Between rolling hills and peaceful villages

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Between rolling hills and peaceful villages Loei View of Chiang Khan Tourism

Mueang, Loei 42000 Website : http://www.tourismthailand.

: +66(0)4281 2812, +66(0)4281 1405 Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office) 90

1 Between rolling hills and peaceful villages Loei View of Chiang Khan Tourism Authority of Thailand (Loei Office) Chareun-rat Road, Tambon Khut-pong Amphoe Mueang, Loei Website : tatloei@tat.or.th Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office) 90 Avenue de Champs Elysées Paris Website : Tel. : +33(0) #mathailande Please do not litter infosthailande@gmail.com

2 03 Introduction 04 City Map 05 Location and transport 07 Amphoe Chiang Khan 12 Amphoe Phu Ruea Content 20 Amphoe Dan Sai 24 Festivities and Events 29 Shopping 30 Recommended Itinerary

3 Loei 03 Introduction Loei, one of the most characteristic provinces of northeast Thailand, is a rich and surprising part of the material and immaterial heritage of the country. Located in a natural environment and marked by history, this picturesque city gives its treasures to travellers in search of discovery and adventure. Loei The resources of this region are as rich as they are diverse, starting with the three beautiful national parks of Phu Kradueng, Phu Luang and Phu Ruea. Perfectly preserved, these sites are the jewels of this province with particularly bucolic rural landscapes. An extremely fertile region, Loei is an important agricultural production centre in Thailand, famous for its flowers and fruits. The freshness of the climate plays a major role in this : in fact, this province with hilly relief, including several mountains with summits often covered with mist, enjoys mild temperatures, favourable to horticulture. Loei has kept its traditional lifestyles away from the major urban centres of the country. Its inhabitants speak unique Thai, combining particular consonances of the Northeast and charming Laotian accent. Moreover, while agriculture remains the major economic activity; artisanal industry (cotton weaving, pottery and basketry) is also a major part of local production. This guide will bring you to discover three different must-see districts : Amphoe Chiang Khan, Amphoe Phu Ruea and Amphoe Dan Sai. Enjoy your stay in Loei!

4 04 Loei CITY MAP Loei Bangkok Nong Khai Amphoe Pak Chom Lao People's Democratic Republic Maenam Khong Amphoe Chiang Khan Maenam Loei Udon Thani Maenam Khong Amphoe Tha Li Amphoe Mueang Loei Amphoe Na Duang Phitsanulok Amphoe Na Haeo Maenam Man Amphoe Dan Sai Amphoe Phu Ruea Amphoe Wang Saphung Maenam Loei Amphoe Erawan Nong Bua Lamphu Amphoe Phu Luang Amphoe Nong Hin Amphoe Pha Khao Phetchabun Amphoe Phu Kradueng Khon Kaen Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

