Laos Hotels

Places & Activities

Northern Laos
For many, the lofty mountains and sheer riverine valleys of northern Laos truly sum up the dreamy and exotic nature of the entire country. Bisected by the Mekong River, the north attracts the bulk of backpackers and travellers who make it to Laos, but with the centres widely dispersed and the roads rough and the rivers slow, with a couple of exceptions this part of Laos is never too crowded.

By far the crown jewels of north Laos, the former royal capital of Luang Prabang remains one of the most charming and romantic cities in all of Asia. With an international airport and improving arterial roads, the city is becoming more crowded, but it still retains much of its charm. Luang Prabang should be considered an absolute must see.

Further afield, trekking centres are developing in Phongsali and Luang Nam Tha in the far north, while closer to Luang Prabang, the twin hideaways of Muang Ngoi and Nong Khiaow are rapidly developing into a viable and far more pleasant alternative to the totally over-touristed Vang Vieng.

The mountainous north has plentiful trekking opportunities and despite rising popularity, more adventurous travellers will not find it difficult to get off the beaten track. In the far northeast, beyond the plain of jars and Phonsavan lies the Pathet Lao homeland of Sam Neau, where, with the opening of a new international border to Vietnam more intrepid travellers are venturing.

Be sure to allow yourself enough time to slow down and enjoy the pace of life -- the north of Laos is a fascinating part of the country and one best not raced through.

Luang Namtha / Oudomxay / Phongsaly
Newly opened to tourists is this mountains region and unspoiled colorful villages of many ethic minorities such as Hmong, Iko, Mien and Samtoa which made this northern part of Laos become a spotlight destination. Come and see their unique way of life and treasure of the beautiful natural surrounding.

Huay Xai
This is located in the northwestern part of Laos near by infamous of Golden Triangle where three countries, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar are converged. This region is one of the key trading port of these three countries and also well known of its precious stones (sapphires and rubies) and gold mining.

Luang Prabang
The first Lao Kingdom, Lane Xang was consolidated here. It was well known as the main sources of the monarchical power. Many ancient temples dating back in 13 Century are still preserved for visitors to see. The king Royal palace and Phousi hill are one of the many that visitors ought not to be missed. Luang Prabang was voted as the World Heritage Site in 1996.

Vangvieng
Traveling 150 kms. to the north of Vientiane is a small town called Vangvieng. It surrounded by mountains scenery and Nam Song River that lead to stalactite and stalagmite caves and it is also best for canoeing and rafting. This fascinating place is perfect for those who are searching for relaxation and be away from speedy life-style of the modernization.

Vientiane
Place of the central government and center for culture and commerce is Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Situated on the bank of the longest river in the Southeast Asia, the Mekong River and sharing border with Thailand through the Friendship Bridge.

 

Pakse
Converging of Mekong and Sedone River is the city of Pakse, the gateway to the southern part of Laos and to the formal royal palace capital of Champasack, to the ruins of pre-Angkorian Wat Phou Temple and Luang Prabang which is recently named as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Kong Island
Traveling to the southern of Laos to the border of Cambodia is Kong Island which decorated by the biggest waterfall in Southeast Asia, Khoneprapheng Waterfall. Between November and May, rare seen fresh water or Mekong dolphin can be obsersved. Road or boat is accessible to this peaceful island.