Southern Laos, Laos Travel Guide

Discover the untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage of Southern Laos, where waterfalls, ancient temples, and serene river islands await you.

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Southern Laos

Southern Laos is a captivating region filled with natural beauty, rich culture, and historical intrigue. This part of Laos is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Bolaven Plateau, which offers lush coffee plantations, beautiful waterfalls, and cool, refreshing air. Travelers can explore the many trails and enjoy the serene environment, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Mekong River runs through Southern Laos, creating the famous 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don). This picturesque area is ideal for island-hopping, kayaking, and observing the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the traditional Lao culture by visiting charming riverside villages and experiencing local customs and cuisine. Southern Laos is steeped in history, with the ancient Khmer temple complex of Wat Phou being a highlight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the region's spiritual and architectural heritage. The nearby Champasak town is also worth exploring, with its French colonial buildings and vibrant markets. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a history buff, or simply looking to relax, Southern Laos has something to offer for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Southern Laos.

Visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best weather and easier travel conditions.
Rent a motorbike to explore the Bolaven Plateau at your own pace and discover hidden waterfalls.
Stay overnight on Don Khon or Don Det islands to experience the tranquility of the 4000 Islands.
Try the local coffee, grown on the Bolaven Plateau, which is famous for its rich flavor.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water when visiting Wat Phou, as the site involves some climbing.

Top City Travel Guides in Southern Laos

The cities of Southern Laos, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Luang Prabang

Vientiane

Vang Vieng

Xieng Khouang

Muang Sing

Destinations in Southern Laos

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Luang Prabang Province

Vientiane Province

Sainyabuli Province

Xiangkhoang Province

Bolikhamxay Province

Explore Southern Laos: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Sala Keo Kou

Explore the enchanting Sala Keo Kou, a unique park in Nong Khai filled with artistic sculptures and serene landscapes perfect for a tranquil escape.

4.4

Wat Si Muang

Discover the serene beauty of Wat Si Muang, a sacred Buddhist temple in Vientiane, where spirituality meets rich cultural heritage.

4.5

Wat Sisaket

Discover the tranquil beauty of Wat Sisaket, Vientiane's oldest temple, adorned with thousands of Buddha statues and rich in Laotian heritage.

4.4

Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity of Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area in Laos, a true gem for nature lovers.

4.2

Best landmarks in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Nam Ngum Reservoir

Experience the tranquil beauty of Nam Ngum Reservoir in Laos - a perfect destination for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

4.2

Luang Prabang Old Quarter

Discover the enchanting blend of Lao tradition and French colonial charm in Luang Prabang's UNESCO-listed Old Quarter.

4.3

Alms Giving Ceremony in Luang Prabang

Experience the sacred tradition of Tak Bat in Luang Prabang, a dawn ritual of alms giving that embodies the spiritual heart of Laos.

3.5

Amantaka

Experience serene luxury in a beautifully restored French colonial hotel in the heart of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4.6

Best restaurants in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Manda de Laos

Experience authentic Laotian cuisine amidst serene surroundings at Manda de Laos in Luang Prabang.

4.6

BOUANG Asian Eatery

Experience authentic Lao cuisine at BOUANG Asian Eatery in Luang Prabang - where every bite tells a story.

4.6

Two Little Birds Cafe

Discover the perfect blend of Lao flavors and Western favorites at Two Little Birds Cafe in Luang Prabang - A family-friendly dining experience.

4.7

Khaiphaen

Experience authentic Laotian cuisine at Khaiphaen in Luang Prabang - where tradition meets taste.

4.7

Best bars in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Gary's Irish Bar - The Rising Sun

Discover Gary's Irish Bar - The Rising Sun in Vang Vieng, where Irish charm meets local culture in a vibrant pub atmosphere.

4.6

Tully's Irish Pub

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tully's Irish Pub, where Irish culture meets Laotian charm in the heart of Vientiane.

4.3

Chokdee Café Belgian Beer Bar

Explore the best of Belgian cuisine and craft beers at Chokdee Café in Vientiane, Laos, a true culinary haven for food lovers.

4.3

Go Dunk

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at Go Dunk, a lively bar featuring live music and a delightful drink selection.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Moonlight Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at Moonlight Lounge, where delicious cuisine meets an energetic atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.