5 Loei 05 Location 547 km. from Bangkok, bordered to the north by the Mekong River, Loei is located on a particular geographical crossroads between the northern and north-eastern regions of the country. The neighbouring provinces are Khon Kaen and Petchabun (to the south), Pitsanulok (to the west), Nong Khai, Udon Thani and Nong Bua Lamphu (to the east). Its surface area is approximately 11,426 km2. How to get there? By Car From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road), passing Amphoe Mueang of Saraburi. Turn into Highway No. 21, passing Phetchabun. Then, take Highway No. 203, passing Amphoe Lom Sak, Lom Kao into Loei province at Amphoe Dan Sai, Amphoe Phu Ruea to Amphoe Mueang Loei. It takes approximately 7-8 hours. Otherwise, from Saraburi, take Highway No. 2, passing Nakhon Ratchasima to Khon Kaen, turn left into Highway No. 12, passing Amphoe Chum Phae. Then, take Highway No. 201 into Loei province through Amphoe Phu Kradueng, Amphoe Wang Saphung and Amphoe Mueang, being a total distance of 540 kilometres. By Bus The Transport Co., Ltd. provides daily buses between Bangkok-Loei. The trip takes approximately 10 hours. For further information, please contact : The Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chutuchak) Website : Tel. : 1490 Online bus ticket booking websites Website : Tel. : +66(0) Website : info@thairoute.com Tel. : +66(0) Bus Compagnies Air Mueang Loei Co., Ltd. Tel. : +66(0) (Bangkok), +66(0) (Loei) Mobile : +66 (0) Chumpae Tour Ltd., Part. Tel. : +66(0) (Bangkok), +66(0) (Loei) Phet Prasoet Co., Ltd. Tel. : +66(0) (Bangkok), +66(0) (Amphoe Phu Ruea, Loei), +66(0) (Amphoe Dan Sai, Loei) By Train There is no railway station in Loei. However, visitors can take a train from Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) to Khon Kaen or Udon Thani. Then, take a bus to Loei. Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lampong) Website : Tel. : 1690, +66(0) Udon Thani Railway Station Tel. : +66(0) By Plane Two airline companies, Nok Air and Air Asia, have provided direct flights from Bangkok to Loei. Website : Website : Besides, visitors can take the Bangkok - Udon Thani flight, provided by Thai Airways International Public Co., Ltd. or Air Asia Co., Ltd. Then, continue with a bus or rent a car from Udon Thani to Loei. Thai Airways International Public Co., Ltd. Website : Tel. : +66(0) (Udon Thani) Air Asia Co., Ltd Website : Tel. : +66 (0) Udon Thani Airport Website: Tel. : +66(0)

6 06 Loei Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

In this village of yesteryear on the River, pedestrians can dote on the charm of a simple, all smooth lifestyle.

7 Loei 07 Amphoe Chiang Khan In search of lost time in Chiang Khan A pleasant little town on the banks of the Mekong River, 48 km. north of Loei, Chiang Khan breathes tranquillity and gives a beautiful view on the border area. In this village of yesteryear on the River, pedestrians can dote on the charm of a simple, all smooth lifestyle. The old houses have harmoniously preserved their beautiful facades and their old wooden doors. From their home or in the alleys of the local market, villagers warmly welcome visitors. In the streets, starting from six o clock in the morning, the village awakens slowly with the ritual of offering glutinous rice to the monks. Then, you can take the tuk-tuk to the morning market for breakfast, before visiting beautiful temples. This is a real escape, in the heart of a peaceful countryside atmosphere!

8 08 Loei Don t miss! By bike, it is recommended to take a trip through the village to admire the traditional houses (especially in Chai Khong and Si Chiang Khan Road), to meet the inhabitants of the village and to follow the majestic landscapes of the Mekong. The night market, a must-see spot, is the most authentic local activity : from the discovery of traditional products to the tasting of a wide variety of typical dishes, including the famous dessert of candied coconut. Visiting the «Pa Saat» workshop lets you abundantly understand the spirituality of Chiang Khan. Traditionally, the annual «Pa Saat Loy Kroh» ceremony takes place after the end of the rainy season, usually in October. This ancestral rite aims to ward off bad luck and evil spirits by letting the «Pa Saat» drift offshore. The «Pa Saat», which means «castle», in local dialect, means a floating container of offerings. It is made from a trunk of a banana tree as a base and banana leaves linked in the shape of a triangle. The «Pa Saat» usually contains lighted candles, incense sticks and flowers. Some people put in a lock of hair, a piece of nail or some coins, while others add sweet or savoury little bites to attract good spirits. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 09 In Chiang Khan Village, elders can teach you how to craft a traditional «Pa Saat» that you will entrust to the current of the Mekong

My mother sometimes tells me that in my whole life I shall never again see rivers as beautiful as those, so great and so wild», (L Amant,

Nevertheless, in order to immerse yourself fully in the local culture, nothing beats a visit to Ban Na Pa Nhat, located 38 km.

Originally from the north-west of Vietnam and always dressed in black, the «Tai Dam» devote themselves to preserving their culture and are more

In Ban Na Pa Nhat, you can visit the beautiful house-museum of «Tai Dam», surrounded by rice fields, as well as cotton weaving workshops in

Among the many interesting places of Chiang Khan, some sites are particularly interesting to visit.

