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Laos
Attractions & City Guide
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Phongsaly
General Information
Located : In the northern most of the country
Total Area : 16,270 square meters
Population : 174,000
07 districts : Phongsaly, May, Khua, Samphanh, Boon-Neua,
Boon-Tai, and Gnot-Ou
Capital : Phongsaly
 Phongsaly
is situated in the northern most part of the country sharing
borders with Chaina and Vietnam. The population comprises
with 13 minority ethnic groups: Khammu, Thai Dam, Thai Daeng,
Yao, Leu, Hor, Hmong, Akha, Yang, Bid, Lolo and others. Each
minority ethnic group has their own identity, language and
culture such as wedding ceremonies, handicrafts, silver
wares and jewelry.
Phou Doychy is the highest mountain in the area, has a
height of 1,842 meters and 77% of the forest throughout the
province. A commanding view of the municipal area can be
seen at the peak of Phou Fa Mountain. A height of 1,625
meters can be reached by road or for the energetic; an even
better view can be seen by ascending additional 431 steps to
the top of Phou Fa.
The weather in Phonsaly is well suited to the saying that it
has “four seasons in a single day”. In the morning and
evening the cold rolls in. the daytime is very humid and the
afternoons are rainy, rendering the forest and surrounding
vegetation a luscious green color throughout the year.
Wat Ou-Tai Temple
It is situated in Ban Ou- Tai Village, constructed over 500
years old by Praya Chakkawattiraja. Within the monastery,
there is Hor Thane Keo (plac where Buddha Images are kept)
which was constructed by mud and decorated with the arts in
its ariginal form. Each wooden column of the monastery
stands on stones, with beautiful drawings and decorated with
daggers, swords, flowers and flags entirely crafted from
wood. Besides the monastery, there is a shrine, constructed
from brick. Tai Lue ethnic groups call this shrine “ Ou Bo
Sot” which translates into a place where monks gather to
undertake religion proceedings.
Wat Luang Ou-Neua Temple
An ancient structure, which had been built in the same time
of Wat Ou Tai, located in Ban Ou Neua Village. All
structures are very beautiful especially the double
overlapping roof featuring Lue architecture. The temple is
adorned with traditional fine art techniques and houses a
large Buddha image and other smaller Buddha statue. This
temple is widely revered by the Lue people.
Besides the pagoda, there is a stone inscription written in
Chinese's relating to the construction of the temple.
That Phou Xay Stupa
Located at the top of the hill, Wat Luang Ou-Neua Temple can
be reached by walking up 400 stairs. It remains a natural
and cultural site where visitors can learn about the fine
arts and architecture of the Lue ethnic groups.
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Luangnamtha
General Information
Located : A
northern province bordering on China and Myanmar
Total Area : 9,325 square meters
Population : 140,000
05 Districts : Namtha, Sing, Long, Viengphoukha and Nalae
Capital : Namtha
 Luangnamtha
is a northern province bordering on China and Myanmar. The
province’s combination of environmental, social, historical
and development factors has made it a great location to
develop sustainable cultural and eco-tourism initiatives.
Namtha National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA) was
established where dense forest cover 90% of the terrain. A
vast array of wildlife including wild cattle (guar and
banteng), Asian wild dogs, tigers, clouded leopard, bears,
monkeys and gibbons can be found living in the NBCA and
surrounding area. The lush vegetation of the NBCA is also
home to a large population of birds.
The area is populated by a variety of different ethnic
groups including such groups as the Khamu, Akha (Eko), Hmong,
Yao (Ioumien) and Lanetene. Lowland Lao people, Tai Lue,
Thai Neua and Thai Dam also live in villages just outside
the protected area and in the areas surrounding the historic
town of Muong Sing.
Muong Sing District
Once a garrison town and the most northern outpost during
the time of French colonial rule, the town was also the
center of the Sipsongpana civilization now living in Yunnan
Province in the southern China. The old barracks and other
colonial buildings are unusual features worthy of visiting
when in this area.
This district has a picturesque beauty with mountains and
many old temples. Although many temples were destroyed
during the war, one major attraction and several old temples
remain which are noticeably different in style from the
classical temoles found elsewhere in Laos.
Many tour itineraries include an outing to Boten, the
Lao-Chinese border Checkpoint and to the west where
speed-boats can be taken down the Mekong River through
spectacular gorges and rapids to Houixay District and Luang
Prabang Province.
