Nestled away from the heavily trodden tourist trails of Thailand, the district of Sangkhom offers a rare blend of unspoiled nature, rich local culture, and commercial life along the banks of the Mekong River. Situated in the northeastern province of Nong Khai, right along the border with Laos, Sangkhom has increasingly captured the attention of travelers searching for authentic experiences, peaceful landscapes, and a slower pace of life.
For decades, Thailand’s tourism narrative has largely focused on bustling metropolises, famous southern beaches, and well-known northern cultural hubs like Chiang Mai. However, regions like Sangkhom represent a growing shift toward experiential tourism, where modern visitors seek not merely to see a destination, but to feel, live, and genuinely connect with it.
A Journey to Sangkhom
The allure of this border region has long captivated adventurous spirits. Among them is Rick Francis, an Australian-born man who spent 40 years working in Perth, Western Australia, before completely reshaping his life path. Twenty years ago, while traveling through Thailand, Francis met his wife in Sangkhom and instantly fell in love with both the local people and the distinct atmosphere of the area.
After retiring from his business career in Australia, Francis made the permanent move to Sangkhom to design a new chapter of life rather than simply escape the old one. He built a European-style hotel complete with a public pool, alongside his own private residence next door. While some acquaintances back home initially questioned his choice to move to such a remote region without visiting first, Francis was no stranger to exploring off-the-grid locations. Years earlier, he had navigated Thailand’s rugged hill country in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, discovering remote villages and untold stories that never appeared on standard tourist maps.
Reaching Sangkhom offers travelers a scenic introduction to the region’s shifting geography. Visitors typically fly into Udon Thani, located just an hour from Bangkok, rent a car, and drive northward through Nong Khai. A popular stop along the route includes lunch at a Michelin-mentioned local restaurant before heading west for approximately 75 minutes. As the road winds onward, the Mekong River gradually comes into view, rolling hills emerge in the distance, and the ambient pace of life noticeably decelerates.
By evening, the riverside comes alive in a subtle, unpretentious fashion. Local residents and visitors alike gather at riverside eateries to enjoy cold beer, grilled dishes, and mukrata—Thailand’s beloved hotpot-barbecue hybrid. Across the river, the faint glow of Laotian smoke fires flickers beneath the dusk sky, evoking comparisons to serene regional gems like Luang Prabang in neighboring Laos.
Things to Do in Sangkhom
Despite its reputation as a quiet border town, Sangkhom functions as a surprisingly vibrant hub for soft adventure and immersive local culture, providing all the essential amenities for travelers, including local shopping, diverse dining options, temples, and natural wonders.
Francis’s establishment, Wixky Hotel, has notably grown into a popular stopover for international cycling groups exploring the northeastern routes. Beyond cycling, the surrounding landscape offers a diverse array of outdoor activities and attractions. Among the most prominent regional landmarks is the famous skywalk, a dramatic mountainous glass viewing platform that offers sweeping vistas of the terrain.
The region is also gaining international recognition for aerial sports. Paragliding has steadily grown in popularity, culminating in the announcement that Sangkhom is set to host the prestigious 5th FAI Asian Paragliding Accuracy Championships in 2026.
Nature enthusiasts frequently make the journey to Than Thip Waterfall, situated about 13 kilometers west of Sangkhom. As the largest waterfall in the area, it features lush forest trails and a three-tiered cascade winding through the hills. Just 11 kilometers to the east lies Nam Tok Than Thong, a seasonal waterfall boasting a refreshing, swimmable pool that becomes particularly inviting during the rainy months.
For those looking to get out on the water, kayaking and guided boat rides along the Mekong River offer a distinct perspective of the region’s topography. Meanwhile, farm and countryside tours introduce visitors to authentic rural Thai life, showcasing rubber tapping, expansive rice fields, local markets, and traditional homemade meals. Spiritual reflection can be found at Wat Tham Sri Mongkol, a serene forest temple, while thrill-seekers can arrange zip-lining experiences over the river through local operators.
Where to Stay in Sangkhom
As tourism slowly evolves in the district, a selection of accommodations has emerged to cater to visitors seeking comfort alongside natural beauty.
Wixky Hotel, established by Rick Francis, places guests just minutes away from the region’s primary natural attractions while emphasizing space, stillness, and personalized hospitality. The boutique property offers clean, comfortable rooms with river and mountain views, excellent overall value, and an on-site restaurant serving a curated selection of international cuisines.
For travelers preferring direct riverfront access, the colourful Vera Costa Hotel provides spacious rooms and prominent views of the Mekong. Highly rated for its cleanliness and prime location, the property includes a complimentary breakfast featuring diverse options, including vegetarian and vegan selections.
Another prominent option is the Sand & River Hotel, which offers modern, comfortable rooms equipped with private balconies and bathrobes. Guests staying at the hotel can utilize the on-site fitness room or relax at the property’s coffee shop and restaurant, which specializes in traditional Thai cuisine.
An Off-the-Beaten-Track Thai Destination
As global travel trends increasingly favor authentic, lifestyle-oriented experiences over rushed sightseeing, destinations like Sangkhom offer a compelling alternative for those looking to experience a different side of Thailand. Whether it is watching the mist rise over the Mekong River, exploring cascading waterfalls, or engaging with the quiet rhythms of rural community life, this northeastern border sanctuary stands ready for discovery.
