Nong Khai Travel Guide: Top 10 Places to Visit

A surreal sculpture park built by mystic artist Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, Sala Keoku blends Buddhist, Hindu, and mythological figures in colossal concrete form. The statues, some towering over 25 meters, depict gods, demons, and celestial beings, offering a unique artistic experience unlike any temple in Thailand.

• How to Get There: From Udon Thani International Airport, taxi (~1 hour). From Nong Khai City Center, local taxi (~10 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Sala Keoku

This symbolic bridge spans the Mekong River, connecting Thailand and Laos. Visitors can walk or drive to the midpoint for scenic views of the river, or cross into Vientiane for a quick international day trip (passport required). At sunset, the view of the bridge glowing over the water is spectacular.

• How to Get There: From Sala Keoku, taxi (~10 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge

Regarded as Nong Khai’s most sacred temple, Wat Pho Chai houses the revered Luang Pho Phra Sai Buddha image — a cultural icon said to bring good fortune. The temple’s detailed murals and tranquil courtyard make it a spiritual haven in the heart of town.

• How to Get There: From Nong Khai City Center, walk or taxi (~5 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Wat Pho Chai

This riverside walkway offers beautiful views of the Mekong, dotted with cafés, restaurants, and market stalls selling local crafts and Lao–Thai snacks. At sunset, it becomes a lively meeting spot for both locals and tourists.

• How to Get There: From Wat Pho Chai, walk (~5 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Tha Sadet Market

Perched on a hill overlooking the Mekong River, Wat Lam Duan offers one of the best panoramic views in Nong Khai. The temple’s golden chedi gleams under the sun, and it’s a peaceful place for quiet reflection.

• How to Get There: From Tha Sadet Market, taxi (~10 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Wat Lam Duan

This ancient stupa is believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha and is associated with legends of the Naga serpent. The serene temple grounds along the Mekong make it an ideal stop for visitors interested in both religion and local mythology.

• How to Get There: From Wat Lam Duan, taxi (~15 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Phrathat Nong Khai

Known as the “Navel of the Mekong,” this riverside temple marks one of the river’s deepest points. Local legend says the Naga serpent lives beneath the swirling currents here. It’s a spiritual and scenic spot — especially at sunrise.

• How to Get There: From Phrathat Nong Khai, taxi (~20 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Wat A-Hong Silawat

Though technically located in Udon Thani Province, this prehistoric site is easily accessible from Nong Khai. The park features ancient rock formations and cave paintings dating back thousands of years, offering a fascinating glimpse into early human civilization in the region.

• How to Get There: From Sala Keoku, taxi (~1 hour 15 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Phu Phra Bat Historical Park

An educational and family-friendly destination, the aquarium showcases both Mekong freshwater species and exotic fish. The large underwater tunnel and feeding shows are especially popular with kids.

• How to Get There: From Wat Pho Chai, taxi (~15 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Monday)
  
  
• Google Maps: Nong Khai Aquarium

A lively market selling Lao, Vietnamese, and Thai goods — from textiles to local snacks. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and feel the multicultural vibe of this border town.

• How to Get There: From Nong Khai City Center, walk (~10 minutes).
  
  
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
  
• Google Maps: Indochina Market