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Oudomxay
General Information
Located : In the northern of the countr
Total Area : 15,370 square meters
Population :
250,000
05 Districts : Xay, La, Namor, Nga, Beng, Hoon and Pakbeng
Capital : Xay
 Oudomxay
is populated by some 23 ethnic minorities mainly Hmong, Ekor
(Akha) and Khammu. Adventurous eco-tourism tours can be
arranged from village to village with travel either by
oxcart or on foot. Tad Lak Sip Et Waterfall at Km 11 in
Muong Xay District, as well as hot springs and temples at
Muong La District and Phouxay Mountain are among some of the
outstanding natural scenery worth visiting when in the area.
Oudomxay’s proximity to China has brought the province rapid
economic growth and infrastructure developments, including
good road access to the provincial capital, Xay District.
Muong La District
Located at 28 kilometers from the provincial capital, at Wat
Ban Pakla Temple, known for its 400 year old Pra Xaek Kham
“Gold plated Buddha Image”, which is considered very sacred
and worshiped by the locals. It is the one of the oldest
historical sites in Laos, which has presently become a
tourism attraction within the province. Muong La also has a
hot water spring, an old French bridge, natural scenery and
the beauty of the Nam La River for all tourists to enjoy
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Bokeo
General Information
Located : In the northwest of Laos
Total Area : 6,196 square meters
Population : 135,000
05 Districts : Houixay, Tonpheung, Meung, Phaodom and Paktha
Capital : Houixay
 Located
within to the infamous “Golden Triangle” (the three-bordered
intersection of Lao PDR, Myanmar and Thailand) and at the
“Economic Quadrangle” where Laos, Thailand, Myanmar and
China meet.
In Bokeo there are 36 townships, more than 400 villages and
a total population of 135,000. The Province is home to a
large number of ethnic minorities, each with their own
lifestyle and customs
The named “Bokeo” means the pits of sapphires or called
“Keo-Praseuth” because it is a rich mining center for gold
and sapphire. Commercial mining for precious stones and gold
is a special feature of the province. In particular, you can
visit Ban Nam Khok (The Lue village), 6 kilometers from the
town and Ban Houi Sala (The Hmongvillage), which is around
18 kilometers from Bokeo town.
If you travel approximately 26 kilometers north from the
center of Houixay District to Ban Namkeung Kow, Ban Namkeung
Mai and Ban Done Dang it is possible to visit traditional
Lue villages. The residents migrated from the Muong Sing
District in Luangnamtha Province. The villages can be
reached by taking a boat trip upstream from province.
Spectacular Mountain scenery, river travel and multi-ethnic
groups make Bokeo a fascinating Province to visit.
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Luang
Prabang -
The world Heritage City
General Information
Located : In
the northern of Laos.
Total Area : 16,875 square meters
Population : 450,000
11 Districts : Luang Prabang, Xieng Ngeun, Nan, Pak Ou,
Nambak, Ngoi, Pakseng, Phonxay, Chomphet, Viengkham and
Phoukhoune
Capital : Luang Prabang (the former capital of Lane Xang
Kingdom during the 13th to 16th Century)
 Located
in the northern of Laos. Luang Prabang is around 360
kilometers from Vientiane, the capital of Laos. It takes
about 8 hours by bus or 35 minutes by Lao Airlines to reach
and it is one of the most attractive areas of the country
Nestled in the valley, surrounded by high mountains and
situated along the Mekong and its tributaries, the town was
once the former capital of Laos, during the Lane Xang
Kingdom from the 13th to 16th centuries
 Luang
Prabang is renowned as the cultural and religious capital of
Laos. On the 2nd December 1995, UNESCO inscribed the town on
to it’s World Heritage List, ensuring the preservation of a
mixture of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture.
The unique character and charm of Luang Prabang helps to
make it the one of the most popular tourist destination in
the country. The magnificent temples in Luang Prabang are
considered among the most beautiful in South East Asia
It is increasingly popular for both Lao and foreign tourists
to visit Luang Prabang for Pimao Lao (the Lao New Year
Festival), which takes place in mid April. The boat Racing
Festival, which takes place in August, is also celebrated
with an emphasis on features that are unique from other
regions in Laos
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Xiengkhuoang
General Information
Located : Northeastern Laos
Total Area : 15,880 square meters
Population : 230,000
07 Districts : Pek, Kham, Nonghed, Khoune, Morkmay, Phoukood
and Phaxay
Capital : Pek
 Located
435 kilometers northeast of the capital, Vientiane.
