Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay and how to get there guide to Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area.


Introduction to Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area is located in central Laos, and covers an area of 2,000 square kilometers. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, as it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The protected area is also rich in cultural history, with several important historical sites located within its boundaries. This travel guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best places to visit, things to do, and places to stay in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area.

List of Places to Visit in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is home to many rare and endangered species of plants, including several species of orchids.

  2. Ban Hatkhai Village: This traditional Laotian village is a great place to learn about the local culture and way of life.

  3. Wat Phabat Phonsone: This Buddhist temple, located on the banks of the Nam Mang River, is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Natural Attractions of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tad Xay Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is located on the Nam Xay River and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

  2. Khammouane Limestone National Biodiversity Conservation Area: This protected area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are considered endangered.

  3. Nam Ngum Lake: This lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. It is also home to several floating restaurants that serve delicious local dishes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

  1. Pha Faek Trail: This 16-kilometer trail leads through dense jungle and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

  2. Nam Mang Trail: This 14-kilometer trail follows the Nam Mang River and is a great place to spot local wildlife, such as gibbons and macaques.

  3. Houay Xai Trail: This 17-kilometer trail leads past several traditional Laotian villages and offers stunning views of the Mekong River.

Best Things to Do in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Activities and Tours

  1. Trekking: There are several trekking companies that offer guided treks through the jungle and up to the mountain peaks.

  2. Kayaking: The Nam Ngum River is a great place to go kayaking and explore the local wildlife.

  3. Caving: There are several caves located within the protected area that are worth exploring, such as the Tham Nam Cave and the Tham Sang Cave.

Week-Long Itinerary for Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in at a local guesthouse
2 Explore Ban Hatkhai Village and Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden
3 Trekking to the summit of Pha Faek Mountain
4 Kayaking on the Nam Ngum River
5 Visit Tad Xay Waterfall and the Khammouane Limestone National Biodiversity Conservation Area
6 Caving at Tham Nam Cave and Tham Sang Cave
7 Departure via local bus or taxi

Food and Drink Scene of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Laotian Noodle Soup: This delicious dish is made with rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually chicken or beef).

  2. Laap: This traditional Laotian dish is made with minced meat (usually beef or pork), herbs, and spices.

  3. Fish Amok: This dish is made with freshwater fish, coconut milk, and a variety of spices, and is usually served with rice.

Local Beverages

  1. Beer Lao: This is the national beer of Laos and is a great way to cool off after a long day of exploring.

  2. Lao Lao: This is a traditional Laotian rice whiskey that is usually served as a shot. It is quite strong, so be careful!

Where to Stay in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Jungle Fly Guesthouse: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of the protected area and offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

  2. Sokpaluang Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in Ban Hatkhai Village and is a great place to experience traditional Laotian hospitality.

  3. Nam Ngum View Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located on the shores of Nam Ngum Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handwoven textiles: These beautiful textiles are made by the local villagers and are a great way to bring home a piece of traditional Laos.

  2. Hand-carved wooden statues: These wooden statues are often carved in the shapes of animals, such as elephants and monkeys.

  3. Coffee: Laos is known for its high-quality coffee beans, and there are several local coffee shops that sell roasted beans and coffee drinks.

Local Culture and Customs of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

The local people in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area are predominantly ethnic Lao, with a small number of ethnic minority groups also present. The area has a rich cultural history, with several important historical sites located within its boundaries. Visitors to the area are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as removing their shoes before entering temples or private homes.

Best Time to Visit Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

The best time to visit Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool. The rainy season is between May and October, and it can be difficult to get around the protected area during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.

  2. Take only photographs and leave only footprints.

  3. Book tours and activities through reputable companies.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural environment.

  2. Disrespect religious sites or local people.

  3. Ignore warnings or advice from local authorities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

The area is generally safe for visitors, but it is important to take precautions when hiking or trekking in the jungle. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for unexploded ordnance in some areas of the protected area.

Health in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

There are no major health risks in the protected area, but visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. It is also important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

The nearest airports to Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area are in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Bus Stations Near Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

There are several bus stations in Vientiane that offer transport to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for hire in Vientiane and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

The best way to get around the protected area is by hiring a car or motorcycle. There are also several tour companies that offer guided tours and transport to popular sites.

Where to Go Next from Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Vientiane: The capital city of Laos is a great place to experience Lao culture and cuisine.

  2. Luang Prabang: This historic town is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful temples.

Conclusion

Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the cultural history of Laos. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this beautiful protected area. Plan your trip today and discover all that Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area has to offer.