Home to some of the most complex rock formations in Southeast Asia, Laos looks to cash in on cave tourism.
Since the late 19th century, the geological wonders of Laos have captured the interest of foreign explorers, not just for its striking mountain ranges, fertile Mekong River floodplains and waterfalls – but also for what lies beneath the surface. Countless caves have been revealed within the towering karst massifs and limestone mountains that dominate much of Laos’ picturesque landscape.
While many of these subterranean beauties have been transformed into worthy tourist attractions, others are in a continual state of exploration. For fast-developing Laos, whose major economies are mining and tourism, the caves represent an opportunity to unlock the potential of swathes of the landlocked country’s remote areas to the world. As the sport of spelunking gains traction, isolated villages are looking to cash in on this rise in visitors. Yet as experts have pointed out, great care needs to be taken in balancing the complex needs of locals and the conservation of the cave’s delicate ecosystems – one wrong step can cause irreversible damage – with the commodification of Laos’ natural assets.
“Cave tourism can have a highly positive impact on local employment and development, and a very large positive impact on the reputation of Laos, but not all caves are suitable for tourism,” said Claude Mouret, a French geologist who has spent the last 25 years researching and documenting caves in Laos.
“Developing cave tourism means selecting caves that are not too fragile with respect to the underground life. Safety must also be a concern. Caves have a risk of flooding even if there is no underground river. If you move a boulder or drill a hole, you can change the stability of the cave. Precautions need to be taken, but it’s not so easy to have all the aspects satisfied at the same place.”
Mouret together with his expedition partner Jean-François Vacquié carry the distinction of being the first two explorers to embark on modern cave and karst investigations in Laos. Since 1991, the caving duo has mapped roughly 100 caves in the small nation, totalling 170km. Moreover, Mouret and Vacquié have contributed to the opening of several “safari” and “tourist” caves such as the infamous Tham Konglor in Khammouane province as well as Xe Bang Fai – one of the largest river caves in the world, with a 7km channel snaking through it.
“Regarding tourism, we have to consider two kinds of caves: Tourist caves such as Konglor or Tham Nang Aen Cave have dedicated installations such as walkways and steps to improve visitor safety,” said Mouret. “Safari caves such as Nam Non and Tham Heup have no dedicated installations. They inspire the unknown, and I think people like the mystery, the feeling of being an explorer – even if they are not really one. [They enjoy] overcoming the physical possibilities of their body and fighting mental fears.”
According to the Department of Planning and Investment in Laos, there are 32 villages in Khoun Kham district with a combined population of 22,163 people.
In 2015, 27,448 tourists visited Konglor cave in Khoun Kham, a substantial increase of 86% from the previous year. The total revenue from tourism for the district amounted to roughly $334,000.
Recognising the economic value of caves as tourist destinations, the local Khammouane tourism authority in central Laos’ Ban Nahin village is now embarking on an ambitious endeavour to open up a little-known but magnificent cave called Khoun Keo. Home to venomous vipers, long-legged centipedes, furry huntsman spiders and other cave-dwelling critters, Khoun Keo is certainly not for the faint-hearted. But from the standpoint of the ambitious tourism authority, the cave’s twisting labyrinth of striking stalactites, stalagmites and delicate columns is the perfect playground to lure in the growing number of adventurous explorers.
“We have an opportunity to increase tourism to Nahin by opening Khoun Keo to the public,” said Vilaisak Souvannarath, director of the Khammouane Information, Culture and Tourism Authority. “We also have an opportunity to develop community-based ecotourism to raise employment in the village. But we have to do it right.”
Situated in the permo-carboniferous limestone at the base of the Phou Phaman mountain range in Ban Khoun Kham district, Khoun Keo is well revered among the locals and tourism authority alike. According to Souvannarath, the cave – only discovered in 2012 by a subsistence farmer named Seng – holds spiritual element for Ban Nahin.
“Seng discovered the cave after God appeared to him in a dream, telling him to open up the way. After finding the cave, he discovered it had three underground lakes,” said Souvannarath. “God wants us to open the cave but he also wants us to protect it.”