Xiengkhuoang can be reached by bus from Vientiane, Luang
Prabang and Huaphanh or by direct flight (Lao Airlines) from
Vientiane
Xiengkhuoang is a mountainous region full of caves and
waterfalls. From an aircraft, you will observe how large the
province is with its vast plateau
Xiengkhuoang preserves a fine collection of archeological
riches, including the famous Plain of Jars. The surrounding
mountains of Xiengkhuoang are home to several tribes of
indigenous people with their colorful traditional dress and
simple way of life. This province also has the dubious
distinction of having been one of the most heavily bombed
areas in Laos between 1964 and 1973
 The
mystery of the Plain of Jars
The mysterious Plain of Jars is situated about 12 kilometers
from Ban Phonsavanh, the capital of the province. There are
over 300 giant jars scattered across the misty plateau. The
jars vary in size from 1 to 3 meters height and up to 2.7
meters in diameter with the heaviest jar weighting 6 tons
The purpose of the jars, thought to have been carved from
solid rock around 3,000 years ago, remains a mystery. The
landscape evokes thoughts of the grandeur, as the jars are
the last remnants of an advanced Bronze Age civilization now
long gone
Hot Spring
Apprximately52 kilometers north of the provincial capital of
Phonsavanh in Muong Kham District there is a natural mineral
hot water spring in a beautiful wooden area. Some people
believe the water from the spring has magical properties to
cure skin diseases. Visitors can enjoy a bath in natural hot
springs however they should remain careful as temperatures
can reach as high as 60 degrees Celsius
Hmong Village
On the way to Muong Khoun District, you will pass by Hmong
villages where you can observe their simple daily life,
which remains in touch with nature and its elements. There
are many traditional activities: weaving, basket making,
woodcarving and the never-ending daily chores of farming. On
Sunday, there is an opportunity to attend the weekly market
day where souvenirs and some hand made products are sold;
usually at prices lower than on offer in Vientiane
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Vientiane
-
The Capital of Laos
General Information
Location : On a curve of the Mekong River, which shares its
border with Thailand
Total Area : 3,920 square meters
Population : 610,000
08 Districts : Chanthabuly, Sikhottabong, Xaysetha,
Sisattanak, Naxaithong, Xaythany, Hadsaifong, Sangthong and
Muongparkngum
Capital : Vientiane Municipality
 Capital
Vientiane is the capital of Laos and shares its border with
Thailand. King Saysethathirath constructed the city on the
curve of the Mekong River in the 16th century
The old part of Vientiane is an attractive and interesting
settlement along the Mekong River where ancient temples,
museums, monuments and parks are all located just a short
distance from one another
The cosmopolitan capital of Laos, Vientiane has galleries,
boutiques, theatres, nightclubs and Internet cafes, making
it a major attraction of visitors from all around the globe.
Although small, the city offers visitors a great variety of
restaurants serving both Lao and foreign cuisine
That Luang Stupa (Great Sacred Stupa)
Originally built in 1566 by King Saysethathirath, That Luang
Stupa was rebuilt in 1953. The golden stupa stands 45 meters
tall and is believed to contain a relic of Lord Buddha.
Today it is the nation’s most important cultural monument.
Symbolizing the coming together of all Lao people it holds a
special place in the national psyche
The gold colored centerpiece of this stupa echoes the curve
of an elongated Lotus bud. The shrine is the focus for the
annual That Luang Festival. The festival is celebrated for 7
daysand nights during the twelfth full moon of the Buddhist
lunar calendar where monks are presented with flower
offerings and residents enjoy traditional cultural
performances
That Luang Stupa is open from 8:00H to 16:00H, except
Mondays and public holidays
Ho Pra Keo Museum
Previously the ancient temple, it was built in 1565 by King
Saysethathirath to house the Emerald Buddha (lost to the
Siamese in 1828) as his personal place of worship. For this
reason and unlike other temples in Laos, monks have not
taken up residence here. During the 1970’s the temple was
converted from a place of worship into a museum and it now
houses nation’s finest collection of Buddhist sculpture and
artifacts
From the terrace of HoPra Keo a view overlooking the
President’ Palace (former Royal Palace) and gardens can be
enjoyed. The museum is open daily 08:00H to 12:00H and
13:00H to 16:00H
Wat Sisaket Temple
This temple is located in the center of the old city and was
built in 1818 by King Anouvong and is Vientiane’s oldest
remaining temple having survived the destination of the city
by the Siamese in 1828
The oldest monastery stands intact in its original from and
certainly is one of the most interesting in the country.
