520 kilometres from Bangkok and approximately 400 meters above sea level, Loei province was only relatively recently established as a tourist destination. As a result, it remains authentic and pristine. Bordering Laos, this northeastern province bears many similarities to the north of Thailand, even to the extent that people confuse its location. A place of great natural beauty and natural and cultural attractions, Loei has a rugged landscape featuring low mountains, waterfalls and vast tracts of open, fertile land forming plains that house the province's municipality and the River Loei (which flows into the Mekong). As well as physical similarities with the north, Loei shares many cultural similarities that have blended to make the province a culturally unique part of Thailand. The province has excellent National Parks in Phu Kradung and Phu Reua making Loei an excellent place for hiking from mid-October to February. Loei is also home to the famous Bun Phra Wet Festival.