The significance of the cave pools is not lost on the tourism authority. According to Souvannarath, hundreds of locals once lived beside the Nam Theun River, a tributary of the mighty Mekong, and used it to irrigate their crops. This changed in 2011, when the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower plant (one of Laos’ biggest hydroelectric projects), upstream from the village, started diverting the river. While scores of people had to be relocated, Nam Theun 2 Power Company built more than a thousand new homes as well as rainwater collection tanks and water pumps. Early on, the measures that the company took to mitigate the dam’s environmental and social impacts were applauded by the World Bank as a model to emulate, yet according to the latest report from the International Panel of Environmental and Social Experts, challenges regarding resettlement still need to be addressed. Some NGOs have also questioned the impact of the dam on the river’s ecosystem and the communities that depend on it further downstream.
In Ban Nahin, Seng and a few of his neighbours opted to relocate to a parcel of land beside the Phou Phaman Mountains. While the dam had cleared the land, the villagers did not have easy access to water. According to Souvannarath, the discovery of cave pools inside the mountains has allowed the villagers to greatly improve their food security.
“Locals use these underground lakes to water their crops. Instead of planting just rice they’re now growing different crops like pineapple and cassava all year-round,” he said. “We really have to take this into consideration.”
Until recently, Monenoy Keomanixai – a former tour guide in Ban Nahin – was working with authorities towards opening the cave to tourists. While Keomanixai now works as an administrator for a power scheme in Bolikhamxay province, he continues to keep a close eye on the project’s development.
“We want people to come and we want people to stay, but we also need to focus on conservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. We can’t have tourists trekking through farmer fields and destroying crops to get to Khoun Keo. We can’t have them getting hurt while they’re exploring the cave, and we don’t want to have tourists not care about the village and its people. We don’t want another Vang Vieng,” he said.
Situated some 450km away, Vang Vieng serves as a cautionary tale for Keomanixai, who remembers hearing stories about the village and its transformation into an epicentre for scantily clad backpackers looking to get wasted and ‘tube’ down the river. After a spate of deaths and injuries, the government shut the party down in 2012. While no longer in its hedonistic heyday, the village continues to attract drunken revellers – albeit on a much smaller scale.
“In the past few years, more tourists come through Nahin. They do a motorbike loop starting from Thakhek. It’s becoming very popular and bringing money to the area,” said Keomanixai.
While tourism has become an increasingly important component of Laos’ development policy, enabling poverty reduction in many rural communities, Keomanixai said Khoun Keo will not open until 2017 or 2018.
“A boulder from the cave entrance has already been removed to improve visitor access and safety. Mr. Seng and another village guide will lead the cave tours, but there is still so much more to consider,” he said.
Under review are walkways and steps to improve safety and prevent damage to the natural cave floor. Mapping and a clear understanding of the cave’s ecosystem are also required to move the project forward. Still, if plans come to fruition, Keomanixai sees more positives than negatives.
“Khoun Keo is like stepping into a magical world. We know that once it’s open, the beauty of Khoun Keo will be shared among tourists, especially those who love nature. It will bring very good luck to Nahin.”
Source: Sea Globe FOCUS ASEAN
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2016/12/16/dark-exploring-laos-cave-tourism-industry/
Laos Explores Eco-Friendly Business Through Waste Management
Urban waste in Laos is increasingly being seen as a source of business and innovation.
That was the focus of a seminar held on 30 October by the Department of Environment, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, under the theme “Waste Management for Eco-Friendly Business Opportunities in the Lao PDR.”
Co-chaired by Ratsamy Voralath, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Environment, and Björn Szczebroek, Head of the GIZ Office in Laos, the seminar brought together 102 participants, including government officials, entrepreneurs, university students, and youth groups.
Ratsamy pointed out that challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and increasing urban waste could also be seen as chances for innovation, especially for young people.
“These challenges can inspire new ideas and businesses that are both environmentally friendly and economically sustainable,” he said.
Participants explored ways to turn waste into opportunity, watching short videos on waste management and learning about environmental policies, tourism promotion, and urban waste projects across Laos and ASEAN. A lively discussion forum allowed attendees to exchange ideas and share practical solutions for small and medium-sized cities, highlighting the potential for creative, eco-friendly enterprises.
