Vang Vien, Laos

Discover The Beauty of Laos. Vang Vien, Laos, is a town that attracts many tourists with its natural beauty and adventure activities. The town is located on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning karst mountains and green rice fields. Vang Vien was once a quiet farming village, but it became a popular destination for backpackers in the late 1990s, who came to enjoy tubing, caving, ziplining, and partying. However, after many accidents and deaths related to excessive drinking and drug use, the Lao government cracked down on the bars and clubs along the river in 2012, and Vang Vien started to reinvent itself as a more responsible and sustainable tourism hub. Today, visitors can still enjoy the natural wonders and outdoor activities that Vang Vien offers, as well as learn about the local culture and history of the area.

Vang Vien was originally a staging post between Luang Prabang and Vientiane and was renamed Mouang Song during the French colonial rule in the 1890s. During the Vietnam War, the US built an air force base and runway here, which can still be seen today. In the late 1990s, Vang Vieng became a popular backpacker destination, known for its wild party scene and river tubing. However, after a crackdown by the Lao government in 2012, the town has reinvented itself as an eco-tourism hub, with a focus on outdoor activities and responsible travel.

Outdoor Activities

Vang Vieng is also known for its vibrant party scene, with bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning. However, if partying isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to spend your time in Vang Vieng, such as visiting local temples, exploring the town’s night market, or taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Lao dishes. [2]

If you’re planning a trip to Vang Vieng, it’s recommended to spend at least 3-4 days in the town to fully experience everything it has to offer. There are plenty of accommodation options available, from budget hostels to more upscale hotels. It’s also easy to get around Vang Vieng by bicycle, motorbike, or tuk-tuk.

Laos Culture

Vang Vieng is also a great base to discover the culture and traditions of Laos. You can learn about the local cuisine, handicrafts, and music, or join a cooking class or a weaving workshop. You can also witness the daily ritual of alms-giving to the Buddhist monks, or participate in a baci ceremony, a blessing ritual that involves tying strings around the wrists. You can also take a day trip to Vientiane or Luang Prabang, two of the most charming and historic cities in Laos.

Vang Vieng is a place that will surprise you with its beauty, diversity, and charm. It is a place where you can have fun, learn and connect with nature and people. It is a place that you will not regret visiting.

Things To Do

Hiking: Vang Vien is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains and lush green fields. You can explore the scenic landscape by hiking to various viewpoints, caves, and waterfalls. Some of the most popular hiking trails are Pha Ngeun, Pha Poak, and Nam Xay.

Hot Air Balloon: One of the most thrilling and romantic ways to experience Vang Vien is by taking a hot air balloon ride over the town and the river. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the sunrise or sunset, and see the karst formations from a different perspective. The flights last about 40 minutes and cost around $90 per person.

Rice Fields: Vang Vien is famous for its rice fields, which are a vital source of income and food for the local people. You can visit the rice fields by bike or on foot, and learn about the traditional farming methods and culture of the Lao people. The best time to see the rice fields is during the rainy season (May to October), when they are green and lush.

Blue Lagoon: The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Vang Vien. It is a natural pool of clear turquoise water, surrounded by trees and rocks. You can swim, relax, or jump from a rope swing into the water. The entrance fee is 10,000 kip ($1) per person, and there are also some caves nearby that you can explore.

Paramotoring: If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try paramotoring in Vang Vien. A paramotoring is a form of paragliding that uses a motorized propeller to fly in the air. You can soar over the river, the mountains, and the town, and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the scenery. The flights last about 15 minutes and cost around $60 per person.

Tubing: Tubing is one of the most iconic activities in Vang Vien. It involves floating down the Nam Song River on a large inflatable tube while enjoying the views and stopping at various bars along the way. Tubing used to be a wild party scene, but it has become more regulated and safer in recent years. You can rent a tube for 60,000 kips ($6) per day, and pay a deposit of 60,000 kips ($6) that you get back if you return the tube before 6 pm.

Ziplining: Ziplining is another fun way to experience the nature and adventure of Vang Vien. You can zip across the river, through the forest, and over the rice fields, while feeling the wind in your hair and the thrill in your stomach. There are several ziplining courses in Vang Vien, ranging from easy to challenging. The prices vary depending on the length and difficulty of the course.

Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore the Nam Song River and its surroundings. You can paddle along the calm or rapids sections of the river, depending on your skill level and preference. You can also stop at some caves, islands, and villages along the way. You can rent a kayak for 50,000 kips ($5) per hour or 100,000 kip ($10) per day.

Yoga: Yoga is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of adventure in Vang Vien. You can join a yoga class at one of the many studios or resorts in town, or practice on your own at a quiet spot by the river or in nature. Yoga can help you improve your flexibility, balance, strength, and mental well-being. The classes usually cost around 50,000 kips ($5) per session.

Vang Vien is a place where you can enjoy both nature and adventure, as well as culture and relaxation. It is a place where you can create unforgettable memories and have an amazing time. If you are planning to visit Laos, make sure to include Vang Vien in your itinerary.

If you are looking for an adventure in Southeast Asia, you might want to consider booking a trip to Vang Vieng, Laos. Vang Vieng is a small town on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning karst mountains and caves. You can enjoy activities such as kayaking, tubing, rock climbing, hiking, biking, and zip-lining. You can also explore the cultural and historical attractions of Vang Vieng, such as the Tham Chang Cave, the Wat That Temple, and the Blue Lagoon. Vang Vieng is a perfect destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

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