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Kuang Si Waterfalls, Laos
Laos is one of my favorite countries in the whole of Southeast Asia. Because of the fact that it lacks famous world-known tourist sites like Angkor Wat or Ayutthaya, it is able to retain a laidback atmosphere, with towns and villages that never really get overcrowded.
Tourism infrastructure is decent and in most towns and villages in Laos, you can find a great mix of local culture, comfortable guesthouses and homestays, and splendid natural attractions nearby.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a good and thorough list online of the best towns and villages in Laos to help me plan my trip. That is why I decided to write this post and put one together myself. Having only traveled to the northern part of the country, I ask a few fellow travel bloggers to contribute to this post, in order to give you a more global view of the best places to visit in the country.
It became a great list of 17 towns and villages in Laos that you really should consider visiting on your next trip!
Muang Ngoi Neua, Laos.
Laos is divided into three distinct regions: Northern Laos, Central Laos, and Southern Laos. Each region has its own unique character and attractions.
In the south, you can visit ancient Khmer temples, while the north is home to hill tribes like the Hmong, Karen, and Akha and historic sites like the Plain of Jars. In this article, my blogging friends and I will be highlighting the 17 best towns and villages to explore in Laos, divided by regions.
Towns and villages in Laos: Luang Prabang
The crown jewel of Laos is undoubtedly the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Luang Prabang. It is one of the best-preserved towns in Asia and is home to numerous Buddhist temples dating back hundreds of years.
In Luang Prabang, hundreds of monks and novices can be seen every morning before sunrise taking part in the tradition of Almsgiving. This dates back to the 14th century and involves the monks walking down the streets collecting alms (usually sticky rice) from those looking for blessings and good karma.
There are plenty of things to do in Luang Prabang too, from shopping at the famous night market to sunset sailing down the Mekong River, early morning outdoor yoga, and one of the most fulfilling activities, volunteering at Big Brother Mouse, a project aimed at allowing young Lao students and monks to practice their English.
Luang Prabang has its own international airport but can also be reached by boat from Thailand or by bus from other popular spots in Laos such as Vientiane and Vang Vieng.
One of the best places to stay is MyLaoHome guesthouse, it is located just off the main road and is close to both the Mekong River and plenty of restaurants.
by Roshni from TheWanderlustWithin
Towns and villages in Laos: Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is a small town located in the Luang Prabang province, surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush green forests. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, as it offers numerous outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. Visitors can also take a boat ride down the Nam Ou River and explore nearby villages.
One of the most spectacular things to do in Nong Khiaw is climbing to one of the many viewpoints, with Pha Daeng Peak being the most scenic one offering the best vista. Furthermore, you can also find a traditional Lao herbal sauna in town, numerous waterfalls in the area, and a few caves.
Another activity you can’t miss in Nong Khiaw is visiting the morning market which is held every morning near the Nong Khiaw Bus Station. Here, you can witness hill tribe villagers coming from the mountains to sell their goods. This can be anything from local fruits to handicrafts and even bizarre things like bags full of living spiders and rats on the BBQ!
The best places to stay in Nong Khiaw are near the Nam Ou River. Nam Ou River Lodge is a great choice.
Towns and villages in Laos: Muang Ngoi Neua (population only 700)
Muang Ngoi Neua is a remote village located in the Nong Khiaw district, accessible only by boat. It is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. Visitors can trek to nearby caves and waterfalls, or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
One of the most wonderful sights near Muang Ngoi is the Tad Mook waterfall. From the village of Nong Khiaw, you can embark on a 10-kilometer hike to the village of Sop Kong which offers incredible views over lush rice paddies before arriving at the Tad Mook Waterfall.
Tad Mook waterfall, Laos.
Aside from the Tad Mook waterfall, another great activity in Muang Ngoi is climbing one of the viewpoints around the village. If only have time to pick one viewpoint, Phanoi viewpoint one should be your number one choice.
Not only does this hike offers amazing views of the surrounding area but it also includes a visit to an amazing cave that stretches over 200 meters inside the mountain.
Do note that Muang Ngoi seems to suffer a bit from over-tourism and bad tourism practices. If you visit Muang Ngoi, don’t travel in peak season, be respectful to the locals and eat and stay at local establishments like Seng Phet Restaurant and Veranda Guesthouse.
→ PRO TIP: Read my complete packing list for Laos for conscious travelers!
Towns and villages in Laos: Luang Namtha
Luang Namtha is a remote village near Laos’ border with China. It’s in the mountains, in one of the most culturally and ecologically diverse regions of the country.
