Loei

Loei province is in many ways more similar to the north of Thailand than to the rest of Isan, even earning the nickname “The Mae Hong Son of the northeast.” Loei is an up-and-coming ecotourism region surrounded by undulating mountain ranges, abundant with various kinds of flora and capped with fog enshrouded summits. The most majestic mountains are Phu Kradueng, Phu Luang, Phu Pa Po, Phu Bo Bit, Phu Tok and Phu Ruea. However, while Loei features numerous outdoor activities and fascinating cultural attractions, tourism is relatively new to the province and the area is greatly unspoiled.

At Mt.Phu Kradueng, travellers can see the beautiful sunrise and scenic views of fields and mountains at the Pha Nok Ann viewpoint. Along the trails, you can find heather Flowers, and their fully blooming season is during March – April. If you want to see the Sunset, Pha Lomsak is the most popular viewpoint. Moreover, you can walk on the trail to see Anodard pond, Phen Pob waterfall and Pha Yearb Mek. You may spend 3 days to explore every attraction on Mt.Phu Kradueng. The best time to visit is during October-February, the coldest time is in December.

Phu Ruea National Park is another alternative. The National Park is located in the big mountain with the large pine tree field. It is less difficult than in Phu Kradueng because you can drive to the campsite. Phu Ruea (sailboat mountain) National Park is named after the outstanding sail-shaped cliff in the national park.

Chiang Khan is a peaceful town with interesting attractions. Kaeng Khut Khu, for example, is the clusters of rocks with beautiful colors under the river. In dry season when the river level declines, you will see the colors and beauty of the rocks. The highlight is Chiang Khan Skywalk: The glass skywalk is a scenic viewpoint that was constructed in 2020, located in the front courtyard at the bottom of the Phu Khok Ngio Big Buddha image. It 80 metres high above the Mekong River, or as high as a 30-storey building. This glass-floored walkway is 2 metres wide and 80 metres long, thus allowing panoramic views, including the point where the Hueang River merges with the Mekong River. Chiang Khan Walking Street is one of the places you can’t miss. You can enjoy walking and shopping local products and foods on the street with the over-100-year buildings along both sides of the street. The recommended food are Khao Pieak Sen (rice noodles soup), Mieng Kham (savoury leaf wraps), Khao Chee (grilled sticky rice), and ancient ice-cream. 

Chiang Khan – Received the first ASEAN destination to win prestigious Green Destinations Award at the ITB Berlin 2024. 

Loei is a province of extreme temperatures, check weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Cr:  Information provided by Tourism Authority of Thailand