Here are 10 best things to do in 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) in Lao PDR:
1. Visit Khonephapheng waterfall: The largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume, with a width of 10,783 feet.
2. Go dolphin watching: Irrawaddy dolphins are a rare and endangered species that can be found in the Mekong River of 4000 Islands. You can take a boat tour to see them up close.
3. Visit Don Det Island: This tiny island is a backpacker’s paradise. You can rent a bike and explore the island’s beautiful scenery.
4. Walk on the sandbar of Don Khon Island: A beautiful and unique sandbar that appears only during the dry season, allowing you to walk to a nearby island.
5. Explore the ancient French railway on Don Khon Island: A historic railway that was built to bypass the Khonephapheng waterfall.
6. Kayaking through Si Phan Don Islands: Paddle through narrow channels and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Mekong River.
7. Relax in a hammock: You can find plenty of hammocks at the guesthouses on the islands, where you can relax, read a book, and enjoy the view.
8. Rent a motorbike to explore 4000 Islands: Rent a motorbike or scooter and explore the islands, visit some hidden waterfalls and relax by the riverside.
9. Try local Lao cuisine: The area is known for its river fish, sticky rice, and coconut-based curries, so be sure to try some of the local dishes at the riverside restaurants.
10. Take a sunset cruise: You can relax with a drink on a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Mekong River at sunset.
The Plain of Jars is a mysterious archaeological site located in the Xieng Khouang Province of Laos, also known as Lao PDR (People’s Democratic Republic). The site is characterized by a vast area of over 90 different sites where thousands of stone jars, ranging in size from one to three meters in height and weighing up to several tons, are scattered throughout the landscape. The jars are believed to date back to the Iron Age, between 500 BCE and 500 CE, although their exact purpose and origin remain a mystery.
Despite the site’s cultural and historical significance, the Plain of Jars has suffered significant damage from bombing during the Vietnam War and unregulated looting. However, efforts are being made to preserve and protect the site, including the establishment of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Today, visitors can explore some of the jar sites and learn about the history and cultural significance of this mysterious and intriguing
Southern provinces showcase tourist drawcards Four southern provinces in cooperation with local businesses are staging a programme of events to promote tourism and attract more visitors from around Laos and other countries.
The promotional activities are taking place on February 16-17 in Xekong province.
Head of the Xekong provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Mr Bouxay Xaysasane, told the Vientiane Times that the activities comprise sports contests between the provinces of Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan, and market fairs to sell agricultural produce and handicrafts from the four provinces.
Provincial authorities are also organising a food festival selling food items made by local ethnic groups and producers accredited to the One District, One Product scheme, which is taking place from February 14-18.
Following a meeting, representatives from Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan provinces visited popular tourist attractions and local villages.
The events mark the first time these provinces have combined forces to actively shared lessons learned in the development of tourism.
The aim is to strengthen provincial connectivity and draw more tourists to the southern provinces and the plateau region, using the area’s scenic splendours as the main drawcard.
Attapeu takes pride in its waterfalls, especially Tad Xepha, Tad Samongphak, Tad Xeponglay and Tad Phapong, and Nong Fa Lake, which is famous for its deep blue water.
Saravan province boasts scenic wonders such as Loc, Mayhia, Soung, Saen and Kaengkou waterfalls, as well as Phouphasouk Park with its waterfalls, nine caves and Pha Taem Phou Lahit hill.
Visitors to Champassak can make good use of adventure activities such as trekking and zip-lining, as well as enjoy organic produce from the Bolaven Plateau, including coffee.
Xekong province is famed for the Nokkhao, Faek and Huakhon waterfalls, and for its local food including cucumber salad and products made from Indian gooseberries. By Vientiane Times Reporters (Latest Update February 17, 2023)
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/337294392_741287844357238_1514133469296879506_n_0.jpg15362048Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Original.blue_.whitetext.jpeg-150x150-1.jpgSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-08-24 09:00:002023-08-21 13:44:34Southern Laos at its best
There has been an increase in the number of international hotel chains moving into Lao PDR (Laos) in recent years due to the country’s growing tourism industry. However, I do not have the most up-to-date information on the number of international hotel chains currently operating in Laos.
