Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization)

Mekong...The Eco-Culture River

          Experience Chiang Khan, the tourist attraction of Loei province. The region’s cultural diversity is reflected by the temples, architecture, traditions, art, and tourist attractions.

          “Chiang Khan” is a destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from their busy lives, rejuvenating themselves amidst the slow-paced lifestyle of the town. A small town by the Mekong River, Chiang Khan is rich with cultural diversity. Seeing its potential, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization), also known as DASTA, has continuously developed Loei province to become a world-class sustainable tourism destination. Chiang Khan serves as a model tourist destination supporting a growing number of tourists while hosting creative activities to present its cultural diversity and lifestyle.
 

Experience the Tai Dam Lifestyle at Ban Na Pa Nad

          At Ban Na Pa Nad, visitors will experience the local culture and fine skills in weaving textiles with beautiful patterns. Moreover, the Tai Dam locals at Ban Na Pa Nad preserved their tradition of crafting “Toom Nok, Toom Noo” amulets as an offering to ancestral spirits during a ceremony to express gratitude for spiritual protection. 
 

Photo: Thanachet Maviang / Shutterstock.com

Today at Chiang Khan

          The town is characterized by the charms of old wooden houses, small coffee shops with reading corners, and peaceful yet contemporary vibes. Tourist attractions include:

          - Wat Sri Khun Muang, Chiang Khan: A culturally significant sanctuary exhibiting both Lanna and Lan Chang arts. The wooden pulpit is meticulously carved and decorated with gold leaves, with the top of the seat designed similar to a castle. The front of the building is decorated with murals on the gable, which are inspired by stories of Buddha throughout his ten lives. These murals are repainted to replace the old design. The Buddha statue in the Ubosot presents a meditating Buddha protected by the Naga, sculpted with bricks and cement. The statue portrays a mixture of Lan Chang and Ayutthaya art. Both Thai and Lao community members frequently worship the Buddha, asking for protection and blessings in their travel and work.
 

 Photo: vespaFoto / Shutterstock.com

          - Wat Mahathat Chiang Khan: The oldest temple of Chiang Khan, with a majestic wooden Ubosot reflecting the Lan Chang architecture. The Ubosot holds “Luang Por Yai,” the main Buddha image of the temple. The gable is decorated with a mural presenting the historical background of Chiang Khan. The front of the pagoda holds a container and shrine for placing offerings – a design seen in very few temples throughout Thailand. The temple also holds a new Ubosot constructed with a beautiful Lan Chang architectural style.
 

          - Chiang Khan Walking Street: A classic and charming Walking Street with many products, including artwork and a variety of culinary delights. These include rice noodle soup, congee, “Kanom Jeen” rice noodles, and fermented pork with crispy rice salad. Drinks and snacks are also available, such as fried sticky rice with eggs, fried prawns, rice crackers, pandan bread, tea, and coffee. Although the Walking Street is small, it holds many unique and charming shops worthy of visiting.
 

Photo: Kusalodom / Shutterstock.com

         - Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Kwai: An ancient temple of Chiang Khan, with a crack resembling the footprint of Buddha on a whetstone. The temple was registered as an archaeological site. The highlight of the temple is the statue of a silver buffalo at the parking lot near the entrance of the temple. The temple also offers a breathtaking scenery spot, which allows visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of distant mountains.

         - Wat Ta Kok: Another ancient monument of Chiang Khan, the temple portrays multicultural art and design. The Ubosot has a French design on its façade and windows, while the rest of the building is made of bricks and cement according to Lan Chang architecture. The temple is adorned with sculptures. The wooden roof is also decorated with ancient, colored patterns.  
 
         - Phu Phra Yai, Phu Kok Ngiew Skywalk at Ban Ta Di Mee: A glass skywalk providing a clear view of the Mekong River and a beautiful sunset over the mountains. Each step on the glass skywalk brings an adrenaline rush, with the breathtaking view ahead helping visitors overcome their fears of what’s below.
 

          - Phu Tok: Situated at the mouth of the Huang River on the Thai-Lao border, the mountain is another beautiful sightseeing spot providing the view of the Mekong River, the Sanakham town of Lao PDR, and the Kaeng Khut Khu Islet. During the monsoon, the view from the mountain provides the panoramic scenery of a beautiful sea of fog – an unforgettable experience for visitors.
 

          - Kaeng Khut Khu Islet: The large stone islet is situated at the curve of the Mekong River, creating strong water currents. The best time to visit the islet is during the months of February – May, where the water level would decrease to make the geographical feature clearly visible. Motorboats are available for rent, taking one-hour roundtrip for exploring the beautiful scenery on both sides of the river.

          Despite the test of time, Chiang Khan will always retain its unique identity. The town is ready to welcome visitors seeking to experience its multicultural lifestyle and cultural heritage.

Sources:
สำนักงานประชาสัมพันธ์จังหวัดเลย กรมประชาสัมพันธ์
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