Lak Xao can be found in the largely uninteresting eastern part of Laos near the Vietnam border in Bolikhamsai Province. It is mainly visited for the Ban Pak Nam Eun hot springs and shopping.
Lak Xao lies underneath the guise of a huge limestone mountain on the way to the Vietnam border and especially makes a decent stop off for those on a long voyage from Vientiane to Vietnam.
Despite being mainly a transit town, it’s worth checking out the many hot springs near the village of Ban Nape. Ban Pak Nam Eun hot springs are ideal for relaxing at and soothing the aches and pains that go hand in hand with traveling in Laos. There are one or two guest houses nearby to boot. The nearby Phou Phaa Phi Hong forest is also worth checking out.
Getting There & Away
Buses run here between Vientiane and the port town of Vinh in Vietnam although it takes the best part of a day to get here from the Lao capital. The nearest major airports in Laos are in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, with Vientiane International Airport being the closest to Lak Xao.
Things to Do
Lak Xao Attractions
- Ban Pak Nam Eun
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These hot springs are located near the settlement of ban nape. while not superb, they are well worth taking a dip in at the private baths here.
- Phou Phaa Phi Hong
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This is wilderness country; ideal for those with a love for walking and who are not worried about amenities.