Inside the main hall, the courtyard walls house hundreds of
little niches and shelves containing a total of 6,840 Buddha
images. Ho Trai is a hall containing many Buddhist
manuscripts, which were published in the 18th century. The
temple is also renowned after featuring as the Lao national
emblem at the 1970 Expo Osaka in Japan
The temple is open daily from 08:00H to 12:00H and 13:00H to
16:00H
 Patuxay
Monument
The memorial monument of Patuxay is perhaps the most
prominent landmark in the city. It was constructed in its
prominent position on Lanexang Avenue in 1958. While the
architecture was inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
the design incorporates typical Lao motifs including “Kinnari”,
a mythical birdwoman
Energetic visitors can climb to the top of the monument.
Which reveals an excellent panoramic view of the city. The
monument is open daily from 08:00H to 17:00H
Revolutionary Monument
Located near That Luang Stupa, this simple star-tipped
monument was built as a tribute to those who died in the
revolutionary struggle between 1945 to 1975
Wat Simuang Temple
The original foundation pillar of Vientiane can be found in
Wat Simuang, which is located in Ban Simuang village along
the Sethathirath Road. It was built in 1956 and is thought
to be guarded by the spirit a local girl called “Si”. Local
legend has it that Nang Si, who was pregnant at the time,
leapt to her death as a sacrifice, just as the pillar was
being lowered into the hold. A very colorful Phasat Pheung
(wax pavilion procession) takes place two days prior to the
That Luang Festival in November, which attracts large crowds
to Wat Simuang Temple
Wat Ongtue Temple
Wat Ongtue or “the temple of the heavy Buddha”, houses a
16th Century Buddha image weighing an incredible ten tons.
The temple was built by King Saysethathirath and is found on
the street of the same name – Sethathirath Road
Wat Inpeng Temple
Wat Inpeng Pagoda is a historical landmark of arts and
culture, located on the north of Wat Ongtue Temple. There
are many historical elements of interest to those studying
Lao art and culture including the rock sculptures, Buddha
image and rock columns depicting Mon and Khmer cultures
Despite many of the original items in this temple having
since been removed. The pagoda still corresponds to the King
of Gods. It was once said that during construction, He
transformed himself into an old wise man to assist with
construction. Legend also holds that He further transformed
himself into an old white monk to help construct the Buddha
image. From then on, the temple became known as Wat Inpeng,
which means “to transform”
Ta Lat Sao or Morning Market
Located on Lanexang Avenue opposite the Post Office, the
Morning Market consists of 3 main buildings each with 2
floors. This lively shopping market has become the
commercial center of Vientiane. A huge variety of goods are
sold among including Lao antiques, textiles, souvenirs,
handicrafts, jewelry, and products imported from abroad. The
market is open daily from 07:00H to 17:00H
Suan Wattanatham Bandapao or National Ethnic Cultural
Park
The National Ethnic Cultural Park is located 20 kilometers
south from Vientiane near the Friendship Bridge. Visitors
can follow shady paths past model-sized traditional Lao
Homes, sculpture of Lao literacy heroes and through a small
zoo. Afterwards visitors can relax at the Mekong’s
riverside, where the view of Khau Midthaphab (Friendship
Bridge) can be enjoyed from several bars and restaurants
The National Ethnic Cultural Park is open daily from 08:00H
to 18:00H
Khau Midthaphab or Friendship Bridge
