Pakse

Pakse, the third-largest city in Laos, serves as an excellent starting point for tourists eager to explore the country's enchanting southern regions. Travelers en route to destinations such as Wat Phou, Si Phan Don (known as the 4000 Islands), or the captivating Bolaven Plateau often find themselves passing through this city. While Pakse may not boast an abundance of attractions itself, it conveniently serves as an ideal hub from which to embark on adventures and explore the myriad wonders of the surrounding areas.

Travel Guides

1. Top things to do in Pakse

Try local foods at Ban Tong Night Market
Ban Tong Night Market provides an excellent option for those seeking a nighttime culinary adventure, although it's essential to note that seating with tables and chairs is not available here. Nevertheless, you can still savor delectable bites to-go, and the scenic riverside offers numerous charming spots where you can relax and relish these local treats. Keep in mind that much of the food is prepared fresh right before your eyes. As you stroll through the stalls, you have the delightful opportunity to select your culinary delights based on what catches your eye and tempts your taste buds that day.  
Enjoy the Boat Race Festival
If you find yourself in Pakse at the end of October, don't miss the vibrant Boat Race Festival. This lively event spans three exciting days, featuring the spectacle of large boats racing along the picturesque Xe Don River. Additionally, as part of the festivities, Pakse hosts a delightful carnival, complete with fairgrounds adorned with various games and enticing street food stalls. To add to the festive atmosphere, street performances, including captivating drumming displays and spirited musical competitions, are usually part of the festivities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who attend.  

2. Weather

3. Transportation:

3.2. How to get there?
Departing from Vientiane, you have the convenience of four daily flights connecting to Pakse International Airport (PKZ). This is the swiftest and most comfortable route, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach your destination. Additionally, Pakse is accessible from various other Southeast Asian cities like Bangkok (Thailand), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), and Siem Reap (Cambodia), offering travelers a range of options. Alternatively, for those seeking a more scenic journey, you can opt for a shuttle bus on the road. However, it's worth noting that the road trip entails a longer travel time, averaging around 11 hours by car, which may not be the preferred choice for everyone.
3.2. Ways to get around the city:
Tuk-tuks offer a convenient means of getting around town, and a short trip to the local market typically costs between $1 and $2. If you prefer a more active option, you can rent a bicycle for just $2 per day, while a motorbike rental will set you back around $7 to $8 per day. Opting for a motorbike is particularly advantageous when you want to explore the areas beyond the city, such as Ban Khiet Ngong, Champasak, or the stunning waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau. While most of the local roads are reasonably maintained, there are still some sections with sizable potholes and uneven surfaces. Additionally, it's advisable to stay vigilant for road-related challenges such as scattered litter, children playing on the streets, and occasional encounters with animals and chickens on the road.

Places Of Interest

Wat Luang

Wat Luang can be found in close proximity to the Xe Don bridge. This sacred site boasts a rich collection of exquisite paintings portraying the life and teachings of the Buddha. Visitors can leisurely wander through meticulously maintained gardens and admire the intricately crafted wooden doors.

Wat Phu Salao - Golden Buddha

Atop a hillside across the Mekong from downtown Pakse sits a giant golden Buddha at Wat Phu Salao. To reach this serene sanctuary, you can either arrange for a tuk-tuk ride or rent a motorbike and cross the Lao-Japanese Friendship bridge. Upon arrival, you have the option to ascend the temple either by climbing the steps or following the road leading to this remarkable site.

Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau is, ironically, one of the main reasons that many visitors even find themselves in Pakse. The Bolaven Plateau stands as a captivating testament to the country's natural splendor and cultural diversity. This lush highland expanse, adorned with cascading waterfalls, pristine jungles, and vibrant ethnic villages, beckons travelers to explore its untamed beauty and rich heritage. With that in mind, the best way to end your stay in Pakse is to move on to the Bolaven Plateau and check out all the beauty of this iconic region of Laos.

Dao Heuang Market

The Dao Heuang Market, also known as the Km 2 Market, is a sprawling morning market situated in close proximity to the Lao-Japanese bridge in Pakse. This bustling marketplace, the largest in southern Laos, offers a vast array of home goods and delectable food options. As you explore its lively stalls, you'll encounter an abundance of fresh meats, vibrant flowers, and crisp vegetables, creating a vibrant tapestry of local offerings.

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