A few kilometres from Chiang Khan, you can admire the enigmatic landscape of «Kaeng Khut Khu», to enjoy a picturesque islet in the middle of

9 Loei 09 In Chiang Khan Village, elders can teach you how to craft a traditional «Pa Saat» that you will entrust to the current of the Mekong while contemplating a magnificent sunset over the «Mother of the Waters. - «I look at the river. My mother sometimes tells me that in my whole life I shall never again see rivers as beautiful as those, so great and so wild», (L Amant, Marguerite Duras) -. Nevertheless, in order to immerse yourself fully in the local culture, nothing beats a visit to Ban Na Pa Nhat, located 38 km. south of Chiang Khan. This is the area where the «Tai Dam» ethnic community lives. Originally from the north-west of Vietnam and always dressed in black, the «Tai Dam» devote themselves to preserving their culture and are more than happy to share it with visitors. In Ban Na Pa Nhat, you can visit the beautiful house-museum of «Tai Dam», surrounded by rice fields, as well as cotton weaving workshops in order to admire the know-how and support local crafts. Top Things to See! Among the many interesting places of Chiang Khan, some sites are particularly interesting to visit. First, we recommend the visit of «Wat Si Khun Mueang», boasting a chapel with the typical northern Thailand style and covered with murals. A few kilometres from Chiang Khan, you can admire the enigmatic landscape of «Kaeng Khut Khu», to enjoy a picturesque islet in the middle of the Mekong, during the flood of the river between February and May. A memorable rented boat trip or kayak with a guide! Discover the panorama of a unique sea of clouds in «Phu Thok». Here, the view extends beyond the Mekong River, towards the city of Sana Kham in Laos. An ideal place to start your day in the fresh morning air! A short trip to the «Pak Nam Hueang Temple», with the statue of «Buddha Phu Khok Ngew» (19 meters high and 7.2 meters wide), is an opportunity to enjoy a breath-taking view of the confluence of the Mekong River and the Hueang River. The place to choose to contemplate the twilight!

10 10 Loei Where to sleep? Baan Supichaya (บ านส พ ชญา) Room rate/night : 1200THB 1500THB 183/1 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road soi 14, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : baansupichaya@hotmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Chiangkhan River Mountain Resort (เช ยงคาน ร เวอร เมาท เทน ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 1500THB 7500THB 451 Moo 1, Chiang Khan, Loei Website: chiangkhanrivermountain.com chiangkhanriver@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Chiangkhan Nostalgia (Huen Yai Buppa Boutique Hotel) (เฮ อนยายบ บภา บ ต คโฮเตล) Room rate/night : 1800THB 4400THB 350 Moo 1, Chai-khong Road soi 11, Chiang Khan, Loei khunmala@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Chic Chiangkhan Hotel (ช ค เช ยงคาน โฮเทล) Room rate/night : 1500THB 2800THB 290 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road soi 20, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : + 66(0) Muiphan Guesthouse Chiangkhan (ม ยฟ งเกสต เฮ าส เช ยงคาน) Room rate/night : 800THB 1800THB 3/3 Moo 1, Chai-khong Road soi 4-5, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : muiphangatchiangkhan Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Norn-nab-dao Rim-khong (นอน-น บ-ดาว ร มโขง) Room rate/night : price starts from 1000THB Three different accommodation sites to be selected, please visit the website : nornnabdao@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) , +66(0) Phu Chiangkhan (ภ เช ยงคาน) Room rate/night : 1600THB 9000THB 299/3 Moo 1, Chai-khong Road soi 9-10, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : Phuchiangkhan phu24chiangkhan@gmail.com Mobile : +66(0) Sri Chiangkhan Hotel (ศร เช ยงคาน โฮเทล) Room rate/night : 1500THB 2000THB 113 Moo 1, Sri Chiangkhan Road, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : wss.srichiangkhan@yahoo.com, wss.srichiangkhan@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) , +66(0) Suneta Hostel Chiangkhan (ส เนต ตา โฮสเทล เช ยงคาน) Room rate/night : 1000THB 2200THB 187/1 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : sunetahostel sleep@suneta.net Mobile : +66(0) , +66(0) Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

