Jul
04
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Explore the splendours of Phou Khao Khouay
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To mark Visit Laos Year 2012, Vientiane Times is running a series of articles about natural, historical and cultural tourism sites in Laos
Locals and travellers can enjoy a relaxing time with a weekend trip to one of the jewels of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area in Borikhamxay province.
This site starts with a seven tier drop of about 30 metres where water flows as if going down a massive flight of steps.
Tad Xay waterfall in Phou Khao Khouay, Vientiane province.
This waterfall is called Tad Xay and flows from the crystal clear waters of the Houay Xay stream. From there the water curves to the left through a picturesque small valley just before running 800 metres downstream over a 50 metre drop into a breathtaking forested gorge, Pha Xay.
People come to picnic and swim at the foot of the falls. On a fine day you can see white orchids set against the verdant backdrop of the Pa Khamkhiew (‘the green forest’).
Tour guide Mr Khammoun Chanthalangsy says the site has been open to guests since 2003 and is now popular with visitors who like adventure.
October to April is the best time to visit Tad Xay and Pha Xay before the waters become too turbulent. Park authorities in collaboration with donor agencies have been promoting Tad Xay as part of a guided camping site and homestay with the residents of nearby Hat Khai village.
Travel agencies, namely Green Discovery, Exotissimo and Dorkpheung, bring guests to explore the area with local villagers who have been trained as guides. The trips are aimed at promoting ecotourism and conservation, and maintaining an environmental balance.
One volunteer guide, who trained with the Dorkpheung travel agency, said Tad Xay and Pha Xay are considered to be the most spectacular waterfalls in the Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area. People come here to see the orchids, go for a swim, and take a boat ride.
Some people can be seen canoeing upstream to the most navigable point. Then they trek north for two hours to reach the falls. Boats are available at the villages of Hat Khai and Houay Leuk.
Local authorities now ban locals and visitors from picking orchids to protect the species and encourage concervation.
City dwellers should take time off one weekend to come here to absorb the smell of nature and get to know the area on foot. So come and immerse yourself in this calming place and discover a special experience on the doorstep of Vientiane.
Visitors can reach Houay Xay directly from Vientiane starting with a left turn shortly before entering Thabok (at Km 90 on Road 13 south). Next go towards Houay Leuk village (5 Km). Then follow the road signs that say “National Park”. After crossing the metal bridge over the Nam Leuk turn right after 1 kilometre. A further 2 kilometres on, you’ll pass another small village, Hat Khai, which is the “gateway” to the park.
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