Phou Khoun - Discovering Laos

Travelling to Phou Khoun

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Phou Khoun, a pretty good destination in Laos (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Phou Khoun and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Phou Khoun, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Laos, here's everything to know about Phou Khoun for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Phou Khoun

Phou Khoun is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, about 100 kilometers north of the more popular destination of Luang Prabang. It is situated in the Annamite Range, surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. The weather in Phou Khoun is generally cool and pleasant, making it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking. The town itself has a few basic amenities including guesthouses, restaurants, and markets, but it is mostly known as a stopover point for travelers heading to other destinations in the region. Some of the nearby attractions include the Nam Ou River, the Pak Ou Caves, and the ethnic minority villages of the Hmong and Khmu people.

What to visit in Phou Khoun

Phou Khoun is a small charming town in the northern part of Laos. Here are some of the tourist attractions in Phou Khoun: 1. Nam Ngum Lake: Nam Ngum Lake is a stunning artificial lake that provides the perfect escape from the city. The scenic beauty of the lake is mesmerizing. The lake offers leisure activities like boating, tubing, and kayaking, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing day.
2. Phou Khoun Market: The market is a place where you can experience the local way of life in Laos and grab some bargains. There are a variety of things sold at the market including vegetables, fruits, clothes, and household items.
3. Khammouane Cave: One of the major tourist attractions in Phou Khoun is the Khammouane Cave. It is a natural limestone cave that is home to incredible stalactites and stalagmites. You can even see bats inside the cave.
4. Tham Sangkhalok Temple: Tham Sangkhalok Temple is a beautiful temple situated near the Khammouane Cave. The temple is carved out of the rocks, making it a unique attraction in Phou Khoun.
5. Muang Ngoi Neua: Located around 30 kilometers from Phou Khoun, Muang Ngoi Neua is a charming village that is popular among tourists. The village has a peaceful atmosphere, and you can visit local markets, explore the beautiful countryside or relax in one of the cafes.
6. Tad Somphamit Waterfall: Tad Somphamit is a spectacular waterfall located just a couple of hours away from Phou Khoun. The waterfall is set amid breathtaking natural surroundings and offers a great opportunity for hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Phou Khoun. Visitors to this town can enjoy the natural beauty, unique culture, and incredible attractions that Laos has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Laos, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Phou Khoun.

When to go on holiday to Phou Khoun

The best time to visit Phou Khoun, Laos, is during the dry season from November to March. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it comfortable to explore the area's mountains and forests. The wet season, from May to October, may bring heavy rains and mud, making it difficult to travel or engage in outdoor activities. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your visit to Phou Khoun during the dry season for a more enjoyable experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Phou Khoun

Phou Khoun is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, about 270 kilometers from the capital city of Vientiane. The easiest and most convenient way to get to Phou Khoun is by taking a private car or a taxi from Vientiane. If you prefer public transportation, there are several options available: 1. Bus: There are daily buses from Vientiane to Phou Khoun. The trip takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the conditions of the roads. You can buy the ticket at Vientiane bus station.
2. Minivan: Minivans are another option for traveling from Vientiane to Phou Khoun. They are faster and more comfortable than buses, but they are also more expensive. You can find minivans at Vientiane's Southern Bus Terminal.
3. Motorbike: If you are an adventurous type, you can rent a motorbike in Vientiane and ride it to Phou Khoun. The journey takes about 8 hours, and it's a great way to see the countryside.
I hope this information is helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Phou Khoun, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Phou Khoun

