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Khone Phapheng Falls: The Jewel of the Mekong

Experience the raw power of Khone Phapheng Falls, Southeast Asia's largest waterfall, where the Mekong River unleashes its untamed beauty amidst 4,000 islands.

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Khone Phapheng Falls, located in the Champasak Province of southern Laos on the Mekong River, near the Cambodian border, is a stunning series of cascades and rapids, known as the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia. The falls are characterized by thousands of islands and waterways, and are the main reason the Mekong River is not fully navigable into China.

A brief summary to Waterfall on Mekong river

  • XW4P+52V, Khon, LA

Local tips

  • Visit during the rainy season (June to October) to witness the falls at their most powerful and spectacular.
  • Take a boat trip to see the Irrawaddy dolphins that inhabit the Mekong River near the falls.
  • Explore the remnants of the French colonial railway on Don Det and Don Khon islands.
  • Visit the viewpoint near the falls for panoramic views of the cascades and surrounding islands.
  • Try fresh Mekong fish at one of the local restaurants near the falls.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-Tuk

    From Ban Nakasang, a tuk-tuk to Khone Phapheng Falls costs approximately 50,000 LAK for a return trip, including an hour of waiting time. The journey involves a 3km ride to Route 13, followed by 8.5km southeast to the turn-off, and then 1.5km to the falls.

  • Motorcycle

    Motorcycles can be rented on Don Khong and used to reach the falls. From Don Khong, cross the bridge and follow the road. The falls are located approximately 141 km south of Pakse on Route 13. Turn right onto a dirt road at the sign pointing to Nakasang. Then follow the directions to the falls. Motorcycle rentals typically cost around 90,000 LAK per day.

  • Walking

    From the entrance to the falls, it is a 10-minute walk to the main viewing area. A golf cart ride is available for 11,000 LAK. Admission to the falls costs 44,000 LAK per person.

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Discover more about Waterfall on Mekong river

Khone Phapheng Falls, often called the "Niagara of Asia" or the "jewel/pearl of the Mekong", is not one single waterfall, but a series of powerful rapids and cascades stretching almost ten kilometers. Located in the Si Phan Don area of Laos, also known as the '4,000 islands,' the falls mark a dramatic point where the Mekong River broadens and tumbles over a resistant bed of basalt. The highest drop is 21 meters, but the cumulative effect of the cascading water creates a breathtaking spectacle. Khone Phapheng Falls are the largest in Southeast Asia and are the primary reason why the Mekong River is not entirely navigable into China. The falls have an immense volume, with its 2,500,000 gallons (9,500,000 litres) per second being nearly double that of Niagara Falls. This natural barrier has historically impeded navigation and economic use of the river, shaping the region's development. The French colonialists attempted to overcome this obstacle by building a railway and bridge between Don Det and Don Khon islands in the 19th century. The falls are home to rare and endangered fish species, including the giant catfish, the world's largest freshwater fish. The surrounding area offers opportunities to observe Irrawaddy dolphins and experience the local culture in nearby villages. A viewpoint with a pavilion provides stunning views of the falls and the numerous islands. During the rainy season, the increased water flow creates a misty veil, adding to the falls' dramatic beauty.

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