Visit Champasak: Top 8 Fascinating Things To Do And See

Champasak is a province located in the south of Laos, famous for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and historical significance. Champasak is home to the ancient Khmer temple complex Wat Phu (Vat Phou), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or cultural immersion, Champasak has something for every type of traveler.

Let Hanoi Voyages help you with useful information about this journey! We will give you information about things to do in Champasak, the best hotels and the best time to visit Champasak

The best time to visit Champasak – Champasak weather

Champasak has a tropical climate and two distinct seasons:

• Dry season (November to April): During this period, the weather is relatively cool and dry. Expect clear skies, lower humidity, and cooler temperatures, especially from November to February. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
• Wet Season (May to October): The weather is heavy rainfall and high humidity. August is typically the wettest month. While the wet season can be less crowded, accommodations may be more affordable, and the countryside is lush and green, heavy rains can disrupt travel plans, and some roads may become impassable due to flooding.

To sum up, the best time to visit Champasak is between November and April when the weather is warm and dry. For those looking to travel on the Mekong River, the best time to visit is between November and January, when the water levels are high.

Things to do in Champasak

Wat Phu

When you are in Champasak, you must visit Wat Phu, also known as Vat Phou. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkable archaeological site and temple complex that offers a glimpse into Laos’ ancient history and Khmer culture.

The central temple complex is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It consists of a series of tiered levels with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The steep staircases lead to a sanctuary with a lingam, a symbol of Shiva.

Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands)

Si Phan Don, also known as the “Four Thousand Islands“, is a picturesque archipelago located in the Mekong River in southern Laos This area not only has beautiful scenery but also attracts many tourists due to its unique location.

Si Phan Don island is famous for being the habitat of Irawaddy dolphins. Many tourists come to this island to watch this rare animal, so you should not visit Si Phan Don without seeing the dolphins.

Si Phan Don is an idyllic destination that offers a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to relax by the river, the islands of Si Phan Don have something for everyone.

Tad Yuang Waterfalls

Tad Yuang Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in southern Laos, not far from the town of Pakse. Tad Yuang is accessible by renting a scooter or a motorbike, which is a popular way to explore the Bolaven Plateau.

Once you arrive at Tad Yuang, you can explore the area at your leisure. With its impressive cascades, the waterfall itself is a stunning natural attraction. A short hike will take you to the top of the waterfall, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the lush surrounding forest.

Don Khon

Don Khon is one of the beautiful islands in the Si Phan Don archipelago (Four Thousand Islands) located in the Mekong River in southern Laos. It’s a serene and picturesque destination with a laid-back atmosphere.

To reach Don Khon, you’ll typically start from the nearby town of Ban Nakasang in Champasak Province. You can take a short boat ride to Don Khon.

When visiting Don Khon, you can rent a bicycle to explore the island. Or you stroll through the village, along the riverbanks, and among the lush greenery. You’ll encounter friendly locals and stunning views. That’s a great experience that you must do.

Don Det

Don Det is a neighboring island to Don Khon that is connected to it by a bridge. From Ban Nakasang, you’ll need to take a short boat ride to Don Det. Boats are readily available, and the ride offers scenic views of the Mekong River and the surrounding islands.

Don Det is a small island with no motorized vehicles. Rent a bicycle to explore at your own pace. You can ride along the island’s dirt roads, through villages, and enjoy beautiful riverside views.

Don Det is near Li Phi Falls, which you can visit on foot or by bike. These falls, which are part of the Mekong River, are famous for their cascades.

Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau is situated in Champasak Province in southern Laos. It is known for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and beautiful waterfalls. Coming to this Bolaven Plateau, tourists will be attracted by traditional houses with walls and roofs made of dried grass and leaves.

The Bolaven Plateau is renowned for its coffee production. Visit local coffee plantations to see how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed. You can also taste freshly brewed coffee and buy local coffee products.

Furthermore, some of the must-visit waterfalls include Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, and Tad Champi. Hiking to these waterfalls offers the chance to appreciate their natural beauty and swim in their refreshing pools.

Exploring Pakse

Pakse is a charming city in southern Laos that serves as the capital of Champasak Province. Pakse, located along the Mekong River and surrounded by lush green landscapes, offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and historical sites.

Start your exploration with a visit to Wat Luang, a beautifully adorned Buddhist temple in the city center. It’s a great place to learn about local culture and spirituality.

You can also stroll through the bustling Pakse Grand Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample traditional Lao street food, fresh produce, and a variety of goods.

Xe Pian National Protected Area

The Xe Pian National Protected Area is a pristine and biodiverse conservation area in southern Laos. It’s an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

The Pian National Protected Area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species. You can bring binoculars and a camera to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Some tours also incorporate visits to local villages, where you can learn about the traditions and cultures of the people who live in and around the protected area.

Best hotels in Champasak

Nakorn River View

Located in the heart of Champasak province and close to Vat Phou, Nakorn River View is the ideal and central base for anyone wishing to travel to discover the province of Champasak or are professionally active in Pakse and the surrounding area. Nakorn River View features a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. The price starts at 33 USD per night.

The Riviera Champasak

Located in Champasak, The Riviera Champasak features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a restaurant, and bar. The nearest airport is Pakse International, 32 km from The Riviera Champasak, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. The price from 45 USD per night.

Residence Bassac

Residence Basac is a 4-star hotel in Champasak, which has a garden and a bar. This hotel features modernized French Colonial architecture. The area is popular for cycling, and bike hire is available nearby. Pakse is 33 km from Residence Bassac. Pakse International Airport is 37 km from the property. The price is approximately 47.6 USD per night.

La Folie Lodge

Situated on Don Daeng Island, the La Folie Lodge features charming bungalows and private villas that blend with the incredible nature of the island. All the rooms offer a private balcony overlooking the Mekong River. The price is approximately 130 USD per night.

The River Resort

The River Resort is located on 400 meters of naturally landscaped Mekong River frontage in the south of Laos, close to the renowned Wat Phou UNESCO World Heritage site. The Resort’s architecture and decor are contemporary Southeast Asian. About the price, it is about 70 USD per night.

How to get around Champasak

Champasak offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the region. Here are the primary methods of transportation you can use to explore Champasak

Some travel tips

There are some tips that you should notice when visiting Champasak:

• Dress modestly: When visiting temples or interacting with locals, dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Removing your shoes before entering temples is a sign of respect.
• Respect local customs: Lao people are known for their warm hospitality. Show respect for their customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
• Preparing umbrellas, hats and sunscreen when traveling
• The climate can vary, so check the weather conditions before your visit.

Practical information about Champasak

Champasak Hospital

In Champasak Province, the primary healthcare facility is Champasak Provincial Hospital, also known as Pakse Hospital. This hospital is the main medical center in the province, offering a wide range of medical services. While it may not offer the same level of service as major hospitals in larger cities, it is a suitable choice for healthcare in the area.

If you need medical assistance while in Champasak Province, you can visit Champasak Provincial Hospital. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers healthcare in case of unexpected medical needs during your visit.

Champasak Stadium

The Champasak Stadium is a football stadium in Pakse, Laos. Champasak Stadium is situated 2 kilometers East of Champasak Hospital.

Champasak Airport

Pakse International Airport is the main airport serving Pakse city, Champasak province. It is about 3 kilometers from the city center and offers both domestic and international flights. The airport is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure that passengers have a pleasant travel experience.