Huay Xai
Laos · Bokeo · 370 m
Description
Huay Xai (ຫ້ວຍຊາຍ) lies on the Lao bank of the Mekong River opposite the Thai town of Chiang Khong and serves as the northern gateway to Laos for many travelers. The provincial capital is best known as the starting point for the two-day slow boat journey to Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia's most memorable river trips. Landmarks include hilltop Wat Chom Khao Manilat and the ruins of the French colonial Fort Carnot, both offering sweeping views over the Mekong. Beyond the town, the forests of the Bokeo Nature Reserve are home to the renowned Gibbon Experience, where treehouses connected by long ziplines provide one of Laos' most distinctive ecotourism adventures. Although many visitors stay only one night before continuing their journey, Huay Xai is well worth exploring as a gateway to northern Laos, its river landscapes, and its rich natural heritage.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: November – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Slow boat to Luang Prabang
- The Gibbon Experience(Multi-day trip)
- Bokeo Nature Reserve(Multi-day trip)
- Wat Chom Khao Manilat
- Fort Carnot
- Mekong riverside promenade
- Huay Xai morning market
- Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge No. 4
- Huay Xai viewpoint
- Mekong sunset viewpoints
- Wat Keophone Savanthanaram
- Houay Xai ferry crossing
- Ban Kiew Lom village
Getting there
- Airports:
- HOE
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry
- Border town:
- Laos