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Pakse

Laos, Asia

Pakse, a charming city nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Bolaven Plateau and the ancient ruins of Wat Phu. With its vibrant markets, stunning waterfalls, and serene coffee plantations, the city captivates visitors seeking both adventure and culture. The nearby 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) offer idyllic river landscapes perfect for relaxation while exploring the rich Lao heritage.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Pakse

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Pakse

1. Visit Wat Phu Temple

Explore ancient Khmer ruins and stunning landscapes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Take a Mekong River Cruise

Enjoy breathtaking views along the iconic Mekong River.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

3. Explore Bolaven Plateau

Discover lush coffee plantations and stunning waterfalls.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

4. Visit the Pakse Night Market

Sample local food and shop for unique souvenirs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Hike to Tad Fane Waterfall

Witness the beauty of one of Laos' largest waterfalls.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Visit the Champasak Cultural Heritage Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Southern Laos.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Tour Coffee Plantations

Taste and learn about high-quality Lao coffee.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

8. Explore Wat Luang

Visit one of Pakse's most important Buddhist temples.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Enjoy Khone Phapheng Falls

Experience the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

10. Take a Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional Lao dishes with locals.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

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)