Top 3 Things to See in Nong Khai

Nong Khai is a small town located right on the border with Laos. The bridge connecting it to the city of Vientiane (the Laotian capital) stands as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. It spans the Mekong River. The Silk Road once passed through Nong Khai, and you can still see remnants of this historic trade route throughout the town. You'll also find plenty of shops selling silk. You can even visit a workshop run by an organization that helps rehabilitate women transitioning back into society.

Check out the Nong Khai photo album here.

3 things to see in Nong Khai:

The covered market

Located along the banks of the Mekong, Nong Khai's covered market is a testament to the town's former role as a hub for the Silk Road. You’ll find a wide array of handicrafts from countries further north (and sometimes even from Russia). From fabrics and clothing to wood carvings, you can find just about anything here. It’s easy to navigate, and if it rains, you’ll stay nice and dry. The town’s regular outdoor market often spills into this area during its operating hours.

Sala Keoku (Statue Park)

Located just outside of town, this park is well worth the trip. As you approach, you’ll spot two massive, impressive statues towering over the landscape. Once inside, you can wander among sculptures depicting some rather strange, and at times, even haunting, scenes. From a giant serpent and dogs attacking an elephant to heads emerging from the ground, it might be a bit intense for younger children. If that’s the case, take them to feed the fish in the two ponds using the food sold right nearby. It’s always a hit.

A stroll from the promenade to the rice paddies

The banks of the Mekong stretch for quite a distance, so renting a bike is highly recommended.

Further upstream, you’ll find two giant dragons designed in the style of a Chinese-inspired temple. As you head back, you’ll pass a promenade lined with restaurants, the covered market, the pier where goods arrive from or depart for the north, a narrower walkway, and finally, the bridge.

You can extend your walk a bit further to find clusters of small local houses and rice paddies. Paths wind between the fields, and taking a walk along them offers a truly refreshing change of scenery.