Thakhek Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure activities that make Thakhek a must-visit destination in Laos. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Thakhek

Nestled in the heart of Central Laos, Thakhek is a charming town that provides visitors with a unique experience steeped in Lao culture and natural beauty. With its rolling hills, stunning limestone cliffs, and serene rivers, Thakhek exudes a sense of tranquility and adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere in the world.

Once a bustling trading hub, Thakhek retains much of its old-world charm and remains a hub for the local industry to this day. Its well-preserved French colonial architecture from the early twentieth century is particularly striking, and the town’s central market is an intriguing blend of traditional Laotian and Vietnamese wares.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Thakhek has plenty to offer. Its accessibility, coupled with the friendly locals, makes it an excellent destination for tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Thakhek

Culturally Important Attractions

Museums and Historical Places

  • Thakhek Museum: Housed in an old French colonial building, Thakhek Museum is the perfect place to learn about the area’s history. Exhibits include artifacts from the area’s prehistoric, ancient, and colonial periods.
  • That Sikhottabong: The temple of That Sikhottabong is situated on the banks of the Khan river. An iconic and significant cultural attraction, it stands atop a hill and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the town below.
  • Wat Sisavangvong: A beautifully restored Buddhist temple with an ornate interior adorned with intricate carvings and colorful murals.

Natural Attractions of Thakhek

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Konglor Cave: The seven-kilometer-long cave is an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can rent a boat to traverse its vast underground river, which is surrounded by stunning rock formations.
  • Phou Hin Boun National Park: Located within the Khammouane Province, Phou Hin Boun offers an abundance of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and bird watching. The park is home to many rare animal species, including leopards, gibbons, and elephants.
  • Thakhek Loop: A famous multi-day motorcycle loop that takes riders on a scenic journey through the mountains, forests, and villages surrounding Thakhek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thakhek

  • Thalang Loop: A beautiful 10-kilometer hike that takes you through rice paddies, lush vegetation, and small villages. Along the way, you’ll enjoy unrivaled views of the karst mountains.
  • Nang Non Fig, Cave, and Stream Route: A pleasant 12-kilometer walk in the karst formations. You’ll encounter various cave systems, refreshing streams, and green hills dotted with fig trees.

Best Things to Do in Thakhek: Activities and Tours

  • Rock Climbing: Thakhek is becoming famous among tourists for rock climbing, with multiple climbing schools and rental shops for gear. One of the popular spots is the Giant Cave climbing site.
  • Kayaking: Hire a kayak from any local rental shop and explore the Nam Hinboun River, popular for its clean water and serene atmosphere.
  • One- and Two-day Motorbike Tours: If you don’t have a motorbike, multiple rental shops offer package tours with an experienced guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thakhek

For those planning to spend a week in Thakhek, here is an itinerary that to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Visit Thakhek Museum and surrounding temples
2 Explore the town’s early French colonial architecture, markets and street food
3 Hike the Thalang Loop
4 Visit the Konglor Cave
5 Take a motorbike tour of Nam Theun 2 Lake and Dam
6-7 Explore Phou Hin Boun National Park and its surroundings

Food and Drink Scene of Thakhek

Must-Try Dishes

  • Larp: A traditional Laotian minced meat salad. The spiciness mixed with different herbs and nuts make it a burst of flavours and aromas.
  • Khao Piak Sen: A laotian chicken noodle soup, so good and filling you’ll crave it on your way out of the country.
  • Sai Oua: A spicy Laotian sausage, perfect to enjoy with sticky rice or on its own.

Local Beverages

  • Thakhek Beer: A national beer brewed locally in Thakhek, it is an excellent accompaniment to Laotian food.
  • Mekong Whiskey: Made from the Mekong rice and usually drunk from small plastic bags. It has a powerful taste that grows on you.

Where to Stay in Thakhek: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Travelers in Thakhek will find a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Here are our top picks:

  • Inthira: A cozy hotel with a rooftop pool and excellent restaurant. Perfect for a luxurious stay in the center of the town.
  • KGB: A hostel with a warm and friendly vibe. An excellent choice for those on a budget.
  • Le Bouton D’Or: A guesthouse located across from the Thakhek Museum. It offers comfortable and clean rooms at a reasonable price.

What to Buy in Thakhek: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Textiles: Hand-woven cotton and silk scarves and shawls are popular local products with intricate designs that tell the story of Laotian culture.
  • Coffee: Laotian coffee is one of the world’s most unique and less-covered regional coffees. Seek out some roasted beans for a perfect souvenir.
  • Artwork: Traditional paintings and sketches of temples, landscapes, and people are excellent souvenirs of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Thakhek

Thakhek is a conservative town, and visitors should dress modestly when in public spaces, especially at religious sites. Dress codes aside, visitors will find the locals to be friendly, welcoming, and eager to share their culture with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Thakhek

Thakhek is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is from November to February, during the cooler, dry season, which offers comfortable outdoor conditions. The rainy season is from May to September, which turns the town a lush green and complements the cave explorations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thakhek

Do:

  • Respect local customs when visiting religious sites.
  • Bring and use toilets paper. The majority of restrooms do not provide them as a toileting practise.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities you’ll pursue.

Don’t:

  • Touch anyone’s head, as it’s considered to be the most sacred part of the body in Laotian culture.
  • Point your feet towards Buddha images, holy buildings, or people, as it’s considered to be disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thakhek

Thakhek is a safe town, but travelers should exercise caution while travelling on the Thakhek Loop or engaging in rock climbing activities. Always use reputable and experienced rental shops and proceed with caution.

Health in Thakhek

Travelers to Thakhek should take measures to avoid mosquito bites and carry insect repellent. Visitors should also avoid tap water and consume only bottled water and drinks. It’s also advisable to carry a basic first aid kit.

Getting to Thakhek: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thakhek

The nearest airport to Thakhek is Pakse International Airport, located about four hours by car.

Bus Stations Near Thakhek

Thakhek has a central bus station with regional and international service. Travelers can also take buses from Vientiane, Pakse, or Savannakhet.

Other Options

Traveling via motorbike is a popular option, especially if you plan on exploring the area around Thakhek fully.

How to Get Around in Thakhek

Taxis and tuk-tuks are common modes of transportation in Thakhek, but the town is relatively small and can be quickly traversed on foot or by bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Thakhek: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Konglor Cave: A little over two hours from Thakhek by car, Konglor Cave is a must-visit for those interested in unique natural beauty.
  • Vientiane: The capital of Laos is just six hours from Thakhek by car and features charming French colonial architecture and a bustling food scene.
  • Pakse: A historic town located approximately four hours from Thakhek in southern Laos, Pakse features an array of traditional temples and a vibrant market scene.

Conclusion

Thakhek, Laos, is a true gem of Southeast Asia. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with its stunning natural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for any excursion traveler. This guide is your ultimate handbook on Thakhek, be it for a day or weeks, you’ll have everything you need to plan your adventure in the beautiful town.

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