The friendship Bridge was officially opened in April 1994
and it spans the Mekong River linking Lao P.D.R. (Vientiane)
with neighboring Thailand (Nongkhai). As one of Lao’s
International Border Checkpoints, tourists can be obtained
for entry at the Bridge
It is open daily from 06:00H to 22:00
Xieng Khouan Buddha Park
The Xieng Khouan Buddha Park is a religious sculpture park,
which was built in 1958. A collection of Buddhist and Hindu
sculptures is scattered amongst gardens and trees. Built
about 28 kilometers south of Vientiane backing onto the
Mekong River, the town of Nongkhai in neighboring Thailand
can be seen on the opposite side of the river
The park is open daily from 08:00H to 16:3
Hinkhanna Waterfall
This small but attractive waterfall is situated in
Naxaithong District about 25 kilometers to the north of
Vientiane
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Xayabury
General Information
Location : In northwestern Laos
Total Area : 16,389square meters
Population : 330,000
10 Districts : Xayabury, Khop, hongsa, Ngeun, Xienghone,
Phiang, Parklai, Kenethao, Botene and Thongmyxay
Capital : Xayabury
Travel to this rugged landscape will reveal many beautiful
mountains and flower gardens. The local people earn their
living via agricultural products such as growing rice,
cucumbers, cotton, cabbages, beans and sugarcane. Elephants
continue to be used for loading and transporting heavy items
Sightseeing includes;
Xayabury
District
Tam Hine Cave
Wat Natonoy Temple
Ban Yao Village
Tad Chao Waterfall
Phiang District
Tad Namyal Waterfall
Tham Phaway Cave
Phangoy, Phakeo and Pha Heua Caves
Kenethao District
Tad Namphong Waterfall
Wat Siphoun Temple
Tham Seng Yeun Cave
Betene District
Tad Ham, Tad Malou and Tad Fanh Waterfall
Ban Leu Village
Hongsa District
Tad Itan Waterfall
Ban Tha Xuang Village
Ngeun
District
Wat Xieng Ngeun Temple
That Mat Stupa
Khone, the weaving village
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Huaphanh
General Informati
Location : In northeast Laos
Total Area : 16,500 square meters
Population : 280,000
08 Districts : Xamneua, Xiengkhor, Viengthong, Viengxay,
Huameuang, Xamtay, Sopbao and Add
Capital : Xamneua
 Huaphanh
is abundant with natural resources and beautiful scenery.
It’s isolation and rugged landscapes led the Lao Peoples’
Party to use Huaphanh as its base during the war years. The
province is also famous for its Limestone Mountains and
Caves. In fact, more than one hundred caves are located in
the area, some of the more well-known of these are mentioned
below
Tham Than Souphanouvong Cave
The former residence and hideout of the revolutionary leader
and later the President, Souphanouvong. He established the
cave as a base in 1964
 Tham
Than Kaysone Cave
Established as a base and hideout in 1964, this cave became
the residence of the revolutionary leader and later the
President Kaysone Phomvihane
Tham Than Khamtay Cave
This cave, formerly the revolutionary hideout of current the
President, Khamtay Siphandone. It consists of many
compartments such as meeting rooms, reception rooms and a
research room
Saleu and Nasala villages
Both of these villages well known for the high quality
weaving and local handicrafts. Located in Xiengkhor District
on Route 6 about 125 kilometers out of Xamneua District.
These villages are well worth visiting
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Borikhamxay
General Information
Location : In the center of Laos
Total Area : 14,863 square meters
Population : 190,000
06 Districts : Pakxanh, Thaphabath, Pakkading, Borikhan,
Viengthong and Khamkheuth.