11 Loei 11 The Camp Chiangkhan (เดอะแคมป เช ยงคาน) Room rate/night : 1000THB 3000THB 172/7 Moo 1, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) The Old Chiang Khan Boutique Hotel (ด โอลด เช ยงคาน บ ต ก โฮเทล) Room rate/night : 1395THB 1500THB 288 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road soi 20, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : index-eng.html theoldchiangkhan@gmail.com, theoldbooking@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) The Royal Chiang Khan Boutique Hotel (เดอะรอย ล เช ยงคาน บ ต ก โฮเทล) Room rate/night : 1500THB 2500THB 195 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road soi 15-16, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : nudee_ai@yahoo.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) With A View Hotel (ว ท อะ ว ว โฮเทล) Room rate/night : 1200THB 3000THB 185 Moo 2, Chai-khong Road, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : withaviewhotel@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Where to eat? Huean Faai-Kam (เฮ อนฝ ายคำา) Chai-khong Road soi 14, Chiang Khan, Loei Tel. : +66(0) Huean Luang Phra Bang (เฮ อนหลวงพระบาง) 156 Moo 2, Chai-khong Rd. Chiang Khan, Loei Website : heonluangprabang@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Khrua Nucha (คร วน ชา) 28/2 Moo 4, Raum-jai-narumit Road, Chiang Khan, Loei Website : restaurant.htm Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Luk Phochana (ล กโภชนา) 304 Chai-khong Road soi 9, Chiang Khan, Loei Tel. : +66(0) Nang Lenlen (น งเล นเล น) Chai-khong Road soi 16, Chiang Khan, Loei Mobile : +66(0) Rabiang Rim Khong (ระเบ ยงร มโขง) 299/4 Mu 1, Tambon Chiang Khan, Loei Tel. : +66(0) Smile at ChiangKhan (สไมล แอท เช ยงคาน) Chai-khong Road soi 2, Chiang Khan, Loei Mobile : +66(0) Let s try some small restaurants and typical tasty street food at soi 9 and 10!

12 12 Loei Amphoe Phu Ruea A mountainous and flowery countryside Less than one hundred kilometres west of Chiang Khan, the village of Phu Ruea is almost entirely composed of unspoiled sites. The road, exotic and beautifully lined with flowers, is most pleasant. Before arriving to Phu Ruea, you can discover the landscapes that are representative of the Isaan Plateau. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

13 Loei 13

14 14 Loei The National Park of Phu Ruea Culminating at more than 1,365 meters above sea level, the mountain of Phu Ruea is covered with a pine forest. The aspect of this amazing geological formation, which evokes the reversed hull of a boat, gave its name to the park : «Phu Ruea» or «the Mountain of Ships». While strolling around, you can enjoy the panorama, its waterfalls, rock gardens, caves and, who knows, perhaps you will have the chance to see, among the rich fauna of the park, a bear, muntjacs, Asian wild dogs, turtles or pheasants prelates. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 15 Here are some marked trails of the National Park to discover by foot : The panoramic viewpoint

When the sky is clear, you can enjoy a beautiful view over the hilly Mountain of Loei.

in the horizon, Phu Luang, Phu Pha Sat, Phu Khrang, as well as the valley.

30 meters, is a source of drinking water for the town of Phu Ruea.

