After countless raids in Chiang Khong, the local chief stepped down in early 1904 and was replaced by a Shan.

When the rest of Laos was handed over to the French, the Siamese got permission to enter the previous demilitarized zone and defeat the Shans, where they easily captured back Chiang Khong with no resistance.

[1] The Phi Pan Nam mountains and their wide intermontane basins dominate the landscape of the district.

The 1,328 m high Doi Luang Pae Mueang massif (ดอยหลวงแปเมือง) rises west of Chiang Khong town.

The Mekong River flows at the northern end of the district, partially forming the boundary with Laos.