Although geographically located in the northeast or I-San, Loei has many things in common with
the northern region – namely its numerous high hills and mountains and its wintry as well as foggy climate. Literally speaking, the province deserves its name “Loei” which means ‘beyond’ or ‘to the furthest extreme’ as Loei lies in the northernmost part of the Northeastern region. Most notable is that Loei is the only province in Thailand where the temperature can drop to as low as
zero Celsius in winter while it can become hotter than any province during summer. In short,
Loei’s geography and climate is unique when compared to other I-San provinces.

Situated along the Phetchabun Mountain Range, Loei, a province that rises approximately 400 meters above sea level, is dubbed “the land of seas of mountains, the coolest in Siam”. Covering an area of 11,424 square kilometers (equivalent to 7.14 million rai of land), Loei Province, which is 520 kilometers from Bangkok shares a border with Laos to the north with the Khong and Heung Rivers forming the natural border, with Khon Kaen and Phetchabun Provinces to the south, with Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Nong Khai and Khon Kaen Provinces to the east, and with Phitsanulok Province to the west. The province can be divided into three main areas: the high mountains in the west, the plains at the foot of the hills in the south and the east, and the lowlands in the basins of the Khong and the Loei Rivers.

Loei Province has an abundance of precious resources such as forests and natural resources. Of equal importance, however, is its unusual mix of northern and northeastern culture which is treasured by both locals and visitors. This remarkable cultural blend has produced more than one local dialect but only one local identity.

Attractions within the province that should be explored include Phu Kradung, Phu Luang and Phu Reua National parks, as well as Tha Li and Chiang Khan Districts.

Administratively, Loei is divided into 12 districts (Amphoes) : Mueang, Wang Saphung, Phu Kradueng, Chiang Khan, Pak Chom, Tha Li, Phu Ruea, Dan Sai, Na Haeo, Na Duang, Phu Luang, Pha Khao, Erawan and Nong Hin.

Loei is a gateway to the exploration of both natural and cultural attractions. In addition, there are many traditions and festivals that are well known among tourists such as the Phi Ta Khon Procession, the Loei Cotton and Tamarind Fair and Homage to Phra That Sri Songrak Festival.

Due to its geographical diversity and soil composition, agriculture is the basis for the province’s economy. While the highlands in Loei are favorable to warm-temperature crops such as highland rice, macadamia nuts, passion fruit, and Arabica coffee, the plains at the foot of the hills are suitable for tropical crops like soybean, bananas, maize, sesame, rubber, grapes, and longan. On the other hand, other lowland areas are good for rice, cotton, mangoes, tamarind and flowers like roses, jasmine and Thai Gerbera. However, the main agricultural products are tamarind, rubber, mangoes, longan, bananas and lychees.

travel

Dok Fai Ban Makham Wan Mueang Loei Fair
Dok Fai Ban Makham Wan Mueang Loei Fair is held in front of the provincial hall during Chinese New Year in January-February. A procession decorated with cotton products is the highlight. There are also shops from various offices.

Dok Mai Muang Nao Fair
Dok Mai Mueang Nao Fair is held in Amphoe Phu Ruea during New Year. The fair features shops, pageants and the sale of decorative plants, flowers and agricultural produce.

Phi Ta Khon Festival
Phi Ta Khon Festival is held at Amphoe Dan Sai in May or June. Aside from merit-making and a sermon, there is a procession bearing Phra Uppakhut, a rain-inducing Buddha image. Adult men and boys wear colourful ghost masks and join in the procession. The ghost costumes derive from a local legend. Some believe that they are from the Buddhist saga Phra Wetsandon Chadok.

Chaloem Phra Kiat Public Park
Situated in front of Loei Municipality, the Park, which occupies an area of 28 acres by the Loei River, is another place where the local residents relax and unwind through morning and evening exercising.

City Pillar Shrine
Located next to Kut Pong Public Park, the shrine, which was built in 1982, is 139 centimeters tall and is constructed of pink cassia wood that is elaborately carved and inlaid with gold.

Loei Province Cultural Center
Located in Loei Rajabhat Institute, 5 kilometers from the city, on the Loei-Chiang Khan Road, the center features exhibits on indigenous culture and traditions of Loei. The center opens daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Call 042 835223-8, ext. 512 for more information or group reservations.

