The Breathtaking Nam Xay Viewpoint: A Must-Visit Observation Deck in Laos

Getting There

• Car

  From Vientiane City, head north on Route 13 (Lao National Highway 13) toward Vang Vieng. The drive will take approximately 3-4 hours, covering around 150 kilometers. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to Vang Vieng. Upon reaching Vang Vieng, continue on Route 13 until you reach a turnoff for Route 10 toward Naka. Follow Route 10 for about 12 kilometers until you see signs for Nam Xay Viewpoint. There is a parking area at the base of the viewpoint where you can leave your car.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Nam Xay Viewpoint via public transportation, take a minibus from Vientiane to Vang Vieng. These minibuses depart regularly from the Northern Bus Station in Vientiane, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours. Once you arrive in Vang Vieng, you can hire a tuk-tuk or a motorbike taxi to take you to the Nam Xay Viewpoint. The fare for the tuk-tuk is approximately 50,000 to 100,000 LAK (Lao Kip) depending on your negotiation skills and the distance. The ride from Vang Vieng to the viewpoint will take about 20-30 minutes.

• Trekking

  For adventurous travelers, you can trek to Nam Xay Viewpoint if you're already in the vicinity. From Vang Vieng, find local guides who can take you on a guided trek, which typically lasts around 2-3 hours. The cost of a guided trek may vary but expect to pay around 150,000 to 250,000 LAK per person, including a local guide. Ensure to wear good hiking shoes as the trail can be steep and challenging.