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, some of the major international hotel chains that have a presence in Laos include the Accor Group, which operates the Sofitel, Pullman, and Novotel brands in the country, and the Marriott International Group, which operates the Marriott and Sheraton brands in Laos. Other international hotel chains with a presence in Laos include the Best Western, InterContinental, and Crowne Plaza brands.
It is worth noting that the hospitality industry can be dynamic and subject to change. Therefore, there may be new international hotel chains that have entered the market since my knowledge cutoff date.
Lao PDR (Laos) has become a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts in recent years, with its limestone cliffs and karst formations providing a unique and challenging climbing experience. Some of the most popular climbing areas in Laos include:
1. Thakhek: Located in central Laos, Thakhek is a popular climbing destination known for its limestone cliffs and challenging routes. The climbing season in Thakhek typically runs from November to March.
2. Vang Vieng: Situated north of the capital city of Vientiane, Vang Vieng is another popular climbing area in Laos. The limestone cliffs here offer a range of routes suitable for climbers of all levels.
3. Luang Prabang: While not as well-known as Thakhek or Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang is also home to some excellent climbing areas, including the Pha Phayom and Pha Daeng cliffs.
It’s worth noting that rock climbing in Laos is still a relatively new and developing activity, and climbers should exercise caution and use the services of a reputable guide or climbing company to ensure safety. Additionally, it’s important to respect the local environment and culture while climbing in Laos.
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Angnamtong View Resort and Draft House Restaurant, about 90 minutes from Vientiane Capital in Meuang Feuang, held its soft opening in March 2022, and is already attracting guests to its villas, floating pavilions, and water sports on the Nam Tong Reservoir. The secluded yet easily accessible property is set to fully open before the end of this year.
The resort’s super-tall villas are perched on the hillside with stilts, and overlook the lake through floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors. The villas comfortably sleep two, but there is room to bring in extra beds for families. The interiors feature nicely varnished wood ceilings, walls, and floors, giving the room a modern, natural feel. Each villa opens to a balcony with ample seating and a net-like hammock that hangs from the base.
Below the villas, a long bamboo dock presents the resort’s focal point. It runs parallel to the shoreline, with more than 20 salas set on the lake for friends and families, who want lounge, eat, drink, or dive into the calm waters for a swim. Kids can safely cool off in small pools that extend out from the pavilions and dip into the reservoir like nets with floors.
The artificial archipelago also serves as the center for a variety water activities. Guests can paddle kayaks around the lake’s islets and peninsulas, before tying them off at their salas. Jet skiers can bring their water scooters to rip around on the smooth surface. Tubes are also available for just lazing on the lake in front of the pavilions.
The resort’s Draft House Restaurant offers a menu starring local Lao favorites including fish, laap (minced fish or pork salad), spicy somtam, and noodle and rice dishes. Guests can eat at the restaurant or have meals and snacks, along with cold soft drinks and beer, delivered to their pavilions on the dock. Sunset dinners at the salas are already a big hit.
Angnamtong View Resort presents a great overnight stopover on the overland route between Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang. Guests staying at Meuang Feuang’s Nam Lik Riverside accommodation will find the Angnamtong a pleasant daytime diversion. It’s off the beaten track, yet only about 90 minutes from the capital and less from Vang Vieng, making it perfect for day trippers.
For more information and to book a villa at Angnamtong View Resort, click here.
How to Get to Angnamtong View Resort : From Vientiane and Vang Vieng, take the expressway to the Hin Hoeup exit and head west on the newly paved Nam Lik River Road to Ban Don, where you turn south on the Meuang Feuang District road. Continue for about 15 minutes to the righthand turn to the resort.
