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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Pakse

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Wat Phu Temple

Explore ancient Khmer ruins and stunning landscapes.

No booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Mekong River Cruise

Enjoy breathtaking views along the iconic Mekong River.

Booking required
3

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Bolaven Plateau

Discover lush coffee plantations and stunning waterfalls.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Pakse Night Market

Sample local food and shop for unique souvenirs.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to Tad Fane Waterfall

Witness the beauty of one of Laos' largest waterfalls.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Champasak Cultural Heritage Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Southern Laos.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Coffee Plantations

Taste and learn about high-quality Lao coffee.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Wat Luang

Visit one of Pakse's most important Buddhist temples.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy Khone Phapheng Falls

Experience the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional Lao dishes with locals.

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)