Lying in central Laos in verdant Vientiane Province, Ang Nam Ngum is a huge manmade reservoir that forms part of the 200 mile-plus long Nam Ngum River. There is much scope for activities here and the reservoir is easy to get to.
Ang Nam Ngum reservoir originates in the mountains of Xiangkhoang Province in northern Laos and is a major Mekong tributary. The reservoir has the distinction of being the largest manmade one in Southeast Asia and also boasts the largest dam on the Nam Ngum River.
The hydropower project was started here in the 1970s and was a forerunner to many other hydropower projects along this mighty Mekong tributary. The main attraction here is the reservoir itself, lying amid pristine forest. You can take a boat trip and go bird watching along one of its tributaries or marvel at the dam.
Ban Sivilay, also known as Bird Lake (Nong Nok), is just to the west of Ang Nam Ngum and is popular with bird watchers. Ban Geun Zoological Garden, a privately run zoo located at nearby Muang Thoulakhom, is great if you have kids in tow.
Getting There & Away
Head along National Road 13 if you have hired a bike and then head east from Muang Phon-Hong. Buses run to Muang Phon-Hong from Vientiane (40 miles) throughout the day or you could go to Huoi Mo, farther north. Vientiane has an international airport and receives flights from all over.