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Southern Laos at its best!
Southern provinces showcase tourist drawcards Four southern provinces in cooperation with local businesses are staging a programme of events to promote tourism and attract more visitors from around Laos and other countries. The promotional activities are taking place on February 16-17 in Xekong province. Head of the Xekong provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Mr Bouxay Xaysasane, told the Vientiane Times that the activities comprise sports contests between the provinces of Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan, and market fairs to sell agricultural produce and handicrafts from the four provinces. Provincial authorities are also organising a food festival selling food items made by local ethnic groups and producers accredited to the One District, One Product scheme, which is taking place from February 14-18. Following a meeting, representatives from Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan provinces visited popular tourist attractions and local villages. The events mark the first time these provinces have combined forces to actively shared lessons learned in the development of tourism. The aim is to strengthen provincial connectivity and draw more tourists to the southern provinces and the plateau region, using the area’s scenic splendours as the main drawcard. Attapeu takes pride in its waterfalls, especially Tad Xepha, Tad Samongphak, Tad Xeponglay and Tad Phapong, and Nong Fa Lake, which is famous for its deep blue water. Saravan province boasts scenic wonders such as Loc, Mayhia, Soung, Saen and Kaengkou waterfalls, as well as Phouphasouk Park with its waterfalls, nine caves and Pha Taem Phou Lahit hill. Visitors to Champassak can make good use of adventure activities such as trekking and zip-lining, as well as enjoy organic produce from the Bolaven Plateau, including coffee. Xekong province is famed for the Nokkhao, Faek and Huakhon waterfalls, and for its local food including cucumber salad and products made from Indian gooseberries. By Vientiane Times Reporters (Latest Update February 17, 2023)
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Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is a mysterious archaeological site located in the Xieng Khouang Province of Laos, also known as Lao PDR (People’s Democratic Republic). The site is characterized by a vast area of over 90 different sites where thousands of stone jars, ranging in size from one to three meters in height and weighing up to several tons, are scattered throughout the landscape. The jars are believed to date back to the Iron Age, between 500 BCE and 500 CE, although their exact purpose and origin remain a mystery. Despite the site’s cultural and historical significance, the Plain of Jars has suffered significant damage from bombing during the Vietnam War and unregulated looting. However, efforts are being made to preserve and protect the site, including the establishment of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Today, visitors can explore some of the jar sites and learn about the history and cultural significance of this mysterious and intriguing site.https://wearelao.com/destinations-northern-laos/xieng-khouang-beyond-plain-jars
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Vang Vieng Adventure Capital of Lao PDR
As of 2023, Vang Vieng remains a popular tourist destination in Laos, known for its stunning natural scenery and adventure activities. The town is situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains, making it a picturesque location for outdoor activities such as kayaking, tubing, and rock climbing. One of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng is tubing down the Nam Song River, where visitors can float down the river on an inner tube, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. The town also offers a range of adventure activities such as rock climbing, cave exploration, and hot air balloon rides, making it a popular destination for adrenaline junkies. Aside from adventure activities, Vang Vieng also offers a range of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local villages and learn about traditional Lao life, sample local cuisine, and visit temples and monasteries. In recent years, Vang Vieng has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to cater to the increasing number of visitors. The town now offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, and has a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Vang Vieng has also been working to promote sustainable tourism practices, with initiatives such as community-based tourism projects and eco-tourism activities that support local communities while preserving the natural environment. Despite its popularity, Vang Vieng has managed to maintain its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Overall, Vang Vieng continues to be a popular destination for adventure and nature lovers, with a range of activities and experiences on offer to suit different interests and budgets.