4.4

CCC Bar & Club Vientiane

Discover the exciting nightlife at CCC Bar & Club Vientiane, where vibrant music meets a fantastic drink selection for an unforgettable evening.

4.4

Club DPlus

Dive into Vientiane's vibrant nightlife at Club DPlus, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await.

4.4

Icon Klub

Discover Icon Klub in Luang Prabang – a vibrant bar offering delicious cocktails, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

4.6

Best shops in Southern Laos

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Night Market

Experience the enchanting Night Market in Luang Prabang, where local crafts and delicious street food come together in a vibrant cultural celebration.

4.3

ITECC Mall

Discover ITECC Mall: Vientiane's premier shopping destination featuring local crafts, international brands, delicious dining, and entertainment.

3.9

Phosy Market

Experience the heart of Laotian culture at Phosy Market, where vibrant stalls and delicious street food await every traveler.

4.1

Parkson Laos

Discover a modern shopping experience at Parkson Laos, Vientiane's premier shopping mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options.

4.1

Explore Southern Laos on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Southern Laos, mapped for you.

Southern Laos Essentials

Southern Laos is accessible via several routes. The most common entry point for international travelers is Pakse International Airport (PKZ), which has direct flights from regional hubs such as Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap. Alternatively, travelers can reach Southern Laos by bus from Vientiane, the capital of Laos, or from neighboring countries like Thailand and Cambodia. The journey by bus from Vientiane to Pakse typically takes around 10-12 hours.
Within Southern Laos, transportation options include local buses, tuk-tuks, and songthaews (shared pickup trucks). For more flexibility, renting a motorbike or bicycle is recommended, especially for exploring the Bolaven Plateau and the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don). Car rentals are also available in Pakse for those who prefer driving. Riverboats and ferries are the primary means of transport in the 4,000 Islands area.
The official currency in Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in major towns like Pakse, but cash is essential for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Pakse, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.
Southern Laos is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar places. The region has no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 1191 for police assistance and 1195 for medical emergencies. Pakse has a hospital equipped to handle most medical issues, and there are smaller clinics in other towns. It's strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if necessary. Pharmacies are available in major towns for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful. Don't expect punctuality as schedules can be flexible. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow and a 'nop' (pressing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Southern Laos like a local, visit the morning markets in Pakse and Champasak to buy fresh produce and traditional Lao goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and daily life. Don't miss the coffee plantations on the Bolaven Plateau, where you can sample some of the best coffee in the region. For a unique cultural experience, participate in a traditional Baci ceremony if you have the opportunity.

When is the best time to visit Southern Laos?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Southern Laos

