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AMPHOE NA HAEO
 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.
AMPHOE DAN SAI
Kaeng Song Khon waterfall
This waterfall, which drops down several rock levels to a large
pool, is located at Ban Hua Na Yung on the Dan Sai-Nakhon Thai Road
(Highway No. 2013) 400 meters past Phra That Si Song Rak turn right
onto another road and proceed for 2 more kilometers.
 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.
Tips for visitors: As the pagoda is built for friendship and peace,
red attire and red flowers are prohibited as the color denotes violence.
To get there, take Highway No. 203, turn right at the kilometer
66 marker on to Highway No. 2013 and proceed for another 17 kilometers.
Wat Neramit Wipattasana
The temple is located on a hillside near Phra That Si Song Rak.
Both the ordination hall and pagoda, which are constructed of laterite,
were designed from the imagination of both monks and novices. On
touring the interior visitors will notice a resemblance to the great
temples of Bangkok. Other than a replica of Phra Phutthachinnarat
(of Phitsanulok Province) that is enshrined here, there is a wax
figure of the late Luang Pho Phra Maha Phan Sila Wisuttho, the founder
of the temple.
AMPHOE PHU KRADUENG
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 02 561 4292 – 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.
AMPHOE PHU LUANG
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.
AMPHOE PHU RUEA
Ban Nong Bong Plant Market
A center for buying cold-climate flowers from local farmers, the
market offers a wide array of beautiful and reasonably-priced flowers
that are perfect souvenirs. To get there from the city, proceed
on Highway No. 203 (Loei – Phu Ruea) for 47 kilometers.
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.
Khamnuan Nursery
The nursery is located just 3 kilometers from Amphoe Phu Ruea on
Highway No. 203. The compound offers many cold-climate flowers,
especially hanging petunia and Christmas trees. Call 042 899275
for more information.
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.
Siam Phu Ruea Orange Farm
This farm is located at Ban Kaeng Laen, 15 kilometers from Amphoe
Phu Ruea on Highway No. 203. This large Shogun Orange Orchard covers
an area of more than 100 rai. Visitors can tour the farm, taste
the oranges and purchase the produce. Call 01 975 4212 for more
details.
AMPHOE CHIANG KHAN
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.
Wat Huay Hao Inscription
A 22-line slate inscription written in Thai Noi characters that
records the royal command of King Photiworawasa Rajathiraj to renovate
the temple and craft the inscription. The inscription is now kept
at Loei Cultural Center, Rajabhat Institute.
Wat Si Khun Mueang
This unique temple on Chai Khong Road north of Chiang Khan market
has a chapel similar to that found in northern Thai temples with
a mural of a Buddhist tale covering the entire front part.
Wat Tha Khaek
This ancient temple on the bank of the Mekong River, 2 kilometers
from Chiang Khan District Office, has 3 sandstone Buddha images
that are over 300 hundred years old enshrined in the chapel.
AMPHOE THAI LI
Ban Na Kraseng Rattan Handicrafts and Native Woven Fabric Group
The group produces rattan furniture and items of high quality, as
well as beautifully woven clothes. Visitors are welcome to see the
production process and purchase souvenirs. To get there, take the
Loei-Tha Li road for 47 kilometers. Upon reaching the District,
turn right to Ban Ahi and proceed for 9 kilometers. Then turn right
again and proceed for another 5 kilometers towards Ban Na Kraseng.
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.
Pak Chom
This is the first town of any size when traveling to Loei Province
from the west along the Mekong River from Nong Khai. This place
is good for pleasant walks along the river.
Phra That Satcha
This pagoda, which is similar in design to Phra That Phanom, is
33 meters high and topped with the white 7 tiered umbrella of sovereignty.
In addition, there are lotuses in full bloom with 3 layered petals,
one meter high encircling the base of the pagoda. The pagoda is
located in the area of Wat Lat Pu, Ban Tha Li, which is 2 kilometers
from Amphoe Tha Li Administrative Office. Take Highway 201, turn
left at the junction to the Highway 2115 Tha Li - Ahi route.
AMPHOE MUEANG
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.
Chao Pho Kut Pong Shrine
This shrine, which is located next to the city pillar shrine, is
highly revered by the locals, as it is the city’s oldest shrine.
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.
Mueang 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.
Thai Loei Ban Kang Pla Weaving Group
The village produces authentic and unique Loei fabrics. Visitors
can see weaving demonstrations and purchase some products such as
cloths, shirts, dresses, and handbags as souvenirs. To get there,
take Loei-Chiang Khan Road for 4 kilometers, turn right and proceed
for 1 kilometre.
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.
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