 In 1906 it was established as a district.Neighboring districts are (from the east clockwise) Rattanawapi and Fao Rai of Nong Khai Province; Ban Dung, Sang Khom, and Phen of Udon Thani Province; and Mueang Nong Khai of Nong Khai.To the north across the Mekong River are the Laotian Vientiane Prefecture and Bolikhamxai Province.