Muang Loei Turkey Farm
Situated at Ban Ko Rai Yai, approximately 9 kilometers from the city, the farm offers a unique opportunity to see thousands of turkeys. To get there from the city, take Highway No. 203 (Loei-Dan Sai) to the kilometer 9 marker, turn left and proceed for approximately 50 meters. The farm opens daily from 8.30 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. Contact 01 5455352 or 01 661 7511 for more information.

Phu Pha Lom Forest Park
Situated at Tambon Nam Suai, 24 kilometers from the city is a park that covers over 1,000 rai of land comprised mainly of limestone mountains surrounding a dense jungle. The main attractions in the Park are scenic viewpoints and caves while the main activity for visitors is trekking and camping.

Many locals believe that caves such as Phu Pha Lom, Laeo and Pha Bong, as well as Nam Phut or Nam Sap Well are sacred places. In particular, the Well is believed to be the den of Naga, a mythical serpent, with an underground water passage connecting to the Mekong River. It is possible to camp overnight in the Park, however advance reservations are required. For more information contact Phu Pha Lom Park, P.O. Box 7, Loei Post Office, Loei 42000.

Upper Huai Nam Man and Huai Krathing Reservoir
With a capacity of 26 million cubic meters, the earth-filled reservoir covers an area of 1,500 rai of land. Offering breathtaking views which are accented by a bamboo forest and evergreen mountains, the reservoir offers dining opportunities in bamboo rafts and other recreational activities. To get there, drive along the Loei-Phu Ruea Road for 15 kilometers, then turn right at the reservoir sign and proceed for another 5 kilometers.

Kaeng Khut Khu
This is an islet in the middle of the Mekong River, 3 kilometers from Chiang Khan District Office. Kaeng Khut Khu is well known for its colorful boulders that are clearly visible during the dry season and totally submerged in other seasons. On the opposite bank of the River, visitors can see “Chana Kham”, Vientiane District, Laos PDR.

For tourists, there are traditional northeastern restaurants on the riverbank selling grilled fish and freshwater shrimp. A boat can be chartered to enjoy magnificent views along Maekong River.

To get there from the city of Loei, take the Loei-Chiang Khan road and drive for 47 kilometers, turn right and proceed for another 3 kilometers to Amphoe Chiang Khan.

Sanya Mushroom Farm
The farm produces Shiitake mushrooms all year round for sale locally and in Bangkok. Chemical-free vegetables are also grown and on sale here. The farm is open to the public from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Call 01 9757623 or 01 9543573 for more information. To get there, take Highway No. 203 from Amphoe Phu Ruea.

Thai Dam Cultural Village
This village, situated at Ban Na Pa Nat, Tambon Khao Kawo, has so much to offer to art lovers. The Thai Dam (Dam = black) people migrated here from Laos in 1905. Conservative and traditional, their culture has been well preserved as illustrated in the construction of their houses and their lifestyle. In addition, a local weaving group demonstrating the traditional weaving process. Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the group’s center and cultural enthusiasts can experience the Thai Dam lifestyle through homestay accommodations. Call the Thai Dam Cultural Conservation Society at 01 0482000 for more information and reservations.

Phra That Si Song Rak
Located on the bank of the Man River, 83 kilometers from Amphoe Mueang, this large Lao-style pagoda similar to that of Phra That Phanom houses relics of the Lord Buddha. Phra That Si Song Rak is a plaster-covered brick pagoda with a square base of 11 meters on each side. The pagoda itself is 32 meters high. Built in the Ayutthaya period in 1560 as a symbol of camaraderie between Ayutthaya and Si Sattana Khanahut (Vientiane), the place it is worth a visit, especially during the Phi Ta Khon celebration held there every May or June.

Na Haeo National Park
The park is located at Ban Saeng Pha. With excellent natural reserves, mountains, streams and waterfalls, the park is an ideal place for light adventure activities and trekking. Facilities provided by the Ha Haeo National Park include accommodations, food, guides and provision bearers

For more information, contact the park at 042 819340 or 02 561 4292-4, 02 561 2919, 21.

To get there from the city, take Highway No, 203 passing Amphoe Dan Sai, turn right onto Highway No. 2113 at kilometer 82 marker and proceed for another 50 kilometers to the park’s office.

