This week’s HOT SPOT Nong Khai

Mysterious fireballs over the Mekong are cause for celebration in northern Thailand.

On the full moon of the 11th lunar month, which coincides with the end of the rainy season and Buddhist Lent, a serpent by the name of Naga is said to ply the waters of the Mekong, shooting balls of flames from her mouth.

At least that’s one explanation for the fireballs seen over the river in Nong Khai Province each October.

Others say the phenomenon is a result of methane gas rising from the river bottom and igniting in the air.

You’re likely to get a better view of the fireballs in the village of Phon Phisai, but the town of Nong Khai hosts a bigger party.

Across the river from Vientiane in Laos, Nong Khai has been popular with travellers seeking peace, quiet and banana pancakes for years.

And check out Sala Kaew Ku with its bizarre statues of Buddha, Shiva and other deities.