Ban Nakasang Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ban Nakasang with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, and more in Ban Nakasang.


Ban Nakasang is a small town located in the Champasak province of Southern Laos, making it a perfect destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. The town is known for its cultural significance, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities that attract many tourists from around the world. In this travel guide, we will explore the key attractions and activities in Ban Nakasang. Here is everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Ban Nakasang.

Introduction to Ban Nakasang

Ban Nakasang is an idyllic town located in the heart of the Champasak province in Southern Laos. The town is known for its cultural heritage and scenic surroundings that offer visitors a sense of peace and tranquility. Ban Nakasang is a small town, but it has plenty to offer to visitors, from ancient temples to modern art galleries, hiking trails, and stunning waterfalls.

List of Places to Visit in Ban Nakasang

Here is a comprehensive list of things to do and see in Ban Nakasang:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Temple Wat Phou - a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple dates back to the Khmer period and is a must-visit place in Ban Nakasang.
  • The Champasak Provincial Museum - showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of southern Laos.
  • Oum Muong Temple – a quiet place to escape the crowds and contemplate in solitude.

Natural Attractions of Ban Nakasang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tad Fane Waterfall - a stunning twin waterfall, measuring 120 meters in height. Visitors can enjoy a hike to the waterfall or admire it from afar.
  • Bolaven Plateau – a popular destination for mountain bikers. The plateau boasts numerous scenic trails for hiking and biking with stunning panoramas.
  • Don Khone Island - a tranquil island located in the Mekong river. It is a perfect place to escape the bustle of life and admire the surrounding nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ban Nakasang

Ban Nakasang is home to some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in Laos. Here are a few popular routes to explore:

  • Bolaven Plateau Trail - a popular and challenging route for mountain bikers and hikers.
  • Phou Asa Trail - a breathtaking hiking trail to the top of the Phou Asa mountain.
  • Four Thousand Islands Trail - a picturesque route along the Mekong river, leading to the stunning Liphi Waterfall.

Best Things to Do in Ban Nakasang: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do and see in Ban Nakasang, and here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

  • Sunrise and Sunset boat tour to Don Det, Don Khone, and Liphi Waterfall.
  • Explore the Bolaven Plateau on a mountain bike.
  • Take a guided tour of the Tad Fane waterfall.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ban Nakasang

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Ban Nakasang:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Pakse, and rest
Day 2 Visit the Champasak Provincial Museum and Wat Phou Temple
Day 3 Explore the Bolaven Plateau Trail
Day 4 Hike to Tad Fane Waterfall and take a guided tour
Day 5 Visit Don Khone Island and Liphi Waterfall
Day 6 Take a boat tour to explore Four Thousand Islands Trail
Day 7 Departure from Pakse

Food and Drink Scene of Ban Nakasang

Ban Nakasang’s cuisine offers a blend of Lao and French influences, making it diverse and fascinating. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Larb - the national dish of Laos, made of minced meat and herbs.
  • Khao Jee - Lao-style baguette served with pâté or eggs.
  • Laap Deua – a vegetable soup with local herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Beerlao - the most popular beer in Laos.
  • LaoLao - a traditional Lao rice whiskey.
  • Coffee - Laos is known for its high-quality coffee, and Ban Nakasang offers some of the best brews in the country.

Where to Stay in Ban Nakasang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ban Nakasang may be a small town, but it offers a range of accommodations options for visitors. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Champasak Palace Hotel - this luxurious five-star hotel is reminiscent of the French colonial period.
  • Sala Donkhone – located on Don Khone island, this hotel offers island-style bungalows with magnificent views of the Mekong river.
  • Nakorn Guest House - an affordable guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms in the heart of Ban Nakasang.

What to Buy in Ban Nakasang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ban Nakasang is famous for its local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional artwork. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Lao silk scarves - handwoven by local artisans and make a fantastic souvenir.
  • Traditional rattan baskets - made of woven bamboo and are long-lasting.
  • Handmade pottery - an authentic souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ban Nakasang

Ban Nakasang locals identify themselves as Laotians and practice Theravada Buddhism. It is essential to respect their culture and customs while visiting the town. Dress modestly when visiting temples, and remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s house. Ban Nakasang locals are hospitable and always eager to help visitors.

Best Time to Visit Ban Nakasang

The best time to visit Ban Nakasang is between November and February when the weather is dry and the temperature is mild. July to September is the rainy season, so it is best to avoid these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ban Nakasang

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ban Nakasang:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Tread lightly and act responsibly
  • Be courteous, friendly and ask politely when seeking help.

Don’t:

  • Make loud noises or gestures as they can be considered rude.
  • Litter or destroy natural resources
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting temples as it can be considered disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ban Nakasang

Ban Nakasang is a safe place to visit, but like any other tourist destination, there are risks to consider. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and expensive items, and keep a close eye on your belongings. Be vigilant when using public transportation and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Ban Nakasang

Laos is known for its tropical diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Visitors are advised to take precautions against mosquitos by wearing long-sleeved clothes and using insect repellent. It is also advisable to get vaccinated against Typhoid, Hepatitis A, B, and Japanese Encephalitis before visiting Ban Nakasang.

Getting to Ban Nakasang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ban Nakasang is accessible by various transportation options:

Airports Near Ban Nakasang

The nearest airport is Pakse International Airport, located about 70km away from Ban Nakasang. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or minivan to Ban Nakasang, which takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Bus Stations Near Ban Nakasang

Buses are an affordable and popular option for traveling in Laos. The nearest bus station is in Pakse, and from here, visitors can take a minivan or rent a car to reach Ban Nakasang quickly and comfortably.

Other Options

Visitors can take a boat from Si Phan Don or Nakasang to reach Ban Nakasang. There are also many tour operators who offer door-to-door tours from neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

How to Get Around in Ban Nakasang

The best way to get around Ban Nakasang is by renting a bike or a scooter. It gives visitors the freedom to explore the town at their leisure. Visitors can also take a tuk-tuk or a local taxi to get around quickly.

Where to Go Next from Ban Nakasang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ban Nakasang is an excellent base for exploring other parts of Southern Laos. Here are some of the nearby destinations:

  • Si Phan Don – the four thousand islands.
  • Pakse - the largest city in Southern Laos.
  • Savannakhet - another historic city located south of Laos.

Conclusion

Ban Nakasang is an idyllic town that offers something for everyone. Whether it’s exploring ancient temples, hiking scenic trails, or admiring stunning waterfalls, Ban Nakasang has got it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan a memorable trip to Ban Nakasang, Southern Laos. So pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.