Loei province has more to share with visitors than this annual festival. Here are a few places worth making a detour for.
CHIANG KHAN
What was once a sleepy, little-known riverside town offering a peaceful retreat for young backpackers who enjoyed the view of the Mekong River and the mountains of Laos, Chiang Khan has become a "trendy" destination for Thais. Once in Chiang Khan, many Thai visitors get around on foot or rent a vintage bicycle. With traditional timber houses, chic-and-cheap guesthouses and tacky gift shops, Chiang Khan is definitely your selfie destination.
PHU RUEA NATIONAL PARK
The National Park is best known for being |home to Thailand's coldest peak but the panoramic views, flora and nature trails won't disappoint. Standing at the lookout, at 1,365 metres the |park's highest point, you will enjoy watching the views of Mekong and Hueang rivers as well as mountainous terrain of Laos on the other side |of the rivers. Visitors can rough it in tents or |enjoy a little luxury in the park's cabins. |For more information, call the park at (088) 509 5299.
SRI SONG RAK PAGODA
Located in Dan Sai district, the pagoda was established in the 1560s during the Ayutthaya Period as a symbol of camaraderie between the Ayutthaya and Sri Sattana Khanahut kingdoms. True to its name, Sri Song Rak (love of two kingdoms) has a strong sense of friendship. The sizeable white pagoda is popular with visitors from both sides of the border.
SUAN HIN PHA NGAM
Billed as Loei's Kunming for its "stone forest", |this gigantic garden in Nong Hin district, is known for its limestone formations. With tall rocks |looking as though they are tumbling to the |ground and others shaped like trees, the park is |well worth a visit for anyone interested in a |forest made of stone. The park is managed by |the local administration and it charges a small admission fee. It's open daily from 8am to 8pm. Call (042) 812 812.