Mukdahan Province is a secluded corner of north-east Thailand, known for its lush scenery, tasty "Isan" cuisine and historic temples strung along the Mekong River. The laid-back capital, Mukdahan, boasts riverside restaurants, bustling markets and easy access to Phu Pha Thoep National Park.
Things to do in Mukdahan
Towering 65 metres over the city, Hor Kaew Mukdahan was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of King Rama IX's reign. At the base of the tower is a fantastic museum featuring displays on the province's ethnic groups and Buddhist beliefs.
The 48-square-kilometre Phu Pha Thoep National Park features forested hiking trails, mushroom-shaped rock formations and crystalline waterfalls. Watch for colourful butterflies and exotic birds, like the red junglefowl.
Perched on the outskirts of Mukdahan, Wat Pa Silawiwek is home to a cheeky troupe of resident monkeys. Visit in the morning to beat the crowds and see the monkeys when they're most active. You can also stroll around the monastery grounds.
Bite into sizzling Thai street food at the famous Mukdahan Night Market, where you can sample chicken skewers, mango sticky rice, spicy noodles and local fish hauled in from the Mekong River. Adventurous eaters can sample traditional "Isan" delicacies, such as raw meat salad, red ant eggs, pig intestines and grilled buffalo hide.
Getting around Mukdahan
Mukdahan is the province's main travel hub, offering bus and shuttle connections to destinations across northern Thailand. The town is easy to get around on foot or by using local tuk-tuks and taxis. Mukdahan is also popular with travellers crossing the border to Savannakhet in Laos.