The seminar highlighted that with the right policies, education, and innovation, Laos can transform waste management from a challenge into a driver of economic growth and sustainable development, giving young entrepreneurs a chance to lead the way.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/01/laos-explores-eco-friendly-business-through-waste-management/
Into the Dark: Exploring Laos’ Cave Tourism Industry
Home to some of the most complex rock formations in Southeast Asia, Laos looks to cash in on cave tourism.
Since the late 19th century, the geological wonders of Laos have captured the interest of foreign explorers, not just for its striking mountain ranges, fertile Mekong River floodplains and waterfalls – but also for what lies beneath the surface. Countless caves have been revealed within the towering karst massifs and limestone mountains that dominate much of Laos’ picturesque landscape.
While many of these subterranean beauties have been transformed into worthy tourist attractions, others are in a continual state of exploration. For fast-developing Laos, whose major economies are mining and tourism, the caves represent an opportunity to unlock the potential of swathes of the landlocked country’s remote areas to the world. As the sport of spelunking gains traction, isolated villages are looking to cash in on this rise in visitors. Yet as experts have pointed out, great care needs to be taken in balancing the complex needs of locals and the conservation of the cave’s delicate ecosystems – one wrong step can cause irreversible damage – with the commodification of Laos’ natural assets.
“Cave tourism can have a highly positive impact on local employment and development, and a very large positive impact on the reputation of Laos, but not all caves are suitable for tourism,” said Claude Mouret, a French geologist who has spent the last 25 years researching and documenting caves in Laos.
“Developing cave tourism means selecting caves that are not too fragile with respect to the underground life. Safety must also be a concern. Caves have a risk of flooding even if there is no underground river. If you move a boulder or drill a hole, you can change the stability of the cave. Precautions need to be taken, but it’s not so easy to have all the aspects satisfied at the same place.”
Mouret together with his expedition partner Jean-François Vacquié carry the distinction of being the first two explorers to embark on modern cave and karst investigations in Laos. Since 1991, the caving duo has mapped roughly 100 caves in the small nation, totalling 170km. Moreover, Mouret and Vacquié have contributed to the opening of several “safari” and “tourist” caves such as the infamous Tham Konglor in Khammouane province as well as Xe Bang Fai – one of the largest river caves in the world, with a 7km channel snaking through it.
“Regarding tourism, we have to consider two kinds of caves: Tourist caves such as Konglor or Tham Nang Aen Cave have dedicated installations such as walkways and steps to improve visitor safety,” said Mouret. “Safari caves such as Nam Non and Tham Heup have no dedicated installations. They inspire the unknown, and I think people like the mystery, the feeling of being an explorer – even if they are not really one. [They enjoy] overcoming the physical possibilities of their body and fighting mental fears.”
According to the Department of Planning and Investment in Laos, there are 32 villages in Khoun Kham district with a combined population of 22,163 people.
In 2015, 27,448 tourists visited Konglor cave in Khoun Kham, a substantial increase of 86% from the previous year. The total revenue from tourism for the district amounted to roughly $334,000.
Recognising the economic value of caves as tourist destinations, the local Khammouane tourism authority in central Laos’ Ban Nahin village is now embarking on an ambitious endeavour to open up a little-known but magnificent cave called Khoun Keo. Home to venomous vipers, long-legged centipedes, furry huntsman spiders and other cave-dwelling critters, Khoun Keo is certainly not for the faint-hearted. But from the standpoint of the ambitious tourism authority, the cave’s twisting labyrinth of striking stalactites, stalagmites and delicate columns is the perfect playground to lure in the growing number of adventurous explorers.
“We have an opportunity to increase tourism to Nahin by opening Khoun Keo to the public,” said Vilaisak Souvannarath, director of the Khammouane Information, Culture and Tourism Authority. “We also have an opportunity to develop community-based ecotourism to raise employment in the village. But we have to do it right.”
Situated in the permo-carboniferous limestone at the base of the Phou Phaman mountain range in Ban Khoun Kham district, Khoun Keo is well revered among the locals and tourism authority alike. According to Souvannarath, the cave – only discovered in 2012 by a subsistence farmer named Seng – holds spiritual element for Ban Nahin.
“Seng discovered the cave after God appeared to him in a dream, telling him to open up the way. After finding the cave, he discovered it had three underground lakes,” said Souvannarath. “God wants us to open the cave but he also wants us to protect it.”
