Central Laos
Regions
From north to south:
- Hua Phan — Bordering Vietnam, this region contains former Pathet Lao caves near Vieng Xai. The regional capital is Sam Neua.
- Xiangkhoang — The regional capital is Phonsavan and this province is popular for the Plain of Jars.
- Vientiane — Home to the capital, Vientiane and backpacker favourite Vang Vieng.
- Bolikhamxai — The regional capital is Paksan.
- Khammuan — The regional capital is Tha Khaek.
Cities
- - access point for the Plain of Jars.
- - for access to Vieng Xai.
- - a popular base for exploring the Phou Hin Boun National Park including the famous Konglor Cave.
- - riverside town known for backpackers and tubing.
- - famous for the Pathet Lao caves.
- - Laos' capital.
Other destinations
- - hundreds of mysterious stone jars strewn across several sites.
Understand
Get in
Get around
See
- Plain of Jars - hundreds of mysterious stone jars strewn across several sites.
Chao Anouvong’s CaveClose to the capital.
Phou BiaHighest mountain of Laos, close to the capital. Might become accessible with the new tourism efforts in the province.
Nam Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power ProjectDam and lake upstream from the Nam Ngum 1 dam. Road 9308 south from Ban Nongpou offers gorgeous views onto the lake from above, but does not lead straight to the shore of the lake (unlike indicated on some maps). To get to the shore from the west, either take road Nr. 5 from Tha Heua, or a side road in Naxay Savang. Completed in 2011 and the lake now covers some villages and roads that are still present on some outdated maps on its ground.
Long TiengTown and secret air base during the Vietnam War.
Nang Phone Home CaveCave system signposted on the roadside from Pha Tang towards Ban Xuang. Has sections to explore on foot and a river passing through that you can swim in.