I just spent one full day in Chiang Khan. What a wonderful place in Loei province. It is really different… The main attraction, beside the mekong, is the walking street at night. Tons of nice shops, and the kept the old wood houses. Really beautiful. We had a nice room with a view on the Mekong. Most guesthouses or hotels will provide free bicycles to ride around the city. There isn’t much to do: eat, drink, massage, shop. But it’s a really nice city.
There is a great restaurant with Luang Prabang food on the main street. They have this place for generations and their grandparents or great-grandparents come from Luang Prabang. Highly recommended.
Chiang Khan is a place like you don’t see often in Thailand. Most guest-house will give you a bicycle for free and you can ride the city. There isn’t much to see, but just relax, enjoy the Mekong, cafes and life.
More pictures of Chiang Khan on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/sets/72157628633673795/
You will find a list of guest-houses here:
http://isaan.com/forum/index.php/topic,3842.msg3842.html#msg3842
Visitor Tips
Chiang Khan Peaceful Authentic City In Loei
Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.
Getting There
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.
About Isaan Cuisine
The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiang Khan and why is it special?
Chiang Khan (เชียงคาน) is a small town on the Mekong River in Loei province, northeastern Thailand, bordering Laos. It’s famous for its well-preserved wooden shophouses from the early 20th century, peaceful morning markets, and stunning sunrises over the Mekong. It’s one of Thailand’s most charming and authentic small towns.
How do I get to Chiang Khan from Korat or Bangkok?
From Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima): drive north via Highway 2 to Khon Kaen, then west on Highway 12 to Loei, then north to Chiang Khan — about 340 km total (4.5 hours). From Bangkok: about 520 km by road (7–8 hours) or fly to Loei airport. Weekend minivans run from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal to Loei/Chiang Khan.
What is the morning market at Chiang Khan like?
Chiang Khan’s morning market (Talat Chao) is one of Thailand’s most photogenic: set on wooden boardwalks along the Mekong riverfront, vendors sell local Isaan food, fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional sweets. It runs from roughly 6–8am. The market is best combined with a sunrise walk along the river.
Is Chiang Khan touristy or still authentic?
Chiang Khan has become popular (especially with Thai domestic tourists on weekends) but remains genuinely authentic compared to many Thai tourist destinations. The wooden shophouse architecture is original, many local families still live and work in the town, and the Mekong River setting is spectacular. Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
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