Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Yellow Bus runs regularly between Nong Khai and Tha Bo (27B, one hour, every
30 minutes), taking the scenic riverside route. Pick it up in Nong Khai at the bus station or
near the hospital on Th Meechai.
Wat Hin Mak Peng
Overlooking a lovely stretch of the Mekong, this vast forest
temple
(admission free; 6am-7pm)
is centred on a cliff rising out of the river. The very peaceful temple is respected by Thais
because of their reverence for the founding abbot, Luang Pu Thet, whom they believe
reached enlightenment. Several monuments in his honour, including a lifelike wax statue
and a glistening
chedi
, are found around the grounds. Visitors must dress politely: no
shorts above the knees or sleeveless tops.
The temple is midway between Si Chiangmai and Sangkhom. Sangkhom-bound buses
from Nong Khai (50B, 2¼ hours) pass the entrance, and then it's a longish walk to the
buildings.
Sangkhom
The little town of Sangkhom (officially named Ban Chueang), facing the Lao island of
Don Klang Khong, makes a great rest stop for those following the Mekong between Nong
Khai and Loei. Staring at the lovely scenery tends to dominate visitors' time here, but
there are also some wonderful attractions around town.
Sights
The forest wát peering down on the town,
Wat Pa Tak Sua
(admission free; dawn-dusk)
, lies just
2km away as the crow flies, but it's 19km to drive. It has the most amazing Mekong views
we know of except for Pha Taem National Park; you might see the valley filled with fog
on early mornings during the cold season. The footpath used by the monks every morning
begins east of town just before the Km 81 pillar (look for the faded green sign with white
letters). Follow Soi 5 past the last house, then veer right by the mango and papaya trees.
Three-tiered
Nam Tok Than Thip
(admission free)
waterfall, 13km west of Sangkhom (2km off
Rte 211), is the largest waterfall in the area. The lower level drops 30m and the second,
easily reached via stairs, falls 100m. The 70m top drop is only barely visible through the
lush forest.
Nam Tok Than Thong
(admission free)
waterfall, 12km east of Sangkhom, is a wider
