Huay Xai is the capital of the Lao province of Bokèo, on the border with Thailand. The town lies on the Mekong River opposite Chiang Khong in Thailand. This town has a beautiful landscape where you can enjoy outdoor fun such as hiking, kayaking, and biking. Its laidback setting appeals to those who want to try some local beer, relax on the banks of Mekong, and enjoy authentic Laotian dishes. The population is about 17, 687.
Fort Carnot
Fort Carnot is a large fort originally built during the French colonial period at Huay Xai. It is located on a beautiful hillside near Bokeo’s main office and you will find two large towers placed here that are the main part of the fortress remaining. In recent years the fortress has fallen into disrepair and closed down although it has reopened and is cleaned up a bit.
Daauw Village
Visit Daauw Village, located right at the city center next to the Temple.
If you’re looking for a taste of the local life a little away from town then consider visiting Daauw village where you will find ethnic communities that have lived and worked here for centuries. The village is involved in several community-based tourism projects such as homestays and creation and sale of local products that empower women. Other projects include shetler for women and children, cultural exchanges and volunteerism. It’s a perfect place to visit if you are a responsible traveler and prefer community-based tourism.
What can you find there?
Beautiful handmade products like rugs, bags, skirts, and belts.
Daauw Restaurant
Kajsiab Creations – local handmade products
Daauw Home Guesthouse
Wat Keophone Savanthanaram
Wat Keophone Savanthanaram features murals of gruesome torture scenes on the sǐm ‘s north wall while on the slope above, a long Buddha reclines behind chicken wire.
Wat Jom Khao Manilat
Wat Jom Khao Manilat was built by teaks in the Shan style in 1880 and situated at the top of the small hill in the centre of Huay Xai. Tourists have to climb the naga flanked stairs to move up to the awesome temple. Through a large number of colourful stairs, from the wat, visitors will have a fascinating overlooking the whole town, the Mekong River below. There is a reputation that the monks here is young and quite enthusiastic. If travelers want to hear chanting, they should move up to here at 6 pm.
Gibbon Experience
The Gibbon Experience was created in 2004 to protect the jungle surrounding Huay Xai from poaching, logging and burning agriculture. Going zipline is one of the most popular activities here and brings an amazing experience for travelers. The zipline is through the rivers, the jungle with large trees and thickets of bamboo, massive valleys. In addition, trekking and staying in magic tree houses also are great options when going to the Gibbon Experience. You can get up early to view a picturesque image of the misty jungle in the morning. If visitors are lucky enough, they can check out some wildlife animals living in this area. Moreover, hiking deep into the park, there is a very cold waterfall for a swim.
