The Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (Nakhon Phanom - Khammouane), or simply known as the Friendship Bridge 3, is a stunningly designed bridge that connects Thailand at Ban Hom, At Samat sub-district of the capital district of Nakhon Phanom province, and the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) at Ban Vientai, Thakhek city, Khammouane district. The backdrop of the bridge presents a beautiful view of the complex arrangement of large and small limestone mountains on the Lao side. Underneath the bridge, a viewpoint is situated along the Mekong River, offering another breathtaking perspective of the bridge.
This bridge serves as a transportation route, enhancing trade, investment, and tourism between Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the southern part of China. It was constructed using a budget of 1.723 billion baht from the Thai government, took 900 days to complete, measures 780 meters in length, stands 10 meters high, and is 13 meters wide, comprising two traffic lanes.
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn officially opened the bridge in conjunction with Bunyang Worachit, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, on November 11, 2011, at 11:11 am, to commemorate the event.
This bridge fosters the connection between the two countries, representing the third twin city project, a joint policy between the Thai and Lao governments to promote area development and economic activities in the form of twin cities. This is a part of the Iravadi-Chao Phraya-Mekong economic cooperation strategy, following the two existing twin city bridges over the Mekong River, namely the First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (Nong Khai - Vientiane) and the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (Mukdahan - Savannakhet).
Moreover, it is a part of the Asian Highway or AH15, connecting Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom in Thailand with Thakhek in Laos, and Vinh and Quang Binh in Vietnam.
The Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is an interesting tourist spot in Nakhon Phanom province. Visitors can reach the bridge by taking Route No. 212 towards Tha Uthen district. The bridge is approximately 8 kilometers from the city center. Visitors can see the bridge and if they wish to ascend the bridge, they should drive straight and turn left to the parking area at the entrance checkpoint for cross-border procedures. Alternatively, to reach the viewpoint under the bridge, they should return and enter the path under the bridge to find a public park (viewpoint).
For those planning a trip to Nakhon Phanom province, don't miss checking in at the Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. It's another beautiful bridge amidst natural scenery that will provide a soothing experience, like recharging your battery, before you continue with your tasks.
Source : The Nakhon Phanom Provincial Office of the Public Relations Department
Tel. +66 4251 1287
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