The significance of the cave pools is not lost on the tourism authority. According to Souvannarath, hundreds of locals once lived beside the Nam Theun River, a tributary of the mighty Mekong, and used it to irrigate their crops. This changed in 2011, when the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower plant (one of Laos’ biggest hydroelectric projects), upstream from the village, started diverting the river. While scores of people had to be relocated, Nam Theun 2 Power Company built more than a thousand new homes as well as rainwater collection tanks and water pumps. Early on, the measures that the company took to mitigate the dam’s environmental and social impacts were applauded by the World Bank as a model to emulate, yet according to the latest report from the International Panel of Environmental and Social Experts, challenges regarding resettlement still need to be addressed. Some NGOs have also questioned the impact of the dam on the river’s ecosystem and the communities that depend on it further downstream.
In Ban Nahin, Seng and a few of his neighbours opted to relocate to a parcel of land beside the Phou Phaman Mountains. While the dam had cleared the land, the villagers did not have easy access to water. According to Souvannarath, the discovery of cave pools inside the mountains has allowed the villagers to greatly improve their food security.
“Locals use these underground lakes to water their crops. Instead of planting just rice they’re now growing different crops like pineapple and cassava all year-round,” he said. “We really have to take this into consideration.”
Until recently, Monenoy Keomanixai – a former tour guide in Ban Nahin – was working with authorities towards opening the cave to tourists. While Keomanixai now works as an administrator for a power scheme in Bolikhamxay province, he continues to keep a close eye on the project’s development.
“We want people to come and we want people to stay, but we also need to focus on conservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. We can’t have tourists trekking through farmer fields and destroying crops to get to Khoun Keo. We can’t have them getting hurt while they’re exploring the cave, and we don’t want to have tourists not care about the village and its people. We don’t want another Vang Vieng,” he said.
Situated some 450km away, Vang Vieng serves as a cautionary tale for Keomanixai, who remembers hearing stories about the village and its transformation into an epicentre for scantily clad backpackers looking to get wasted and ‘tube’ down the river. After a spate of deaths and injuries, the government shut the party down in 2012. While no longer in its hedonistic heyday, the village continues to attract drunken revellers – albeit on a much smaller scale.
“In the past few years, more tourists come through Nahin. They do a motorbike loop starting from Thakhek. It’s becoming very popular and bringing money to the area,” said Keomanixai.
While tourism has become an increasingly important component of Laos’ development policy, enabling poverty reduction in many rural communities, Keomanixai said Khoun Keo will not open until 2017 or 2018.
“A boulder from the cave entrance has already been removed to improve visitor access and safety. Mr. Seng and another village guide will lead the cave tours, but there is still so much more to consider,” he said.
Under review are walkways and steps to improve safety and prevent damage to the natural cave floor. Mapping and a clear understanding of the cave’s ecosystem are also required to move the project forward. Still, if plans come to fruition, Keomanixai sees more positives than negatives.
“Khoun Keo is like stepping into a magical world. We know that once it’s open, the beauty of Khoun Keo will be shared among tourists, especially those who love nature. It will bring very good luck to Nahin.”
Source: Sea Globe FOCUS ASEAN
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2016/12/16/dark-exploring-laos-cave-tourism-industry/
Don Khong Named Southeast Asia’s Top Island for Cycling by National Geographic
The UK-based National Geographic Traveler has named Don Khong in Champasack, Laos, one of Southeast Asia’s top islands, highlighting it for cycling.
On 25 October, the magazine listed destinations for their unique appeal: Koh Chang, Thailand, for beaches; Penang, Malaysia, for food; Cat Ba, Vietnam, for adventure; and Don Khong, Laos, for cycling.
National Geographic described Don Khong as “a peaceful, green environment where visitors can enjoy the scenery and atmosphere while cycling”. The magazine also highlighted the island’s “slower pace of life,” offering travelers a stress-free experience.
It further emphasized the serene, cultural setting, showcasing both natural beauty and rich local heritage for visitors seeking calm and history.
Don Khong is the largest island in Si Phan Don, a group of islands in the Mekong River located in Khong District, Champasack Province. The name “Si Phan Don” translates to “4,000 islands,” though the number varies seasonally as some sandbars submerge underwater and reappear later.
