Pakse, Laos
Pakse is a charming town located in southern Laos, not Thailand. It serves as a gateway to some of the most spectacular natural and cultural attractions in Laos, such as the Bolaven Plateau, Wat Phou, and the Mekong River. Here’s a detailed description of Pakse, including tourist attractions, transportation options, local food, and nightlife.
Tourist Attractions in Pakse
Wat Phou
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Wat Phou is an ancient Khmer temple complex dating back to the 5th century, located about 40 km from Pakse. It predates Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and offers a mix of stunning architecture and scenic views.
- Entrance Fees: 50,000 LAK (about $5 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Highlights: Explore the temple ruins, enjoy the views of the Mekong River from the temple, and take in the spiritual atmosphere.
Bolaven Plateau
- Description: A highland area known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and cooler temperatures. You can visit numerous waterfalls, including Tad Fane and Tad Lo.
- Entrance Fees: 10,000-15,000 LAK (about $1-1.50 USD) per waterfall.
- Opening Hours: Typically 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Highlights: Coffee plantation tours, hiking to waterfalls, and exploring local villages of ethnic minorities.
Tad Fane Waterfall
- Description: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos, Tad Fane is famous for its twin cascades plunging more than 100 meters down the cliff.
- Entrance Fees: 10,000 LAK (about $1 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Highlights: Breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the surrounding jungle.
Mekong River
- Description: The town of Pakse sits on the Mekong River, and a boat ride along the river is a popular activity. You can take a sunset cruise or visit the nearby islands in the Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) region.
- Entrance Fees: Prices vary depending on the boat or tour.
- Opening Hours: Tours typically run from morning until sunset.
- Highlights: Peaceful boat rides, sunset views, and chances to spot Irrawaddy dolphins near Si Phan Don.
Dao Heuang Market
- Description: The largest market in southern Laos, this market offers a variety of goods, from local produce and fresh food to traditional textiles and handicrafts.
- Entrance Fees: Free
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Highlights: A lively atmosphere, fresh local fruits, and a great place to buy souvenirs.
How to Get There
By Air: Pakse International Airport (PKZ) is the main airport, with regular flights from Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Bangkok, and Siem Reap.
- Cost: Flights from Vientiane start around $100 USD.
By Bus/Minivan: Buses and minivans connect Pakse to other major cities in Laos, like Vientiane and Savannakhet, as well as to Thailand and Cambodia.
- Cost: From Vientiane, a bus costs around 200,000-250,000 LAK ($20-25 USD), and the trip takes about 10-12 hours.
By Boat: Pakse is accessible by boat along the Mekong River from nearby towns and villages.
Getting Around Pakse
- Tuk-Tuks: The most common and affordable way to get around Pakse. Prices depend on the distance, but short trips usually cost around 10,000-20,000 LAK (about $1-2 USD).
- Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike is a convenient way to explore Pakse and its surroundings. Daily rentals cost around 50,000-100,000 LAK ($5-10 USD).
- Bicycle: You can also rent a bicycle for around 20,000 LAK ($2 USD) per day, which is ideal for exploring the town and nearby areas.
Popular Local Food in Pakse
- Lao Coffee: The Bolaven Plateau is famous for producing some of the best coffee in Southeast Asia, and Pakse is a great place to try it.
- Khao Piak Sen: A traditional Lao noodle soup made with chicken or pork broth, fresh herbs, and rice noodles.
- Khao Jee Sandwich: Similar to a Vietnamese banh mi, this French-style baguette sandwich is filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes pate.
- Fish from the Mekong: Freshly caught fish grilled or steamed, often served with a spicy dipping sauce (jeow).
- Tam Mak Hoong: A spicy green papaya salad, common throughout Laos.
Top Nightlife Spots in Pakse
Dok Mai Lao Caffè
- Description: A cozy café and bar offering a variety of drinks, including local coffee, cocktails, and beer. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax in the evening.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM with drink discounts.
- Highlights: Laid-back atmosphere, great local coffee, and cocktails.
Sabai Sabai
- Description: This riverside bar offers a chilled-out atmosphere with views of the Mekong. It’s a perfect spot for sunset drinks and features live music on some nights.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM with beer and cocktail promotions.
- Highlights: Riverside views, friendly service, and a mix of Lao and Western drinks.
Jasmin Pub
- Description: Jasmin Pub is one of the livelier spots in Pakse, where you can enjoy a variety of drinks, live music, and a casual party atmosphere.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM with special promotions on local beers.
- Highlights: Live music, a good mix of locals and travelers, and affordable drinks.
3D Disco & Karaoke
- Description: For those who want a more energetic night out, 3D Disco offers loud music, dancing, and karaoke. It’s popular with locals.
- Entrance Fee: Typically free, but karaoke rooms may have a rental fee.
- Happy Hours: Usually early evening, with discounted drinks before 9:00 PM.
- Highlights: Dancing, private karaoke rooms, and an upbeat party vibe.
Pakse is a charming, laid-back town that offers a great mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Phou to experiencing the beauty of the Bolaven Plateau and its waterfalls, there’s plenty to do for those seeking adventure or tranquility. The local food scene is simple but rich, with fresh Mekong fish and excellent coffee being standout features. For nightlife, Pakse has a low-key but enjoyable selection of bars and riverside spots where you can relax and take in the Mekong sunsets.