15 Loei 15 Here are some marked trails of the National Park to discover by foot : The panoramic viewpoint «Decho» is an ideal place to witness the sunrise. When the sky is clear, you can enjoy a beautiful view over the hilly Mountain of Loei. «Pha Lon Noi», another peak well known for contemplating the first brink of daylight, also allows seeing, in the horizon, Phu Luang, Phu Pha Sat, Phu Khrang, as well as the valley. The steep cliff «Pha Sapthong», also known as «Pha Kulap» is covered with golden yellow lichen and white roses. Finally, get some refreshing time on the side of the «Namtok Huai Phai» waterfall, which, with a height of 30 meters, is a source of drinking water for the town of Phu Ruea. «Yot Phu Ruea» is the highest peak in the national park. A stone terrace welcomes visitors in the shade of a pine forest, where you can admire several kinds of wild flowers. For further information, please contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department in Bangkok. Website : Tel. : +66(0)

16 16 Loei The Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary, known as the «Emerald of Isaan» Covering an area of 897 km 2 and rising more than 1,550 meters above sea level, this tropical plateau, with lush vegetation populated by numerous wild animals, enjoys a cool climate all year round. A long trail, open to visitors, allows these to explore the characteristic landscapes of the park, starting with a pine forest, fields, various cliffs and flowery meadows. The best time to hike is from October to May. Summer begins in February and lasts until April, with an average temperature of 20 to 24 degrees. In this season, flowers of all colours, such as wild orchids and rhododendrons, beautifully flourish. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

17 Loei 17 The hiking trails that can be explored in two hours are easy, but visitors must be accompanied by an official guide. It is recommended to contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department in Bangkok. Website : Tel. : +66(0)

18 18 Loei Where to sleep? Phurua Sanctuary Resort and Spa (ภ เร อ แซงค ฌ วร ร สอร ท แอนด สปา) Room rate/night : 2000THB 6500THB 216 Moo 8, Nong Bua, Phu Ruea, Loei Website : Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) , +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Phu Rua Butsaba Resort & Spa (ภ เร อ บ ษบาร สอร ท แอนด สปา) Room rate/night : 500THB 4000THB 184 Moo 2, Ban Nong Suea Khrang, Loei Website : khingkharn_t@hotmail.com Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Phu Rua Ruean Mai Resort (ภ เร อ เร อนไม ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 500THB 1800THB 471 Moo 7, Ban Phu Ruea, Nong Bua, Loei Website : Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Phurua Resort (ภ เร อ ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 500THB 5000THB 163 Moo 2, Nong Bua, Phu Ruea, Loei phuruaresort@hotmail.com Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Where to eat? Love Loei Coffee (เล ฟ เลย คอฟฟ ) 243 Moo 8, Nong Bua, Loei-Lomsak, Phu Ruea, Loei Mobile : +66(0) , +66(0) Phu Ruea Kai-Yang (ภ เร อไก ย าง) 307 Moo 7, Loei-Lomsak, Nong Bua, Loei phuruakaiyang@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Phu Ruea Phochana (ภ เร อโภชนา) 147 Moo 7, Loei-Lomsak, Nong Bua, Loei phuruaphochana@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Restaurant Phurua Resort (ร านอาหารภ เร อ ร สอร ท) 163 Moo 2, Nong Bua, Phu Ruea, Loei phuruaresort@hotmail.com Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Restaurant Phu Rua Ruean Mai Resort (ร านอาหารภ เร อ เร อนไม ร สอร ท) 471 Moo 7, Ban Phu Ruea, Nong Bua, Loei Website : Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

19 Loei 19

20 20 Loei Amphoe Dan Sai The land of the lao-thai friendship and tradition Located to the west of Phu Ruea, at the crossroads of Northern and Isaan cultures, Dan Sai offers several centuries of history and a singular cultural environment to discover. This small town with a rich past has remained attached to the cult of the ancestors through its spiritual sites, its monuments and ancient traditions. To discover! On the bank of the Man River, you can visit the peaceful «Phratat Si Song Rak» memorial, built in 1560 to house sacred relics of Buddha. Its chedi, distinguished by a Lan Xang style architecture, was erected in memory of a beautiful friendship between the Kingdom of Siam (at the time of King Chakkraphat of Ayutthaya) and the Kingdom of Sri Sanata Kanahat or Vientiane (during the reign of Chai Chetha of Lan Xang). This sacred monument has federated the inhabitants of Dan Sai and their Laotian neighbours for a long time. Visitors are requested not to wear red clothes or red objects, in any case, because this colour is synonymous with blood for locals. Phratat Si Song Rak Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 21 A few kilometres from «Phratat Si Song

interior is covered with murals made by local

Then, gather in this Buddhist meditation centre to

21 Loei 21 A few kilometres from «Phratat Si Song Rak», on the top of the hill, the «Wat Neramit Wipatsana» appears. Enjoy the beauty of its laterite buildings, which interior is covered with murals made by local artists. Then, gather in this Buddhist meditation centre to pay tribute to «Phra Buddha Chinaraj», one of the most beautiful statues of Buddha in Thailand. Wat Neramit Wipatsana

