Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
Situated along the banks of the Mekong River in southern Laos, Muang Champassak is a tranquil riverside town steeped in history and charm. Once a royal capital, this sleepy destination offers a peaceful retreat with a rich cultural backdrop. The town’s main attraction is Vat Phou, an ancient Khmer temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site, older than Angkor Wat. Travellers can explore its crumbling sanctuaries, enjoy bicycle rides through quiet villages, or take a boat trip along the Mekong. With its French colonial buildings, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere, Muang Champassak is perfect for those seeking cultural discovery and scenic serenity in an off-the-beaten-path setting.
Primarily a kick-off point for excursions to Si Phan Don or northern Laos, Pakse or Pakxe enjoys a wonderful location at the junction where the Mekong and Xe Don rivers meet. It is one of the largest towns in Laos and the most populous city in the southern province of Champasak. Worth visiting are the scenic temple grounds of Wat Tham Faian and the Buddha Sandstone Carving Center at Wat Chomphet. The largest and most impressive temple is Wat Luang, now used as a training facility for monks. Travellers use Pakse as a base to explore Tad Lo and Wat Phu, as well as the rest of Champasak province, with its pre-Angkorian temples, coffee plantation and remote islands.
Ban Houayxay - also Huay Xai or Houeisay - lies on Laos’ northeastern border with Thailand. Although many simply use the city as a transit point, those who linger longer in Houayxay will be richly rewarded by its collection of sights and attractions. Foremost of these are the bustling Muang Keo (Morning) Market in the suburb of Ban Muang Keo and the evocative ruins of the French-colonial Fort Carnot. Nature lovers will relish trips to the nearby Bokeo Nature Reserve, which can only be accessed through The Gibbon Experience, a conservation project run by Societe Animo, and those looking to get a taste of traditional Lao life and culture can get involved in programmes and projects at Daauw Village, where all volunteer efforts and proceeds contribute to the upliftment of the local community.