Namtok Khring
This waterfall is situated 15 kilometers from the District Office on the Mueang Phrae-Rom Klao Road in Tambon Saeng Pha. The waterfall, which has an assortment of plant life, as well as rocks in levels and a large pool, is a good place to unwind.

Namtok Tat Hueang or the Thai-Lao Waterfall
This large waterfall originating from Maenam Huang and is surrounded by a verdant jungle is located approximately 25 kilometers from the District Office. To reach the waterfall, travel 7 kilometers on the Na Haeo-Rom Klao Road and an additional 10 kilometers on the way to Bo Mueang Noi.

Namtok Than Sawan
The waterfall is only 800 meters from Na Haeo District Office, behind Na Haeo Witthaya School. This 15-meter high waterfall flows down to unique rock formations below. Another smaller waterfall nearby which resembles a stairway can be reached via a 1-kilometer walking trail.

Wat Pho Chai Na Phung
Wat Pho Chai is an old temple, which was established even before the village was founded. Most historians believe it could be dated to the 22nd – 23rd Buddhist centuries. Within the compound of the temple is a Buddhist scripture library built on tall poles and an elaborate main hall or chapel over 400 years old that is a fine example of Loei’s local buildings. The murals on both the inner and outer walls depicting Lord Buddha’s life and featuring the beliefs of the people of Ban Na Phung in the late Ayutthaya period and the Ratanakosin period respectively. Enshrined within the temple is the bronze Ong Saen Buddha or Fon Saen Ha image. It is believed that wherever this image is placed, that area will not be dry. To get there, take the Loei-Dan Sai Road for 82 kilometers, turn right and proceed on the Dan Sai – Na Haeo Road for another 23 kilometers.

Phu Kradueng National Park
This is the ultimate destination for many Thai trekkers. The goal is to hike up to the summit and conquer the distance of 1,325 meters above sea level. At the top of Phu Kradueng is a wide plain of about 60 square kilometers. There is a cold-climate pine forest and a grass field full of wild flowers and orchids that bloom in different seasons. In addition, there are several lovely waterfalls and an observation point that is provides spectacular views during sunrise and sunset.

To get there, take Bangkok-Loei bus and get off at Pha Nok Khao, the boundary between Khon Kaen and Loei. From there, take a mini-bus to the park office at the foot of the mountain and walk up Phu Kradueng for 6 kilometers. The park is open during October to May and closed during the rainy season to rejuvenate the flora and fauna. Park attractions include: Pha Nok Aen, the cliff that offers a breathtaking view of the crimson sunrise, Pha Lom Sak, a sandstone ledge jutting into space providing a fine view of the hills and valleys and Pha Yiap Mek, where cottony clouds suggest a misty world of shadow figures.

The park is open to visitors from 7.00 a.m. until 2.00 p.m. daily and is closed for forest regeneration during 1 June – 30 September every year.

Facilities & accommodations :
Phu Kradueng National Park provides accommodations and has stores selling food and drinks. Call the Park at 042 871333 or 02 5614292 – 4 (Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants in Bangkok) for more information and reservations.

Namtok Tat Hong
The waterfall, which is 40 meters high, is located in Phu Kradueng National Park and was opened as part of an adventure trail “Trace the route of Seri Thai, tour the jungle of Tat Tong”. The trail was once used by the Seri Thai Freedom Movement to travel from Loei to Phetchabun during WWII and to allow Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram to escape Japanese forces. Along the trail are other interesting spots such as Tat Huai Wua, Hat Sai Khao, Kaeng Hin Tang, Phu Hang (pre-historic color drawings), Phu Lat Mueang viewpoint and Wang Phong Yiam rafting point.

Suan Hin Pha Ngam Park
This Park has limestone mountains that have eroded over time to form an interesting shape, similar to that in Kunming in China. A path, which winds through the rocks, takes visitors to the lovely Suan Hom and Phiang Din Waterfalls. The park is south of town on Highway No. 201. Proceed past Wang Saphung to Nong Hin then take another road for 20 kilometers.

