Champasak province is one of the greatest cultural, political and economic centers of southern Laos. It was also a center of administration for the French, hence some of the distinctively beautiful French architecture you will see up the main street.
Pakse
Pakse is a city in Champasak province in southern Laos. Being on the outskirts of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam gives it the advantages in term of economy.
Once you plan to go to the Bolaven Plateau or Si Phan Don, you'll probably spend some time in this beautiful region. Champasak Museum, Boun Oum Palace, Wat Luang, Grand Central Market...are some of the various tourist sites of the area.
Champasak museum
The Museum is located in Champasak Road no.13, near the stadium. Inside the museum, Wat Pu objects, tools, crafts, musical instruments and traditional costumes of different ethnic communities in Bolaven Plateau are displayed. Champasak Museum is really an ideal place for art lovers.
Boun Oum
Boun Oum is the former palace of the Prince of Champasak, Chao Boun Oum. However, this building was never be the residence for the royal family because the prince left his country and moved to Paris where he died 6 years later. Thai hotel group then transformed it into a hotel in 2004.
Vat Luang
Located on the bank of the Sedone, Vat Luang is considered as the most beautiful ancient temple of Pakse. Wat Luang temple has a functioning school for monks; studies include courses in English, Business Management and Cultural Studies. There is a library on the premises as well as magnificent river views
4000 islets (Done Khone)
You may catch the boat to Done Khone (the 4,000 islets) to visit the impressive Liphi Waterfall (Devil Corridor). If you are lucky you can enjoy watching the Irrawaddy dolphins and the remnants of the French colonial area (old pier, stream railway, former French building and Maritime Office). There are many villages in the surrounding regions where you will experience the authentic culture of Laos. Done Khone is the largest and, arguably, the most peaceful among 4000 islets in the area. It measures 18km long and 8km wide. Its busy port, where fish-loaded boats arrive, small vegetable market and sandy beach are all worth a visit.
Ban Khone village
Ban Khone is a charming sleepy village where Laos culture is originally presented. A bike ride is a perfect way to enjoy its picturesque sceneries and tranquil atmosphere.
Vat Phu
Vat Phu, the former royal palace of the pre-Angkorian leaning against the eastern face of Kao Mount, about 45km from Pakse, is one of the jewels of the country. It was recently listed as a World Heritage Site and became one part of an extensive restoration program organized by UNESCO.