North Isaan and the Mekong 5 Days

Head to Lopburi to explore Phra Prang Sam Yot, the province's most famous landmark and a former Hindu shrine dating back to the 13th century, designed in the classic Bayon style of Khmer architecture. This site features three towers connected by corridors. In the 17th century, it was transformed into a Buddhist temple, with a hall built to house a magnificent Buddha statue.

Continue your journey northward, passing through Phetchabun, until you reach the Khao Kho District. Here, visit Wat Phra Thad Pha Sorn Kaew, established in 2004 as a Dharma practice center, perched on a hilltop surrounded by mountains. The serene setting is adorned with over five million mosaic tiles. Also, explore the hilltop cave where locals once claimed to have seen a floating marble, believed to represent the spirit of Buddha. 

Visit a stunning British-style flower garden that offers a picturesque setting with sweeping views of the Great Mountain, known as ‘Pha Sorn Kaew.’ Next, we’ll head to the renowned Phu Ruea National Park, located in Loei province, one of Thailand's coldest areas. The northern section of the park borders Laos and is home to the headwaters of several rivers in Loei. The park's highest peak, Phu Ruea, rises to 1,365 meters above sea level, providing an excellent viewpoint for the Huang and Mekong rivers. The cool climate supports a rich variety of orchids that bloom year-round.

Make a stop along the way for an optional coffee break before proceeding to Ban Na Aor, a cultural village that preserves the ancient Thai-Loei heritage and architecture. Afterward, journey to the charming town of Chiang Khan. Unwind as you take in the beautiful scenery along the Mekong River at sunset, and then explore the vibrant local market at Khaeng Khut Khu, which comes alive each evening. Delight in the culinary offerings of Chiang Khan, including ma prao Kaew (wok-fried coconut strips with a sugar glaze), dark brown coconut sugar, and roasted peanuts. You can also savor small, deep-fried river prawns accompanied by cucumber dipping sauce or mixed into a spicy salad with chili, garlic, and lime. Overnight in Chiang Khan.

Rise early to partake in the local Buddhist tradition of offering sticky rice to monks during their morning alms rounds. Cycle along the riverside promenade to reach Chiang Khan Walking Street and be at the temple in the early hours. Visit Wat Sri Khun Muang, also known as Wat Yai, one of the region's most significant religious sites, and admire its ancient monastery with its distinctive descending roof in Lanna style. The wall paintings within the monastery narrate the ten lives of Buddha.

Afterward, return to your hotel to savor a delicious breakfast while enjoying a stunning sunrise along the riverbanks. Once you check out, continue your journey along the Mekong River on one of Thailand’s most scenic routes. Stop at Wat Pha Tak Sua to take in the breathtaking views from the 16-meter-long skywalk, which hangs over a cliff and features glass floors and walls.

As you proceed, make a quick photo stop at a viewpoint in Sri Chiang Mai before arriving in Mueang Nong Khai. This vibrant Thai town is just 20 kilometers from the border with Laos and serves as a gateway to Vientiane. Nong Khai beautifully represents the rich Isaan culture, characterized by its blend of Thai and Laotian heritage. Experience the warm and friendly atmosphere of this small city as the sun sets behind the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.

Step aboard a boat for a scenic 90-minute journey along the Thai side of the Mekong River. Your first stop is Tha Sadet Market, the heart of local trade between this part of Thailand and neighboring Laos. Often referred to as the ‘Indochina Market,’ it features a wide range of goods sourced from various regions, alongside plenty of local products.

Next, leave Nong Khai to explore Sala Kaew Ku sculpture park, which boasts an impressive array of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures. While it isn’t a temple, the park is often informally called Wat Khaek (‘Indian Temple’), and some sculptures soar up to 25 meters high.

Continue on to Ban Chiang, an archaeological site in the Nong Han District of Udon Thani, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovered in 1966, this ancient site is famous for its beautifully decorated red pottery.

The day wraps up at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Centre, which opened in 2013 to preserve the art, culture, lifestyle, and philosophical principles of the Udon Thani Thai-Chinese community. The serene central garden reflects traditional Chinese design and is themed around '24 manners of gratitude, the garden of a thousand-year-old morality.'

Finally, you’ll be dropped off at the airport or railway station to continue your individual travel plans.