Things to See and Do in Pakse
The Bolaven Plateau known as Phu Phieng Bolaven is located in an old volcano erupting millions of years ago. The plateau is famous for high quality coffee, scenic sights and ethnic groups. Arabica beans, one of the world’s most delicious coffee beans, are grown in this area. The Bolaven Plateau is the main supply of coffee over the country of Laos. Beside enjoying fresh coffee, travelers have a chance to view dramatic waterfalls, protected national parks, remote mountains and dense forests. The twin Tad Fane, Tad Champee, Tad Lo Waterfall are quite popular sites for tourists. Another interesting item is that visitors are able to see some wild animals like leopards, tigers, elephants, monkeys and hornbills when going deep into the forest.
Wat Luang is said to be the greatest temple of Pakse. Inside the wat, there are relics of some essential Lao people, for example, Mr.Kratai Donesalid - the former Prime Minister of Laos. Lao monks with typical Orange tunic usually appear in the surrounding area because this wat is also a school of monks. In addition, the library and office feature best wood carving on doors, windows and sophisticated stuccoes on the roof. Furthermore, Sedone River and bridge can be seen from this temple.
The Champasak Provincial Museum will help you have more knowledge of local history. The items involving the recent history of Champasak are displayed on the second floor. Some of them are ethnic clothing, Champa of bronze, jewelry and textiles. The first includes a wealth of artifacts, documents and photos showing pre-history of the province. The outstanding things are musical instruments, ancient pottery, an old-fashioned water jar, a model of Wat Phu, photos of cultural events and foreign meetings.
Another suggestion for tourists is experiencing the life in Ban Saphai Village. You will live in houses built in traditional Lao style and all on stilts. Lao-style fishing trips and classes of silk weaving organized by locals attract a large number of travelers. Textiles of villagers at the suitable price will be the best souvenirs when you come back home.
Hotels and Restaurants in Pakse
Athena Hotel is near Wat Luang, Champasak Provincial Museum, Daoheuang Market and Champasak Stadium. Wifi and parking is free for guests. Athena Restaurant serves not only Lao dishes but also Thai and European cuisines. Besides, guests can relax in outdoor swimming pool or lush green garden. All rooms come with cable TV, air conditioner, private balcony and seating area.
Champasak Grand Hotel is 5-minute walk from Champasak Provincial Museum, Wat Phabat and Phu Salao Golden Buddha. Free wifi and parking are available for guests. You are able to enjoy your time in outdoor pool surrounded by tropical garden, have body treatments at Champa Spa or exercise in fitness room. Additionally, guests can participate in evening entertainment or karaoke for relaxing. Lao and international dishes are provided at the hotel’s restaurants on the balcony. You will find cable TV, air conditioner, fridge, seating area and terrace in every room of the property.
Pakse Hotel is a few minute from some highlights of the city such as Wat Luang, Wat Phabat and Champasak Provincial Museum. Make use of free wifi and parking. You can enjoy local dishes at the restaurant and drinks, snack at the bar of the property. Other conveniences includes ATM machine, luggage storage, tour desk, designated smoking area, gift shop. Each room features cable TV, air conditioner, fridge, terrace, newspaper, etc.
Daolin Restaurant is on the main street, Highway 13. The restaurant provides a variety of delicious cuisines of Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and some of Western countries. It also serves meals for vegetarians with meat-based dishes like pumpkin curry “om” and mushroom “goy”.
