Nong Khai is often the first stop for travelers heading into Laos from Thailand, and Nong Khai Station serves as a crucial hub for those wanting to make the journey. The city itself has a laid-back charm and offers various activities to keep you occupied while waiting for your connection or exploring the area.
Exploring Nong Khai
1. Visit the Wat Pho Chai Temple
Just a short ride from the station, Wat Pho Chai is a stunning temple dedicated to the Buddha. Its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance make it a must-see. You can take a tuk-tuk or a motorbike taxi from the station for around 30-50 baht.
2. Stroll Along the Mekong River
Take a leisurely walk along the Mekong River promenade. This area is particularly lovely at sunset and is dotted with food stalls and small markets where you can grab a bite to eat. Expect to pay about 40-60 baht for local snacks like grilled meat skewers or som tam (papaya salad).
3. Explore the Nong Khai Market
Don’t miss the local market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to sample local snacks or pick up some souvenirs. Keep a few hundred baht handy for souvenirs and snacks.
Crossing the Border
The most convenient way to cross the border is by train. From Nong Khai Station, you can take a direct train to the Thanaleng station in Laos. Trains run several times a day, with fares typically around 20-30 baht. The train ride is short, only about 15-20 minutes. Once you arrive, you’ll go through customs, so ensure you have your passport ready.
Click the link for my guide to Hua Hin.
By Tuk Tuk
If you prefer a more personalized experience, tuk-tuks are available at Nong Khai Station to take you directly to the border crossing. Fares should range from 150-200 baht. Just negotiate with the driver before you hop in to avoid any surprises.
By Land
For those traveling by land, there are buses that run regularly from Nong Khai to the border crossing. These buses cost about 30 baht and take roughly 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the border, follow the signs to immigration. Make sure to have a visa arranged in advance if required.
Practical Tips
- Currency Exchange: Before crossing, it’s wise to exchange some Thai baht for Lao kip. You can find exchange booths at the station or at the border.
- Border Hours: The border crossing is usually open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, so plan your journey accordingly.
- Stay Hydrated: It can get quite hot, so carry a water bottle. You can buy drinks at stalls for around 10-20 baht.
To read about traveling from Hanoi to Nanning by train click here.
Street Food Nong Khai Station
And if like me you get stuck at the station for 2+ hours waiting for your train then there is at least street food here, even at 6 am.
This is located on the road to the station which has a bunch of small Thai/Laos style restaurants, but also hawkers and carts doing BBQ, fried chicken and even coffee.
To read about Phu Quoc via Kampot click here.
Final Thoughts
Nong Khai may not be the biggest tourist hotspot, but it’s a crucial gateway to Laos. The combination of local culture, friendly people, and the easy border crossing makes it a worthwhile stop.
So, yeah not exactly the most interesting place on planet earth, but with the rugged dodgy feel of a border town you also can’t go wrong here either. Gotta love a bit of overland travel.
Click the link to peruse my Lao Tours.