Ban Lao can be explored through Khoun Nam Kham Dip: the place combines a local story about its name with several leisure activities. The route from Thakhek is described in a 2024 set of directions via Road No. 12. At kilometre 20, turn right and continue for about 900 metres. As directions may change, check the route before setting off.
Khoun Nam Kham Dip: Name and activities
A local story passed down through generations says that villagers found yellow stones in a stream that gleamed like gold, giving the place its name, Khoun Nam Kham Dip. This is local lore, not an established historical fact. It gives the place name a distinctive cultural connection; the directions, by contrast, are intended to help with practical route-finding.
Camping and pétanque are among the leisure activities associated with Khoun Nam Kham Dip. A 2024 description also mentions swimming, boat trips and walks through a botanical garden. The options vary in the kind of leisure they offer: camping, a game, water activities and a garden walk. Before your visit, check which activities will actually be available on your chosen date.
Nature and caves in the wider destination of Khammuan
In the wider destination of Khammuan, Hin Nam No National Park brings together varied landscapes and international recognition. The park, in Bualapha District, includes pristine rainforests, waterfalls and complex cave systems. In 2025, it was inscribed alongside Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park as a transboundary World Heritage site for natural heritage. The park’s distinctive features are thus recognised alongside a joint designation that spans a national border.
Another landscape in the wider Khammuan area is shaped by Xe Bang Fai Cave: it lies in the lush protected-area and limestone karst landscape of Boualapha District and is a large river cave. The Xe Bang Fai River carved it through the limestone mountains over millions of years. Xiang Liap Cave is on a different scale: its entrance is 30 metres high. Kong Lor Cave lies in Phu Hin Bun National Park in Khoun Kham District. Boat services and local guide services at the cave provide direct income for the local community; as local arrangements may change, check in advance which services are available on the day of your visit.
Culture and tradition in Khammuan
Cultural themes are also part of the wider destination of Khammuan. Tham Pa Fa Cave, also known as Buddha Cave, is an important cultural and religious landmark in Khammouane Province. The Phou Tai people in Khammouane are associated with traditional handicrafts and known for their careful weaving. That Sikhottabong holds an annual festival in the third lunar month; the calendar dates vary from one lunar year to another. The region’s highlights thus range from caves and protected landscapes to religious heritage, handicrafts and a festival calendar.
Discover more destinations: Ban Nakham, Thakhek, Na Hi, Nam Theun, Ban Namsanam.
Back to the wider travel overview: Khammuan.