Capital : Pakxanh
Borikhamxay can be reached by bus, leaving from the Morning
Market bus station
Tourist sites include:
 Ban
Na Hin (Stone Forest)
Located in Phou Pha Mane Region, Ban Na Hin housed thousands
of rock pinnacles, creating a stone forest reminiscent of
limestone outcrops of southern China
Wat Phabath and Wat Phonsanh Temple
An important pilgrimage site between Vientiane and Pakxanh,
with a huge “footprint” of Lord Buddha, colorful murals and
nice view of the Mekong River
Lak Sao
A new town with a wild-west atmosphere, provides a border,
Nampao Checkpoint for crossing to Vietnam and access to
limestone Karats Mountains and the Nam Theun protected
wildlife area
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Khammouane
General Informat
Location : In the middle part of Laos
Total Area :16,135 square meters
Population : 330,000
09 Districts : Thakhek, Mahaxay, Nongbok, Hinboun,
Nhommalath, Bualapha, Nakai, Xebangfay, and Xaybuathong
Capital : Thakhek
 Located
in the middle part of Laos and it shares the northern border
with Borikhamxay, the southern with Savannakhet, the east
with Vietnam and the west with Nanork Phanom, Thailand
The natural resources are mountains and forests, for
example: The Nakai Namtheun forest preservation area of the
total 352,200 ha, the Hinnamnor preservation area 82,000 ha
and Phou Hinpoun150,000 ha, These forests make the province
very beautiful with many natural caves. The Xebangfay (239
km long), Hinboun, Namtheun and Namgnum are the main rivers
of the province
Magical and Tourist Sites
Thakhek Town
The provincial capital, Thakhekis located along the bank of
the Mekong River. It is very important border opposite
Nakorn Phanom, Thailand. Historically this town has been a
fare front in the war for national independence. In Thakhek
we can see many buildings designed in old colonial style
(French classic)
Sikhottabong StupaBuilt at the same time as That Inhang
Stupa in Savannakhet and That Phanom in Thailand. These were
constructed in the Sikhottabong Empire for keeping the Bones
of Lord Buddha. At first, it was built by King Nanthasene
for King Soummitham then it restored by King Saysethathirath
in the 16th century
It’s a four square stupa, each side is 25030 meters long and
the foot each of 14.33 meters, the high is 29 meters. The
top looks like the banana flower
It is located along the bank of the Mekong River on the
Route 13B, 6km from Thakhek. The Festival is preformed on
the third month of lunar calendar
The Great Wall
Along the Route 13 (south) just at Km 8 before Thakhek on
the West Side, the great rocky wall stretches from the
Namdone River at Km 12, it’s about 15 km long. Some sections
are in the area of Thakhek
Built in Sikhottabong Empire between the 19th century. Now
this wall should be kept as a national heritage and a
tourist site
Tham Khonglor Cave “Beauty in the Dark”
Tham Khonglor Cave is located in the Nation Protected Forest
Area of Hinboun Mountain in Khammouane Province, 310
kilometers southeast of Vientiane and 169 kilometers north
of Thakhek District, the west entrance is at Ban Khonglor
Village, Hinboun District, whereas the east entrance is at
Ban Natan Village, Nakai District
The cave is approximately 7,400 meters long, its width
ranges from 10 to 90 meters. The wide and the height varies
from 20 to 100 meters. The Hinboun River runs through the
cave in all seasons. The most attractive area within the
cave can be observed at Vang That and Had Xay Luang, where
many decorative stones clinging to the ceiling can be view.
Had Xay Luang (White Sand Beach) can also be visited, where
an attractive beach od about 150 meters long and 100 meters
wide can be enjoyed
There are two routes to get to the cave
From Vientiane along Route 13 (south) to Hinboun District
about 160 kilometers then by boat along the Hinboun River
about 120 kilometers
From Vientiane along Route 13 (south) to Ban Lao Village,
turn left to Route 8 (Lak Sao intersection), at Km 37 Ban
Khounkham Village after Theun Hinboun Reservoir turn right
along the earth road about 38 kilometers to Ban Khongloe
Village
 Other
attractive sites for visits in the Province include
Tad Kham Waterfall located 52 kilometers out of Thakhek
District
Tad Nam Khengkam Waterfall, on the Route 13 (south) about 37
kilometers to the east to Thakhek District
Wat Pha Sokkhamsene Temple, an ancient temple located about
1 km out of Nongbok District and about 37 kilometers from
Thakhek District
That Thumphavang Stupa located about 2 kilometers north of
Nongbok District
Tham Nang Cave located 4 kilometers from Ban Na Village in
Hinboun District
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Champasack
General
Information
Located : A southernmost province bordering on
Thailand and Cambodia
Total Area : 15,415 square meter
Population : 600,000
10 Districts : Pakse, Sanasomboun, Bachiangchaleunsouk,