From the village, you can rent a bicycle and ride through the mountains to remote waterfalls and swimming holes. End your day at the excellent night market, where you’ll surely make local friends at the communal tables.
Luang Namtha is also the ideal base to organize treks into the Nam Ha Protected Area. Options include trekking and kayaking trips and usually include homestays in remote Khmu villages. You’ll travel with a Lao translator and a translator from the village you stay in, opening opportunities for deeper communication and genuine community interaction.
Luang Namtha is a long bus trip from everywhere else in Laos. Most people visit from Luang Prabang. There are direct buses, but it takes 8 to12 hours each way. Stay at Thoulasith Guesthouse for a cheap-and-cheerful room and friendly hosts.
By Carrie from Trains, Planes, and Tuk Tuks
Towns and villages in Laos: Muang Sing
Muang Sing is a small village in northern Laos near the border with China and Myanmar. It is famous for its natural beauty and ethnic diversity. The town is located in the lush and green Muang Sing valley that is dotted with several hill tribe villages from over 10 different ethnic minorities.
Each group has its own culture and traditions. At the morning market of Muang Sing you can see the older women still wearing their traditional dress. That way you can recognize the different ethnicities. The elaborate headdress adorned with silver belongs to the Akha while the indigo-blue dyed clothes belong to the Yao.
One of the best ways to learn about their cultures is by staying one night in a homestay. Several tour agencies can organize multiple-day hiking trips into the mountains to visit some of the hill tribe villages. This makes Muang Sing a great hiking destination and the scenery of the lush and green Phou mountains is superb.
The Phou Lu bungalows in Muang Sing are a great place to stay and can also help you organize your treks or hill tribe village visits. If you want to visit the ethnic groups in a culturally sensitive and sustainable way it is important to go with a guide.
By Ellis from Backpack Adventures
Towns and villages in Laos: Sam Neua
Sam Neua is a charming town located in the northern part of Laos, nestled in the rugged and scenic mountains of the province of Huaphanh. The town is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant hill tribe villages, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
One of the best things to do in Sam Neua is to explore the surrounding villages, which offer a glimpse into the unique culture and way of life of the local hill tribes.
A very popular day trip from Sam Neua is Viangxay village. Viengxay is a must-see for history buffs, as it was once the stronghold of the Pathet Lao during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the caves and tunnels where the revolutionary leaders lived and strategized during the war, and learn about the country’s complex political history.
Sam Neua itself is a charming villages where you can experience true Laotian local life but it does lack grand sites in the town itself. However, you can sample delicious local cuisine, and interact with friendly locals, many of whom are members of the Hmong ethnic group. A great walk in town is to the temple on the top of Sam Neua’s viewpoint which offers great views over the village.
For those looking for a great place to stay in Sam Neua with a local family, check out Khamxam Guesthouse.
Towns and villages in Laos: Phonsavan (© Jules Trails)
Phonsavan is a small city located in the northeastern part of Laos, known for its historical significance and cultural richness. The city is mainly famous for the Plain of Jars, a vast archaeological landscape that consists of thousands of stone jars scattered across the region. The Plain of Jars is believed to have been constructed between 500 BC and 200 AD, and its purpose and origin remain a mystery to this day.
Despite its fascinating history, Phonsavan is a relatively quiet and unassuming city. It’s a great place to unwind and explore the laid-back local lifestyle. Visitors can take a stroll through the charming streets of the town, visit the local morning market, and enjoy some of the delicious Lao cuisine at the numerous restaurants around town. furthermore, you can also visit a few waterfalls, caves and war memorials around town.
The main attraction of Phonsavan, however, is the Plain of Jars. As a conscious traveler, can take a guided tour of the Plain of Jars and explore the many archaeological sites that are scattered throughout the area. The landscape is simply breathtaking, and the sight of the ancient stone jars is awe-inspiring.
As for accommodation options in Phonsavan, The Hillside Residence, and Pukyo Bed & Breakfast are great places to stay.
Towns and villages in Laos: Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is a charming town located in central Laos, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and rivers. It used to be known for its wild party scene, but in recent years, it has transformed into an eco-destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
One of the top things to do in Vang Vieng is exploring the Nam Song River, which is surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs and caves. As a traveler, you can opt to go kayaking, visit water caves or tube down the river in a responsible way. Furthermore hiking to one of the many viewpoints or biking through the beautiful countryside are great ways to spend the day.