This is not the first time Champasack has earned international recognition.
The province was also celebrated as a hidden gem in Southeast Asia for its unique temple, Vat Phou, by National Geographic Traveller back in July.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/18/don-khong-named-southeast-asias-top-island-for-cycling-by-national-geographic/
Japanese Princess Lands in Laos on First Trip Overseas
AFP – Japan’s Princess Aiko arrived in Laos on 17 November for her first official overseas trip, state media said, a largely symbolic visit to Tokyo’s beneficiary in Southeast Asia.
Aiko landed in at Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport shortly before 8 PM.
The only child of Emperor Naruhito, not in line to the throne due to the royal family’s male-only succession rules, will spend this week in the country to coincide with the 70th anniversary of Japan-Laos diplomatic relations.
One of Asia’s largest economies, Japan has provided more than USD 370 million in grants to Laos between 2019 and 2024, making it one of the nation’s largest bilateral donors.
Much of the over 150 development projects in that time have been funded through Japan’s overseas development agency, JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency).
During her trip through 22 November, Aiko will meet President Thongloun Sisoulith and visit a center to raise awareness about the unexploded ordnance left over from the Vietnam War, which continues to kill and injure people in Laos. Japan has long supported ordnance clearing and rehabilitation programs in the country.
The 23-year-old princess will also attend a martial arts competition at the Japan-supported Budo Center and visit a Japanese-language school, according to Japanese media reports.
Japan often sends younger members of the royal family on goodwill missions across Southeast Asia, quiet gestures of soft power meant to build personal, long-term connections beyond politics.
Even though Japanese tradition dictates only a man can carry on the centuries-old imperial line, opinion polls have shown high public support for a woman taking the throne.
Laos has in recent years hosted a handful of international royals.
Neighbouring Thailand’s Princess Sirindhorn visited this year and last year, the Sultan of Brunei in 2023, and Luxembourg’s Grand Duke Henri in 2022.
Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, then-crown prince, last visited Laos in 2012.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/17/japanese-princess-lands-in-laos-on-first-trip-overseas/
Free Bus Services on Opening and Closing Days of the 12th National Games
Vientiane Capital will provide free Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and public bus services on 15 and 25 November, coinciding with the opening and closing ceremonies of the 12th National Games, to facilitate the movement of athletes, officials, and spectators.
The initiative, announced by the Vientiane Public Works and Transport Department on 11 November, aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve accessibility, and ensure the smooth flow of participants and visitors during the major national sporting event.
According to the official notice, three main free routes will operate on these two days.
The first route will run from the That Luang area near Saphanglane Lake (Nongbone intersection) to the Lao National Stadium at KM 16, using 16 BRT buses. Services will operate between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM for departures and 6:00 PM to midnight for return trips from the stadium back to That Luang.
The second route, operated with standard public buses, will start from the Dongdok intersection, travel along 450 Years Road, pass by the Lao-China Railway (LCR) Station, and continue to the Lao National Stadium KM 16 near the Lao Railway Vocational Technical College before returning via the same route.
Buses will operate every 30 minutes from 1:00 PM to midnight, stopping at designated temporary bus stops.
The third route will start at the Xaythany District Public Security Office, pass Donnoun Roundabout, and continue along National Road No. 13 South to the KM 21 traffic light before returning on the same route. Services will run every 30 minutes from 1:00 PM to midnight, with stops at temporary bus signs along the way.
Moreover, traffic control measures will also be in place on 15 and 25 November, with restrictions around Donnoun Roundabout, KM 21 traffic lights, and the LCR area. Only authorized vehicles for athletes, guests, and officials may use BRT lanes, while private vehicles are prohibited.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport has launched a two-month free BRT trial service beginning on 8 November, operating on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The route runs from View Mall, passing SOS School, the International Cooperation and Training Center (ICTC), Phonphanao, Phonkheng, Souphanouvong, Phonsaart, Patuxay, and returning to View Mall.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/12/free-brt-bus-services-during-12th-national-games/
Over 2,500 Vientiane Students, Teachers to Support 12th National Games
The Vientiane Capital Department of Education and Sports announced that 2,583 teachers and students from eight schools across the city will take part in supporting the 12th National Games, scheduled from 15 to 25 November. .
