Don Khong ( Don Khone ) - Discover Laos

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2. Champasak/Pakse
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4. Don Khong

Don Khong is the largest and Northern-most of the 4000 Islands. It is also the capital of Khong District and is the logical base for trips to the rest of the islands. The island boasts 99 mountain tops, a rich heritage of temples (15 in total) and French colonial buildings. It is 24 km long and 8 Km wide and has 19 villages, many of which derive their livelihood from fishing. The main market in Ban Kang Don is a great place to visit in the early morning to see the many varieties of fresh mekong fish available.

Other specialty products of the island include palm sugar, palm leaf hats, and Lao Kao Gum - a potent alcohol. Two of the island’s mountains, Phou Kyo and Phou Kew, each have sacred caves and offer a refreshing walk in the forest with clear views of the island. A fantastic way to see the island is to drive along the paved ring road around by bicycle or motorbike. It is recommended to visit the “Historical Museum of Don Khong”, located in the center of the island, to glean insights into the lifestyle of the Don Khong people.

To get to Don Khong from Pakse, take Route.13 South and travel for about 130 km, turning right at the sign pointing to “the Don Khong”. Follow the paved road straight ahead for 4 km to the bridge, whereupon you cross Mekong river to Don Khong.

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Vat Phou Champasak

The Vat Phou Temple Complex is one of Southeast Asia’s best examples of both early and classic Khmer architecture dating from the 7th to 12th centuries. In year 2001, UNESCO declared Vat Phou Temple a World Heritage Site, which includes the ancient city of Shestrapura and many little known but interesting archeological sites along the banks of the Mekong River. There are also many fine examples of traditional Lao houses and buildings from the colonial period. If you are in Champasak during February, don’t miss the Vat Phou Temple Festival.

To get there from Pakse, cross the Mekong bridge and turn left after a couple of kilometres on the new road that follows the Mekong all the way to Champasak Town. Alternatively, take Route No.13 south, turning right at KM 30 (look for the sign pointing the way to “Vat Phou”). Follow the road to its end at Ban Mouang village. From Ban Mouang, take a ferry across the Mekong River to Ban Phaphin (Champasak Town).

Public transportation leaving from Pakse to Champasak is available from the KM 2 and KM 8 bus terminals from 08:00 to 16:00. To allow for more flexibility in your travel plans, you may consider hiring a tuk tuk to take you directly there, or rent a motorbike in Pakse and ride there yourself.

Previous Next Don Det and Don KhonePhoto by : AlongKhammany The Khon Pha Pheng FallsPhoto by : Danou

Mekong Island

South of Kong Island (the largest in Laos) are the 4000 Islands, or Si Phan Don in Lao. This area of extraordinary beauty is known for its fine food (especially fish dishes), distinct temple architecture, and warm hospitality. On Don Det and Don Khone, remnants of an early 20th century railway and steamship port can be visited. At Hang Khone village or at the Laos-Cambodia border, local boats can be hired to observe the endangered freshwater dolphins that inhabit this section of the Mekong.

Accessible from the tiny Don Lai Island, which is just 1 km from Don Khone, Som Pha Mit Waterfall is another amazing natural site to visit. Here, you can relax, enjoy the scenery, watch people fish, and enjoy freshly caught Mekong fish. This waterfall is named after a Sacred Buddha image (Pha), which was dropped in the water and never to be found again by the first King of Laos, Chao Fa Ngum, who was travelling through the region by boat.

Many people have erroneously called it Li Phi, which actually refers to the entire 20 km East-West stretch of waterfalls and rapids of Si Phan Don (including both Khone Pha Pheng and Li Phi). The name Li Phi was given to the area because it acts like a giant fish trap (Li) and will kill any of those who dare to navigate it (Phi means ghost or dead person). As suggested by the name, it is important to watch your step and be cautious around the waterfall.