In addition, other great activities around Vang Vieng include several blue lagoons, Tham Chang Cave with its secret pool, and the Kaeng Nyui waterfall.
When it comes to accommodation, Vang Vieng offers plenty of options for all budgets. The best place to stay highly depends on your own wishes. If you fancy a party vibe then the northern part of town is probably your cup of tea while the southern part of time provides a more relaxed and tranquil vibe. A great place to stay outside the city center is Vang Vieng Ecolodge.
Because of its close proximity to the capital, getting from Vientiane to Vang Vieng is a breeze via the newly built Vientiane-Boten expressway.
Towns and villages in Laos: Pak Beng
Pak Bang is a small idyllic village on the river Mekong near the Golden Triangle area. Usually, you will arrive here by slow boat. It is halfway between the border crossing into Thailand in Huay Xai and the UNESCO-protected town of Luang Prabang. On the way between these two places, the slow boat makes an overnight stop here. Alternatively, there is a bus to/from Oudomxay but tourists don’t use it often.
This otherwise empty and quiet village gets busy in the evening when boats full of tourists dock in. In Pak Beng, you can find a few nice accommodation options and places to eat. You can find a good guesthouse to stay in for as little as 5$. You can usually find a restaurant at the place you stay.
Furthermore, there are also some other places to eat and a few sandwich stalls. In the evening a handful of bars open up for drinks, and in one you can find a pool table. There are not many things to see in Pak Beng but you can visit some of the temples close by or one of the caves.
Also, you can enjoy views over the great Mekong River at sunset or in the morning while listening to elephants in the wild. The best time to visit Pak Beng is in the dry season between October and April.
A fabulous place to stay in Pak Beng is the Sanctuary Pak Beng Lodge from which you can visit the ethical Mekong Elephant Camp.
Contributed by Dzangir from DrJamTravels
Towns and villages in Laos: Kong Lor
Kong Lor Village is a hidden gem located in the Khammouane province of Laos, known for its stunning natural beauty and the famous Kong Lor Cave. The village is located in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains, and its lush greenery and the crystal-clear Nam Hinboun River are definitely worth the long bus ride from Vientiane.
The main attraction of Kong Lor Village is the Kong Lor Cave, which is over seven kilometers long and is one of the largest and most spectacular caves in Southeast Asia. Visitors can take a boat ride through the cave, which is filled with beautiful rock formations, underground rivers, and bat colonies.
Apart from the cave, there are plenty of other activities to do in Kong Lor Village, including trekking, cycling, and exploring nearby villages. As a traveler, you can also spend a relaxed day taking a dip in the Nam Hinboun River and immerse yourself in the traditional way of life of the Lao people.
When it comes to accommodation, Kong Lor Village doesn’t count a large number of places to stay so it’s best to book a place in advance in peak season. One of the best choices in the area is the Spring River Resort, which is located on the banks of the Nam Hinboun River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located in the village of Ban Tiou, four kilometers from Kong Lor.
Located in the central region of Laos, Thakhek is a charming village with views across the Mekong River to Thailand. Thakhek is not only special due to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, but also because of its commitment to sustainable tourism.
The village has embraced eco-tourism initiatives and promotes traditional ways of life, thereby ensuring minimal impact on its pristine surroundings. Visitors can engage in a range of outdoor activities, such as exploring the stunning Phu Hin Bun National Protected Area or visiting the Kong Lor Cave, a limestone cave extending for over 7 kilometers.
Towns and villages in Laos: Thakhek
Most people will know Thakhek as the base for the “Thakhek Loop,” a scenic motorbike route that takes you through the countryside, offering spectacular views of limestone karsts, lush forests, and local villages. The loop takes two to three days, stopping off at a number of natural checkpoints such as hot springs and caves – the highlight being the huge Kong Lor cave, through which you can take a long tail boat.
Getting to Thakhek is relatively straightforward. The most common way is to take a bus from Vientiane, the capital of Laos, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Savannakhet Airport and then take a bus or taxi for the remaining 2-hour journey. You could also hire a car or motorbike and drive to Thakhek to use as your base for the loop.
A good place to stay at a reasonable budget is Inthira Thakhek, which costs around $35 a night and has a range of room types. If you drive the Thakhek Loop try and budget for some time at the relaxing and spectacular Springriver Resort which is expensive (in Lao terms), but utterly unforgettable. Wooden stilted chalets are situated at the meeting point of a cold spring and river and in the shadow of a limestone cliff. From here you can hire boat trips directly to Kong Lor Cave.
By Ben from The Sabbatical Guide
Here are the websites I personally use whenever I travel to Laos:
Booking.com: For the best cheap guesthouses, homestays or small hotels
Hostelworld: To find the best hostels located in the cities
Homestay: For a unique immersive homestay experience in Luang Prabang
12GO and Bookaway: The best transport websites for long-distance buses and train travel in Laos
Loca: Uber and Grab don’t operate in Laos but Vientiane has its own ride-hailing app called Loca!
Skyscanner: For affordable flights to Vientiane or Luang Prabang
Viator and Get Your Guide: book all kinds of activities from a Kuang Si waterfall cruise to a private cave and jungle trekking in Vang Vieng!
Get your Visa for Laos online through the Evisa website. Do note that you cannot enter just any border with the Evisa. You can fly with an Evisa into Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse and cross three borders with Thailand. They don’t accept the Evisa when you want to cross a land border coming from Vietnam, Cambodia, or China. It’s best to contact the Laotian embassies in these countries to obtain a visa.
If you’re looking for travel insurance, the one with the best benefits online is without a doubt Heymondo! It’s very easy to ask for a quote on the website and if you book with this link you’ll get 5% off!
Get access to mobile data straight away when entering the country with a Laos E-sim or an Asialink E-sim when traveling through multiple countries.
Towns and villages in Laos: Tad Lo
The village of Tad Lo is a small village near the waterfall of the same name. You’ll only visit here if you decide to travel around the Bolaven Plateau. This village is a welcome slower pace of life. It’s slightly cooler due to the higher altitudes of the Bolaven Plateau, and it’s the perfect place to chill out for a few days. The Bolaven Plateau is famed for its coffee plantations and waterfalls and the Tad Lo waterfalls are one of them, they’re great to swim in, cool down, and perfect for a photo stop too.
The area around Tad Lo is the primary coffee-growing region of Laos and all the villages around here are full of local activities, fresh food, and a very relaxed life.
You’ll find Tad Lo and the Bolaven Plateau about 85 kilometers south of Pakse. The roads here are quiet and you can easily get here on a rented motorbike (or take a bus if that’s not an option for you). You’ll find organic farms close by, and waterfalls to swim in and to lounge beside.
You should stay at either the Fandee Guesthouse or on Fandee Island. Run by French ex-pats these places provide both work for locals and education for their children.
By Sarah from A Social Nomad
Paksong is a small town located in the Champasak province of southern Laos, nestled among lush green hills and coffee plantations. It is a popular destination for slow travelers who want to experience the natural beauty and rural charm of Laos, away from the crowds of more touristy areas.
Paksong is known for its coffee, and visitors can take a tour of the coffee plantations to learn about the growing and processing of the beans. The town also boasts several beautiful waterfalls, including the Tad Fane and Tad Champi, which are a must-see for nature lovers.
Towns and villages in Laos: Paksong
Independent travelers generally visit Paksong on their way motorbiking the Bolaven Plateau Loop, a scenic tour around rural Laos that takes you through coffee, tea, and fruit plantations, as well as stunning waterfalls and lush forests.
When it comes to accommodation, the best places lie a bit out of town. Tad Fane Resort is a great place near the Tad Fane waterfall. If you want a bit of luxury, Sabaidee Valley in nearby Ban Gnik is your best bet.
Towns and villages in Laos: Don Det
Don Det is a small island located within the 4000 Islands archipelago, located in the southern part of Laos. This off-the-beaten-path backpacker hotspot is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning riverside scenery. Don Det is a great place to relax and unwind.
The island is connected to Don Khon by a bridge and is a great spot for travelers looking to explore the Mekong River and its many tributaries. A great way to explore the sleepy town is on two wheels. There are a few places to rent bicycles in town. Fair warning, the roads are worn dirt paths so this activity may more challenging during the rainy season.
There are plenty of activities to do in the area from fishing to tubing down the river. For those looking to explore the area more, nearby sites include the Khan Phopheng Waterfall and seeing the rare Irrawaddy dolphins of the Mekong.
Don Det is home to several guesthouses and restaurants as well as a handful of bars. One of the best places to stay in Don Det is the BABA Guesthouse which provides comfortable accommodations near the Don Det ferry.
Getting to Don Det is an adventure in itself due to its location in the Mekong Delta. Book a bus ticket to Nakasong and from here you will catch a ferry to Don Det. This is the perfect village in Laos to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle.
