Champasak

Laos, Asia

Champasak, situated in southern Laos, is famed for its stunning heritage, particularly the ancient temple complex of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which dates back to the Khmer Empire. With lush landscapes, the peaceful Bolaven Plateau nearby, and the serene Mekong River, it’s a perfect getaway for travelers seeking cultural richness intertwined with nature. Champasak’s charm is magnified by its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and unique culinary offerings, making it an appealing destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Pakse

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Champasak

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Wat Phu Temple

Visit this ancient Khmer temple complex with breathtaking views.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip on the Mekong River

Enjoy stunning scenery and local life along the river.

No booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bolaven Plateau

Discover waterfalls and coffee plantations in nature.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum

Learn about the region's rich history and culture.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the local coffee farms

Taste organic coffee and learn about production processes.

No booking required
6

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the 4000 Islands

Relax and explore this stunning archipelago in the Mekong.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

See Khone Phapheng Falls

Witness the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a traditional Baci ceremony

Experience a spiritual ritual welcoming good luck.

Booking required
9

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike the Phou Asa Mountain

Enjoy panoramic views from the top of this mountain.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local night market

Shop for handmade crafts and enjoy street food.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the ancient town of Champasak

Stroll through charming streets filled with colonial architecture.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant culture through music and dance.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Champasak Provincial Museum

Discover exhibits showcasing local history and culture.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Kip

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Lao

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Laap

Spicy minced meat salad. (National dish)

Tam Mak Hoong

VE

Spicy green papaya salad.

Khao Piak Sen

Laotian rice noodle soup.

Sai Oua

Grilled herb sausage.

Khao Jee

VE

Grilled sticky rice sandwich.

Phrases to learn

English

Lao

Hello

Sabaidee

(Sah-bye-dee)

Yes/No

Men / Bo

(Men / Boh)

Thank you

Khawp jai

(Kop chai)

Excuse me

Khaw thot

(Khao thoht)

How much?

Tha dai?

(Tah dye)