Chiang Khong – District & Town Information
Chiang Khong is a district (Amphoe) in the northeastern part of Chiang Rai Province, northern Thailand. Neighboring districts are (from the southeast clockwise) Wiang Kaen, Khun Tan, Phaya Meng Rai, Wiang Chiang Rung, Doi Luang, Chiang Saen of Chiang Rai Province. To the east is Bokeo province of Laos. The Mekong River partially forms the boundary to Laos. The district has a interesting ethnic mix of Thai, Tai Lue, Khamu, Hmong, Mien and Chinese KMT peoples.
Chiang Khong was once a city state called Joun, founded in 701 by King Mahathai. Over the centuries Juon, paid tribute to Chaing Rai, Chiang Saen & Nan. In the 1880s Chiang Khong was occupied by the Siamese.
The Chiang Khong local border crossing
Due to its location, the district forms a gateway to Laos; with route 3 from Houei Xai an important land transport route to / from China. Houei Xai is also an important port for boats going to Luang Prabang. The port of Chiang Khong also serves Lao cargo boats on the Mekong.
Loading Lao cargo boats on the Mekong.
A bridge crossing the Mekong river from Chiang Khong to Houei Xai in Laos was opened on 11.12.13
The Chiang Khong – Houei Xai Friendship Bridge 4 was opened on 11.12.13
The road R1129 to Chiang Khong from Chiang Saen runs beside the Mekong & is arguably the most beautiful road & ride in North Thailand; and is called Paradise Road.
Paradise Road, R1129 @ Chiang Khong.
