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Phou Khao Khouay National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Discover Laos' natural beauty at Phou Khao Khouay National Park: hiking, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife await just a short trip from Vientiane.

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Escape the bustle of Vientiane and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Phou Khao Khouay National Park. Established in 1993, this protected area boasts lush jungles, sandstone cliffs, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfalls, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A brief summary to Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

  • C279+4J3, Vientiane, LA

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best weather and trail conditions.
  • Hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience and to avoid getting lost on the trails.
  • Bring cash, as ATMs are scarce in and around the park.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the terrain can be rugged.
  • Pack insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Vientiane, a taxi is the most direct way to reach Phou Khao Khouay National Park. Taxis can be found throughout the city center. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 17 minutes. Expect to pay between $70 and $90 for the trip. Several taxi companies operate in Vientiane, including Xanh SM, Taxi Vientiane Group, and LOCA app.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Phou Khao Khouay National Park via public transportation, begin at Vientiane's Eastern Bus Station (Talat Sao Bus Station). Look for a bus to Pak Kading, costing approximately 30,000 LAK (about $3 USD), with a travel time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in Pak Kading, hire a tuk-tuk to the park entrance, roughly 15 km away, for about 50,000 LAK (around $5 USD).

  • Car

    If driving from Vientiane, take Route 13 south towards Pak Kading. Continue for approximately 60 km until you reach Nam Leuk. Look for signs to Phou Khao Khouay National Park. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. Parking near the park entrance may be limited. Keep in mind that the road to Tad Leuk Waterfall can be rough, especially during the rainy season.

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Discover more about Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Phou Khao Khouay National Park, meaning 'Buffalo Horn Mountain', is a sprawling conservation area located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Vientiane, Laos. Established in 1993 and redesignated as a national park in 2021, it spans over 2,000 square kilometers across Vientiane Prefecture, Vientiane Province, Xaisomboun Province and Bolikhamsai Province. This protected area offers a diverse landscape of lush jungles, cool misty pine forests, sandstone cliffs, river gorges, and cascading waterfalls. The park is a haven for biodiversity, housing a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as Asian elephants, tigers, bears, gibbons, langurs, reptiles, amphibians, and diverse bird species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the over 200 species of birds found here. The park's vegetation includes evergreen forests, Shorea mixed deciduous forests, dry dipterocarp forests, and pine forests. Visitors can explore the park's natural wonders through a network of hiking trails, leading to stunning waterfalls like Tad Leuk and Tad Xay, and the tranquil Nam Leuk Reservoir. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters, picnicking amidst scenic beauty, and immersing yourself in the serene environment. For a cultural experience, a hike through the park can lead you to local villages where you can experience the culture of the Lao people. The best time to visit Phou Khao Khouay National Park is during the dry season, from November to March, when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is minimal. This makes it ideal for hiking and exploring the park's diverse ecosystems.

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