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Don Det and Don Khone

Don Det and Don Khone are the next most popular islands, after Don Khong. Both islands offer relaxing bungalow accommodation and an island pace of life. From Don Det, rafting and kayaking trips can also be arranged that take you into the heart of the 4000 Islands.

Don Khone is joined with Don Det by a historic railway bridge built by the French in 1910. Next to the bridge sits an old locomotive, one of the last remnants of the railway. In addition, visitors can walk or ride bikes to Don Lai Island to see the Li Phi Waterfall or take a trip to see freshwater dolphins from the tip of Don Khone.

To get to Don Det or Don Khone from Pakse, take Route.13 South for about 141 km and turn right onto a dirt road at the sign pointing to Nakasang (the end ofthe road). From the pier, you can take a boat to Don Det, which is about 15 minutes away. From the pier at Don Det, you can take a shuttle bus to Don Khone Island - it's a 25 minutes ride.

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Xe Pian National Protected Area

Even among the protected areas in the country, the 2,400 square km Xe Pian National Protected Area (NPA) is of exceptional biological importance and diversity. Home to 51 key species of birds including the Giant Ibis and Sarus Crane as well as 36 species of mammals, Xe Pian is one of the province’s premier ecotourism destinations. Kiet Ngong Village is the jump off point for nature walks, bird watching, trekking, elephant rides and day trips to the Phou Asa archaeological site.

The Ta Ong Trail is one of the more remote and exciting experiences in Xe Pian. Camping is also gaining popularity in Xe Pian, with trails to take you deep into the jungle far away from the village and is best for those who would like to experience old grown forests and signs of wildlife. However, those who choose either programs should be in good condition and ready for adventure, as the area is wild and remote. A local guide is required on the Ta Ong Trail and for camping tours.

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Phou Asa Mountain and Kiet Ngong Village

Atop Phou Asa Mountain and above Kiet Ngong Village stands an ancient and magnificent stone structure called Vat Phou Asa, which is believed to be a temple. Surrounding it are distinctive and unique columns made of plate-like rocks, which stand proudly as if they were guarding the temple. The summit of Phou Asa opens out to provide a stunning view over large areas of the southern part of Laos.

The forests of Xe Pian and Dong Hua Sao National Protected Areas (NPA) appear to stretch out endlessly from the Kiet Ngong wetland. To the north is the Bolaven Plateau, and on a clear day waterfalls can be seen cascading from it. Ahead to the east is the Xe Kong floodplain in Attapeu, and lining the horizon is the Annamite Mountains on the Vietnamese border. At the top of the outcrop is a ring of stone pillars. Legends abound, but it is uncertain if the structure was built for religious or military reasons.

Phou Asa can be reached by a short walk with a local guide or elephant ride along a forest trail from the village. Elephant-back trips can also be arranged to other places such as nearby forests and wetlands. Village guides are available to take visitors on half or full-day walks to Phou Asa and its surroundings, and can help interpret the many medicinal plants and non-timber forest products you can see along the way. The 7km long eco-trail begin at the foot of Phou Asa and offers 3 to 4 hours of steady walking through tall semi-evergreen forest.

There is also an extensive wetland near Kiet Ngong village, which is good for bird-watching and day hikes. During the dry season, there is a trail around the wetland to Don Lai Island, which takes about two hours if walked slowly. Many waterbirds can be seen, so bring a pair of binoculars. On the way, you will pass the Giant Rock (Hin Huoa Yak in Lao), a sacred place with a superb view. The trail continues to Phapho Village, but you will probably want to return the way you came. Donlai Island can also be reached by canoe. Your boatman will take you slowly around the edge of the wetland, where a passage through the thick mats of floating vegetation is kept open by boats and water buffaloes. A canoe trip is recommended, as it offers a closer look at the birds and local fishing techniques than a walk around the wetland.

There are generally three choices for accommodation in Kiet Ngong: (i) Sleeping huts operated by the village, which sleep two and overlook the wetland; (ii) Home-stay with local families; and (iii) the King Fisher Eco-lodge, located just 1km outside the village, which offers luxury bungalows overlooking the wet- land.

