Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

Day 7: Caves, Culture, and Contemplation in Loei

Today was a day of contrasts, Lena and I experienced the tranquility of a cave temple and the vibrant artistry of local traditions. It’s amazing how much Loei continues to surprise us, revealing hidden gems at every turn. From scaling a mountain for spiritual enlightenment to diving deep into the cultural heart of the region, today was nothing short of extraordinary.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Loei Kebab Plus. It wasn't exactly Thai cuisine, but sometimes you just need a taste of something familiar, even in a new place. It fueled us up for the morning’s adventure: Wat Tham Erawan.


Explore the serene beauty of Wat Tham Erawan, a stunning Buddhist temple in Loei, Thailand, where tranquility meets cultural heritage.

Wat Tham Erawan: A Stairway to Serenity

The drive to Wat Tham Erawan was scenic, passing through lush landscapes that define this part of Thailand. As we approached, the temple emerged dramatically from the karst mountain, a sight to behold. The real adventure began at the foot of the 600-step staircase leading to the cave entrance.

The climb was definitely a workout, even for someone like me who tries to stay active playing football back in Berlin. Lena, ever the trooper, kept pace, and we took several breaks at the shaded gazebos along the way. Each stop offered stunning views of the valley below, making the ascent as rewarding as the destination.

Reaching the cave entrance, we were greeted by a large, golden Buddha statue, a serene guardian of this sacred space. Inside, the cave opened into a vast chamber adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The natural light filtering through openings in the cave roof added to the mystical ambiance, highlighting the intricate rock formations.

Exploring the cave's interior required a bit of scrambling and the use of our phone’s flashlight, since the cave was pitch black. According to local legend, this cave is where the Isaan-Lao folktale of Nang Phom Hom, the Fragrant Hair Lady, took place. It’s a fascinating story about a king's daughter turned into a monkey by a vengeful ghost. Standing there, surrounded by the cool, damp air and the echoes of ancient tales, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection to the history of this place.

The silence of the cave, punctuated only by the occasional drip of water, was a stark contrast to the bustling world outside, offering a moment of true reflection.

Before leaving Wat Tham Erawan, we made a small donation to the temple, a gesture of gratitude for the experience. As we descended the staircase, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and spiritual rejuvenation.

Lunch at Rice Noodles Soup Loei: A Taste of Local Comfort

Experience authentic Vietnamese rice noodle soup at Rice Noodles Soup Loei - a local favorite in the heart of Thailand's Loei province.

After our morning of exploration and spiritual contemplation, we were ready for a hearty lunch. Based on a recommendation, we headed to Rice Noodles Soup Loei, a local favorite known for its Vietnamese-style rice noodle soups.

The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign. The aroma of fragrant herbs and simmering broth filled the air, making our mouths water. I ordered their signature noodle soup, while Lena opted for a vegetarian version.

The soup arrived in steaming bowls, piled high with noodles, fresh herbs, and flavorful toppings. The broth was rich and aromatic, a perfect blend of savory and spicy. It was exactly what we needed to recharge after our morning hike. Lena loved the fresh herbs and the clean, vibrant flavors of her vegetarian soup.

We savored every spoonful, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the restaurant. It was a simple meal, but it offered a genuine taste of local life and culinary tradition.

Phi Ta Khon Dan Sai Museum: Diving into Local Folklore

Explore the vibrant traditions and cultural heritage of Thailand at the Phi Ta Khon Dan Sai Museum, a unique celebration in Dan Sai, Loei.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Phi Ta Khon Dan Sai Museum, located in the Dan Sai District. This museum is dedicated to the Phi Ta Khon Festival, also known as the Ghost Festival, a unique and colorful celebration that combines Buddhist beliefs and local folklore. Luckily there are no ghost festivals during our trip, but it would have been interesting to see.

The museum itself is housed in a traditional wooden Isan-style building, adding to its charm. Inside, we were greeted by a fascinating collection of masks and costumes used in the festival. Each mask was a work of art, intricately designed and vibrantly colored, representing various spirits and characters from local legends.

The exhibits provided a wealth of information about the history and significance of the festival, explaining its origins and its role in the annual Bun Luang merit-making ceremony. I learned that the festival is believed to have originated from a legend about a prince who was presumed dead but returned to his city, and the villagers celebrated so loudly that they roused the spirits of the dead.

Lena and I spent hours exploring the museum, marveling at the creativity and artistry of the masks and costumes. We even had the chance to try on some of the masks, which was both fun and educational. It was a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the traditions of this region.

As we left the museum, I felt a sense of appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Loei. The Phi Ta Khon Festival is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the local people, and it’s a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural traditions.

Evening Relaxation and Local Flavors

For dinner, we chose Ran Ahan Che Suan Phak, enticed by the promise of authentic Thai cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.


Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Ran Ahan Che Suan Phak in Loei, where traditional Thai flavors meet innovative culinary artistry.

The restaurant had a cozy, rustic ambiance, and the menu featured a variety of traditional dishes. Lena, always eager to try new things, ordered a spicy green curry, while I opted for a classic Pad Thai.

The food was delicious, bursting with flavors and aromas that epitomize Thai cuisine. Lena’s green curry was fiery and fragrant, while my Pad Thai was perfectly balanced, with a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and savory notes. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and cultural immersion.

After dinner, we decided to check out TERM | BAR for a nightcap.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of TERM | BAR in Kut Pong, Loei, where unique cocktails and a friendly vibe create an unforgettable night out.

The bar had a laid-back atmosphere, with a good selection of local and international drinks. We sipped on our drinks, reflecting on the day’s adventures and planning our itinerary for tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Phu Phuttho, the Big Buddha on Military Hill, and Harirak Forest Park. It sounds like another day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we’ve had in Loei. This region has exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual serenity. It’s a place that has touched my heart, and I know that the memories we’ve made here will stay with me for a lifetime.

As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about the contrast between the serene cave temple and the vibrant Ghost Festival masks. It struck me that Loei, in its own quiet way, embodies this duality. It's a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, where spirituality and celebration coexist, and where natural beauty and cultural richness blend seamlessly. It's a place that invites you to slow down, to connect with the local culture, and to appreciate the simple joys of life. And it's a place that I will always cherish.

I'm also glad I remembered to pack the camera, but I wish I hadn't forgotten the travel adapter and portable phone charger! It's always something, isn't it? But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?