There’s more to Northern Laos than Luang Prabang – travelers willing to go out of the cultural city’s comfort zone can find more culture, nature and adventure just a few hours’ drive away.
For starters, take a three-hour drive along the Nam Ou River north to the sleepy city of Nong Khiaw. It’s no party zone here – just a chance to relax, get active on the mountain trails, or get to know the local Tai Lue communities and their handiwork.
Take a 1.5-hour hike up the Nong Khiaw Viewpoint Trail up Phadeng Peak to be rewarded by the birds-eye view of the river and mountains; or visit Ban Nayang, some 25km from Nong Khiaw, to meet the local Tai Lue community and participate in their craft of making indigo-dyed cotton cloth.
Book a homestay at the latter for a full immersion into Tai Lue culture, including their food and very potent drink!
Closer to Luang Prabang, visitors can walk in the footsteps of French naturalist Henri Mouhot. A short trail takes you from Mouhot’s gravesite to the craft village of Ban Phanom, home to weavers who make a wide variety of handicrafts using traditional wooden looms and patterns.
The trail ends at the Elephant Village, set on a scenic parcel of land on the banks of the Nam Khan River. Come face to face with the country’s national animal here, where you can learn how to communicate with the elephant or elephant bathing.
Finally, Chomphet – just over two hours’ drive west from Luang Prabang – offers a unique opportunity to explore Lao PDR’s “Diamond Mountain” along with its ancient temples and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re exploring the beautiful Wat Xieng Maen temple, modeled on the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang; getting hands-on pottery experience at the nearby village of Ban Chan, whose townspeople have been making clay pots since the 16th century; or just enjoying a coffee at the base of Hoi Khua Waterfall, Chomphet exudes an authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere!
