Introducing Chong Mek & the Emerald Triangle
South of Khong Jiam, at the end of Rte 217, is the small trading town of Chong Mek on the Thai–Lao border, the only place in Thailand where faràng can cross into Laos by land (that is, you don’t have to cross the Mekong). The southern Lao capital of Pakse is about 45 minutes by road from Vangtao, the village on the Lao side of the border, where you can now buy a 30-day visa on the spot. Buses crossing here wait for passengers to complete the paperwork. The border is open from 6am until 6pm, but Lao border officials charge a 40B ‘overtime’ levy/bribe (it doesn’t appear to be an official charge) if you arrive before 8am or after 4pm or anytime on a weekend. They also try to extract a 50B ‘stamping fee’ no matter what the hour.
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Thai travellers come to Chong Mek to browse through cheap goods from China, Vietnam and Laos. Foreign visitors won’t find much of interest to purchase here, unless they’re in the market for toiletries (from China), camouflage clothing (from Vietnam) or CDs (from Laos), though skirts and fabrics are priced very low. If you get here after hours, the Nonthaveth & Ounchith Guest House (0 4548 5237; r 200-500B; ) is clean and friendly, though the fan rooms are a little overpriced.
About 5km west of Chong Mek is the northeastern shore of the huge Kheuan Sirinthon reservoir, an impoundment of a Mae Nam Mun tributary. Local aquaphiles and picnickers frequent a recreation area on forested hills near the dam at its northern end.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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