Visit Pakse, Laos 2024: Everything You Need To Know For A Memorable Trip

Southern Laos is a region that captivates tourists with its charming beauty and striking contrasts. Pakse, one of the key cities preserving numerous ancient buildings, features colonial houses and royal palaces now converted into hotels. The city exudes a timeless, tranquil atmosphere. Read on to discover more about the allure of Pakse, Laos.

Written by Oliver PHUNG (local expert)Updated on 05-08-2024

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1. Pakse: An Overview Of This Captivating City In Southern Laos

Pakse, located where the Xe Don and Mekong rivers meet in southern Laos, is the capital of Champasak province. Founded by the French in 1905, it was the capital of the Kingdom of Champasak before merging with the rest of Laos in 1946.

With its serene setting along the Mekong River, Pakse attracts those seeking tranquility. Like nearby Savannakhet, the region is rich in French architectural and cultural influences. Home to about 90,000 residents, mainly of Chinese and Vietnamese descent, Pakse is the fourth largest city in Laos.

Its international airport makes Pakse an excellent starting point for exploring southern Laos.

2. What To See And Do In Pakse

• 2.1 Visit Buddhist Temples

Wat Luang, located on the Xe Don River, is one of Pakse's most magnificent temples. Its ornate ornamentation and vibrant colors highlight the traditional Laotian temple style. Wat Luang, unlike other crowded attractions, provides a calm visit. The temple complex includes a monastery where monks live, and you can witness the renowned Laotian almsgiving ceremony here.

For a classic Angkorian-style temple, Wat Phou is a must-see. Located on a hill with a breathtaking view of the Mekong River, Wat Phou features an impressive Buddha statue. The best time to visit is at sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Wat Phou, known as the "Temple of the Mountain," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If possible, visit during the Vat Phou festival in January or February, which draws many devotees. The entrance fee is 50,000 kip per person.

• 2.2 Explore 4000 islands (Si Phan Don)

Si Phan Don, or the “4000 Islands,” is a stunning destination in the Mekong Basin, southern Laos, near the Cambodian border. Picture palm trees swaying gently in the breeze and traditional houses lining the majestic Mekong River.

During the dry season, as the waters recede, the river reveals thousands of alluvial deposits, creating a unique and enchanting landscape. While "four thousand islands" may be a bit of local exaggeration, the main islands—Don Det, Don Khong, and Don Khon—offer a true island paradise.

Explore these islands to escape into tranquility, natural beauty, and adventure. Relax by the water and immerse yourself in local life along the Mekong River. Si Phan Don is a destination where every moment feels magical.

• 2.3. Explore local markets 

To experience the daily life of Pakse, visit the local markets.

Daoheuang Market, also known as the "New Pakse Market," was built in 1998 after the old market burned down. It's the largest market in Laos, open all day, offering everything from clothing and household appliances to fresh produce and regional specialties.

For evening snacks, head to Ban Tong Night Market. This market features various light meals prepared at food stalls, allowing you to watch the cooking process. There's no table service, so you can enjoy your food while strolling along the river.

• 2.4. The Champasak museum

Located in Pakse, Laos, the Champasak Provincial Museum showcases a unique collection of artifacts and documents detailing the province's history. Visitors can view historical photographs of cultural events and foreign encounters, along with musical instruments, ethnic clothing, textiles, and jewelry. A visit to this museum is a must for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Champasak.

• 2.5. Discover Bolaven Plateau 

The Bolaven Plateau, a major attraction in Pakse, Laos, sits at an altitude of 1,200 meters and brings breathtaking beauty with numerous rivers, including the impressive Tad Lo and Tad Phan waterfalls.

Home to some of the country’s finest coffee plantations, the region produces prized Arabica beans. With a mild climate and fertile soil, it is perfect for cultivating this "black gold." Visitors can explore small, family-run plantations and sample tantalizing Laotian coffee.

