Located in the southern region of Laos, Savannakhet province borders both Thailand in the west and Vietnam in the east. Erected in 2006, the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge over the Mekong river connects Savannakhet and Mukdahan, Thailand.
Savanh Nakhone are the two words that ‘Savannakhet’ is derived from, and their literal translation means the ‘city of paradise’. The province, once occupied by Thai forces during the French-Thai War, is now home to the second-largest city in Laos, Savannakhet city with a thriving financial and commercial sector deeming it the business capital of the country.
Tourists and visitors will find it easy to explore the province on foot while there are a number of motorized rickshaws (tuk-tuk) eager to transport you to and from various locations throughout town. There are also various eco-treks available and advertised in several hotels and guesthouses.
A few days exploring the old Vietnamese temples, French colonial quarters and Buddhists temples are popular choices for most visitors to the region. Wat Inghang temple and Wat Xayaphoum temple are ideal places to start an excursion around the province.
The easiest way to get to Savannakhet is to fly to Vientiane and then connect to the province by bus (nine hours). Buses also run from the Thai town of Mukdahan. VIP buses, although more expensive, have fewer stops, air-conditioning and assigned seating.