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Southern Laos. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloສະບາຍດີ
  [sabaidee]
- Goodbyeລາກໍ່
  [laak go]
- Yesແມ່ນ
  [maen]
- Noບໍ່
  [bo]
- Please/You're welcomeບໍ່ເປັນຫຍັງ
  [bo pen nyang]
- Thank youຂອບໃຈ
  [khob chai]
- Excuse me/Sorryອາະໄສ
  [ah sai]
- How are you?ເຈົ້າສະດົມປົ່ນແບບໃດ?
  [jao sa dom pon baep dai]
- Fine. And you?ສະດົມດີ. ແລະເຈົ້າ?
  [sa dom dee. lae jao?]
- Do you speak English?ເຈົ້າສຽງອັງກິດແລ້ວບໍ?
  [jao siang angkit laew bo?]
- I don't understandຂໍໍ່ບໍ່ເຂົ້າໃຈ
  [kho po bo khao jai]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseຂໍເບິ່ງເມນູແລະກະລຸນາ
  [kho berng menu lae kaluna]
- I don't eat meatຂໍໍ່ບໍ່ກິນເດືອນ
  [kho po bo kin deuan]
- Cheers!ສຸດສົດ!
  [sut sod!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseຂໍເຊັດຄ່າແລະກະລຸນາ
  [kho set kha lae kaluna]
- Help!ຊ່ວຍ!
  [suy!]
- Go away!ເອີ້ຈາກນີ້!
  [oei jaak ni!]
- Call the Police!ໂທແຕ່ສະຖານກະລຸນາ!
  [tho tae sathaan kaluna!]
- Call a doctor!ໂທແດກ່ອນ!
  [tho daek gon!]
- I'm lostຂໍໍ່ເສຍທາງ
  [kho po seua thang]
- I'm illຂໍໍ່ປ່ວນບໍ່
  [kho po puan bo]
- I'd like to buy...ຂໍເຊື່ອງ...
  [kho seung...]
- I'm just lookingຂໍໍ່ລະດູແລ້ວ
  [kho po rado laew]
- How much is it?ມັນແພນບໍ?
  [man phaen bo?]
- That's too expensiveແບບແພນບໍ່ຄວາມສູງ
  [baeb phaen bo khwam sung]
- Can you lower the price?ເຈົ້າໃຈບໍ່ຄວາມສູງຄ່າ?
  [jao jai bo khwam sung kha?]
- What time is it?ເວລາແບບໃດ?
  [wela baeb dai?]
- It's one o'clockດິງສົດຄືຄົນສິບ
  [ding sod khue khon sib]
- Half past (10)ເດືອນກັບແບບ(10)
  [deuan kab baeb (10)]
- Morningເຊົ້າ
  [sao]
- Afternoonບ່າຍ
  [baay]
- Eveningຄໍ້າ
  [khom]
- Yesterdayວັນດຽວ
  [wan diao]
- Todayວັນນີ້
  [wan ni]
- Tomorrowວັນອາທິດ
  [wan athit]
- 1ໜຶ່ງ
  [neung]
- 2ສອງ
  [song]
- 3ສາມ
  [sam]
- 4ສີ
  [si]
- 5ຫໍາ
  [ha]
- 6ຫນຶ່ງ
  [neung]
- 7ເຈັດ
  [jet]
- 8ແປດ
  [paed]
- 9ເກົ່າ
  [kao]
- 10ສິບ
  [sib]
- Where's a/the...?ຢູ່ໃສ...
  [yuu sai...]
- What's the address?ທີ່ຢູ່ແບບໃດ?
  [ti yuu baeb dai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?ເຈົ້າສຽງແພດແລ້ວບໍ?
  [jao siang paed laew bo?]
- When's the next (bus)?ເວລາຂອງຄັນແບບໃດ?
  [wela khong khan baeb dai?]
- A ticket (to ....)ບັດສົ່ງກັບ...
  [bat song kab...]

History of Southern Laos

The Champasak Kingdom was a Lao kingdom that existed from 1713 to 1946 in the southern region of modern-day Laos. It was one of the three kingdoms that emerged after the division of the Lao Lan Xang kingdom. The Champasak Kingdom's capital was located in the town of Champasak, and it was known for its rich cultural heritage and the influence of both Khmer and Lao traditions. The kingdom was eventually incorporated into French Indochina in the late 19th century.
Vat Phou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the base of Mount Phou Khao in Champasak Province. This ancient Khmer temple complex dates back to the 5th century and was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva before becoming a center of Theravada Buddhist worship. Vat Phou showcases intricate carvings, impressive stone architecture, and a stunning alignment with natural surroundings, making it a significant cultural and historical site in Southern Laos.
Southern Laos came under French colonial rule in the late 19th century as part of French Indochina. The French influence is still visible in the architecture and urban planning of towns like Pakse, the provincial capital of Champasak. The French built infrastructure, including roads and bridges, that facilitated trade and movement within the region. French Catholic missions also established schools and churches, contributing to the cultural landscape of Southern Laos.
The Bolaven Plateau is a highland region in Southern Laos known for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls. The plateau has been inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Laven people, who have a distinct cultural identity. During the French colonial period, the region became an important area for coffee cultivation, which continues to be a significant economic activity today. The Bolaven Plateau is also known for its role in the Lao civil war, where it was a strategic location due to its elevation and terrain.
Southern Laos played a crucial role during the Lao Civil War (1959-1975), which was part of the larger Indochina conflict involving Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. The region saw significant military activity and was a strategic area for both the Royal Lao Government and the Pathet Lao communist forces. The Ho Chi Minh Trail, which passed through Southern Laos, was used by North Vietnamese forces to transport troops and supplies. The war left a lasting impact on the local population and infrastructure.
Southern Laos is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, including Lao, Khmer, Thai, and various indigenous groups such as the Alak, Katu, and Laven. Each group has its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. Festivals, traditional music, and dance are integral parts of the cultural fabric. The annual Bun Vat Phou festival, held at the Vat Phou temple complex, is a major event that attracts visitors from across the region, celebrating the area's rich cultural heritage.