Pakse, located in the southern part of the country, nowadays is the second most popular city in Laos and is also the former capital of Champasak kingdom. Pakse still remains its popular as a must-visit destination when you arrive in Laos. Unlike the Vientiane, the current capital of Laos or Luang Prabang, the former capital of Laos, main land of Buddhism, Pakse is different with Champasak’s culture, natural sceneries, and ancient sites in the south.
Golden Buddha
Crossing the Japanese Bridge connecting Laos and Thailand, taking a few steps, here is the Golden Buddha. The giant golden Buddha Statue partly reflects how big Buddhism influence in this country is. From the other side of the bridge, it will give you a general view toward Pakse, the second most crowded city in Laos. Around 5PM, the sun starts to go down, which gives you a chance to enjoy the nature beauty.
Entrance Fee: Free
Wat Luang
One of the largest and most beautiful temples in Pakse, Wat Luang has been built in 1935. Under the big influence of Buddhism, the temple served as Buddhism school which teaching monks and Buddhists. Inside Wat Luang, there are so many murals about Buddhism and nowadays it still contains the ashes of a former Laotian prime minister following traditional ritual.
Entrance Fee: Free
Wat Tsin - Chinese Temple
Wat in Laotian language means temple and Tsin means Chinese. In the southern part of Laos, there is a Chinese temple. It seems to be strange! But if you are tired of seeing hundreds of temple in Laos, it might be a new experience. All decoration is in Chinese decorative style and there are lots of Chinese characters. There are a lot Chinese Buddhist statues and artifacts which will give you an explanation about Chinese influence process in Laos.
Entrance Fee: Free
Champasak Palace
As we have mentioned above, Pakse has been the former capital of Champasak Kingdom in the past, Champasak Palace was home of the last Laotian prince, Chao Boon Oum. At that time, it was built in the French-architecture style. After monarchy system is over, it has been abandoned in 1974; Laos Communist Party took over this place and then sold it for a Thailand company. Nowadays, Champasak Palace has been turned into Champasak Palace Hotel. If you want to discover the palace by yourself, book a reservation at the hotel.
Entrance Fee: Yes. Since it has been turn into a hotel, you will have to book a reservation in order to have a chance to discover the architecture inside.
Vat Phou
Vat Phou, the ruins of Khmer Hindu temple, is in the outskirt of Pakse, 6 kilometers away from Mekong River in Champasak Province. Vat Phou can be considered as one of the most attractive destination in Laos and remains the importance in Laos’ culture. Khmer Hindu features have made this area different from other Buddhism temple in overall Laos, which is the reason why it has been recognized as UNESSCO World Heritage in 2001. Later on, the temple has been turned into Theradava Buddhist worship.
Bolaven Plateau
If you have ever Natural scenery located in Champasak Province, is a highland between the Annamite Mountain Range. The attractive destinations in this area are impressive waterfall and villages of many ethnic groups. Bolaven Plateau is definitely a paradise for coffee-lover! If you have visited this area, it is a must to try the local coffee, which has increased its popular worldwide. Amazing natural sceneries combining with good food, excellent coffee will bring you to another stage of pleasure.
Si Phan Don (4000 islands)
Laos is a country with no coastal line but it has islands for sure. The typical example is Si Phan Don. Si Phan Don or 4000 islands are created by Mekong River and lying near the border with Cambodia. When the water level rises, half of the island will disappear. The area is characterized with many unique sites: Don Khong, Ban Saphai Silk Weaving Village and Khong Falls. One of the special things in Si Phan Don is the rare water dolphin Irrawaddy which has been confirmed to exist in this area. Hope that you will have an opportunity to see this beautiful creature!
Pakse is a captivating destination that should not be missed during your Laos tour, offering a diverse range of activities and attractions that will leave you spellbound. Whether you're seeking natural wonders, cultural immersion, or outdoor adventures, Pakse has it all. Let Pakse be your gateway to unforgettable experiences and cherished memories during your Laos tour.
