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LOEI
The provincial capital is 520 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. The province's major attractions are scenic and find full focus in national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and near or in the Mekong River. The Phu Ruea National Park rises almost 1,400 meters above sea level and offers scenic views of Laos, verdant flora, waterfalls and more than 30 species of resident bird species. The Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary occupies a high plateau rising to 1,500 meters above sea level. The Kaeng Khut Khu Rapids in the Mekong River in Chiang Khan district are pronounced when the river is at low level. The 60-square kilometer Phu Kradung National Park occupies a plateau some 1,300 meters above sea level and contains some of Thailand's loveliest flora, more than 130 species of birds, besides deer, squirrels, elephants, wild boar and monkeys, and several scenic viewpoints. The park is closed from June through August each year to protect the delicate sco-system. Loei hosts each year an annual Cotton Blossom Festival, during February. Then, usually late May or early June, the distinctive Phi Tha Khon Festival which has its origins in Buddhist folklore and whereby young men dress up as spirits. Thai 'Chateau de Loei' red and white wines are produced, respectively, from Chenin Blanc and Syrah grapes at the Phu Ruea Wanothayan Grape Farm in Phu Ruea district where fresh grapes, including Seedless, Romulus Seedless and Carolina Black Rose, are also available.
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