Things To Do
in Loei

Loei is a charming province in northeastern Thailand, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the mountains, it offers a cooler climate and beautiful scenery, making it a perfect escape from the bustling cities. The region is famous for its unique festivals, particularly the Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival, attracting visitors with its vibrant displays.

Loei's local communities are warm and welcoming, showcasing authentic Thai life and traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Loei Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Loei's bustling morning market to enjoy local breakfast treats such as 'khao niew' (sticky rice) and fresh tropical fruits.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Loei Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a relaxing stroll through Phu Bo Bit National Park.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes like 'Larb' and finish the evening with a visit to the night market for some shopping and street food.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a day trip to Phu Kradueng National Park, starting with an early hike to the summit for breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch at the top and explore the scenic trails around the park, observing the unique flora and fauna.

evening
:

Return to Loei town, unwind at a cozy café, and reflect on your adventures over a hot cup of Thai coffee.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Street Food Meal$1-3
🥤Local Coffee$1-2
🍽️Restaurant Meal$3-10
🛵Motorbike Rental (per day)$5-10
🚍Bus Fare (within town)$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local festivals.
  • Affordable cost of living and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Thai speakers.
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "อาหารอร่อยมาก" - The food is very delicious.
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Loei

Visit one of these nice places.

Phu Kradueng

Famous for its stunning sunrise views, this national park offers breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations.

Loei River

Capture the serene beauty of the river, especially during sunset when the colors reflect beautifully on the water.

Buddha Park

A tranquil place filled with numerous Buddha statues set against a lush backdrop, perfect for peaceful photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Loei

Loei offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich cultural diversity and local produce. From traditional dishes to street food, the region is a paradise for food lovers.

Loei Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Larb

A spicy minced meat salad, often made with beef or pork, and flavored with herbs, lime, and fish sauce.

Must-Try!

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad mixed with lime, peanuts, and dried shrimp.

Khao Soi

A creamy coconut curry noodle soup, popular in northern Thailand, with both boiled and crispy noodles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Loei Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food options, local handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Morning Market

A bustling spot to find fresh produce, snacks, and local breakfast items.

Climate Guide

Weather

Loei experiences a tropical savanna climate with three main seasons. The cool season (November to February) has pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The hot season (March to May) can see temperatures soar to 35°C (95°F) or higher. The rainy season (June to October) brings significant rainfall, with July being the wettest month.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Avoid physical contact with monks; women should not hand items directly to them.

Wai Greeting

A traditional greeting involves placing your palms together in a prayer position, accompanied by a slight bow.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Loei is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding petty crime in crowded areas and securing valuables. Be cautious while hiking and always stay on marked trails. In rural areas, be aware of wildlife and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

Tipping in Loei

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in most places; however, major credit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Cool Season (November to February)

Temperatures are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.

Hot Season (March to May)

Expect high temperatures; stay hydrated and plan activities for cooler parts of the day.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Frequent rain showers may occur; however, the landscape is lush and green, perfect for nature photography.

Festival Season

Plan your visit around local festivals, especially the Phi Ta Khon, for a unique cultural experience.

Nightlife Guide

Loei at Night

Loei's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to other Thai cities. You can find local bars and restaurants offering live music, especially during weekends. The night market comes alive with food stalls and shopping options, providing a vibrant atmosphere. For a more cultural experience, you can also find traditional dance performances during festivals.

Hiking in Loei

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phu Kradueng Trail

A challenging yet rewarding hike leading to one of the most popular national parks known for its stunning views and rich biodiversity.

Phu Ruea National Park

Offers scenic trails with diverse ecosystems and beautiful mountain views, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Loei by plane.

Loei Airport (LOE)

Located about 5 km from Loei town, the airport has domestic flights connecting to Bangkok and other regions, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Loei town is relatively walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and markets located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are present in busy areas, but care should be taken as some roads may lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture and community.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Ethnic Groups

The region is home to various Thai ethnic groups, including the Lao and Thai, contributing to its diverse culture.

Hill Tribes

Several hill tribes inhabit the surrounding areas, adding to the cultural richness and offering unique traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai boxing is popular in Loei, with local training camps available for visitors to watch or participate.

Football

Football is widely played and followed in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Loei is generally light, especially compared to major cities. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are affordable and convenient for short distances. Walking and biking are also popular, making it easy to explore the town at a leisurely pace.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Loei.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for 'jay' (vegetarian) to avoid meat.

Gluten-Free

While Thai cuisine is predominantly gluten-free, always confirm with the chef as soy sauce is sometimes used.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Loei include several hospitals and clinics, with the main hospital being Loei Hospital. Most medical staff can communicate in basic English, but for specialized care, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be required. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide