Second Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge (Second Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge) is a major international bridge crossing the Mekong River with a total length of approximately 1,600 meters. Designed according to international engineering standards, the bridge supports both cross-border transportation and international travel. Its reinforced concrete multi-span structure accommodates two traffic lanes along with safety shoulders on both sides.

The bridge officially opened in 2006 with major financial support from Japan, as part of regional infrastructure development cooperation within the Greater Mekong Subregion. The project was developed to strengthen the East–West Economic Corridor (EWEC), linking routes from Myanmar through Thailand and Laos to Vietnam, making the bridge strategically important for logistics, international trade, and tourism.

On the Thai side in Mukdahan Province, the area beneath the bridge has been developed into a large public riverside zone featuring landscaped walkways along the Mekong River (riverfront promenade), activity spaces, rest areas, and scenic viewpoints overlooking Savannakhet, Laos. The area is especially popular during sunset when visitors can enjoy panoramic river views and the relaxing atmosphere along the Mekong.

One of the most iconic landmarks here is Phaya Sri Mukda Maha Muni Neelapala Nakarat, a giant blue Naga sculpture symbolizing the spiritual beliefs of communities along the Mekong River. The Naga is regarded as the guardian of the river and prosperity, making this site significant in terms of tourism, culture, and local faith. Today, it has become one of Mukdahan’s most popular check-in spots for tourists and spiritual travelers.

In addition, the riverside viewpoint functions as an important urban public space, widely used for jogging, walking, relaxing, sightseeing, and photography. During the evening, the area transforms into a lively local food zone filled with street food vendors along the Mekong, helping stimulate the local economy alongside the bridge’s regional economic role.

Another important feature of the bridge is its role as a primary gateway for travelers heading to Savannakhet Province in Laos, as well as onward routes to Southern Laos and Central Vietnam. As a result, it remains busy year-round with tourists, business travelers, and international cargo transportation.

Today, the Second Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge is more than just a transportation structure; it serves as a vital connection for economy, culture, and tourism between Thailand and Laos, while standing as one of Mukdahan’s most recognizable landmarks.

• By Car: From Mukdahan city center, take Chayangkun Road (Highway 212) toward Nakhon Phanom for approximately 7 kilometers. Then turn right onto Highway 239 and continue directly to the bridge area.

• The best time to visit is between 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM for cooler weather and beautiful sunset lighting

• Choose the viewpoint beneath the bridge on the Mukdahan side for the clearest Mekong and Laos scenery

• Visit and pay respect to Phaya Sri Mukda Maha Muni Neelapala Nakarat for good fortune

• In the evening, try local riverside street food such as grilled pork, som tam, and refreshing drinks

• If crossing into Savannakhet, prepare your Passport or Border Pass in advance

Admission Fee:

• Free (viewpoint area only)

Opening Hours:

• Viewpoint Area: Open 24 Hours
• Border Checkpoint: 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM