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While not as famous as other tourist destinations in the region, Laos has its own incredibly interesting and attractive places to visit in Southeast Asia. These include ancient cities, towns with ancient relics, sparkling Buddhist pagodas, fascinating nature, delicious cuisine, and warm-hearted people. To understand more about this beauty, let's explore the famous tourist spots in Laos with Mytour below.
Tham Khoun Xe Cave
This is one of the largest caves in the world, located in central Laos. Nestled deep within the limestone mountains in Khammouane Province, the Xe Bang Fai River flows through the caves for about 5 miles with the widest point reaching approximately 200 meters and the highest point about 120 meters.
Underground river flowing through the cave - Image from the Internet
Travelers can kayak through the cave to admire the stunning beauty resembling a paradise. Inside the cave, there is a lush green carpet of thriving trees. Local people believe that there are guardian spirits living in the underground river, protecting the village day and night.
Magnificent beauty inside the cave - Image from the Internet
There are many other special spots worth visiting here, such as the world's largest stalactite platform, and the world's largest six-sided stalactite pearl. Camping near the cave entrance next to a large natural emerald-colored water pool is also an interesting experience of the trip.
Green carpet of grass in front of the cave - Image from the Internet
Wat Phou
The most remarkable cultural monument of Champasak is the majestic Wat Phou - a World Heritage Site. Located about 40km south of Pakse, along the Mekong River bank, Wat Phou is a complex of stone terraces and an architectural masterpiece, constructed over many centuries from the 9th to the 13th century, considered one of the holiest temples of ancient dynasties in this region.
Although the main gate and front of the temple are now in ruins, the distinctive carvings of Hindu deities are still evident. Beyond the gate lies the upper temple area, built on the mountain slope. The path leading to the upper temple is lined with stone steps, flanked by round stone columns bearing Linga, the symbol of the god Shiva.
The pathway leading up to the temple complex - Image from the Internet
At the end of the pathway emerge two main temples, facing eastward, symmetrically positioned on a high mound. Both of these temples are undergoing restoration. The temples are designed as architectural blocks stacked from large stones, intricately adorned with elaborate floral patterns. Behind the temples is a cliff face, where skilled artisans of ancient times carved a variety of large and small statues.
The temple still retains the intricate carvings from previous eras - Image from the Internet
Khone Phapheng Waterfall
Dubbed as the Niagara of Laos and the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, Khone Phapheng is the ultimate destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers seeking the majestic beauty of nature.
The roaring, majestic waterfall - Image from the Internet
Khone Phapheng Waterfall is located in Champasak province, near the border of Cambodia and Laos. With a total height of 21 meters and spanning over 10 kilometers along the river, it consists of numerous cascades and rapids. During Laos' rainy season, the waterfall flows incredibly strong, creating a veil of white mist and froth.
The Khone Phapheng area features many small islands and channels, collectively known as Si Phan Don. This waterfall is home to many rare fish species, including the Mekong giant catfish, the largest freshwater fish in the world.
The famous Mekong catfish in the Mekong River basin - Image from the Internet
Tourism at Khone Phapheng offers visitors the opportunity to admire the grandeur of the waterfall and to catch glimpses of playful Irrawaddy dolphins. Additionally, visitors can rent boats for fishing trips or enjoy the soothing sounds of the gentle currents contrasting with the roaring cascade. Moreover, there are resorts, restaurants, souvenir shops, relaxation areas, and camping sites available for tourists to fully enjoy their leisure time.
Boating on Si Pha Don - Image from the Internet
Khoun Kong Leng Lake
Located 30 km north of Thakhaek town, Khammuane province, Khoun Kong Leng Lake boasts crystal-clear blue water, often likened to a piece of glass, making it considered the most beautiful lake in Laos. The lake water originates from underground rivers filtered through limestone layers surrounding the mountains, resulting in its remarkable clarity.
Flocks of fish swim joyfully in the crystal-clear water - Image from the Internet
The surrounding scenery of Khoun Kong Leng is stunning, featuring harmonious natural landscapes. Taking a leisurely stroll along the forest trails, admiring the picturesque scenery of mountains and water, listening to the harmonious melodies of trees and streams, or bathing in designated areas are all incredibly fascinating experiences here.
A harmonious painting of nature - Image from the Internet
Vang Vieng
Nestled in the mountainous region, 150km from the capital Vientiane, Vang Vieng is renowned as a small, tranquil town with a refreshing climate, perfect for leisure activities. If you seek an authentic Laos travel experience, Vang Vieng is the place to be.
Serene and cozy scenery in Vang Vieng - Image from the Internet
With its ideal terrain – nestled against the mountains facing the river, Vang Vieng is known as a hidden countryside area with pristine beauty and tranquil charm along the Nam Song River.
Here, you can engage in various exciting sports activities: kayaking, rope swinging, hot air ballooning, paragliding, ... or you can leisurely ride a bike along the river, quietly fish, or lie down reading a book on the swaying coconut hammocks, watching the sun gradually set over the horizon to enjoy a peaceful day here.
Walking lightly on the wooden bridge amidst the golden rice fields - Image from the Internet
