Mukdahan, Thailand’s 73rd province, is located on the Mekong River bordering Laos, making it an essential cultural and economic bridge between Thailand and Laos. Established in 1770 by Chao Chanthakinnaree, Mukdahan’s origins trace back to the late Ayutthaya period, when settlers from the Lao side of the Mekong moved to a site marked by natural abundance. These early settlers established the revered Wat Si Mongkhon temple and the town’s iconic name, inspired by a mystical glowing “Mukda” (pearl) that appeared along the riverbank. Mukdahan gained prominence as a city of strategic importance during the Thonburi period, with King Taksin appointing Chao Chanthakinnaree as its first governor. Mukdahan’s geography has fostered cross-border trade, exemplified by the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, which links Mukdahan with Savannakhet, Laos.

Today, Mukdahan spans over 4,339.83 square kilometers and comprises seven districts. The province is a part of the East-West Economic Corridor, providing an essential transit route for trade across Southeast Asia. Mukdahan’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with rice paddies, irrigation projects, and forest areas occupying significant portions of the province. Known for its diverse cultural heritage, Mukdahan is home to eight ethnic groups, each contributing to the province's rich customs, arts, and traditions, such as the unique Lam Phaya folk music.