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Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area: A Karst Wonderland

Discover Laos' hidden gem: Explore karst landscapes, caves, and wildlife in Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area.

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Explore the rugged beauty of Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area, a protected area in Laos famous for its dramatic karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity. Discover hidden waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and the unique geological formations that define this natural haven.

A brief summary to Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

  • PQ8X+VGC, Ban Tham, LA

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best hiking conditions and clearer skies.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the park.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and navigate the trails.
  • Pack insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself while exploring.
  • Respect the local culture and environment by dressing modestly and avoiding littering.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Thakhek, take a local bus heading towards Ban Tham. Buses depart from the central bus station and cost around 30,000 LAK. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Ban Tham, hire a local tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi to reach the park entrance for an additional 20,000 to 30,000 LAK. Confirm the fare before starting your ride.

  • Motorbike

    Rent a motorbike in Thakhek for approximately 100,000 LAK per day. Head south on Avenue 13 (Sangthong Road). Continue straight until you reach Route 12. Turn left onto Route 12 and travel approximately 20 km. Look for signs to Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area. Veer onto the dirt road leading to the park entrance. Be cautious of varying road conditions.

  • Car

    From Thakhek, head north on Route 12 for approximately 30 kilometers until you reach the junction with Route 13. Turn right onto Route 13 and continue for about 40 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area. As you approach Ban Tham, look for the PQ8X+VGC marker, indicating the park entrance. Parking is available near the entrance, with potential fees around 20,000 LAK.

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Discover more about Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area, formerly known as the Khammouane Limestone National Biodiversity Conservation Area, is a stunning protected area in central Laos, renowned for its dramatic karst landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and captivating cave systems. Encompassing approximately 2,300 square kilometers within the Annamite Range, the park offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and rich biodiversity. The area's defining feature is its karst topography, characterized by towering limestone cliffs, rugged pinnacles, and hidden valleys. This landscape is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species. Dense forests cover the valleys and slopes, providing habitats for wildlife such as gibbons, langurs, and various bird, reptile, and mammal species. The park is perhaps best known for its spectacular cave systems, with Tham Kong Lo (Kong Lor Cave) as its centerpiece. This colossal cave stretches over 7 kilometers, with heights reaching up to 100 meters. Visitors can take boat tours along the subterranean river that flows through the cave, marveling at the towering stalactites and otherworldly beauty. Other notable caves include Tham Nam Non, Tham Poui, and Tham Nam Lod, each offering distinct features and hidden wonders. Beyond cave exploration, Phou Hin Poun offers opportunities for trekking and hiking through diverse terrains, from gentle slopes to challenging rocky paths. Trails wind through dense forests, past limestone karst landscapes, and remote villages, providing panoramic views and encounters with diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife watching and birdwatching are popular activities, with chances to spot rare species such as the Indochinese tiger and various bird species. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting nearby villages like Ban Nahin, offering glimpses into traditional Lao life. Homestays provide opportunities to participate in cultural practices, fostering an understanding and appreciation of Lao culture.

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