Caves and History in Houaphan
More than 100 limestone caves define Vieng Xay. Ten of them are of major national and historical significance; from 1961 to 1975, they served as former headquarters of the Pathet Lao. Viengxay Hidden City gives an idea of the scale of life at the time: it accommodated around 20,000 people and included schools, hospitals, markets, ministries, a radio station, a theatre and military barracks. In these cave settlements, natural surroundings and a complex history come together.
Other places in Houaphan offer different historical perspectives. At Hintang Archaeological Park, you can explore the 12-kilometre-long ridge on foot; the standing stones there date back more than 2,000 years. In Xam Neua, meanwhile, Wat Phoxainaram houses a bronze Buddha statue dated to around 1565. Murals in the temple depict the life of the Buddha and scenes from Lao history. The historical references therefore range from archaeological evidence to more recent history.
Temples, Markets and Weaving Houses
The markets in Xam Neua offer handicrafts made by Hmong, Tai Dam, Tai Daeng and Tai Lue artisans. There are also markets selling products from China and Vietnam. These offerings give a tangible sense of the variety of goods brought together in the city. In Samneua, weaving houses welcome visitors. As arrangements for visits can change, it is best to check in advance what options are currently available.
Another point of interest in Xam Neua is the Independence Monument. Built in 1978 on a hill on the northwestern edge of the city, about one kilometre from the city centre, it offers panoramic views of Xamneua, the provincial capital. A tourist information office in the city centre can advise you on transport options and available tours.
Protected Areas, Waterfalls and Wildlife
In southeastern Houaphan, Nam Xam National Protected Area provides habitat for wild elephants, various gibbon species, gaur, banteng, tigers, clouded leopards, Asiatic black bears and sun bears. Nam Et–Phou Louey National Protected Area extends across seven districts and three provinces, including Houaphan. The Nam Nern Night Safari is a 24-hour boat tour into the core area of this protected area; at night, wildlife is observed by spotlight.
Those interested in waterfalls will find a range of landscape features and activities in Houaphan. Tadkon Waterfall in Xone District has a drop of about 400 metres. Visitors can climb at Kaenglit Waterfalls; check locally whether this activity is currently offered.
Muang Hiam and Practical Information
The headquarters and visitor centre of Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park are in Muang Hiam. If you plan to visit the visitor centre, check the current opening hours in advance. The hot springs of Muang Hiam are a ten-minute walk from the main road. They have bathing facilities, bamboo huts and a restaurant; check the opening arrangements before your visit as well. The forest park around the springs offers opportunities for birdwatching.
For travel to the region, a transport update last revised in May 2022 lists a flight from Vientiane to Xam Neua with Lao Air. Before planning, check whether this route is currently operating and what the flight times are. This will help you plan your journey and choose among historical sites, nature areas and activities based on your interests.
Discover more destinations: Ban Tat, Viang Xai, Sam Nuea, Savannakhet, Bolikhamsai, Bokeo Province, Louangphabang, Phongsaly.
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