Arrived at Mochit (Northern Bus Terminal) for 9pm VIP bus to Chiang Khan. The route is on Highway 1 out of Bangkok, Highway 2 Saraburi/Korat,201 from Sung Noen, via Chaiyaphum and Chum Phae (Khon Khen province) and Loei.
Today was a visit to Kaeng Khut Khu (Rapids) and to the nearby hill temple Phu Kwai Ngun (Silver Buffalo Mountain). Lunch at the Chiang Khan Hill Resort is not to be missed and provides and excellent view across the river (Mekong) and Rapids.
Took a songthaew (local transport) from Chiang Khan to provincial capital Loei. From here took similar transport to Phu Ruea. It proved difficult to return to Loei in the same way but local help was at hand. Like many national parks 'farang' pays 200 baht.
An easy day in Chiang Khan. During the heat of the day the narrow street that runs along the river bank is quiet. But the traditional wooden buildings hosting the travelling fraternity springs to life in the evening. Try the imported Lao Beer here!
A busy day again using songthaew transport to he border town of Tha Li but didn't need the crossing to Loas on this occasion. Then preparing for the overnight VIP tour bus to Bangkok. Arrived before 5am but the food markets were already open.

Loei (Thai: เลย) is one of the most sparsely populated provinces (changwat) of Thailand, located in the North-East of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Nongbua Lamphu, Khon Kaen, Phetchabun, Phitsanulok. In the north it borders Xaignabouli and Vientiane Province of Laos. Loei is a city surrounded by undulating mountain ranges whose summits are covered by foggy lines, abundant with various kinds of flora. The well-known ones are Phu Kradueng, Phu Luang and Phu Ruea.
Tucked behind the Mekong River north of Loei and west of Nong Khai, Chiang Khan is not to be missed. It offers the same beautiful scenery and slow afternoons as other border towns, but steps it up a notch with relative seclusion and spectacular guesthouses. Life remains fairly slow and isolated here along the meandering Mekong. With a soothing atmosphere and few sights to distract you, you’re free to kick back, enjoy the cultural enrichment, and rejuvenate.