Nong Khiaw

Written by Lorraine Aust, Thongchai Phommachanh
13/08/2025
Breathtaking view of misty mountains and serene river in Nong Khiaw, Laos. Perfect for travel and nature enthusiasts.
Mykhailo Petrushchak, Pexels

Nong Khiaw is a serene town in northern Laos, renowned for its dramatic limestone mountains and the winding Nam Ou River. It serves as an ideal destination for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a glimpse into authentic local life.

The town provides a relaxed environment for visitors to connect, with restaurants and bars primarily situated near the central bridge. Backpackers often gather at hostels like Delilah's Cafe & Dorms and Heaven Backpackers Hostel, which offer communal spaces for socializing.

Top 5 Things to do in Nong Khiaw

Nong Khiaw offers a range of outdoor adventures and cultural explorations, from challenging mountain hikes to tranquil river journeys and insights into local life.

1. Hiking Pha Daeng Peak (Nong Khiaw Viewpoint)

The trek to Pha Daeng Peak provides a panoramic 360-degree vista of the dramatic limestone mountains, the meandering Nam Ou River, and Nong Khiaw town below. The ascent is strenuous, typically taking 1 to 1.5 hours uphill, but the reward of the expansive views, especially at sunrise when mist often clings to the mountains, is truly captivating. The trail, though steep and potentially dusty or slippery, is maintained with added ropes and steps. For those seeking a less demanding option, the Som Nang Viewpoint offers an easier, shorter climb with impressive views closer to town. Consider an early morning start for sunrise or an afternoon hike for sunset.

Cost: An entrance fee of 20,000 Lao Kip (approximately $1.18 - $1.20 USD or £0.96) is required.

Transport: The trailhead is conveniently located a short walk past the bridge on the east side of Nong Khiaw town, easily accessible by foot from most accommodations.

2. The 100 Waterfalls Trek

Embarking on the 100 Waterfalls Trek is a unique adventure, where the path involves literally walking and climbing up a river through a series of continuous cascades. This full-day guided excursion leads you deep into the jungle, past local villages and terraced rice paddies, before reaching the waterfalls themselves. It requires navigating through water, over rocks, and up bamboo ladders. The experience is incredibly immersive, surrounded by the sounds of nature and flowing water. There are opportunities to swim in refreshing natural pools. Due to the challenging and sometimes unclear route, undertaking this trek with a local guide is essential for safety and navigation.

Cost: A guided tour typically costs between $25 and $30 USD (approximately 410,000 to 660,000 Lao Kip) per person. This usually includes transportation, drinking water, lunch, and an English-speaking guide.

Transport: The trek's starting point is reached by a short boat ride on the Nam Ou River, which is part of the organised tour package.

3. Kayaking or Boating on the Nam Ou River

Paddling or cruising along the Nam Ou River offers a peaceful way to absorb Nong Khiaw's breathtaking scenery. The river, a central feature of the town, is framed by dramatic limestone karsts and provides a direct link to nearby natural attractions and local villages. Renting a kayak allows for independent exploration, such as paddling to Pha Kuang Cave or visiting riverside communities upstream. Alternatively, guided boat trips are available, often combining river travel with visits to villages, caves, or waterfalls, allowing you to observe daily life along the riverbanks. Witnessing a sunset from the water is a particularly serene experience.

Cost: Kayak rental costs can vary, but a full-day guided tour that includes kayaking, visiting Muang Ngoy, a viewpoint, a cave, and a waterfall can range from $109 to $179 USD for a private tour.

Transport: Activities begin directly from Nong Khiaw's riverside.

4. Exploring Tham Pha Tok Cave

Tham Pha Tok Cave is a significant historical site, serving as a shelter for local villagers during the Indochina War. Exploring the cave offers a sombre glimpse into the past, with remnants like old campfires and ruined beds still visible within the limestone chambers. The approach to the cave is picturesque, involving a walk across a bamboo bridge that spans a stream and paddy fields. While some sections inside have rudimentary wooden walkways and lighting, the atmosphere remains reflective of its wartime history. It is a compelling visit for those interested in the region's recent past.

Cost: The entrance fee to Tham Pha Tok Cave is 20,000 Lao Kip (approximately $1.18 USD or £0.96). Local youths may offer informal guided tours for a small additional fee.

Transport: The cave is located about 2.5 kilometers east of Nong Khiaw town. It is a pleasant walk or a short bicycle/scooter ride. A tuk-tuk can also be hired for convenience.

5. Visiting Local Villages

Stepping beyond Nong Khiaw's main area reveals authentic rural Lao life in nearby villages like Muang Ngoy, Sop Kong, Ban Had Sao, and Sop Vanh. These communities offer a tranquil escape and a chance to witness traditional lifestyles, often centered around agriculture and traditional crafts like weaving. Wandering through these villages provides an intimate cultural experience, allowing interaction with friendly locals and observation of their daily routines. Many tours combine village visits with other activities, or some closer villages can be explored independently by foot or rented scooter.

Cost: Village visits are often included as part of larger tours. If traveling independently, a boat trip to villages like Muang Ngoy will incur a boat fare (e.g., around 100,000 Lao Kip for a round trip to Muang Ngoy, though return schedules can be restrictive for day trips). Scooter rentals are available and inexpensive for exploring closer villages.

Transport: Access to more remote villages like Muang Ngoy is primarily by long-tail boat on the Nam Ou River. Closer villages can be reached by walking or by renting a scooter.

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