Teachers and students from schools in Chanthabouly, Saysettha, Xaythany, and Sisattanak districts will contribute to various activities, including stadium operations, parade formations, torch relays, banner displays, and artistic performances during the opening and closing ceremonies.
To accommodate their involvement, several schools have temporarily adjusted their class schedules.
Vientiane Secondary School, Nonsavang Secondary School, Xaysettha Secondary School, Sivilay Secondary School, and Lao-Vietnam Friendship Secondary School will suspend classes only for teachers and students directly participating in the games, while others will continue their regular lessons.
Meanwhile, Phiawath Secondary School and Phonthan Secondary School will suspend classes for the entire school during the preparation period. Tanmixay Secondary School will suspend classes for Grade 10 and Grade 11 students involved in the Games, while other students continue studying as usual.
After the games, all participating schools will conduct make-up classes starting 27 November to ensure students meet curriculum requirements.
Vientiane Capital will host the National Games 2025, featuring 33 sports across multiple venues. The opening ceremony will take place at the Lao National Stadium KM16 in Xaythany district on 15 November.
soure: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/06/over-2500-vientiane-students-teachers-to-support-12th-national-games/
Vang Vieng Under Review for ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award
Vang Vieng, one of Laos’ most popular tourist destinations, is under evaluation for the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award 2026.
Officials from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism recently visited the town to assess its cleanliness, safety, and overall organization for visitors.
From 23 to 24 October, the Department of Tourism Development conducted inspections across Vang Vieng, visiting tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants, handicraft shops, bus stations, public toilets, roads, and green spaces. The evaluation also covered waste management practices and environmental protection efforts.
According to Phonemany Soukhathammavong, Director of the Tourism Development and Planning Department, ASEAN launched its tourism awards program in 2008, initially recognizing hotels through the Green Hotel Award. The initiative has since expanded to include seven categories: Clean Tourist City, Homestay, Public Toilet, Spa, Sustainable Tourism, Green Hotel, and Community-Based Tourism.
Since its inception, Laos has earned more than 100 ASEAN tourism awards. For the 2026 awards cycle, four categories will be presented, including the Clean Tourist City Award.
Both Pakse and Vang Vieng have completed their evaluations, with Vang Vieng achieving a 70 percent score. Further assessments will determine the top three cities to receive the award next year.
The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award honors cities that maintain clean streets and public spaces, manage waste effectively, uphold environmental protection standards, ensure visitor safety, and provide quality facilities.
The program aims to inspire towns across the region to create healthier, more sustainable, and welcoming environments for both residents and tourists.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/27/vang-vieng-under-review-for-asean-clean-tourist-city-award/
Attapeu Approves Xekaman 1 Dam Tourism Development Project
Attapeu Province is taking a major step to expand its tourism sector with the approval of a 30-year concession to develop the area around the Xekaman 1 hydroelectric dam and the nearby military tank park in Chaleunxay village, Xanxay district.
The project will transform two hectares within a 275-hectare protected area into a tourist destination featuring a viewpoint, restaurant, accommodations, upgraded roads, recreational water activities, and an exhibition highlighting the historical significance of the military tank park.
Provincial officials say the initiative aims to create jobs, generate revenue, and follow sustainability principles to protect both the environment and local livelihoods.
The agreement was signed in a ceremony attended by provincial representatives and company officials, with Deputy Provincial Governor Thanouxay Bansalith as witness.
This latest project in Attapeu is part of a broader push by provincial authorities to enhance the country’s natural and historical assets for tourism.
Similar initiatives in other parts of Laos have shown how redevelopment and sustainable planning can attract more economic opportunities for the province.
Luang Namtha’s Xang Boten Conservation Tourism Project
Attapeu’s announcement comes after Luang Namtha Province launched the Xang Boten Tourism Project in late September.
The Xang Boten Tourism Project is a joint initiative with a Chinese company to develop the village into a conservation-focused destination.
Planned features include an elephant care and rehabilitation center, eco-friendly accommodations, forest treks, tree houses, canopy bridges, local craft shops, restaurants, and a zoo.
