Nong Khiaw, located on the Nam Ou River in the North of Laos, takes relaxation to a new level. It will be a sin to skip this charming little town when planning your holidays to Laos. You can expect a lot of beautiful scenery, the local cultures of the Hmong, Lao, and Khmu tribes, and picturesque hikes and trails when visiting Nong Khiaw. Filled with culture and natural beauty, this charming village is where you can find the ‘Real Laos.’
This travel guide to Nong Khiaw covers everything, from how to get to the village, what to see and do, to where to stay in Nong Khiaw.
Where is Nong Khiaw?
Nong Khiaw is located in Northern Laos and is 3 hours from Luang Prabang. It’s a small village with a relaxing vibe and charm. You can consider spending a few relaxing days at this perfect place when planning holidays to laos. During your visit, explore the local cultures of Hmong, Lao, and Khmu tribes while taking in the breathtaking views of the karst surrounding Nong Khiaw and the Nam Ou River running through it.
How to Reach Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang?
From Luang Prabang, you can board a bus from the Bus Station in the South for approximately 50,000 kips. Alternatively, you can also take the minibus route for about 55,000 kips. The minibus route will take around 4 hours to bring you to the Nong Khiaw bus station, located outside the village by a mile. From the bus station, you can ride in the waiting tuk-tuks to reach the town.
Where to Stay in Nong Khiaw?
Nong Khiaw is fairly small, with most restaurants and guest houses in the Southeast.
If you want budget-friendly accommodation, your best option is Arthith Guesthouse. The guesthouse has fantastic balcony views and luscious food. This quaint and lovely stay will make your vacation in Nong Khiaw more enjoyable.
For luxury-inclined travelers, staying at the Mandala Ou Resort will be a luxurious experience. With its beautiful outdoors, amazing rooms and infinity pool, this resort will be a slice of paradise in Nong Khiaw. Moreover, you can join the meditation and yoga classes at the resort for a relaxing staycation.
Another amazing accommodation option is staying at Ou River House. This resort floats on the Ou River and offers a breathtaking river stay in Nong Khiaw. You can book private rooms and visit the bar and patios to enjoy. In addition, you can’t miss the mesmerizing sunset magic when staying at Ou River House.
What to do in Nong Khiaw?
When investing in the Laos travel package, your travel agent can provide you with a list of beautiful places you can explore in Nong Khiaw. Below mentioned are the best places to visit in this beautiful village:
● Eat at Alex’s
You can have the best meal in Nong Khiaw at Alex’s. It is a small restaurant run out of a home that delivers homemade food. You can taste many flavorful Laos dishes, with banana leaf chicken and green curry being the best dishes in Laos. While homemade food is delivered, you can enjoy the vibe.
● Pha Daeng Peak Viewpoint
If you have done your research, you might have already seen a photo of spectacular views of Pha Daeng Peak on Google or Instagram. You can quickly locate the trailhead to the Pha Daeng Peak on the main road. It’s best to start the hike on the Southeast of the river. You can reach the top in an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour as most of the hike is an uphill path with few steep ropes and rocks.
You should know that Laos is very hot and humid, making it challenging to do even the smallest hikes in the middle of the day. That is why you should consider starting hiking as early as possible. An early hike will reward you with panoramic views of the forest and sunrise, and you will be less likely to bump into other hikers.
However, this hike is not free, and the entry cost can range from around 20,000 to 25,000 kip per person.
● Hill Tribe Trekking
If you are not restricted by time, consider experiencing a multi-day hill tribe trekking adventure. You must visit North Laos to immerse into the life of local tribes, try their local food, experience their culture and traditions, opt for homestays, and enjoy a peaceful village life away from the world’s hustle and bustle.
● Get a Massage at Sabai Sabai
Do you want to pamper yourself? If so, go to Sabai Sabai, which offers plenty of pampering options. From a traditional Laotian massage to an herbal sauna, you can choose many options to pamper yourself.
● Go the 100 Waterfall Hike
The 100 Waterfall Hike is among the best waterfall hikes you will visit in Laos travel package. The trailhead is located around 6 miles from Nong Khiaw River, on the outskirts of Don Khoun. The hike is 1.2 miles of various intertwining Laos waterfalls levels. Going on this hike is a great way to spend your day enjoying the scenic area of North Laos.
● Have a Cold Lao Lao Beer at Q Bar
End your night with a frosty beverage at Q Bar. Located on the main road of Nong Khiaw, Q Bar is an open-air bar run by a Laotian man. The owner is always excited and shares his AUX cord to let tourists play their favorite music. Moreover, he serves heavy amounts of Lao Lao Whiskey shots, the best beverage in Laos.
Wrapping up!
You will find North of Laos, especially Nong Khiaw, one of the most beautiful places in the country. Nong Khiaw is a small village filled with local culture, beautiful nature, and a relaxing vibe. Following the above-discussed travel guide will make your staycation at Nong Khiaw smooth, leaving you happy that you decided to make this trip.
Furthermore, whenever you plan to visit any Southeast Asian country, whether Laos or Vietnam, invest in the reliable Laos or Vietnam tour package. Such travel packages will serve as a guide for your entire trip, making it a wonderful experience.
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