Xaysomboun Province
XAYSOMBOUN OVERVIEW
Located: about 230 kilometers north of the Vientiane Capital
Total area: 8,300 square kilometers
Population: 95,168 (2024)
5 Districts: Anouvong, Long Cheng, Tha Thom, Long San & Hom
Capital of the province: Anouvong
Xaysomboun Province was established on 13 December, 2013 as is the 18th Province of Laos. It is located in the central part of Laos, bordering Xieng Khouang Province to the north and the east, Bolikhamxay Province to the south and Vientiane Province to the west. The majority of its people are Hmong.
Xaysomboun Province has abundant natural resources scattered in high mountains and steep valleys. Due to this contour, the climate in Xaysomboun is pretty cool with the annual average temperature of approximately 20˚C. Furthermore, this province has rich culture and tradition coupled with generous hospitality of local people.
TOURIST DESTINATION
PHOU BIA MOUNTAIN
Phou Bia is the highest (2,820 meters) mountain in Laos, situated in Anouvong District, 30 kilometers north of province’s capital. The annual average temperature on the top of Phou Bia is approximately – 5˚C. This area is rich in biodiversity, providing a home for various species of wildlife. Interestingly, there is a special type of grasses resembles a pile of straw covering throughout the ground, and we will feel smooth when we step on it. Apart from that, thousands of priceless trees such as Mai Long Leng (Fokienia Hodginsii) are also standing along the valley of the mountain. The climate is fresh, humid and cold throughout the year which makes this area more attractive and suitable for relaxation, especially for those who would like to experience cold weather.
CHAO ANOUVONG CAVE
Chao Anouvong Cave is located in Phouhuaxang Village, about 4 kilometers north of Anouvong Town. This area is surrounded by a number of mountains and Nam Jang River flows through the caves. There are two caves located close to each other; one is 7 meters high, 4 meters wide and 30 meters long; the other is 3,5 meters high, 5 meters wide and 300 meters long. The second cave has an interesting history as it has been told that King Anouvong stayed there in order to hide himself from Siamese army. In spite of a small force of King Anouvong, he eventually succeeded to escape and set up his strong hold at the river bank of Nam Jang or recently called “Nam Ja”.
TAD HOUAY NOK WATERFALL
Tad Houay Nok Waterfall is near Kongkhao Mountain soaring between Nam Mo and Thong Hak Village. It is about 30 kilometers far from Anouvong town. The waterfall is 200 meters high and the water flows all year round. On holidays, particularly during Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year), many people choose Tad Huay Nok as their destination for water recreation. Besides, they can also enjoy visiting nearby local farms growing sugarcane, banana and Aquilaria Crassna.
TAD POUNG WATERFALL
It is situated in Ban Nam Khui Village, about 8 kilometers far from Long San Village. It is 18 meters high cascading 10 meters and 8 meters high respectively. The area is surrounded by wonderful nature, mountains, green forest and fresh cool air.