Phou Khoun is a district located in the northern region of Laos. Below are some of the typical foods that you can find in Phou Khoun along with a short description of each: 1. Khao Poon - Khao Poon is a traditional Lao rice noodle soup that is flavored with a variety of spices, herbs, and meat or fish. It is usually served with freshly chopped coriander, lime wedges, and chili paste.
2. Laap - Laap is a spicy and tangy salad made with finely chopped meat, fish or vegetables mixed with herbs and spices. It is traditionally made with raw meat, but cooked versions are also popular.
3. Sai Oua - Sai Oua is a spicy Lao sausage made with ground pork, lemongrass, galangal, and a variety of other herbs and spices. It is usually grilled and served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
4. Ping Kai - Ping Kai is grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices. It is usually served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce.
5. Som Moo - Som Moo is a popular Lao dish made with fermented pork sausage. It is usually served with fresh vegetables, sticky rice, and a spicy dipping sauce.
6. Mok Pa - Mok Pa is a type of fish dish that is steamed with herbs and spices in a banana leaf parcel. It is usually served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
7. Or Lam - Or Lam is a hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables. It is cooked in a clay pot with herbs and spices until the flavors meld together. It is usually served with sticky rice.
These are just a few of the typical foods that you can find in Phou Khoun. Lao cuisine is quite varied, and you can expect to find a wide range of flavors and ingredients throughout the country.
You can find general info about typical foods in Laos here.

Is Phou Khoun an expensive destination for tourists?

Phou Khoun in Laos is relatively an inexpensive destination when compared to other popular tourist destinations in the region. The cost of accommodation, food, and transport is quite low. However, the prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation and level of luxury you prefer. Additionally, expenses such as entrance fees to tourist sites and activities such as trekking may add to the total cost of your trip. Therefore, it is essential to plan your trip beforehand and budget your expenses accordingly to ensure that you have a memorable and fulfilling experience in Phou Khoun.

Where to find accomodation in Phou Khoun

Phou Khoun is a small town located in the Luang Prabang province of Laos. As it is a small town, there are limited accommodation options available. However, the nearby town of Nong Khiaw, which is approximately an hour's drive away, has a wider range of accommodation options for visitors. Another option is the town of Muang Xay, which is about two hours' drive from Phou Khoun and also has a variety of accommodation options. Both towns offer easy access to Phou Khoun and other nearby attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Phou Khoun here:
Booking.com

Is Phou Khoun a safe destination for tourists?

Phou Khoun is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is still important to take general safety precautions while traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night, not leaving valuables unattended, and being aware of your surroundings. It's also advisable to follow local customs and cultural practices to show respect and avoid any unnecessary trouble. Overall, as long as you exercise common sense and remain aware of your surroundings, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Phou Khoun.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Laos here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Phou Khoun.

What type of travelers will enjoy Phou Khoun the most?

Phou Khoun is a small town in Laos with limited tourist activities. It is mainly a transit point for travelers who are on their way to explore Northern Laos. Generally, it's not a place for young people looking for fun, as there are very few nightlife options. However, couples or families who enjoy nature and want to explore the countryside might enjoy Phou Khoun.
The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, offering incredible trekking opportunities. Families can also visit the local elephant sanctuary, where they can get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the jungle. Additionally, there are some waterfalls nearby where visitors can cool off and relax.
Overall, Phou Khoun might not be the most exciting destination on its own, but it can be an enjoyable stopover for couples or families who love nature and want to break up a longer journey through Laos.

How to get around Phou Khoun

The most common transportation options for getting around Phou Khoun include tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and bicycles. Tuk-tuks are the most convenient option, especially if you are traveling in a group or carrying luggage. Motorbikes can be rented from local shops and provide more flexibility in terms of travel routes and timing. Bicycles are a great option for those who want to explore the area at a slower pace and enjoy the scenery. Keep in mind that the roads can be bumpy and unpaved, so it is important to choose a mode of transportation that fits your comfort level and travel needs.

What to see around Phou Khoun

Here are some nice places that you can consider visiting in a day trip from Phou Khoun: 1. Kuang Si Waterfalls - a popular tourist destination known for its three-tiered waterfall and crystal-clear turquoise blue pools.
2. Pak Ou Caves - a sacred site that features thousands of Buddha statues and figurines that are carved into the walls of the limestone caves.
3. Luang Prabang - a UNESCO World Heritage site that features beautiful colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and a rich cultural heritage.
4. Tad Sae Waterfall - a hidden gem that is off the beaten path and features a stunning waterfall and opportunity to go elephant riding.
5. Ban Phanom - a traditional weaving village where you can learn about the local textile making process and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.
There are also many other interesting places to visit near Phou Khoun, including the Nam Xay Viewpoint, the Pak Lai District, and the Nam Ngum Lake. You may want to research these places and see which one best suits your interests and timeframe.
For every travel information about Laos you can click here.

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