Luang Namtha…Nature’s Playground

History: Discover the tug-of-war past of the Last Frontier’s far northwest. Archaeological evidence, including stone tools found in the Nam Chook River Valley in Vieng Phoukha, and cliff paintings near Nalae, suggest that Luang Namtha Province was inhabited as early as 6,000 years ago.

Ethnic Diversity: Get up close to Luang Namtha’s 20 ethnic groups. The Akha live in the mountains, and follow a cultural code called Akha Zang, the “Akha Way”, which defines traditions and laws, as well as how they farm, hunt, treat illnesses, and relate to each other and outsiders.

Things to Do: Have fun in nature on the top of the world in Luang Namtha. You can trek, cycle, boat, kayak, or drive in pristine forests to meet people in villages where time stands still. Jump into Laos’ adventure capital, where everyone can get close to nature and experience the lifestyles of ethnic groups.

Top Attractions: Luang Namtha may be best known for its adventures in nature, but it also presents plenty of cultural and heritage attractions that are easy to reach. The mountainous 2,224 km2 Nam Ha National Protected Area (NPA) stretches from the Chinese border to Bokeo, and Luang Namtha Province’s natural attractions.

Getting There: Travel to Nature’s Playground by plane, bus, and even riverboat. Lao Airlines offers daily flights from Vientiane to Luang Namtha at 14:30 for the 1-hour flight, and Lao Skyway offers daily flights at 14:50.

Getting Around: Hop on a local vehicle or rent 2 wheels to explore Nature’s Playground. Tuk tuks are available in Luang Namtha and Sing Towns to explore the various attractions. You can also rent bicycles and motorbikes for sightseeing around these towns and to reach other districts.

Where to Stay: Set the tone for your journey into the “Adventure Capital of Laos” with accommodation that melts with the natural surroundings. Most of Luang Namtha’s rooms are in and around the provincial capital on the Nam Tha River, and west in Muang Sing in the Green Triangle.

Travel Guide: Remote Luang Namtha is easy to access and navigating the province is all about fun. Luang Namtha is the Adventure Capital of Laos. Dozens of trails take all levels of trekkers through pristine forests to ethnic villages and mountaintop vistas.