Oudomxay: The Heart of Northern Laos

History: Follow Oudomxay’s past from the fortified “Big Village” to becoming a Lao province. According to some historians, the Khmu were the first people to settle in today’s Oudomxay Province around the year 700. In about 1260, ethnic Lai migrated from Sipsongpanna in southern China, and built Ban Luang Cheng.

Ethnic Diversity: Immerse yourself in Oudomxay’s ethnic diversity. The Khmu make up the majority, while the Akha, Lao Loum, Tai Lue, Hmong, and smaller groups round out the population. The Akha are a sizeable ethnic group in Oudomxay, having migrated from the Tibetan Plateau several hundred years ago.

Things to Do: Inspect the 13-km-long Chom Ong Cave, Nam Kat Waterfall, and Pakbeng on the Mekong, before heading to your next destination from the Heart of Northern Laos. Kick off your experience in Muang Xay,the hub for Oudomxay’s tours, and a must-stop destination for travellers digging into Northern Lao.

Top Attractions: Check out what Oudomxay is all about during your stay in the Heart of Northern Laos. Adventurers are still exploring Oudomxay’s hidden crannies. They recently revealed Cham Ong, one of Asia’s 10 longest caves, and Nam Kat Waterfall, and amazing natural wonder buried in the forest.

Getting There: Jump right in to the Heart of Northern Laos by air, short bus rides, or Mekong riverboat. Lao Skyway offers flights from Vientiane every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 14:50 for the hour-long flight to Muang Xay. Lao Airlines has daily flights departing Vientiane at 11:40 for a 50-minute flight.

Getting Around: You can find a few options to get you to Oudomxay’s attractions and destinations. A handful of public busses travel between Muang Xay Town and Muang Beng, Muang Houn, and Pak Beng, and they generally depart in the morning or early afternoon.

Where to Stay: You’ll discover some great room gems at reasonable rates in one of Laos’ hottest new destinations. Oudomxay sits at the heart of northern Laos, and tourists are just discovering the attractions hidden inside. To welcome you, Oudomxay province offers some 100 resorts, hotels, and guesthouses.

Travel Guide: Uncover the Ins and Outs of travelling and staying in The Heart of Northern Laos. Lao Skyway offers flights from Vientiane every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday to Muang Xay, and Lao Airlines has daily flights departing Vientiane at 11:40.