The project emphasizes environmental protection, community involvement, and equitable economic benefits, aiming to position Luang Namtha as a leading destination for conservation tourism.
Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Reopens
Almost a year earlier, in late 2024, Vientiane Province completed major upgrades to the Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Recreation Area, also known as “Thalay Lao,” following a three-year redevelopment.
Located in Keooudom District, the upgraded site now features a marina with 36 boats, multiple viewing platforms, walkways, on-site restaurants, and cultural attractions. Redevelopment also included road improvements, upgraded parking, and environmentally friendly measures such as waste segregation and vegetation preservation.
Officials emphasized compensation and support for residents affected by the project, with some allowed to return rent-free for a year.
The site was projected to attract 1–2 million visitors by the end of 2025.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/24/attapeu-approves-xekaman-1-dam-tourism-development-project/
Registration, Licensing Required for Sound System Use During That Luang Festival
The Department of Culture and Tourism of Vientiane Capital has announced that all individuals, businesses, and organizations planning to use loudspeakers or sound systems during the That Luang Festival and Trade Fair 2025 must register and obtain the required licenses by 30 October.
According to the department, anyone wishing to use sound systems, organize concerts or cultural performances, or display advertisements during the festival must first receive official approval.
The registration process aims to ensure that all activities comply with festival regulations and contribute to maintaining order, safety, and respect for the cultural and religious significance of the event.
A representative from the tourism department explained that the That Luang Festival is one of the most sacred and important celebrations in Laos, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Proper registration and licensing will help ensure that entertainment and promotional activities are managed responsibly, without disturbing the festival’s atmosphere.
The Department of Culture and Tourism has invited both domestic and international participants to submit their applications as soon as possible. The office has also confirmed that staff are available to assist anyone seeking information or support with the registration process.
Heightened Security at That Luang Festival
Meanwhile, Vientiane authorities have announced the deployment of more than 2,000 police officers to safeguard the festival and maintain public order during the celebrations, which will take place from 1 to 5 November at That Luang and the Lao-ITECC Exhibition Center.
According to the Subcommittee on Security, a total of 2,015 officers will be stationed throughout key areas of the city. Some officers will be positioned at the main festival sites, while others will handle traffic management and monitor major intersections, checkpoints, and police stations to ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles across the capital.
Police have urged residents and visitors to follow all festival regulations, keep personal belongings safe, and park only in designated areas.
They also advised the public to take precautions at home by checking electrical systems, avoiding large sums of cash, and labeling children’s bags with contact details.
The use of weapons, fireworks, sky lanterns, and drones without prior permission is strictly prohibited.
Officials said these measures are part of a coordinated effort to protect the public and preserve the festive yet respectful spirit of the celebrations.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/24/registration-licensing-required-for-sound-system-use-during-that-luang-festival/
Vang Vieng Under Review for ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award
Vang Vieng, one of Laos’ most popular tourist destinations, is under evaluation for the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award 2026.
Officials from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism recently visited the town to assess its cleanliness, safety, and overall organization for visitors.
From 23 to 24 October, the Department of Tourism Development conducted inspections across Vang Vieng, visiting tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants, handicraft shops, bus stations, public toilets, roads, and green spaces. The evaluation also covered waste management practices and environmental protection efforts.
According to Phonemany Soukhathammavong, Director of the Tourism Development and Planning Department, ASEAN launched its tourism awards program in 2008, initially recognizing hotels through the Green Hotel Award. The initiative has since expanded to include seven categories: Clean Tourist City, Homestay, Public Toilet, Spa, Sustainable Tourism, Green Hotel, and Community-Based Tourism.
Since its inception, Laos has earned more than 100 ASEAN tourism awards. For the 2026 awards cycle, four categories will be presented, including the Clean Tourist City Award.
Both Pakse and Vang Vieng have completed their evaluations, with Vang Vieng achieving a 70 percent score. Further assessments will determine the top three cities to receive the award next year.
The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award honors cities that maintain clean streets and public spaces, manage waste effectively, uphold environmental protection standards, ensure visitor safety, and provide quality facilities.
The program aims to inspire towns across the region to create healthier, more sustainable, and welcoming environments for both residents and tourists.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/27/vang-vieng-under-review-for-asean-clean-tourist-city-award/