Nong Khai is a city located in Northeast Thailand, on the banks of the Mekong River. It is the capital of the Nong Khai Province. Nong Khai is known for its close proximity to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, which is only a few kilometers away across the Mekong River. The city has a population of around 100,000 and is a popular tourist destination, especially among Thai and Laotian tourists.
Nong Khai's history is closely linked with that of Vientiane. The city was originally settled by Laotians in the 16th century, and served as an important commercial and transportation center for the region. In 1893, the French erected a border post in Nong Khai to control trade between Laos and Thailand. The post was later turned into a full-fledged French colonial outpost. The city remained under French control until 1954, when it was handed over to the Royal Thai Army.
Today, Nong Khai is a busy commercial center and transportation hub. The city is home to a large number of factories, which produce a variety of goods, including textiles, processed foods, and electrical appliances. Nong Khai is also a popular tourist destination, thanks to its close proximity to Vientiane and the many tourist attractions in the area, including the Phu Phra Bat Historical Park, the Udon Thani National Park, and the Tha Khaek Loop.