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Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Area and Kong Mountain

Kong mountain is located inside Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Area, which is known for its wild orchids, rocky outcroppings, cultural and religious sites as well as stunning views of Laos and Thailand. A day hike to Phou Xieng Thong is a moderate 4-6 hours. A two-hour walk to ‘Hin Kong‘ (Fish basket rock) and back is also possible. During the trek, you can visit a cave where two nuns lives in peaceful harmony with nature, learn about plants and orchids, and see ancient remain of a former Khmer Kingdom. Local guides and tours are available from Ban Mai Sing Sam Phanh village or from the Eco guide Service Unit in Pakse Tourist Information Center.

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Phu Salao (Golden Buddha)

For the best view of Pakse, hike up Salao Hill and catch the Phu Salao, which is part of the Buddhist temple complex - there are multiple smaller golden Buddha statues along the way. You can either take the stairs (though some are in poor condition) and make the 4km trek up, or get a tuk tuk to wind up the hill via the concrete road.

Previous Next Old French Railway Bridge @ Four Thousand IslandPhoto by : AlongKhammany Old French Railway Bridge @ Four Thousand IslandPhoto by : Danou

Old French Railway Bridge @ Four Thousand Island

Also known as the Don Det-Don Khon railway, the 7km bridge was built by the Mekong Exploration Commission. Historically, it was built because the French colonial administration wanted to use the Mekong river to connect the different parts of its Indochinese territory. The railway is no longer functional, but the bridge remains practical - locals frequently traverse the region on it.

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Khone Phapheng Waterfall

Locals often refer to Khone Phapheng Waterfall as the jewel or the pearl of the Mekong, as it is Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall. Millions of liters of water descend over a set of cascades making it one of the most spectacular sites in Southern Laos.

The “Manikoth tree” at the entrance to the site is very famous. The tree used to stand on a rock in the middle of the waterfall but toppled over in 2012 due to flooding. The public wanted to save it, however, as according to an ancient epic poem adapted from the Ramayana, the tree has supernatural powers. After several attempts, the tree was finally brought on safe shores by a helicopter.

Entrance fee:

The entrance fee is 55,000 Lao kip per person (10/2016).

Food and drink:

There are several small restaurants on the site that offer coffee, lunch, and refreshments.

How to get there:

From Pakse, it is 150km south on Route 13 and only 13km from the Cambodian border. You can go by minivan or car or arrange a tour.

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Wat Tomo ( Oum Moung Temple )

Wat Tomo is part of the Wat Phu complex of temples, but located around two kilometres away from the main temple grounds. It is an ancient Khmer Temple that pre-dates Angkor Wat. This two tier temple is hidden in the jungle that lines the Mekong, shaded by tall trees. Within the temple you will find a number of structures in various states of disrepair and a number of Khmer religious sculptures depicting Hindu Gods. Visitors to Wat Tomo will find it mostly abandoned and can explore the moss covered ruins at their leisure.

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Hong Nang Sida

The Hong Nang Sida temple with significant historical value was designated as a UNESCO world cultural heritage. However, most parts of the main temple were destroyed, and being neglected for a long time. Placed meadows of the temple of Vat Phu, at approximately half an hour of walking in the direction of the South, the meadows of the Ancient Khmer Road, is this largely collapsed Prasat.The temple consisted of a hallway, prolonged by a tower sanctuary, built at the beginning of the XIIth century, at the same time that Angkor Vat.

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Wat Luang Temple

Wat Luang is one of the biggest temple among the 20 temples in Pakse. Wat Luang is situated on the SeDon river’s banks which is near the bridge over the river and the airport. It was built in 1935, this temple has many beautiful paintings depicting the Buddha’s life and his teachings. Stroll through the well-kept gardens and check out the intricately carved wooden doors.

