Tucked away in the Lao countryside, Vang Xai is a pretty little town surrounded by spectacular natural scenery such as towering karst limestone mountains and lush rice fields.
Visitors traveling to Vieng Xai expecting to find a backpacker haven will be disappointed, although the town does have 24-hour electricity and a couple of good restaurants and places to stay. It is possible to visit Vieng Xai on a daytrip from Sam Neau if you don’t fancy spending much time here.
The town is famous for its collection of caves on the outskirts, and people travel from all over Asia to visit them. Make sure you take a guide with you and allow plenty of time to explore the nearby waterfall and surrounding countryside.
Getting There & Away
The easiest way to get to Vieng Xai is from Sam Neua. There are regular buses from this town and the journey takes just over an hour. This time consuming to reach destination also has infrequent buses to Vientiane (20 hours) and Luang Prabang but expect multiple delays and stops on the way.
Memot attractions
- Pathet Lao caves: explore this pretty collection of caves which once sheltered some of the county’s government leaders, including Prince Souvannaphoum.
- Nam Nua waterfalls: hike to these pretty falls and then take a swim to cool off.