Things To Do
in Thakhèk
Thakhèk is a serene town located in central Laos, nestled along the banks of the Mekong River. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, with limestone karst mountains looming in the background. Visitors can explore the nearby Kong Lor Cave, a stunning 7.5 km long limestone cave system with a river running through it.
Thakhèk also serves as a gateway to the remote and beautiful Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area.
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khawp chai" - Thank you
- "Sala baai" - How are you?
- "Noy noy" - A little
- "Baw" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a visit to the Thakhèk market, where you can experience local life and grab some traditional breakfast. Don’t forget to try a bowl of khao piak sen (Laotian noodle soup).
Head to the nearby Tham Phu Kham cave to explore its stunning rock formations and shimmering pools. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while surrounded by nature.
Enjoy a sunset stroll along the Mekong River and try some street food from local vendors. Wrap up your day with a quiet dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Rent a bicycle and ride through the picturesque countryside, taking in the lush landscapes and welcoming villages. Stop by a local farm to learn about traditional agricultural practices.
Cycle to the impressive That Ing Hang Stupa, an important religious site, and explore the historical significance behind it. Take some time to rest and have lunch in the shade.
Return to Thakhèk and head to a local café for delicious coffee and dessert. Meet some locals and share stories about your day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including karst landscapes and the Mekong River.
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of Lao traditions and French colonial history.
- Affordable cost of living, including accommodations and food.
- Warm and friendly locals who are welcoming to tourists.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling, and exploring caves.
- Limited infrastructure and modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Transportation options may be less frequent and more challenging.
- Language barrier as English is not widely spoken among locals.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to more touristy destinations.
- Weather conditions can be quite hot and humid, particularly during summer months.
Best Activities in Thakhèk
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy rock climbing amidst stunning limestone cliffs with over 300 routes for all skill levels.
Embark on a boat journey through the 7.5 km long Kong Lor Cave, marveling at its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
Discover lush greenery, waterfalls, and local villages while trekking in the beautiful Pha Tang area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Thakhèk with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Thakhèk
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of limestone karsts and a great place for photo opportunities.
Featuring beautiful rock formations and a small river, this cave provides unique photo opportunities.
A natural wonder with a river flowing through it, creating incredible photo opportunities inside the cave.
Known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, providing great photo opportunities for cave enthusiasts.
Food in Thakhèk
Thakhèk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat, herbs, and roasted rice powder, typically flavored with fish sauce, lime, and chilies. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Thakhèk. Try it at Sabaidee Restaurant or Ban Vivanit.
Must-Try!
Also known as green papaya salad, this dish features shredded unripe papaya, cherry tomatoes, lime, fish sauce, and chilies, creating a refreshing and spicy flavor. Find it at Tha Khaek Night Market or Noy's Fruit Heaven.
A popular Laotian rice noodle soup dish that is often enjoyed for breakfast. The hearty soup is filled with tender meat, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth. Taste it at Nangnoi Restaurant or Khao Piak Sen Jia.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Thakhèk better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant night market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of local dishes, fresh fruits, and grilled meats. It's an ideal place to explore the diverse street food offerings of Thakhèk.
An authentic market where you can savor local snacks, fresh produce, and even enjoy a quick meal at one of the bustling food stalls. You'll find an abundance of flavors and aromas here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Thakhèk, it's important to greet people with the traditional Lao greeting called the 'nop'. This is done by placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and slightly bowing your head. It's a sign of respect and is commonly used when meeting someone for the first time and in formal situations.
It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a temple, or any other indoor space in Thakhèk. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness, and it's important to adhere to this cultural norm to show respect for the local customs.
When encountering Buddhist monks in Thakhèk, it's important to show them the highest level of respect. This includes making way for them on the streets, refraining from physical contact, and being mindful of their status as revered members of society.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Thakhèk with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Thakhèk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Thakhèk, Laos. It is not expected or required in most situations, including restaurants, hotels, or taxis.
Payment in Thakhèk, Laos is mostly done in cash, especially in rural areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is important to carry enough local currency for transactions. Some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards, but it's best to confirm beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Thakhèk.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Thakhèk, Laos with cool and dry weather. Good for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect hot and humid weather, with temperatures reaching highs. May experience occasional rain showers.
Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential for flooding. Outdoor activities may be limited.
Thakhèk at Night
Hiking in Thakhèk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just a short drive from Thakhek, this national park offers a variety of hiking trails through lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
Across the Mekong River, this area features several hiking routes that lead to beautiful viewpoints and scenic landscapes. It's accessible via a short trip from Thakhek.
This famous motorbike route also offers great opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to caves and limestone cliffs along the way.
While primarily known for its caves, there are hiking trails in the surrounding areas that offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.
A breathtaking cave system that features a river running through it. There are hiking paths to reach the cave which involve exploring the beautiful karst landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Thakhèk through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Thakhèk by plane.
Located in Vientiane, approximately 170 kilometers from Thakhèk, Wattay International Airport is the main international airport serving Laos.
Located in Savannakhet, around 100 kilometers from Thakhèk, this airport serves domestic flights and limited international destinations.
Situated in Pakse, about 200 kilometers from Thakhèk, Pakse International Airport provides both domestic and international flights.
Located in Nong Khai, Thailand, approximately 240 kilometers from Thakhèk, this airport connects with international flights, particularly to Bangkok.
Located in Da Nang, Vietnam, about 600 kilometers from Thakhèk, this is a major international airport serving various destinations in Southeast Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Thakhèk, with the Lao language and culture predominating in the area.
An indigenous ethnic group in Laos, known for their traditional farming practices and distinct cultural traditions.
An ethnic group with a strong presence in the region, recognized for their unique language, customs, and festivals.
A hill tribe group known for their vibrant clothing and distinct social structures, residing in the mountainous areas near Thakhèk.
A smaller community that has settled in Thakhèk, contributing to the cultural and economic diversity of the area.
A minority community involved in trade and business, influencing local commerce.
The Soul of Thakhèk
Discover the essence of Thakhèk through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Thakhèk, played in local fields and organized leagues.
Tennis has a growing following in Thakhèk, with several courts available for recreational play.
Basketball is widely played among youths in Thakhèk, with many local courts in neighborhoods.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and recreational areas, often played on the beach or in parks.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is very popular in Laos, including Thakhèk.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced in Thakhèk, reflecting the region's cultural heritage and promoting physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thakhèk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Thakhèk's cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets. Look for dishes like Tam Mak Hoong with tofu or vegetable stir-fries.
Locally, many rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as Khao Piak Sen and sticky rice dishes. Communicate your dietary needs clearly, and most places will strive to accommodate.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Thakhèk with these cultural adventures.
