Southern Laos · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Southern Laos: A Hidden Gem of Southeast Asia

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

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.

Mueang Nong Khai District

Sala Keo Kou

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

Vientiane

Wat Sisaket

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

Ban Tham

Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

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

Vientiane

Wat Si Muang

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

Thakhek

Wat Phathat Si Khottabong (ວັດພະທາດສີໂຄດຕະບອງ)

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

Vientiane

Lao People’s Army History Museum

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

Vientiane

Lao National Museum

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

Vientiane Museum of Contemporary Arts

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

Viang Xai

Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre

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

When is the best time to go to Southern Laos?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsApr–Sep
Longest daylightMay–Aug
Driest periodDec–Jan

Explore places in Southern Laos

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Southern Laos sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    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.

    Sala Keo Kou

    Wat Si Muang

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

    Wat Si Muang

    Wat Sisaket

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

    Wat Sisaket

    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.

    Phou Hin Poun National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

    Wat Phathat Si Khottabong (ວັດພະທາດສີໂຄດຕະບອງ)

    Explore the serene beauty and cultural richness of Wat Phathat Si Khottabong, a stunning Buddhist temple in Thakhek, Laos.

    Wat Phathat Si Khottabong (ວັດພະທາດສີໂຄດຕະບອງ)

    Lao People’s Army History Museum

    Discover the military legacy of Laos at the Lao People's Army History Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

    Lao People’s Army History Museum

    Lao National Museum

    Explore the heart of Laos at the Lao National Museum, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in a captivating experience.

    Lao National Museum

    Shompoo Cruise

    Discover the serene beauty of Luang Prabang on a captivating cruise with Shompoo Cruise, offering unparalleled views and cultural insights.

    Shompoo Cruise

    Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre

    Discover the enchanting history and stunning beauty of the Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre in Laos, a must-see destination for adventurous travelers.

    Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Luang Prabang pano Wikimedia Commons.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about Laos

    Discover Laos: A tranquil escape with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Perfect for adventure seekers and those craving serene beauty.

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    Explore Southern Laos in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Ruined northern palace in the Khmer Hindu temple complex of Wat Phou  at sunset, Champasak, Laos.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Lao, 4000 islands. Mekong. (5329199819).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Tad Hang waterfalls at sunset, Tad Lo village, Bolaven Plateau,  Laos.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Fayil:Exterior facade of Residence Bassac at blue hour, town of Champasak,  Laos.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Tad Tayicsua waterfall.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Khone Phapheng Falls, Si Phan Don, Laos, widest waterfall in the  world.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Mekong beach in Si Phan Don.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Champasak Pakse8 tango7174.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Tad Fane.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Tad Hang waterfalls, Tad Lo village, Bolaven Plateau, Laos.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

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