As you know if you read this blog with any regularity, I’m a big fan of the Isaan region. From unusual attractions and light crowds, to delicious foods and friendly locals, it’s one of the most special and underrated parts of Thailand.
However, even among destinations in Isaan, Nong Khai tends to get overlooked. If you’ve ever been there, chances are it was a brief stop before entering Laos via train: Nong Khai Station is the last stop on Thailand’s railway line, and where you need to complete immigration formalities.
The good news? You’ll find many, many things to do in Nong Khai above and beyond leaving Thailand behind. The better news? I only need a few minutes of your time to get you up to speed on them.
Where to Stay in Nong Khai
If you’ve ever browsed Nong Khai hotels, then you know the unfortunate truth: They leave something to be desired. In my opinion, you’re better off staying at a local guest house, which at least gives you an authentic experience. Thankfully, of course, most travelers aren’t staying overnight in Nong Khai—they’re either coming for the day from Udon Thani, or even stopping here on their way to or back from Laos.
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What to Do in Nong Khai
Learn about Naga lore
Images of Naga (which is also known as Phaya Nark) are everywhere in Isaan, but especially in Nong Khai, namely a massive statue along the town’s waterfront. At some points of the year, there are even nightly light shows on the Mekong, which feature illuminations of Naga on the way.
Walk along the Mekong at dusk or dawn
Speaking of Southeast Asia’s most famous river, chances are that it will figure heavily into your Nong Khai itinerary. If you stay overnight, I suggest coming here early in the morning, to watch the town come alive as the day begins. At night, meanwhile, there are markets all along the shore, and plenty of people-watching.
Sample authentic Isaan cuisine
In those markets, not surprisingly, you’ll find amazing Isaan food, from classics like larb and som tam, to others that are a bit more…shall we say, exotic. As you eat your way through food stalls, explore the town center, including temples like Wat Pho Chai, which is my personal favorite.
Continue to Laos
As you might imagine, one of the main things to do in Nong Khai is to leave it behind—and usually, to Laos. If you’ve never been to Laos and don’t have set plans after you finish in Nong Khai, it’s easy (well, once you obtain your visa) to head over the Friendship Bridge by train or vehicle into Laos.
Or explore the rest of northeastern Thailand
Isaan, as I’ve mentioned ad nauseum on this site, is one of my favorite places in Thailand. From other northern provinces like Loei and Udon Thani, to central Roi Et and Ubon Ratchathani in the south, I encourage you to explore the rest of this region if you haven’t already, and if you don’t plan to go to Laos.
Is Nong Khai Worth Visiting?
Nong Khan is definitely more than just a place to pass through. In fact, I would argue that the hectic time you might spend there if you’re simply transferring from the border crossing to the train station or to Udon Thani does Nong Khai a disservice. It portrays a town that’s actually very sleepy as hectic, and makes you rush through a destination where people do nothing if not taking their time.
On the other part, part of how you enjoy your time depends upon how many days in Nong Khai you’ll be spending. Obviously, you don’t want to stay so briefly that you aren’t able to see what’s so special about the town. Conversely, if you stay too long—I’d say that even two nights is too low for most travelers—you may get bored and restless, and find yourself questioning why you came here in the first place.
Other FAQ About Visiting Nong Khai
What is the Nong Khai tourist attraction?
There aren’t a lot of typical tourist attractions in Nong Khai—there are a few Buddhist temples, a walking street and of course the Mekong River waterfront. You don’t come here to sightseeing as much as you to do participate in authentic, local Isaan culture.
Is there a train from Bangkok to Nong Khai?
Yes, there are several trains per day from Bangkok to Nong Khai, many of which are full of passengers bound for Laos. Everyone needs to disembark in Nong Khai, either if it’s their final destination, or to complete exit passport control before crossing over to Laos.
How to get from Nong Khai to Laos?
To reach Laos from Nong Khai, you need to cross the so-called “Friendship Bridge” over the Mekong River. Prior to doing so, whether you go by car or train, you will need to complete exit formalities, which if you’re taking the train will require you to disembark and then re-board.
The Bottom Line
Most things to do in Nong Khai having nothing to do with leaving Thailand for Laos. Rather, they center around the city’s Mekong River waterfront, and have to do with the Naga (serpent) mythology that’s central the cultural identity of the region. You can cheaply stay here overnight—or, if you don’t have time, come for a day or evening from nearby Udon Thani. However you visit, or whatever you get up to when you’re here, I have a feeling you’ll be glad you did more in Nong Khai than just pass through it, as the vast majority of foreign tourists do. Need personalized help putting your adventure together? Commission a custom Thailand itinerary today!