22 22 Loei The Phi Ta Khon Museum «The Phi Ta Khon Museum», an exceptional place located in «Wat Phon Chai», brings visitors back in time to the origins of Dan Sai. The permanent collections include important archives dedicated to the Phi Ta Khon festival. Do not miss to discover the method of making masks and clothes worn at this festival! Open every day from 9:00 to 17:00. For cyclists of all levels : a bike path invites you to discover the countryside of this village, boasting rice fields and small villages. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 23 Phi Ta Khon Festival Where to sleep?

Road, Loei 42120 Website : http://www.phunacomeresort.com E-mail : sales@phunacomeresort.com Tel.

15000THB 252 Moo 1, Khok-Ngam, Dan Sai, Loei 42120 Website : http://www.phuphanamresort.com Tel.

Moo 7, Khok-Ngam, Dansai, Loei 42120 Website : http://www.rungyenresort.com E-mail : rungyenresort@gmail.

Chong Chai Borikan (จงใจบร การ) 120 Moo 2, Soi Thetsaban 5, Dansai-Loei Road, Dan Sai, Loei 42120 Tel.

23 Loei 23 Phi Ta Khon Festival Where to sleep? Phu Na Come Resort (ภ นาคำา ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 4200THB 6500THB 461 Moo 13, Ban Doen, Dansai-Loei Road, Loei Website : sales@phunacomeresort.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile +66(0) Phupha Nam Resort (ภ ผาน ำา ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 3200THB 15000THB 252 Moo 1, Khok-Ngam, Dan Sai, Loei Website : Tel. : + 66(0) , +66(0) Rungyen Resort (ร งเย น ร สอร ท) Room rate/night : 1050THB 9500THB 92 Moo 7, Khok-Ngam, Dansai, Loei Website : rungyenresort@gmail.com Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Where to eat? Chong Chai Borikan (จงใจบร การ) 120 Moo 2, Soi Thetsaban 5, Dansai-Loei Road, Dan Sai, Loei Tel. : +66(0) Mobile : +66(0) Na Kham Restaurant (นาคำา เรสเตอรองค ) 461 Moo 3, Ban Doen, Dan Sai, Loei Tel. : +66(0) Restaurant Phupha Nam Resort (ร านอาหารภ ผาน ำา ร สอร ท) 252 Moo 1, Khok-Ngam, Dan Sai, Loei Website : Tel. : + 66(0) , +66(0) Som Tam Pa Wan (ส มตำาป าว ลย ) Thanon Highway 2114, Dan Sai, Dan Sai, Loei Tel. : +66(0)

24 24 Loei Festivities and Events Dok Fai Ban Makham Wan Mueang Loei Red Cross Fair (งานกาชาดดอกฝ ายบาน มะขามหวาน เม องเลย) takes place every year in front of the city hall of Loei on the occasion of the Chinese New Year (during 1-9 February) Parades from various districts, as well as, cultural perform ances are highlights of the fair. Thai - Lao Songkran Festival (งานประเพณ สงกรานต ไทย-ลาว) takes place in the Tha Li District every year from 12 to 15 April. It is uniquely different from other places due to the large number of Laotian people participating in the activities of the festival such as Songkran Beauty Contest and water splashing with Thai people. Thai - Lao Songkran Festival Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 25 Songkran Festival and Ton Dokmai Procession (งานประเพณ สงกรานต และ งานแห ต นดอกไม อำาเภอนาแห ว) take place, in the Si Po chai Temple in Ban Saeng Pha, Na Haeo District, every year from April

- From generation to generation, since 400 years until today, the inhabitants of Na Haeo will join hands in creating a squareshape bamboo structure and decorating it with two local flowers: red flame

This floral structure, literally called a «flowering tree» (Ton Dokmai), which is large in size and up to 15-20 metres in height.

