The term ‘hidden gem’ is one of the most overused when it comes to travel. But it’s a description that really does apply to Loei. Located in the north of Isaan, Loei is a province where time seems to slow down. With its mix of scenic mountains, tranquil riverside towns and vibrant festivals, Loei is a fascinating region to visit.
While still under the radar for most international visitors, Loei has long been cherished by Thai travellers looking for natural beauty and a slower pace of life. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a quiet escape, Loei is a reminder of why slow travel in Thailand can be so fulfilling.
What to see and do in Loei
Local life
Chiang Khan
Situated on the Mekong River, Chiang Khan is one of the most popular destinations in Loei for Thai travellers. Walking through this riverside town along streets lined with old wooden houses feels like stepping back into another era. Rent a bicycle to ride along quiet bike lanes and soak up views of the Mekong and neighbouring Laos.
Chiang Khan walking street comes alive in the evenings with local food, handicrafts, and a warm community atmosphere. Watching the sun set over the Mekong with a coffee in hand is one of those small but unforgettable travel experiences.
Popularity with Thai visitors means there are plenty of guest houses and hotels in Chiang Khan. Wherever you decide to stay, wake up early to experience the daily merit-making ritual with monks walking along Chiang Khan’s streets on their alms rounds.
Chiang Khan: The riverside town supporting responsible tourism
(Photo: Thanachet Maviang / Shutterstock.com)
Phi Ta Khon Festival
Loei is famous for the Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival held in Dan Sai (usually in June) with the event blending Buddhist merit-making with local folklore. Villagers wear colourful masks and costumes, creating one of the most unique cultural events in Thailand.
Even if you miss the festival, you can visit the Phi Ta Khon Museum, which is located inside the temple of Wat Phon Chai and features exhibits and masks from the festival.
Tai Dam Cultural Centre
For an insight into local customs, visit the Tai Dam village. The village ancestors migrated from Laos in the early 1900s, bringing with them traditions and handicrafts which are preserved at the Tai Dam Cultural Centre.
(Photo: Thanachet Maviang / Shutterstock.com)
Temples
Wat Phra That Si Song Rak is one of the most important temples in the region, while Wat Neramit Wipatsana impresses with its large brick and laterite architecture. Located high on a mountain with delightful views, Wat Somdet Phu Ruea Ming Mueang is renowned for its intricate wooden architecture. For a scenic view over the rice fields of Na Haeo, pay a visit to Wat Si Pho Chai.
Nature
Phu Kradueng National Park
For outdoor adventurers, Loei’s national parks are a highlight. Phu Kradueng National Park is one of the best locations for hikers, with pine forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints where you can watch the sunrise over a sea of mist. It’s a challenging, but rewarding hike where you can witness sunrises and sunsets at viewpoints like Pha Nok Aen.
Phu Ruea National Park
Phu Ruea National Park is another good choice for outdoor lovers. The park is home to flower gardens, campsites, and offers fabulous views of the Mekong and Hueang Rivers from Phu Ruea mountain.
Chiang Khan Skywalk
Half an hour southwest of Chiang Khan town is the impressive Chiang Khan Skywalk. Opened in 2020, the elevated glass walkway is a scenic viewpoint located adjacent to the Big Buddha image at Phu Khok Ngio.
Phu Lumduan Viewpoint
Also known as Phu Sam Thong viewpoint, Phu Lumduan is located a 45-minute drive east of Chiang Khan. To reach the viewpoint, you will need to transfer to the local e-tak tractor for the drive to the top.
Ban Haitak
Enjoy coffee with a view at Ban Haitak. There is also the option to spend a night under the stars here with several campsites nearby.
Phu Ho: ‘Mount Fuji of Thailand’
Dubbed by local people as the ‘Mount Fuji of Thailand’, the flat-topped mountain of Phu Ho is a prominent landmark in Loei. One of the best locations to admire the views is at Phu Pa Po. There are four different viewpoints here with visitors able to take the local e-tak tractor up to the viewing areas.
Phu Bo Bit
Located near Loei town, the Phu Bo Bit viewpoint offers 360-degree views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Huai Krathing Reservoir
The reservoir at Huai Krathing was created for irrigation purposes but has also become established as a leisure spot where locals come to relax and enjoy the scenic lake.
Hin Pha Ngam Park
Walk along the trails at Suan Hin Pha Ngam to see the unusual rock formations. The area is relatively compact but makes for an interesting and photogenic stopover.
On the border with Phetchabun, Phu Thap Boek is another of the region’s striking viewpoints. Although you can visit on a day trip, this is a popular spot for Thai travellers to camp overnight and enjoy the sea of clouds and sunrise.
Kaeng Khut Khu
Hire a bicycle in Chiang Khan and take the riverside cycle path to Kaeng Khut Khu where you can explore colourful rock formations and relax on the banks of the Mekong River.
Where to stay in Loei
The small provincial capital of Loei city is the main transport hub where many travellers will first arrive. The choice of mid-range hotels and budget stays makes it a good base for exploring the province.
Chiang Khan is located around an hour’s drive north of Loei city and is a popular option for travellers thanks to its selection of guesthouses and homestays in renovated wooden houses along the Mekong River.
For those who want to be closer to nature, the areas around Phu Kradueng and Phu Ruea have eco resorts, campsites, and even glamping options that suit the cool mountain climate.
Food and drink in Loei
Loei’s food scene reflects both its Isaan roots and its borderland character. Expect plenty of classic Isaan dishes such as som tam (papaya salad), laab (spicy minced meat salad), and sticky rice with grilled meats. The province is also rich in seasonal fruits like longan, lychee, and tamarind, which are sold fresh in local markets.
Chiang Khan’s walking street is the perfect place to explore local flavours. You can try khao lam (sticky rice cooked in bamboo), and freshly caught fish from the Mekong River prepared in traditional ways. Small cafes and bakeries add a cosy atmosphere, making it a great spot for slow travel food lovers.
How to travel to Loei
Loei Airport (LOE) has daily flights from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK), making it the quickest option. If you are heading straight to Chiang Khan, there are minivan services, or you can take a taxi (less than 1,000 Baht).
By bus, there are direct services from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal to Loei town, which take around eight to nine hours. There are also bus services to Loei from other locations in Isaan, such as Udon Thani and Nong Khai.
Although there is no train to Loei from Bangkok, you could take the Northeast Line to Udon Thani, or the Northern Line to Phitsanulok, and get a bus from either of those towns.
Once you arrive in Loei, getting around can be done by local songthaews, but if you want to explore beyond Loei city and into the national parks or small villages, having your own transport is the most convenient option.
Good to know
Loei can be visited all year round, but the most popular months with Thai travellers are the cool season months from November to February. Book travel and accommodation in advance if you are visiting during this peak travel period. Expect to encounter fresh and misty mornings, with pleasant daytime temperatures. It is also the period when national parks and outdoor attractions are at their most beautiful. If you’re travelling to Loei during the cool season, pack a jacket or sweater.
Hot temperatures and seasonal haze in March/April can make it a less enjoyable time to visit. The green season, from June/July to October, can still be a good time to travel in Loei, but be aware that some National Parks and attractions, such as waterfalls, may be temporarily closed.
Culturally, Loei blends Thai, Lao, and hill tribe traditions. This creates a mix of festivals, local crafts, and community life. English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so learning a few Thai phrases can make your trip smoother and more rewarding.
If you are interested in travelling to Loei, consider doing it as part of an itinerary that combines Udon Thani and Nong Khai.
