The province of Nakhon Phanom

Province capital: Nakhon Phanom
Name in Thai: นครพนม

Location on map

Province of region Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)

Located in Isan, along the majestic Mekong River, Nakhon Phanom province offers visitors spectacular views, fascinating culture and rich history. The province is bordered by Mukdahan to the north, Sakon Nakhon to the east, Bueng Kan to the southeast, and Laos to the west. Its climate is tropical, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.

Very little visited by foreign tourists, much more after the Thais, the main attractions of Nakhon Phanom include Wat Phra That Phanom, the ancient town of Tha Uthen, the Phu Langka national park (not to be confused with that of the province of Phayao which, from my point of view, offers more spectacular landscapes) and the village of Ban Na Chok which would have hosted Ho Chi Minh, the former Vietnamese leader whose house remains.

The province is also known for its cultural festivals and more particularly the Illuminated Boat Festival, one of the most beautiful events in the country.

The best time to visit Nakhon Phanom is during the so-called dry season, from November to February, but as with all of northern Thailand, the landscapes and nature are much more beautiful in the middle of the rainy season (June to August).