Things To Do
in Xai
Xai, Laos is a quiet riverside town tucked in the northern Lao hills along the Nam Ou valley. It serves as a gateway to surrounding villages, markets, and misty landscapes shaped by the river and forests. The town moves at a slow, friendly pace with wooden stilt houses, bamboo bridges, and colorful market stalls.
Visitors come for rural charm, local food, and easy access to nature and small-scale culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café overlooking the Mekong River, savoring traditional Laotian dishes like khao piak sen. Afterward, meander through the charming streets of Xai's historic center, taking in the captivating architecture that reflects the city's rich history. Visit the Wat Si Chum temple, where you can admire the intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere.
Continue your exploration by visiting the local markets, where you can find a plethora of handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly vendors, sampling local snacks as you browse through colorful textiles and unique souvenirs. Take a break at a nearby park, enjoying the serene surroundings while watching locals engage in their daily routines.
As the sun sets, find a riverside restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner accompanied by stunning views of the Mekong River. Try a traditional Lao BBQ, grilling fresh meats and vegetables right at your table. After dinner, stroll along the riverbank, where you can experience the vibrant night market filled with crafts, food stalls, and live music.
Embark on an early morning journey to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, located just outside of Xai. Enjoy the scenic drive through lush landscapes and picturesque villages, with opportunities for photography along the way. Upon arrival, take a refreshing dip in the turquoise pools, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant flora.
After a morning of swimming, hike the trails that lead to the top of the waterfalls for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the nearby bear rescue center, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see rescued bears in their natural habitat. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the serene environment, soaking in the natural beauty all around you.
Return to Xai in the evening, where you can unwind with a traditional Lao massage at a local spa to ease your muscles after the day's adventures. For dinner, indulge in a feast of Laotian specialties at a highly-rated restaurant, where you can try dishes like larb and sticky rice. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the night lights and local gatherings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in town | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short rides) | $1-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🛏️1-night stay in a budget hotel | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Chill, authentic Lao atmosphere with friendly locals
- Beautiful river scenery and easy access to nearby villages
- Very affordable costs and simple, tasty cuisine
- Low-key nightlife and relaxed travel pace
- Limited tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Fewer English-speaking services outside the main markets
- Some activities require travel to nearby towns or villages
- Public transport can be infrequent
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Sabai dee" - I am fine
- "Khob chai" - Thank you
- "Bpai nai?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Xai
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the calm river with mist rising above bamboo and distant hills; great for serene landscape shots.
A charming, weathered bridge spanning the river; capture reflections and silhouettes at golden hour.
Traditional Lao architecture with palm-frond roofs and daily life scenes—perfect for cultural photography.
Golden hour colors across terraced fields, with farmers at work and distant hillside silhouettes.
Food in Xai
Xai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The staple served with nearly every meal, eaten with fingers to scoop dips and sauces.
Must-Try!
Shredded green papaya with chilies, lime, palm sugar, and crunchy roasted rice; refreshing and zesty.
A slow-cooked herb-forward stew (meat or tofu) with vegetables like eggplant and dill; deeply comforting.
Thick, comforting Lao noodle soup with a rich broth and soft noodles.
Bright minced meat with lime juice, mint, chili, and roasted rice powder; often shared family-style.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively morning market by the river where locals buy produce, herbs, fish, and snacks; great for sampling small bites.
Along tidy lanes, you can find grilled fish on bamboo skewers, sticky rice, and spicy dips—perfect for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes, and speak softly in temples. Do not point feet at sacred objects or image depictions.
A light bow with hands pressed together (wai) is customary; a warm, respectful tone goes a long way.
Ask for permission before photographing people, homes, or ceremonies; some rituals are off-limits to cameras.
Loa people are generally welcoming and reserved; show patience, smile, and engage respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Xai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and appreciated but not mandatory. In tourist areas, small tips (5,000–20,000 LAK) for service or guides are common; round up taxi fares.
Cash is king in most places; Lao Kip is widely used. Some shops and guesthouses may accept Thai Baht or USD, but card payment is not common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry weather with clear skies. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan early-morning activities to avoid peak heat.
June–October brings frequent showers and lush greenery. Trails can be slippery; pack a light rain jacket and quick-drying gear.
November–February offers pleasant temperatures and clear visibility; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Xai at Night
Hiking in Xai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic overlook route that winds along the river valleys, offering views of villages, cliffs, and farmland.
A moderate loop through terraced fields and small settlements, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
A short hike to several small cascades with natural pools suitable for a cooling dip after a hot day.
Airports
How to reach Xai by plane.
Major regional hub nearby with domestic and limited international flights; reachable by road from Xai with travel time depending on route.
Large international airport offering connections across Asia and beyond; longer road journey from Xai but a common gateway for long-haul travel.
Smaller domestic airport in the province; convenient if flying locally, though service may be limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents, primarily farmers and small business owners.
Coexisting ethnic groups in nearby villages with distinct customs and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and visitors; informal games and community leagues often observed in town squares.
Common in schools and community centers; casual play for visitors who want a quick game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lao dishes can be prepared without meat. Look for tofu-based curries, eggplant or mushroom dishes, spring rolls, and vegetable laap; always ask to avoid fish sauce or shrimp paste.