By Jess from I’m Jess Traveling
Towns and villages in Laos: Don Khon
Don Khon is a laid-back island with the most stunning sunsets over the Mekong. Travelers visiting Don Khon plunge directly into the authentic Lao life.
During the day a herd of cows might occupy the road and kids cruise on their bicycles when school finishes.
Don Khon is a more serene alternative to Don Det. The island can be reached by approx. 20-minute walk crossing the railway bridge from Don Det. Also, local drivers will take you to Don Det with a motorcycle Tuk Tuk. This is definitely a more convenient way to get to Don Det when traveling with a backpack.
The best way to explore Don Det is on foot or by renting a bicycle from one of the rental shops. Highlights on Don Det are watching the water buffalos in the Mekong River and enjoying a fresh juice in the hammocks next to the water.
On Don Khon, visitors can stay at the Dokchampa guesthouse. Some rooms have a balcony with a hammock facing the Mekong River.
A good alternative is the Sayyaphone Guesthouse, a small and lovely accommodation run by a local family.
There are only a few but very good restaurants on Don Det. If you are looking for a decent breakfast, head to Fasai.Visitors traveling to the 4000 islands should note that there are no ATMs. So it’s essential to bring enough cash to last the duration of their stay.
By Anna & Anne from PerspektiVan
Towns and villages in Laos: Champasak
Champasak, located in southern Laos, is a town with a rich history and a strong connection to traditional Laotian life. Its location on the west bank of the Mekong River offers an excellent view of the region’s agricultural rolling plains and alluvial lowlands. The town itself is surrounded by the Dângrêk Mountains, which provide an eastern outlier to Southern Laos’ mountainous core.
Established in 1713, Champasak was once the third kingdom of Laos. The monumental ruins of the nearby Vat Phou, which date from the 8th-12th century, remain a popular attraction today. Upon arriving in the town, you will quickly notice the fragrant frangipani trees that line the street leading to the Champasak Spa. This elegantly decorated wooden house offers visitors the best massages in southern Laos but be sure to book in advance to secure a spot.
The town itself is a haven for anyone who prefers cycling or walking as several types of vehicles including trucks are prohibited from entering. During your stay, make a stop at the statue of Buddha Sisoumong, in the Sikeut Primary School, facing the Mekong. This sacred place was built on Pre-Angkorian ruins and you can see the villagers stop there to make offerings and say prayers. The statue can be found under an imposing Albizia Saman tree whose branches extend over 1500m.
Along the town’s main road, you will find the Residence Bassac, a charming boutique hotel with a sizable garden to explore and write travel quotes.
By Simeon from Tozome
Towns and villages in Laos: Pakse
Pakse is located in the South of Laos. It is a great place to experience the beautiful temples of Laos and the local lifestyle, without many tourists around.
A landmark of the area, a giant golden Buddha statue perched on a hill overlooking Pakse, is visible from many parts of the city. The statue belongs to Wat Phou Salao, a beautiful Buddhist temple that offers panoramic views of the Mekong River and the surrounding countryside.
One of the main attractions in Pakse is Wat Luang, another beautiful and serene Buddhist temple that is located in the heart of the town. Colorful murals and intricate carvings adorn the temple, and they make it a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and spirituality of Laos.
But the top attraction that you can visit from Pakse and what will be the highlight of a trip to this region (and possibly the highlight of a trip to Laos: it is actually considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the Vat Phou temple complex (also known as Wat Phou). This is not a Buddhist but a Hindu temple complex that is more than 1000 years old. The huge complex is located in the middle of nature, and it’s a beautiful place to walk around while exploring its ancient temples and shrines, dedicated to different Hindu deities.
How to get to Pakse: Buses operate daily from cities like Vientiane and Savannakhet.Where to stay in Pakse: The Sanga Hostel. The hostel is conveniently located very near Wat Luang and the staff is very friendly and helpful.
By Sharon from The Roads Beyond
A slow boat on the Mekong River in Laos
There you go! I hope you enjoyed this guide about the most captivating towns and villages in Laos. I believe that this guide will simplify planning your trip to Laos if you weren’t sure yet about which places you visit.
As always, if you have any questions, please let them know in the comments below or drop me a message through my contact page.
ENJOY!
Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!
On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!
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Giulia
What a great collection of off-the-beaten-path villages! They all look so authentic, thanks for putting together such a thorough article.
It will come in very useful when I plan my trip to Laos, I want to explore the more remote areas and connect with the locals!
annelies_degelas
Hey Giulia, glad you like the list! 🙂 I’m starting to miss Laos already even though I was there in January. Such a GREAT country! <3