Mini Guide to Pakse

Pakse attractions range from French colonial architecture near Xe Don River to pristine Buddhist shrines. A popular thing to to is joining a tour to Wat Phu, a Khmer Hindu temple complex on at the base of mount Phou Khao. The view of the plains from this vantage point is breathtaking.

Wat Luang is one of Pakse’s most beautiful temples – the multi-coloured complex has a school teaching Buddhist courses for monks. Wat Phabad (or Phabat) features colourful stupas that serve as funerary monuments. Locals believe Buddha left his footprint on the temple grounds, which attracts devotees from all over the world.

Pakse International Airport receives regular flights from Siem Reap and Vientiane. You can also travel by air to Savannakhet, about 240 km northeast of Pakse. If you’re visiting the city from Bangkok, Lao Airlines offer direct flights regularly. You can take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

Getting to Pakse by boat is offered by many travel agencies in Champasak – a private charter costs about $250 which can be shared among 6 people with luggage.

Pakse is serviced by 2 bus companies, which carry local traffic to the north and the south. VIP buses travelling between Pakse and Vientiane operate from the Champasak Plaza Shopping Centre. The bus fare varies depending on the mode of purchase – it’s cheaper to buy it from the counter than through a travel agency. The journey takes about 10 hours.