Phu Luang Wildlife Reserve
This jungle plateau with a cool climate the whole year has certain areas that are open to the public. A trail leads from Lon Mon past a pine forest, a grass field, a flower field on a rock plateau, and various cliffs, for a total distance of about 6 kilometers. From Pha Lon Tae, visitors can see Phu Ho and Phu Kradueng. It is required that visitors to Phu Luang must be accompanied by Park Officers. Advance reservations must be made at Phu Luang Tourist Office, Wang Saphung District Office, in order to arrange accommodations, food and a 3 days/ 2 nights tour. The best time for trekking is from October to May. For more information, call tel. 0-4284-1566. or 01 2210547.

Chateau de Loei Winery and Vineyard
Location: 161 Mu 6, Tambon Rong Chik, Amphoe Phu Ruea, Loei 42160. Tel. 0 42891 3950, 0 4289 1045 Fax. 042 – 891395

As the climate in Loei is quite similar to that of the South of France, it is perfect for establishing a vineyard and winery. Chateau de Loei is one of the first entrepreneurs in the region that has succeeded in building its own brand based on solid, internationally-accepted quality. At present, Chateau de Loei’s red wine is very popular with local wine experts. Its white wine, made from Chenin Blanc, has also been well received in the market. While browsing through the vineyard souvenir shop, visitors can taste test the wines, sample grapes, try the passion fruit juice and nibble on fresh vegetables from the orchard and farm.

Facilities available include a restaurant, toilets, accommodations (resort) and a touring route in the vineyard complete with lecturer that is open to the public.

Namtok Pla Ba Waterfall or Namtok Tat San
This waterfall drops from a large rock platform to the pool below. To get to the waterfall, take the Phu Ruea-Dan Sai Road for 7 kilometers to Ban Kok Pho and take a left-hand road and proceed for 10 kilometers. The Phu Ruea Highland Agriculture Testing Station is 14 kilometers past the waterfall. The center grows cold-climate plants and an assortment of flowers.

Phu Ruea High Altitude Agricultural Research Station
Location: Tambon Pla Ba, Amphoe phu Ruea, Loei 42160, Tel. 042 – 891398, 891199

Phu Ruea District is an ideal location for growing exotic flora such as African violets, hydrangeas, petunias and phlox due to its cool and dry climate pattern which is hardly seen in any other northeastern province.

The staff of the Research Station works with local farmers to promote new cash crops such as macadamia, strawberries, passion fruit, potted and table plants and cut flowers. In addition, the station is responsible for plant species research of species such as peaches, Chinese chestnuts, grapes, Chinese pears, macadamia nuts, strawberries, etc. The station also produces plant seeds, publicizes technology, and provides training for local farmers and concerned parties. The station is not merely a research center for educational purposes, but is also the hub for the exchange of technological knowledge and real-life experiences (local wisdom). Other responsibilities of the station include oversight of a wild-life sanctuary and welcoming visitors who come to appreciate the beauty of its ideal location and its activities.

Tourist facilities include toilets, accommodations, food and beverages. Lectures complete with a demonstration of flower gardening and ornamental plant plantations are also provided. Advance booking is recommended (at least 3 weeks).

Phu Ruea National Park
This National Park with an area of 75,525 square kilometers has a vast pine-covered plain 1,365 meters above sea level at its summit. Due to its high elevation and cool climate visitors are drawn to the Park all year round, however, during the cool season visitors flock to the Park to experience wintry weather. Attractions in the Park include observation points, waterfalls, rock gardens, and caves. In particular there are Pha Lon Noi, which offers a spectacular sunrise and beautiful scenery, Pha Sub Thong, a very steep cliff, Namtok Huai Phai, a 30 meter-high waterfall, and Phu Ruea Summit, which provides a fine view of Huang and Khong Rivers. In addition, there are several resorts on the slopes of Phu Ruea, as well as Chateau de Loei Winery, a huge vineyard with modern wine-making facilities. The Park is located 60 kilometers west of Amphoe Muang on Highway No. 203.

Nam Nao National Park
Nam Nao (Cold Water) is one of the most beautiful and valuable parks in Thailand, encompassing nearly 1,000 square kilometers with an average elevation of 800 meters. The Park is located at the intersection of Chaiyaphum, Phetchabun and Loei Provinces. Attractions within the Park are several waterfalls, caves and the Park's highest peak, Phu Phaa Jit, which 1,271 meters above sea level.