North Isaan Mekong Exploration

We begin with an early pick-up from your hotel in Bangkok and set off for Lopburi. Here, we visit Phra Prang Sam Yot, the city’s most iconic landmark and provincial symbol. This 13th-century former Hindu shrine, built in the classic Bayon style of Khmer architecture, features three towers connected by corridors. In the 17th century, it was converted into a Buddhist temple, with a hall added to house a grand Buddha image. Continuing north, we pass through Phetchabun before arriving at Khao Kho District. We visit Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew, a hilltop Dharma centre established in 2004, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and over five million mosaic tiles. Nearby, we explore a hilltop cave where villagers once believed a flying marble, thought to be Buddha’s spirit, appeared. Breakfast and lunch are included. We stay overnight in Khao Kho.

After breakfast at the hotel, we visit a charming British-style flower garden set against panoramic views of the Great Mountain, Pha Sorn Kaew. Next, we explore Phu Ruea National Park in Loei, one of Thailand’s coolest provinces. The park borders Laos to the north and is home to the headwaters of several rivers. At 1,365 metres, Phu Ruea peak offers excellent views of the Huang and Mekong rivers. The cool climate supports a rich variety of orchids blooming year-round. We pause for an optional coffee break before continuing to Ban Na Aor, a cultural village preserving traditional Thai-Loei heritage and architecture. Later, we travel to the riverside town of Chiang Khan, where you can unwind and enjoy the sunset over the Mekong. In the evening, visit the lively Khaeng Khut Khu night market to sample local delicacies such as ma prao kaew (wok-fried coconut strips with sugar glaze), dark coconut sugar with roasted peanuts, and small deep-fried river prawns served with cucumber dipping sauce or in a spicy salad. Lunch is included. Overnight in Chiang Khan.

Rise early to join the locals in the Buddhist tradition of offering sticky rice to monks during their morning alms rounds. We cycle along the riverside promenade to Chiang Khan Walking Street, arriving at the temple just as the day begins. Visit Wat Sri Khun Muang, also known as Wat Yai, a significant religious site featuring an ancient monastery with a distinctive Lanna-style descending roof. The monastery’s wall paintings depict the ten existences of Buddha. Return to the hotel for breakfast while enjoying the sunrise over the riverbanks. After checking out, we follow one of Thailand’s most scenic routes along the Mekong River. Pause at Wat Pha Tak Sua to experience the 16-metre-long skywalk, which extends over a cliff with glass floors and walls offering impressive views. Continue with a photo stop at the Sri Chiang Mai viewpoint before arriving in Mueang Nong Khai, a lively town just 20 kilometres from the Laos border and known as the gateway to Vientiane. Nong Khai reflects the rich Isaan culture, shaped by Thai and Laotian influences, and offers a relaxed atmosphere as the sun sets behind the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. Lunch is included. Overnight in Nong Khai.

After breakfast at the hotel, we board a boat for a 90-minute journey along the Thai side of the Mekong River. We stop at Tha Sadet Market, a key trading hub between this region of Thailand and neighbouring Laos. Often called the ‘Indochina Market’, it offers a wide range of goods from across the region alongside many local products. Leaving Nong Khai, we visit Sala Kaew Ku sculpture park, renowned for its striking collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues—some towering up to 25 metres. Next, we explore Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site famous for its ancient red-painted pottery. Our final visit is to the Thai-Chinese Cultural Centre, established in 2013 to preserve the art, culture and traditions of Udon Thani’s Thai-Chinese community. The centre’s central garden reflects traditional Chinese design, themed around ‘24 manners of gratitude’. The day concludes with a transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. Breakfast and lunch are included.