This tradition is based on the belief that everyone who joins the procession of trees of flowers will bring auspiciousness to their lives, without any illness, be blessed with abundant fields of rice

25 Loei 25 Songkran Festival and Ton Dokmai Procession (งานประเพณ สงกรานต และ งานแห ต นดอกไม อำาเภอนาแห ว) take place, in the Si Po chai Temple in Ban Saeng Pha, Na Haeo District, every year from April 13 to From generation to generation, since 400 years until today, the inhabitants of Na Haeo will join hands in creating a squareshape bamboo structure and decorating it with two local flowers: red flame of the forest (Dok Hang Nok Yung) and yellow golden shower or (Dok Khun). This floral structure, literally called a «flowering tree» (Ton Dokmai), which is large in size and up to metres in height. After decoration, the villagers of each Khum will set a procession to move their tree of flowers to Wat Si Pho Chai. This tradition is based on the belief that everyone who joins the procession of trees of flowers will bring auspiciousness to their lives, without any illness, be blessed with abundant fields of rice as well as good breeding cattle -. Bang Fai Lan Bun Bang Fai Lan Festival (งานประเพณ บ ญบ งไฟล าน) is held within the compound oin the Erawan Phatthanaram Temple, in Erawan District, on the day of the full moon of the 6 th lunar month (around May) of each year. It is the biggest festival of Loei! There is a contest of rocket fire competition and processions from various communities and large choices of famous agricultural products for sale. Phrathat Si Song Rak Fair (งานนม สการ พระธาต ศร สองร ก) is an annual event organised on the full moon day of the 6 th lunar month, around the end of April until early May to celebrate Phrathat Si Song Rak, a significant place of worship of the town. A holy ceremony is also conducted in the festival such as a worshipping ceremony to Phrathat by donating a «Ton Phueng» (a small bamboo stupa decorated with beeswax flowers) in order to attract the blessing of Phrathat. Songkran Festival and Ton Dokmai Procession Phrathat Si Song Rak

26 26 Loei Bun Luang Festival and Phi Ta Khon (เทศกาลประเพณ บ ญหลวงและการละเล น ผ ตาโขน) held in June in the district of Dan Sai, is one of the most astonishing events of the Isaan. During three days chosen by spiritual leaders, villagers go to the temple to listen to prayers and sermons, hoping that their meritorious actions will attract rain, essential the cultivation of the earth. The most amusing part of the festival is the moment when young people, adorned with colourful ghostly masks, parade and dance in the streets on the heady rhythm of a joyful folk music. Phi Ta Khon Festival Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 27 Chiang Khan s End of Buddhist Lent Festival (งานประเพณ ออกพรรษาอำาเภอ เช ยงคาน) is organised in front of Chiang

Here, visitors can take part in various activities: starting with the procession of «Prasat Phueng» (a model of bee-wax

shows and entertainment in the festival The tradition of rowboat racing, known as «Ruea Kap» (ประเพณ การ แข งข นเร อกาบ

ties. The Dok Mai Mueang Nao New Year s Flower Fair (เทศกาลไม ดอกเม องหนาว) is held from December 30 to January 2,

27 Loei 27 Chiang Khan s End of Buddhist Lent Festival (งานประเพณ ออกพรรษาอำาเภอ เช ยงคาน) is organised in front of Chiang Khan District Office on the full moon day of the 11 th lunar month every year. Here, visitors can take part in various activities: starting with the procession of «Prasat Phueng» (a model of bee-wax carved pavilion), long-tail boat races, illuminated boat contest, Buddhist offerings, as well as various local cultural shows and entertainment in the festival The tradition of rowboat racing, known as «Ruea Kap» (ประเพณ การ แข งข นเร อกาบ อำาเภอปากชม) takes place between Thai and Laotian inhabitants in the Pak Chom District on the Mekong River at the end of the monastic retreat. When being free from fishing, they will cooperate to organise a boat competition in order to strengthen their friendly ties. The Dok Mai Mueang Nao New Year s Flower Fair (เทศกาลไม ดอกเม องหนาว) is held from December 30 to January 2, featuring several species that grow in winter in majestic shows. Decorative plants and agricultural products can also be purchased in stalls during this period. Chiang Khan s End of Buddhist Lent Festival The Dok Mai Mueang Nao New Year s Flower Fair

