Nong Khai, Province along Mekong River in northeastern Thailand
Nong Khai is a province in northeastern Thailand that lies along the Mekong on the border with Laos. The landscape ranges from gentle hills in the south to flat banks in the north, where fields and villages follow the course of the river.
The area stood for centuries under shifting influence from the Kingdom of Ayutthaya and the Laotian realm of Lan Xang, leading to frequent border shifts. Only in the 20th century was the current provincial structure established, after the region became part of the Thai state.
The name comes from a swamp that once marked the area and is called Nong in the local language. Markets and temple grounds today show a mix of Thai and Lao influences visible in architecture and daily routines.
The Friendship Bridge between Thailand and Laos allows border crossing on foot or by vehicle, and travelers should arrange necessary visas in advance. Trains and buses run regularly from larger towns in the region, and the nearest international airport is in Udon Thani.
On full moon nights in October, glowing orbs rise from the Mekong, a phenomenon that science has not yet explained. Locals and visitors gather along the riverbank to watch the so-called Naga fireballs, which can fly up to 330 feet (100 meters) high.
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