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Discovering a Remote Riverside Town
Off the map and into the Mekong. The district of Sangkhom lies in the northeast of Thailand, along the Mekong River and bordering Laos. There’s a mix of rural and commercial activity, and stunning natural surroundings. For anyone seeking authentic experiences, Sangkhom in Nong Khai Province is a place worth discovering.
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A Journey to Sangkhom 🛣️
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I am an Australian-born man who worked for 40 years in Perth, Western Australia. I met my wife in Sangkhom whilst travelling around Thailand some 20 years ago and fell in love with the people and Sangkhom area.
I eventually moved to Sangkhom to live after retiring from Australian business and decided to build a European-style Hotel in the Sangkhom area with a public pool and built my house next door to the business. As an Australian, I wasn’t escaping life — I was designing one.
Many people couldn’t help but wonder: ‘What’s he doing out here?’ without them visiting the area. Many were not aware that in earlier years I had hopped into a four-wheel drive and ventured deep into Thailand’s hill country — finding villages and stories that had never made it onto the tourist map.
Arriving in Sangkhom was one of those moments again. I flew into Udon Thani, just an hour from Bangkok, rented a car, and drove through Nong Khai, stopping for lunch at a Michelin-mentioned restaurant. From there, I followed the road west for 75 minutes. The further I drove, the more the river came into view, the hills rolled in, and the air seemed to slow down.
That evening, I sat at a local riverside restaurant watching young Thais enjoy a beer, grilled dishes, and mukrata, Thailand’s famous hotpot-barbecue hybrid. Across the river, a Laotian smoke fire flickered under the dusk sky. The vibe reminded me of Luang Prabang — serene, authentic, and soulful.
The area was tucked away beyond the hustle and bustle of Nong Khai, and being along the Mekong River and opposite Laos attracted me. But what truly surprised me were the activities and adventures that surround Sangkhom.
Things to Do in Sangkhom 🌿
The Sangkhom area has all the facilities that travellers need: shopping, restaurants, natural wonders, temples, riverside and tourist activities. This isn’t just a peaceful border town — it’s a hidden soft-adventure hub full of immersive local charm.
🚴♂️ I built Wixky Hotel, which has become a beloved stop for international cycling groups exploring the region.
👣 The famous skywalk is a mountainous glass viewing platform.
🪂 Paragliding is popular. In fact, Sangkhom will host the 5th FAI Asian Paragliding Accuracy Championships 2026.
💧 Visitors to the area make a point to see the Than Thip Waterfall. About 13 km west of Sangkhom, it’s the area’s largest, with lush forest trails and three tiers cascading through the hills.
🛶 Kayaking and boat rides along the Mekong offer a fresh view of the river’s beauty.
🌾 Farm and countryside tours introduce visitors to rural Thai life — rubber tapping, rice fields, local markets, and homemade meals.
🧘♂️ Wat Tham Sri Mongkol, a serene forest temple, offers quiet reflection.
🏊 And just 11 km east is Nam Tok Than Thong, a seasonal waterfall with a swimmable pool — perfect during the rainy months.
⚡ Zip-lining over the river is available for thrill-seekers through local operators.
Where to Stay in Sangkhom 🛌
My boutique hotel is perched minutes from all this natural wonder, offering guests space, stillness, and soul. The property offers excellent value for money, river and mountain views, clean, comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant serving a selection of international cuisines. See Facebook or call +66 98 792 6641.
Sitting directly on the river, colourful Vera Costa provides excellent views and spacious rooms. Guests highly rate the location and cleanliness and, a delicious breakfast (including veggie and vegan options) is included in the price.
Each of the comfortable, modern rooms at Sand & River Hotel comes with a balcony and bathrobes (perfect for those looking for a little extra comfort). Guests can keep active at the onsite fitness room or relax and indulge in the coffee shop or restaurant serving traditional Thai food.
Sangkhom: An Off-the-Beaten-Track Thai Destination 💎
There’s a growing shift toward experiential tourism. Today’s traveller doesn’t just want to see a destination; they want to feel it, live it, and connect with it. If you’re a traveller seeking a lifestyle experience — or dreaming of enjoying a slice of riverside paradise — then Sangkhom is a gem waiting to be discovered.
Header image credit: Wiki Commons
Rick Francis
Originally from Australia, Rick fell in love with Thailand on his travels. He now calls Sangkhom home, where he owns and runs the Wixky Hotel.
