Nam Kat Yorlapa Waterfall is located in Phou Hi Phi Protected Forest in Xay District. It is a distinctive starting point for discovering Oudomxay’s landscapes and range of experiences: forest trekking and hiking are among the activities on offer, as are waterfall visits and ATV rides. Other activities include crossing bridges, such as the well-known Tovi Bridge, climbing a spider-web structure and zip-lining. Panoramic views of Tor Hin Mountain round out the range of options. Trails and movement thus sit alongside views and waterfalls as different ways to experience the region’s nature.
Waterfalls, a Lake and Forest Trails
The route to Nam Kat Yorlapa includes five kilometres of paved road to Ban Bo, followed by 18 kilometres of gravel road to Ban Fan and about 900 metres on foot to the waterfall. The walk is therefore a separate section at the end of the route described. This information helps you understand the approach as a sequence of different route sections, without assuming a walking time.
Nam Hin Lake is on a different scale: Oudomxay’s largest reservoir covers about 121.7 square kilometres and extends across seven villages. Several streams flow together to form the lake. Its area and extent make it a regional landscape feature, while Nam Kat Yorlapa is a single waterfall located in protected forest.
Tad Nam Haeng is also defined by waterfalls, in this case three successive cascades. They are approximately 13, 8 and 5 metres high. After four kilometres of paved road, the route continues along a gravel and red-earth road; this section is passable only during the dry season. Take this seasonal restriction into account when planning, and check whether the road is passable for your intended travel dates.
At the regional level, the Upper Lao Mekong Important Bird Area in Oudomxay covers 10,980 hectares. Together with Phou Hi Phi Protected Forest and the waterscapes of Nam Hin Lake, this figure illustrates the variety of ways the province’s natural attractions are described.
Cave Access and Seasonal Planning
Chom Ong Cave is in Chom Ong village in Xay District, about 45 kilometres from Xay town. From the village, a shortcut of approximately two kilometres leads through the rice fields to the cave; alternatively, there is a road passable by vehicles. The two options differ in length and in whether access is on foot or via a passable road. This lets you weigh up the approach according to your preferred way of getting there.
Nam Lot Phou is in Na Thong village in Na Mo District, about eight kilometres from the centre of Na Mo District. Access branches off Route 13 North. Nam Lot Phou is a natural, clean and cool body of water, suitable for swimming and enjoying the natural landscape. It opened to visitors in 2003.
Handicrafts and Religious Sites
The Tai Lue Handicrafts Center is in Phasak village in Xay District. It is part of the “One District, One Product” initiative and specialises in traditional textile crafts. These include Lao skirts, shirts and fabrics, as well as bags and baskets. The product range thus spans clothing and woven or handmade everyday items.
There is also a biodiversity museum in the Nam Kat Yorlapa area. It attracts visitors from Laos and abroad, particularly during major festivals and on weekends. Alongside the nature experiences, biodiversity is also a focus here.
Oudomxay’s religious sites include several places with different historical associations. Phuthat Xaymoungkun Lattanamingmuong Temple was built more than 400 to 500 years ago during the reign of King Xaysetthathirath and remains an important place of worship for the local population. Phra That Xaymoungkun Lattanamingmuong Stupa, also known as Wat Phu That, is in the centre of Xay town. Its grounds include three small hills arranged in a row.
Wat Phra Chao Sing Kham Temple is on Phou Khao Khwai in Viengkham village, La District, Oudomxay. It is more than 2,000 years old; most people in Laos believe it is sacred. Its mountain setting and connection to the local village distinguish it, in terms of location, from Wat Phu That in the centre of Xay town.
Oudomxay in Regional Context
Oudomxay is an important transport hub in northern Laos. The road from Luang Prabang heading north passes through Oudomxay. This regional orientation complements the specific location details for caves, waterfalls and temples; access conditions can still vary from one destination to another, as shown by the seasonal restriction at Tad Nam Haeng.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Pak Beng, Ban Nakham, Muang Xai, Ban Cat; Houaphan, Champasak, Bokeo Province, Vientiane.
Return to the main travel overview: Laos.
