NAKHON PHANOM
Nakhon Phanom is a northeastern province, bordering Laos across the Mekong River, and covering some 5,312 square kilometers. The riverside provincial capital is 735 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. Nakhon Phanom literally means 'City of Mountains' the name derived from rugged mountains behind the Laotian settlement of Tha Kaek, which faces Nakhon Phanom on the opposite bank of the Mekong River. Laotian influences are seen in Nakhon Phanom's dialect, customs, architecture and cuisine. Many unique folk dances are performed on special occasions, and the custom of extending a generous welcome to guests can be seen during the Bai-Sri-Su-Kwan ceremony. Nakhon Phanom's major religious monument, Phra That Phanom, is highly revered throughout northeastern Thailand and Laos.