28 28 Loei Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

Loei 29 Shopping In addition to its famous blankets and traditional Thai loincloths, Loei is also known for its sweet coconuts from Chiang Khan, golden oranges, sweet tamarind, fresh mushrooms and

29 Loei 29 Shopping In addition to its famous blankets and traditional Thai loincloths, Loei is also known for its sweet coconuts from Chiang Khan, golden oranges, sweet tamarind, fresh mushrooms and macadamia nuts from Na Haeo. You can also find beautiful flowers grown in Phu Ruea. The must : the handicraft products of the cultural village «Tai Dam» : a large assortment between clothes made of hand-woven cotton fabric and homemade accessories.

30 30 Loei Recommended Itinerary 3 days / 2 nights stay (from Bangkok, Udon Thani or Khon Kaen) Day 1 : Chiang Khan - Discovering Chiang Khan by bike. - Breakfast or coffee tasting in a restaurant with a view on the Mekong. - Bonding with locals by learning how to make a «Pa-Saat». - Departure by boat to float the «Pa-Saat» in the Mekong at sunset. - A promenade in the night market. - Dinner at some small restaurants or try typical tasty «street food» at soi 9 and 10! - Overnight at Chiang Khan. Day 2 : Chiang Khan Phu Ruea - Participate in the ceremony of offering glutinous rice to the monks. - Breakfast in the morning market. - Visit to the ethnic village of minorities «Tai Dam». - Stroll in the national park of «Phu Luang» or «Phu Ruea». - Dinner in the biologic farm of «Phu Ruea Ruean Mai Resort». - Overnight at Phu Ruea or Dan Sai. Day 3 : Dan Sai - Visit of «Wat Neramit Wipatsana». - Visit of «Wat Phon Chai» where the «Phi Ta Khon Museum» is located, in addition to make the Phi Ta Khon masks. - Lunch at «SomTam Pa Wan» to discover the famous spicy green papaya salad! - Sightseeing in Dan Sai by bike, passing by «Phratat Si Song Rak», local markets and numerous rice fields. - Overnight at Dan Sai. Day 4 : Departure to Pitsanulok Sukhothai *It is possible to start this itinerary by Dan Sai, then Phu Ruea and Chiang Khan. You can adapt the above program to your own pace. Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office)

31 Loei 31

32 Between rolling hills and peaceful villages Loei View of Chiang Khan Tourism Authority of Thailand (Loei Office) Chareun-rat Road, Tambon Khut-pong Amphoe Mueang, Loei Website : tatloei@tat.or.th Tel. : +66(0) , +66(0) Tourism Authority of Thailand (Paris Office) 90 Avenue de Champs Elysées Paris Website : Tel. : +33(0) #mathailande Please do not litter infosthailande@gmail.com

Tour H, Isaan Tour. page 1 of 6. Siam Bike Tours Co. Ltd. Boat Avenue 49/4 Bandon-Choengthale Road Thalang, Choeng Thale Phuket 83110, Thailand

Tour H, Isaan Tour. page 1 of 6. Siam Bike Tours Co. Ltd. Boat Avenue 49/4 Bandon-Choengthale Road Thalang, Choeng Thale Phuket 83110, Thailand Siam Bike Tours Co. Ltd. Boat Avenue 49/4 Bandon-Choengthale Road Thalang, Choeng Thale Phuket 83110, Thailand phone: +66 (0) 89 7307 441 mail@siambiketours.com www.siambiketours.com Tour H, Isaan Tour