The Bolaven Plateau is a natural paradise with spectacular landscapes and a rich coffee culture, making it a must-see for nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts.

For an extraordinary adventure, try the Tree Top Explorer experience. This unique activity includes hiking, cliff swinging, crossing Ferrata and suspension bridges, and spending the night in a tree house. These unforgettable experiences will enhance your trip to Pakse.

• 2.6. Take a cruise on the Mekong

Embark on a river cruise or stroll along the Mekong during your visit to Pakse. This serene experience lets you discover the tranquility of this majestic river and observe the daily life of its residents. You'll be captivated by the peaceful atmosphere along the banks as locals go about their day.

A highlight of this experience is dining on delicious Lao cuisine aboard floating restaurants. Enjoy carefully prepared dishes while being gently rocked by the waves of the Mekong River. The floating restaurants offer breathtaking views, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for relaxation and culinary delight.

3. When Are The Best Times To Visit?

The best time to travel to Pakse and southern Laos is from October to February of the following year. The weather is cool and pleasant with moderate temperatures. This period offers ideal sunshine and light rain, making the trip perfect. It can get chilly at night.

March and April are the hottest months of summer in southern Laos, with average temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius. However, it is also the time for Laos' traditional New Year, an event not to be missed.

From May to September is the rainy season in Pakse. The showers can disrupt your visits, but the landscapes during this period are magnificent. The fields are bright green, and the waterfalls are impressive with a dense flow of water.

4. How To Get To And Around Pakse?

Pakse International Airport is the main entry point to southern Laos, offering direct flights from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Domestic flights to Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Savannakhet are also available. To reach the city center from the airport, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi, with fares ranging from USD 2 to USD 6.

Pakse has two bus stations: the VIP Bus Station and the Songthaew Bus Station. These stations provide international routes to Thailand and Cambodia, as well as buses to domestic destinations such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and other provinces in Laos.

For getting around the city, the most flexible options are biking or renting a motorbike. Bike rentals cost about 30,000 kips per day, while motorbike rentals are around 60,000 kips per day. Alternatively, you can use buses or tuk-tuks for your travels.

5. Where To Stay In Pakse? 

Although Pakse is not the most crowded or touristy city in Laos, it offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget to high-end. These options provide convenient access to the city's famous attractions.

• Pakse Hotel

Address: Route n° 5, Ban Wat Luang Champasak, Pakse 1600 Laos

Pakse Hotel & Restaurant is a top choice when it comes to Pakse, known for its unique architecture and central location. Guests enjoy easy access to French colonial buildings, markets, shops, and the banks of the Mekong and Se Don rivers. The nearby bus station provides VIP bus services to Thailand, Cambodia, and other parts of Laos. The hotel meets international standards and features a panoramic restaurant on its top floor.

• Champasak Grand Hotel

Address: Pont Lao Nippon Mekong Riverside Road, P.O. Box 419, Pakse, Province Champasak, RDP Lao

The Champasak Grand Hotel boasts a prime location in Pakse, just a 3-minute walk from Wat Phra Bat and a 10-minute walk from the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum. The hotel features 215 fully equipped rooms and offers amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna.

Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Golden Buddha, the Mekong River, and beautiful sunsets from the riverside restaurant.

• Sanga Hostel

Address: Ban Wat Louang, Street No. 5, House No. 0407, 16000 Pakse, Laos

Sanga Hostel is a budget-friendly option in Pakse, Laos, conveniently located a short walk from Wat Luang Temple and near the Kong River. At this hotel, you can easily access the famous Golden Buddha of Pakse, situated just 4 km away, across the river.

>>>Also read: How Much Does a Trip to Laos Cost?

The last words

Pakse, Laos, is a peaceful and captivating destination that promises a memorable trip. While it may not boast major tourist attractions, the city holds significance in the 'land of a million elephants'. Plan your trip to Pakse now and discover all that it has to offer!

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