Nestled in a fertile river valley, Loei is a charming town in the mountainous north-east region of Thailand. It’s surrounded by spectacular national parks and an elephant-filled wildlife reserve, as well as a picturesque lake where you can float on a bamboo raft while feasting on authentic Isan dishes.

Things to do

Explore the biodiverse landscapes of Phu Kradueng National Park. Follow one of the hiking trails past picturesque waterfalls and along the dramatic Jurassic and Cretaceous sandstone cliffs en route to the summit of Phu Kradueng mountain.

Just to the north of Phu Kradueng is the limestone garden of Suan Hin Pha Ngam, which encompasses spectacular rock features dating back 280 million years. It’s been nicknamed “Thailand’s Kunming”, with eerily beautiful karst formations and cascading waterfalls creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Loei is also within easy access of the Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary, which protects vast tracts of evergreen forest where around 100 wild Asian elephants roam. Join a guided tour to explore the six-kilometre-long trail from Lon Mon as it leads you through emerald pines and grassy savannah where rhododendrons and more than 150 species of orchids grow.

Mingle with locals at the Huai Krathing Reservoir, a popular recreational area. Thatched-roof kitchens on the shores cook traditional Isan dishes that can be delivered directly to your floating bamboo platform while you relax and swim in the refreshing water.

Getting around

Loei Airport is a 10-minute drive south of town and has regular flights to Bangkok, while the journey by bus from Bangkok takes around 10 hours. Songthaews and tuk-tuks travel throughout Loei.