Laos has planted its national flag atop Nong Khiaw’s Pha Daeng Peak, arguably the country’s #1 viewpoint. The summit is known for its morning “Sea Fog” and recent addition of tent camping about three hours north of Luang Prabang.
A dawn hike to the top takes climbers above the clouds that cling to the mountains in the horizon. The rising sun burns off the mist to reveal a 360-degree panorama starring the Nam Ou River snaking around Nong Khiaw Town.
The Lao flag stands on a boulder at the absolute pinnacle of Pha Daeng Peak, like the cherry on top of a viewpoint sundae. The scene begs visitors to step up for a portrait or selfie that guarantees a string of comments and emojis on your Facebook page.
The new camping option adds a mountain sunset for afternoon hikers, who can then catch the following morning’s Sea Fog show. Pitch a tent, have a cook out, sit around a campfire, and enjoy a night in nature.
The easy-to-follow, zig-zagging trail to the peak takes an hour or so, depending on the hiker’s pace in tackling the medium-grade trek. The well-signed path is constantly being improved by the community, who continually add ropes and steps to help climbers, especially during Green Season (July-October), when the trail can get a bit sloppy.
A wooden shelter greets the intrepid to Pha Daeng Peak, presenting a place to rest or bite into a snack and sip on the drink you brought along.
Tent camping began trending among Laotians during the 2020-2021 Lao Thiao Lao domestic tourism campaign. Since Laos reopened on 9 May 2022, local tour operators are adding tent camping at Pha Daeng Peak to their Luang Prabang itineraries for foreign tourists. To prevent crowding, campers need to book in advance.
Getting to Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang
The 142-km drive in a van from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw takes about 3 hours. Transportation providers in Luang Prabang offer seats in vans and cars. Local busses are also available at the bus station. Departure times vary, but tend to leave in the early morning. You can also access Nong Khiaw from Muang Xai by car or motorbike.
Getting to Pha Daeng Viewpoint Entrance
The entrance to the Pha Daeng Viewpoint trail is located across the bridge from Nong Khiaw Town. The distance is less than 1 km. The entrance and ticket booth (LAK 20,000 as of 1 July) is on the left and presents several information panels about the hike and the community, who is the caretaker of the attraction and activity.
Preparing for the Hike
The trek takes a moderate amount of fitness. It is recommended to wear appropriate walking footwear, though locals make the hike in sandals. Visitors will need to bring their own food and drinks as none are yet available at the top. Campers will need to bring their own gear or join a group with a tour operator in Luang Prabang or Nong Khiaw Town. To book tent camping (maximum 10 PAX), WhatsApp/Tel +856 20 2202 2555.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/1-Pha-Daeng-Flag-2.jpeg600800Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Original.blue_.whitetext.jpeg-150x150-1.jpgSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-08-16 09:31:002023-08-11 12:36:33Hiking & Camping at the Best Viewpoint in Laos: Pha Daeng Peak
Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Despite being one of the least developed countries in the region, Laos has seen a steady growth in its tourism industry in recent years.
Tourism in Laos is largely centered around its rich cultural and natural heritage. The country boasts of stunning landscapes, including the Mekong River, which runs through the heart of Laos, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, a city with a well-preserved blend of traditional Lao and colonial French architecture.
Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is a popular destination among tourists due to its stunning temples and monasteries, night markets, and traditional Lao cuisine. Visitors can also witness the daily alms-giving ceremony, where monks walk through the streets collecting food offerings from locals and tourists.
Another popular destination in Laos is Vang Vieng, a town situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains. Vang Vieng is known for its adventure activities, including cave exploration, kayaking, and tubing down the river.
Laos is also home to several national parks and reserves, such as the Phou Hin Poun National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which is home to rare animal species such as the saola and the Indochinese tiger.
Tourism in Laos is still relatively underdeveloped compared to other countries in the region, and the country has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to attract more visitors. The government has also been promoting community-based tourism initiatives to help local communities benefit from tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.
Overall, Laos offers a unique cultural and natural experience to tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia beyond the more popular destinations in the region.
