Top 15 Activities in Huay Xai, Laos: Ultimate Guide

Huay Xai is a notable destination in Laos, known for its multiple variations of its name, such as Huay Xay and Hoauy Xai. This town is strategically located on the border between Thailand and Laos, often functioning as a simple gateway for travelers.

One of the primary reasons individuals transit through Huay Xai is to embark on a cruise along the Mekong River, which is a prominent attraction of this town. From Huay Xai, it is possible to take a boat to the picturesque Luang Prabang, a journey that lasts several days and is considered one of the most rewarding activities in the area. Additionally, Huay Xai serves as an ideal base for excursions to the adjacent Bokeo Nature Reserve, home to the renowned Laotian gibbons.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Huay Xai…

1. Shop at the Morning Market

The main marketplace in Huay Xai is referred to as the Morning Market.

As indicated by its name, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to experience the market at its most vibrant, where a diverse range of produce is available.

If you arrive early enough, you may also encounter vendors from neighboring villages showcasing ethnic handicrafts, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables, and textiles.

2. Explore Wat Keophone Savanthanaram

Wat Keophone Savanthanaram is a temple renowned for its murals depicting intense scenes of torture.

For those who are not easily disturbed, these can be observed along the walls of the ordination hall, or alternatively, visitors may choose to stroll around the temple grounds.

A walk up the hill situated behind the temple reveals a large statue of a Reclining Buddha.

3. Tour Fort Carnot

Fort Carnot is a notable fort initially constructed during the French colonial era in Huay Xai.

Sitting on a scenic hillside near the Governor’s Office of Bokeo, the fort features two prominent towers that are the principal remnants of its original structure.

In recent years, the fort had fallen into a state of disrepair and was closed; however, it has since reopened after some restoration, making it a worthy stop during a visit to Huay Xai.

4. Have Dinner at Daauw Home

One of the most renowned dining establishments in Huay Xai is Daauw Home, located on a stepped rice terrace with a direct view of the striking Mekong River.

This restaurant was established to support local ethnic communities in Laos. Diners can enjoy meals and shop at the on-site Women Empowerment Shop.

Additionally, there are cooking classes available, allowing visitors to learn how to prepare traditional local dishes.

5. Travel to the Gibbon Experience

Visitors often come to Huay Xai with the intention of engaging in the Gibbon Experience in Bokeo National Park.

Tickets for this unique experience can be secured in Huay Xai, and the journey involves traveling approximately four hours to one of the villages located at the park’s outskirts.

From that point, a trek into Bokeo National Park leads to beautiful treehouses, which serve as accommodations elevated about 40 meters above ground.

6. Have a Drink on the River Bank

Although Huay Xai lacks a vibrant nightlife, those interested in enjoying an evening drink should proceed to the waterfront.

A variety of restaurants and cafes offer the local Laotian brew, Beer Lao.

Consistently, one of the favored activities in town is to savor a drink while witnessing the sunset over the Mekong River, so consider planning your visit accordingly.

7. Admire Wat Chomkao Manilat

Wat Chomkao Manilat is situated near the speedboat jetty in Huay Xai, and is also recognized as one of the newest temples in the area.

The temple’s distinctive feature is a well-aligned series of Buddha carvings adorned in gold leaf, each depicting the Buddha in meditation poses.

This site boasts eight impressive Buddha statues, and visitors may also enjoy views of the Mekong River from the temple grounds.

8. Visit Daauw Village

For those seeking to escape the center of Huay Xai, Daauw Village is an excellent destination.

This area is home to ethnic communities with a long history, making it ideal for experiencing a more traditional lifestyle in Laos.

While visiting the village, guests can learn about local Laotian cuisine and even participate in cooking some meals over an open fire.

If preferred, various workshops are available where guests can try their hand at creating traditional handicrafts for which the surrounding villages are renowned.

9. Relax at a Local Sauna

Laos is well-known for its saunas, which often incorporate local herbs that leave guests feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Among the most renowned in Huay Xai is a facility associated with the Red Cross, offering comforting massages alongside herbal sauna experiences.

To complete the relaxation, patrons can also sample a selection of delightful local herbal teas.

10. Take a Boat Trip

The primary allure of visiting Huay Xai is the opportunity to embark on a scenic boat journey along the impressive Mekong River.

In light of this, there are various types of boats available, including a slow cruise that takes approximately two days to reach Luang Prabang via Pak Beng.

For those seeking a more leisurely option and prepared to invest more, cruise packages with full-board accommodations are also offered.

These cruises include stops along the route to Luang Prabang, allowing guests to enjoy sights such as the well-known ethnic communities in the Khmu and Hmong villages, along with visits to the Pak Ou Caves.

For travelers in a rush, there are also speedboat options available to Luang Prabang.

11. Try the Duck BBQ

Laos is celebrated for its grilled meats, with many options primarily featuring pork or chicken.

For a unique alternative, consider visiting Khongvab Duck BBQ, where succulent duck grilled over hot coals is available.

This dish typically accompanies a variety of flavorful Laotian herbs and steamed rice.

12. Visit Wat Khonekeo Xaiyaram

Wat Khonekeo Xaiyaram is a temple distinguished by its impressive decorations, easily recognizable upon arrival.

The exterior boasts beautifully carved pillars adorned in vibrant red, green, and gold colors, complemented by intricately designed doors leading to the main chamber.

13. Try Some Exotic Cuisine

For those looking to venture beyond conventional fare in Huay Xai, a visit to one of the local restaurants offering unusual ingredients is highly recommended.

One of the most renowned establishments is the Tavendeng Restaurant, situated in a spacious wooden building complete with a stage for nightly musical performances.

This restaurant is particularly noted for its exotic dishes, including options such as fried crocodile and barbecued frog.

While traditional meat dishes like chicken and beef are also available, it is worth noting that the menu may not be suited for those with delicate sensibilities.

14. Enjoy a Beer, or the Local Tipple

When you desire a change from Beer Lao, consider sampling the local spirit in a different format.

The traditional distilled beverage of Laos is rice wine, commonly referred to as low-low, and can be found in numerous bars throughout Huay Xai.

A recommended venue to try low-low is Bar How on the riverfront, which presents various types of the spirit, including rice wine infused with local fruits like lychees or blueberries.

If you would like a meal to accompany your drink, the establishment also offers a range of local and international dishes.