Overview
Loei is Thailand's coolest city, one of the few places where temperatures drop to 0°C in the cool season. The province is a mountainous boundary with Laos along the Mekong River, featuring sandstone plateaus, evergreen forests, and unique cultures including the Thai Dam people.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Festivals · Mountains · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi available at some hotels including Phuluang Hotel (40 baht/hour for computers). Mobile coverage through AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC.
Festivals
The Phi Ta Khon Festival in Dan Sai (2 hours west of Loei) is held annually with giant masks, parades, and traditional celebrations. The Cotton Blossom Festival occurs in early February.
Money
Thai baht is the local currency. ATMs are available in town. Budget accommodation ranges 180-900 baht; meals cost 50-100 baht.
Transport
Overnight buses from Bangkok's Mo Chit bus station are the main route to Loei. Songthaews cost 10 baht from the bus station to town; tuk-tuks run 40 baht.
Weather
Loei is Thailand's coolest city, with temperatures dropping to 0°C in the cool season (November-February). Summers are warm; wet season runs June-October.