Pakxong, Pathoumphone, Phonthong, Champasack, Sukhuma,
Mounlapamok and Khong
Capital : Pakse
 Fading French colonial architecture and ancient temple ruins
make Champasack a place to see evidence of the rich cultural
heritage of Laos. Rare freshwater dolphins and powerful
waterfalls feature among the highlights to be seen in the
province’s nature. Its geographical condition creates one of
the most beautiful tourist sites in Laos
Champasack has a population of about 600,000 including
Lowland Lao, Highland Lao, Khmers and many unique ethnic
minority groups. The province is also famous for the
production of Lao coffee, tea, rattan, and other
agricultural produces
The distance from Vientiane to Pakse, the provincial capital
of Champasackis 610 kilometers by Route 13 (south) via the
provinces of Borikhamxay, Khammouane, Savannakhet and
saravane
Pakse
Located at the confluence of the Xedone and the Mekong
Rivers, Pakse links trade and travel between Thailand to
Cambodia and Vietnam. Founded as an administrative outpost
by the French in 1905, the town retains much of its colonial
legacy and architecture. The Champasack Historical Heritage
Museum offers a good introduction to Lao history, culture
and art
Champasack
A small town located on the Right Bank of the Mekong River
shares a common border with Thailand. It formed one of the
three principalities of the Lane Xang Empire in 1349 and was
under the region of King Fa Ngum. Visitors to the famous Wat
Amath can observe treasures dating back to stone age
Wat Phou Champasack (The second World Heritage Site in
Laos)
Certainly the highlight of any visit to Champasack Province
is the ancient Khmer Temple of Wat Phou. Situated on the
Phou Kao (mountains) slope 6 kilometers away from Champasack
District and about 45 kilometers from south of Pakse along
the Mekong River. It is also important as an historic and
cultural site and was acknowledged by UNESCO (United Nations
Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) as a World
Heritage Site on December 14, 2001 (the second World
Heritage site in Laos)
Wat Phou, a complex of temple buildings constructed in Khmer
style overlooking the Mekong is both impressive and
inspiring. It is recognized as one of the most important
Hindu sanctuaries of Cambodia’s Khmer Empire, which was in
place between the 9th to 13th Centuries and is the largest
example of Khmer Architecture in southern Laos. On the same
site, ruins dating from pre-Angor times have also been
identified
On the moonmoon of the third lunar month, usually during
February and before celebrations at Angor, Champasack
celebrates the traditional Wat Phou Festival at the ruins.
Festivities include elephant racing, cock fighting and
performances of traditional Lao music and dancing
Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands)
The breathtaking Si Phan Don or Four Thousand Islands are
located in a section of the Mekong River just north of the
border with Cambodia. Don Khong is the largest island and
boasts a number of small villages, temples and caves. A
French-built Bridge remaining from a now defunct railway
connects the two smaller islands of Don Deth and Don Khon
Pakha, freshwater dolphins of the Mekong
The center for protection and conservation of freshwater
Dolphins is located on the border of Laos-Cambodia. The
freshwater dolphins are called “Pakha” in Lao, and inhabit
only this part of the Mekong River. Tourists can observe the
endangered freshwater dolphins by chartering boats from
either Ban Khon or Ban Veunkham (located at the southern tip
of the islands)
Liphi Waterfall
Located on Don Khon, west of Ban Khon Village, Liphi
Waterfall is another amazing natural site to visit in
Champasack Province. A calmer section of the river below the
falls forms a natural habitat for the endangered fresh water
dolphins
Khon Phapheng Waterfall
East of Don Khon on the Mekong River is the jewel of
Champasack Province. Further downstream, the Mekong cascades
across a wide mouth of rock which slopes in curvilinear
pattern is sometimes tinted by rainbow. It’s the Lao
Niagara, the widest waterfall of Asia, more than 20
kilometers width. A place where the Mekong River takes a
drop before continuing its course into the South China Sea
via Cambodia and Vietnam. It’s also renowned as a fish
basin. These spectacular waterfalls render this section of
the Mekong River unavailable
Tad Fane Waterfall
 This natural tourism site is located within the Dong Hua
Sao, a National Biodiversity Conservation Area at Ban Lak 38
along Route 16 from Pakse toward Pakxong District. The
Champi and Prakkoot streams, which originate in the Boloven
Plateau at some 1,000 meters abovesea level, come together
to create the Tad Fane Waterfall. The real beauty of this
waterfall stems from the two branches of the stream dividing
town its steep cliffs. An endless flow of water is created
