, often run by Westerners who have settled in the area.
Nong Khai is situated in one of the most religious parts of Isaan, where Buddhism is deeply ingrained in daily life. Temples are abundant, both on the outskirts and in the city center. The northern part of Isaan is particularly devout, and you will frequently encounter monks.
We recommend visiting Wat Pho Chai, a stunning temple with no tourist crowds, offering a glimpse into traditional Buddhist architecture and culture.
The rural landscapes often depicted in images of Thailand are found in Isaan, and Nong Khai is an excellent base for exploring them. Rent a motorbike and venture along the roads leading out of the city.
We suggest renting a motorbike and taking a ride to Ban Dung. Don’t know where to go? No problem. Put on your GPS and travel. The journey itself will be rewarding. If you’re up for more exploration, continue south to Kamphuwapi.
Currently, tours in Nong Khai are not widely available for online booking, at least for now. We recommend exploring the area independently to fully experience its charm.
Nong Khai is relatively more expensive compared to other parts of Isaan but still offers very affordable options, even cheaper than cities like Chiang Mai. You’ll find a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range.
For a high-quality stay, consider resorts like Amanta Nong Khai, which offers excellent amenities for just over 40 euros per night. For budget travelers, Hop Inn provides comfortable lodging for around 16 euros. If you prefer a charming colonial-style hostel, Mut Mee offers a cozy stay for less than $12.
Near the Mekong River, you’ll find a variety of dining options. While there are places serving international cuisine, we recommend trying the local Thai stalls offering Isaan food. The dishes are spicy but highly flavorful, making it a culinary experience worth trying.
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel around Nong Khai.
