Ban Houayxay

Ban Houayxay is a small riverside village located in northern Laos, on the border with Thailand. The village is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides on the Mekong River and explore traditional markets selling handicrafts and local produce.

The welcoming locals and stunning sunsets make Ban Houayxay a charming destination for travelers seeking a tranquil escape.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "ສະລາຍດີ" - Hello
  • "ຂ່າວ​ສາ​ດີ" - Goodbye
  • "ກະລຸນາ" - Please
  • "ຂ້ານ​ຜ​ີນ​ດ່ຽວ" - Thank you
  • "ຂໍ​ສ​ຳ​ພາ​ສາ" - Sorry
  • "ລູກ​ຄ້າ" - Customer

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Temples and Markets

morning:Begin your day with a serene visit to the Wat Chomkao Manilat, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the intricate architecture. Afterwards, head to the local market to experience the vibrant hustle and bustle while sampling fresh fruits and snacks.

afternoon:For lunch, indulge in authentic Laotian flavors at Dokchampa Restaurant, known for its traditional dishes and welcoming ambiance. Later, take a boat ride along the Mekong River to enjoy the breathtaking views and serene surroundings.

evening:As the sun sets, make your way to the Mekong Riverside Promenade for a delightful evening stroll and find a cozy riverside restaurant for a memorable dining experience.

day 2

Jungle Trekking and Waterfalls

morning:Embark on an adventurous jungle trek to discover the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, while immersing in the tranquil sounds of nature. Consider stopping by a local eatery to enjoy a hearty breakfast before the journey.

afternoon:After the trek, make your way to the magical Tad Yuang Waterfall for a refreshing and picturesque experience. Take your time to relax in the serene surroundings and capture stunning nature scenes.

evening:To top off the day, venture to the BCEL 'No Problem' Bar for a laid-back evening with live music and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.

day 3

Cultural Immersion and Cuisine

morning:Dive into local culture with a visit to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, where you can gain insights into the diverse ethnic groups and vibrant traditions of Laos. Consider grabbing a quick snack at a local roadside vendor to kick-start your day.

afternoon:For a cultural culinary experience, participate in a Laotian cooking class, where you'll learn to create traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the delightful fruits of your labor for lunch.

evening:Cap off the day with a visit to the night market, offering an array of unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and delectable street food. Indulge in the vibrant night market ambiance and sample a variety of local delicacies.

day 4

River Cruise and Sunset Views

morning:Embark on a leisurely river cruise along the Mekong, soaking in the tranquil vistas and observing local life along the riverbanks. Consider having a light breakfast at a riverside café while enjoying the picturesque morning views.

afternoon:Explore the intriguing Pak Ou Caves, marveling at the ancient Buddhist sculptures and stunning cave formations. After your exploration, savor a delightful riverside lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh catch from the Mekong River.

evening:As the day winds down, head to the Pha Daeng Mountain viewpoint to witness the breathtaking sunset panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes, creating a perfect ending to a memorable day.

Ban Houayxay Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Laap

A traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat, herbs, fish sauce, lime juice, and ground rice. It's a must-try for its vibrant flavors.

Must-Try!

Khao Soi

A noodle soup dish with a rich coconut curry broth and tender meat, often accompanied by pickled mustard greens, shallots, and a squeeze of lime.

Mok Pa

A popular dish of steamed fish infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and shallots, wrapped in banana leaves.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Ban Houayxay Night Market

This bustling night market offers a wide array of street food such as grilled meats, noodles, and freshly prepared fruit shakes. It's a great place to sample local delicacies and experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Old Town Morning Market

Visitors can find an array of fresh produce, meats, and local snacks at this bustling market. It's perfect for exploring regional ingredients and observing everyday life in Ban Houayxay.

Things to do in Ban Houayxay

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Ban Houayxay

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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