Khut Khu Rapids, Nature in action @Loei
In early February, the cold is subsiding and so is the water level in the Mekong River, making “Khut Khu Rapid” in Chiang Khan, Loei province, a popular destination for nature lovers. Thai and foreign visitors both visit the area looking for things to buy, or food to eat.
Khut Khu Rapid is a great place to enjoy nature. It is the favorite spot for many locals and visitors to spend their day relaxing by the river, taking nature walks, or simply enjoying the green scenery. Furthermore, you can also watch the currents from the river shore that stretches along the Mekong River.
The name Khut Khu is an interesting one, and there is a story behind how it got its name. The story tells of a hunter whose stature was so big, that children could run and play in his nose. One day, the bushman was chasing a silver water buffalo from Laos. The buffalo eventually stopped at (present day) Khut Khu. However, as the hunter was ready to strike, a fisherman who was cruising the river scared the buffalo away and it ran up the mountain, thus the name “Phu Kwai Gnun” was born. The story is not over yet. Because the hunter was so furious with what had happened, he decided to pile stones in the river, thus causing problems for the locals. Upon seeing this, Lord Indra transformed himself into a seminarian, and told the villagers to build a beam to hold the stones. The beam however, could not withstand the weight of the rocks, and fell, killing the hunter who died in a fetal position, this giving the rapid its name.
Visitors who would like to visit this area should visit during February to May because the water level of the river isn’t too high. You will be able to see the mountains, rapids, and white sand along the river shore coupled with thousands of round stones scattered everywhere. You can even take a cruise on the river for an hour; prices have to be negotiated with the sailor.
Furthermore, vendors will set up their stall near the scenic point so that visitors and locals alike can enjoy thai food while watching the scenery and appreciating the weather. Don’t forget to try out “Mapraow Kaew – Glass Coconut”. it is made with either coconut milk, or coconut water mixed chewed with a special type of sugar.
