Ban Huay Kon

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The small village of Ban Huay Kon is the closest point to the Ban Huay Kon / Muang Ngoen border crossing between Thailand and Laos. Aside from the border crossing, there is a border market which runs every Saturday morning -- but that's about where the "attractions" end.

Aside from the border crossing, there is little reason to visit here aside from the stunning scenery, although if you want to hang out in a isolated village, then this is a fine choice.

Basic food is available in the village as is accommodation, on the hill overlooking the village.

We've heard, second hand, of an independent crossing at this border in early May 2008, but it's unclear if the crossing was truly independent, or part of a semi-organised trip out of Chiang Mai. At the moment, it's safe to say the border crossings status for independent travellers is unclear.

That said, should the crossing open fully, it will open up a terrific new route for travel into Laos.

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Our recommendations

This is one of the most remote places we've visited in Thailand. It's one of those "the joy is in the getting there" type of places as aside from setting down for the night, there's little in the way of typical things to do.

A weekend market up at the border might be of interest, but we've always found border markets to be disappointing unles you're in the market for cheap ciggies or a new toilet seat.

The most intrepid and determined travellers, who can probably speak a little Thai or Lao, might be able to scope out some freelance possibilities for trekking in the surrounds, but we'd imagine this would be a very rough and ready experience -- perhaps just what you're looking for.

Thinking of crossing the border? We've heard mixed reports about how easy it is. Ask around and if you do manage to cross, do let us know!

Accommodation: Ban Huay Kon
Mahlee Bungalows | Rai Yot Narong Resort |

Text and/or map last updated on 11th August, 2009.

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Ban Huay Kon reviews

Backchat from the Travelfish community

This is a border crossing to Laos

Ban Huay Kon border checkpoint is now an international crossing for travellers to Laos, with visa on arrival. I crossed in early November, 2012 and there is considerable construction work on the immigration and customs facilities, so plans are obviously to have it as a permanent crossing. The process was easy, but few foreigners are using it and the main hassle is that Laos immigration is about 1km along a no man's land of bitumen from Thai immigration. There is no fleet of tuk tuks waiting to take you there. I managed to jump on a worker's truck to cover the distance. From there I paid to be taken to Muang Nguen, a few km away and then took at mini van to Hongsa on a spectacular new road built for the soon to be opened power station at Hongsa. From there, it would be easy to arrange transport to Luang Prabang. So, despite rumours to the contrary (mainly from tour operators in Chiang Mai I am told) Ban Huay Kon is a new gateway into Laos and Luang Prabang.
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By robdale (dabbler)
Written on 4th December, 2012 after a visit to Ban Huay Kon in November, 2012

Also reviewed by robdale: Surabaya,

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