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Chez Maman

Traditional Lao textiles at Chez Maman if you are in or passing by Champasak. Reward yourself and stop by here. There are many lovely Lao handicrafts from different areas. Laos feels like a small museum. Help the friendly lady of the shop welcomes everyone who steps in and is happy to talk to us to tell us more about her products and life in Laos.

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Shadow puppet theatre

Shadow play, also known as shadow puppetry, is an ancient form of storytelling and entertainment that uses flat articulated cut-out figures which are held between a source of light and a translucent screen or scrim. The cut-out shapes of the puppets sometimes include translucent color or other types of detailing. Shadow Puppetry is an ancient tradition with a long history in Southeast Asia. In Southern Laos, the Champasak Shadow Puppet Theatre has revived this long-forgotten cultural tradition and with a group of 14 people including artists, musicians, vocalists, comedians, and puppeteers, presents a choice of two intriguing shows.

• Shadow Puppetry: every Tuesday/Friday 8:30 – 9:45pm

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Ziplining At Tad Fane Waterfall

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Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling zipline 300m in the air, as you observe the cascading twin waterfalls of Tad Fane right below you. The highest zipline in Laos, the longest zipline goes on...

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Fly at Tad Fane with Coffee Break 300 Meters High In the Air

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Ever sipped on a drink whilst on a zipline? Well, enjoy this once-in-alifetime experience as you have a cup of coffee or tea with your partner 300 m high up in the air amongst the surrounding beauties...

Price from: 60 $ Duration: 45 Minutes

Lay Back On A Hammock In The Middle Of A Zipline at Tad Fane

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Take a break on the hammock bed up in the air, as you calm your mind and immerse yourself in nature to the gush of Tad Fane Waterfall. Catch the amazing sunrise and sunsets in Laos with this experienc...

Price from: 60 $ Duration: 45 Minutes

Ziplining Adventure at Li Phi Waterfall

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Embark on an adrenaline-fueled escapade amidst the stunning backdrop of Li Phi Waterfall with our Ziplining Adventure. Featuring six exhilarating ziplines in total, this thrilling journey promises hea...

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5 Suspension Bridges at Li Phi Waterfall

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Experience the unique attributes of the "LI PHI" waterfalls by crossing the five INTERCONNECTED SUSPENSION BRIDGES, which range in length from 20 meters to 92 meters. Enjoy an impossible view of Li Ph...

Price from: 15 $ Duration: 45 Minutes

Phubachiang Golf and Resort in Pakse

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Phubachiang Golf and Resort in Pakse offers an exceptional golfing experience set against the stunning natural backdrop of southern Laos. With its beautifully maintained course and scenic views of the...

Price from: 35 $ Duration: Half-Day or Full-Day Previous Next

La Folie Lodge

Champasak/Pakse Riverview hotels

La Folie Lodge is located on Done Daeng, the “Red Island”. This charming car-free island, part of the Champasak cultural and natural heritage, sits along the Mekong River, on a beach facing the UNESCO...

Price From: 89 $ Total Room: 27

Residence Bassac

Champasak/Pakse Nature Resorts

At Residence Bassac, we offer impeccable luxury and unique experiences, while taking you on an unforgettable historical and cultural journey of Southern Laos.

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Champasak Grand Hotel

Champasak/Pakse Riverview hotels

Riverfront Location, Modern Accommodation Explore the untouched, discover the unknown, experience the new and the traditional. Considered one of the top hotels in Pakse, our 4 star Champasak Grand of...

Price From: 50 $ Total Room: 214

Arawan Riverside hotel

Champasak/Pakse Riverview hotels

Steps away from Mekhong River, Arawan Riverside Hotel offers free round-trip airport shuttle service. It boasts an outdoor pool and on-site parking facility. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hot...

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Little Eden Hotel

Champasak/Pakse Riverview hotels

LITTLE EDEN HOTEL Experience Don Det and live in special luxury with access to all the amenities at your fingertips. Located in the most central spot on Don Det, 4000 Islands in Laos

Price From: 37 $ Total Room: 22 Close

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