and if windy, the mist sprays and rainbows are spectacular
The waterfall set among the blue skies and evergreen forest,
creates one of most hypnotizing views. The endless cool
breeze helps capture a full taste of nature. It is a deal
spot for tourists to relax and enjoy nature. Although it is
not possible to reach the waterfall to swim, the view is an
unforgettable experience
Wat Phou Asa
Wat Phou Asa is an ancient Hindu-Khmer pagoda. It was built
on flat rock on Phou Kao Klat Ngong Mount in Pathoumphone
District. In recent times it has become a well-known
National Heritage and Amazing Site. To visit this pagoda,
travel along Route 13 (south) from Pakse. Once arriving at
Km 38, turn left to Route 18B and travel about 8 kilometers
to Ban Klat Ngong Village. It is then a further 2 kilometers
walk to the pagoda
Historically, it was built by the Khmers with worshipping
links to Wat Phou Champasack. Despite the pagoda being in a
damaged stage, it is still an important archeological site
where visitors are welcome. Archeologists have surveyed the
site and are preparing for restoration. It is hoped that Wat
Phou Asa will be preserved shortly so that remains part of
Lao Cultural Heritage forever
Tormor Rocky Channel
Tormor Rocky Channel was listed as the 15th National
Heritage Site in Laos receiving approval via Prime
Minister’s Degree 174/PMO at the same time as Wat Phou
Champasack. The Tormor Rocky Channel archeological site is
located about 11 kilometers southeast from Wat Phou
Champasack on the left bank of the Mekong River
The Tormor Rocky House, as is known by the locals, was
originally built in the 19th Century with bricks and carved
stone during the 7th and 8th Centuries. These were later
destroyed with the Gopuya artwork now on display built with
layered rocks in the 11th and 12th Centuries
Columns of sanstone rock stand along both sides of a
walkway. Although in a ruined state, a large chamber with
front and rear doors and windows on two sides can be
observed on the site. According to inscriptions, historians
have concluded that the channel is a close relation to Wat
Phou Champasack
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Savannakhet
General
Information
Located : In central part of the country
Total Area : 21,774 square meters
Population : 850,000
15 Districts : Khanthabuly, Outhoumphone, Atsaphangthong,
Phine, Sepone, Nong, Thapangthong, Songkhone, Champhone,
Xonbuly, Xaybuly, Vilabuly, Atsaphone, Xayphouthong and
Thaphalanxay
Capital : Khanthabuly
 Fine
French architecture bears testimony to the importance of
Savannakhet during the colonial era. The name Savannakhet
means “The land of Fertility Suitable for Agriculture”
There are 11 ethnic minorities include Lowland Lao, Phouthai,
Thai Dam, Katang, Mongkong, Vali, Lava, Soui, Kapo, kaleung
and Ta-oi
Wat Inghang Temple
Wat Inghang Temple was built during the reign Sikhottabong
of King Sumitatham about 2,000 years ago and is meant to
mark the place where Lord Buddha rested while visiting the
Kingdom of Sikhottabong. Rebuilt in 1548 by King
Saysethathirath, the temple is located at Ban Thad Village
on Route 9 between Savannakhet-Seno at Km 12 turns right
about 3 kilometers. Festive rites are held annually and
organized to coincide with the first full moon of the lunar
calendar
Wat Xayaphoum Temple
Located at Ban Xayaphoum Village on the bank of the Mrkong
River, Wat Xayaphom was built in 1542, the same period of
Ban Thahir or Nakham. It is the center of the local Buddhist
people with arts and architecture dating from the original
Savannakhet. Festive ceremonies are held for Pimai Lao and
the Boat Racing Festival
Ho Tay Pidok Library
These library houses a collection of 200-year-old palm
leaves manuscripts written in the ancient Kham-Pali and Lao
alphabets. It is located in Ban Nonglamchan Village,
Champhone District
Heuan Hin or Stone House
It is a shrine built by the ancient Khmer to the glory of
their “Sikhottabong” empire. The stone House is located in
Ban Dongdokmay, 15 kilometers from Xayphouthong District or
66 kilometers from Khanthabuly, the provincial capital
That Phon Stupa
It
is also another important religious figure found in the
Province. Constructed between the year 557 to 700, festive
rites are held annually and are organized in the first full
moon of the lunar calendar to pay respects to Phra Shiva and
other Hindu Gods
Dinosaur Fossils
Fossilized dinosaur bones were discovered at Ban Tangvay
Village, Xonbuly District in 1930. They are now housed in
the Dinosaur Exhibition Hall in Khanthabuly, the provincial
capital
Route 9, GMS East-West Economic Corridor
Part of the Ho Chi Minh trail and remnants of American tanks
and warplanes can also be visited in Phin District on Route
9, close to the Lao Bao border checkpoint with Vientiane
about 250 kilometers
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