Vieng Xai Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide of Vieng Xai, Laos, to explore the best places to visit, things to do, best time to visit, transportation options and much more.


Introduction to Vieng Xai

Located in Central Laos, Vieng Xai is a town surrounded by limestone karst formations in the northeastern province of Houaphanh. Vieng Xai holds historical and cultural significance as it was the base of the Pathet Lao during the Laotian Civil War. This once-secret town has now become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to explore stunning caves and the scenic countryside.

List of Places to Visit in Vieng Xai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vieng Xai Caves: This network of limestone caves was used as hideouts by the Pathet Lao leaders during the Vietnam War. The caves are now open to visitors, showing the bunkers, meeting rooms, and living quarters of senior communist officials. Visitors can also explore the intricate cave systems with various stalagmites and stalactites, and learn more about the history of the civil war.
  • Pathet Lao Headquarters: Once the communist headquarters, the building has now been restored and turned into a museum showing Laotian history and culture.
  • Hin Heup Bridge: A suspension bridge built in 1950, offers panoramic views of the Nam Xam valley.

Natural Attractions of Vieng Xai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thanh Nua Village: Take a leisurely walk through the idyllic village of Thanh Nua, surrounded by lush green rice fields and stunning mountain landscapes.
  • Pha Tang: A panoramic viewpoint of Houaphanh province, offering stunning mountainous landscapes that stretch out to the horizon.
  • Nam Nern Night Safari: Visitors can embark on a guided boat tour that allows them to see nocturnal wildlife such as otters, porcupines, and fishing cats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vieng Xai

  • The Vieng Xai Loop: A 120-kilometer loop that starts and ends in Vieng Xai, perfect for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside.
  • Phou Khoun Mountain: A challenging hike up the mountain range that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Vieng Xai: Activities and Tours

  • Vieng Xai Caves Tour: A guided tour that showcases the historical significance of Vieng Xai caves during the Laotian Civil War.
  • Lao Village Life Tour: Visitors can learn about the lifestyle and traditions of rural Lao communities in Thanh Nua village.
  • Biking in Vieng Xai: Visitors can rent bikes and explore the scenic countryside at their own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vieng Xai

Day Activity
1 Visit Vieng Xai caves and the Pathet Lao headquarters
2 Explore Thanh Nua Village and the Nam Xam Valley
3 Take a boat tour on Nam Nern River
4 Hike up Phou Khoun Mountain
5 Cycle around the scenic countryside
6 Visit Pha Tang viewpoint
7 Relax in town before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Vieng Xai

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khao Poon: Spicy noodle soup made with meat, fish sauce, and Lao chili paste.
  • Larp: A spicy minced meat salad with herbs and lime juice.
  • Tam Mak Houng: A spicy green papaya salad with peanuts, tomato, and fish sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Lao Lao: A traditional rice whiskey made from sticky rice and herbs.
  • Beerlao: A local beer that’s a popular choice among tourists and locals alike.

Where to Stay in Vieng Xai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Vieng Xay Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a central location.
  • Vilasack Guesthouse: Another affordable option with comfortable rooms and great hospitality.
  • Vieng Xai Riverside: A mid-range hotel with a beautiful riverside location and excellent views.

What to Buy in Vieng Xai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade textiles: Laos is famous for its handmade textiles, and Vieng Xai is no exception. Visitors can purchase scarves, table runners, and other woven items.
  • Lao coffee: Laos is famous for its coffee, and visitors can purchase locally grown and roasted beans as a gift or souvenir.
  • Silver jewelry: There are numerous silver jewelry shops in Vieng Xai selling handmade and unique pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Vieng Xai

  • Lao culture emphasizes modesty, respect, and hospitality towards guests.
  • Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Lao people consider the feet to be dirty, so it’s essential to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple.

Best Time to Visit Vieng Xai

The best time to visit Vieng Xai is during the dry season from October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, as this is the peak season, visitors may expect a surge in prices and crowds. The rainy season from May to September is a low season with fewer visitors, and prices are generally lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vieng Xai

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Wear appropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Show disrespect to monks or Buddha images.
  • Touch someone’s head, as it’s considered a sensitive and sacred body part.
  • Dispose of trash in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vieng Xai

Vieng Xai is generally a safe place for visitors. However, it’s essential to take standard safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Vieng Xai

Visitors should drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid food from roadside stalls. Dengue fever is prevalent in Southeast Asia, including Vieng Xai, so it’s crucial to use mosquito repellent and dress appropriately.

Getting to Vieng Xai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vieng Xai

  • Wattay International Airport: The closest international airport, located in Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
  • Ban Huoeisay Airport: Domestic airport located in Huoay Xai, with connections to Vientiane.

Bus Stations Near Vieng Xai

  • Central Bus Station: Located in Vientiane, offering daily bus services to Vieng Xai.

Other Options

  • Private car hire and taxi services are also available but can be more expensive.

How to Get Around in Vieng Xai

Bicycles can be easily rented in Vieng Xai for exploring the town and countryside. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes are also available for short trips around town or to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Vieng Xai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Luang Prabang: A UNESCO-listed town located in central Laos, famous for its temples, French colonial architecture, and the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls.
  • Phonsavan: A town located in Xieng Khuan province, known for its mysterious ancient standing stones, the Plain of Jars.
  • Vientiane: The capital city of Laos, offering visitors a mix of French colonial buildings, ancient temples, and bustling night markets.

Conclusion

Vieng Xai offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether it’s exploring the limestone caves used by communist leaders, cycling around the pristine countryside, or relaxing in town, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Vieng Xai.

Main Street in Vieng Xai Main Street in Vieng Xai Cave formerly used for showing movies and plays and even hosting weddings Cave formerly used for showing movies and plays and even hosting weddings