Savanakhet Travel Guide: What to See and Do in Southern Laos’ Historic Town

Located in the southern part of Laos, Savanakhet (or Savannakhet) is a province known for its charming blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and fascinating historical sites. As the country’s third-largest city, Savanakhet is often overlooked by travelers, but this laid-back region offers a unique experience for those who venture off the beaten path.

Savanakhet is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Lao, Khmer, Vietnamese, and Thai, which influences its culture, food, and traditions. Whether you're exploring its colonial-era architecture, trekking to nearby national parks, or enjoying the local cuisine, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

1, Weather and best time to visit Savanakhet

Savanakhet has a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons:

• Cool Season (Nov - Feb): Ideal time to visit, with cooler temperatures (18-25°C), less humidity, and clear skies.
• Hot Season (Mar - May): Temperatures can reach 35°C or higher, making outdoor activities uncomfortable, but still bearable for travelers seeking a quiet time.
• Rainy Season (Jun - Oct): Expect heavy rains, especially in July and August, which can make some roads difficult to navigate. However, the countryside becomes lush and vibrant, perfect for nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit: November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.

2, How to get there

Savanakhet is well-connected by road and air, making it easily accessible from other major cities in Laos, as well as from neighboring Thailand and Vietnam.

• By Air: Savanakhet Airport (ZVK) offers domestic flights, with connections to Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
• By Bus: You can take long-distance buses from:
• Vientiane (9 hours)
• Pakse (4 hours)
• Nakhon Phanom, Thailand (across the border, 2-3 hours)
• Hue, Vietnam (7-8 hours)

If you’re traveling by bus, be prepared for bumpy roads, especially in rural areas.

3, Where to stay in Savanakhet?

Savanakhet has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. The majority of accommodation is concentrated in the city center, close to shops and restaurants.

Recommended places to stay:

• Savan Resorts - A luxurious resort with modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and close proximity to the Mekong River.
• Tad Hotel - Affordable, clean, and located centrally, great for budget-conscious travelers.
• Savan Savanakek Hotel - A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and friendly service.

For a more rustic experience, there are several guesthouses and homestays where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

4, What to do in Savanakhet?

Savanakhet offers a variety of activities that cater to all types of travelers, from history buffs and nature enthusiasts to food lovers.

4.1. Visit the That Ing Hang Stupa

This sacred site is located just outside the city and is one of the most important religious sites in southern Laos. The That Ing Hang Stupa is believed to house a relic of the Buddha. The stupa is set in a peaceful landscape and is an excellent place to reflect and take in the natural surroundings.

• Distance from Savanakhet: 15 km
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon

4.2. Explore the Dong Phou Vieng National Protected Area

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Dong Phou Vieng offers stunning hiking opportunities, wildlife viewing, and exploration of the rugged landscape. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including wild elephants, tigers, and various bird species.

• Great for trekking, wildlife watching, and camping
• Beautiful views of the Savannakhet Plateau
• Accessible by car (about an hour’s drive from the city)

4.3. Discover Savanakhet’s French Colonial Architecture

Savanakhet has a rich French colonial heritage, and many buildings in the city reflect this historical influence. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the colonial-era buildings, including the Savanakhet Provincial Hall and the Catholic Church.

• Savanakhet Museum: housed in a colonial-era building, the museum offers insight into the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the present.
• The Mekong Riverside Promenade: A lovely walk along the river with cafes and old colonial buildings.

4.4. Enjoy the Mekong River

The Mekong River plays a central role in life in Savanakhet, offering plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. You can enjoy scenic boat trips or simply sit by the riverbanks to watch the sunset.

• Rent a boat for a leisurely ride
• Fishing and picnicking along the river are popular local activities

4.5. Visit the Savanakhet Night Market

The Savanakhet Night Market is a bustling place to shop for local handicrafts, try authentic Lao food, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs and try some delicious street food.

• Try dishes like larb, som tam, and khao jee (Lao-style baguette)
• Local handicrafts such as woven baskets, clothing, and traditional Lao textiles are great buys

5, What to eat in Savanakhet?

Savanakhet’s food scene reflects its ethnic diversity, offering a mix of Lao, Vietnamese, and Khmer flavors. Here are a few local dishes you should try:

• Khao Poon - A spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk, herbs, and rice noodles.
• Lao BBQ - Skewer meats and vegetables cooked over an open flame, often served with sticky rice and spicy dips.
• Tam Som - A delicious Lao green papaya salad.
• Larb - A minced meat salad, often made with fish, pork, or beef, and flavored with lime, mint, and chili.

You can find these dishes at local restaurants or food stalls, and there are plenty of places along the Mekong Promenade for a relaxing meal by the river.

6, Travel tips

• Currency: The official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK), but Thai Baht and US Dollars are also widely accepted.
• Language: The primary language is Lao, though you will find that many locals also speak some Vietnamese and Thai. English is less commonly spoken, so a phrasebook or translator app will come in handy.
• Transportation: Savanakhet is a small city, so you can easily get around by foot, tuk-tuk, or motorbike. Motorbike rentals are widely available and affordable.

7, Where to go next?

Savanakhet is perfectly positioned to explore more of southern Laos:

• Pakse - About 6 hours south, known for Bolaven Plateau, Tad Fane Waterfall, and the Four Thousand Islands.
• Thakhek - To the north, great for cave exploration and karst mountains.
• Vietnam Border - Savanakhet is very close to the Vietnamese border, so you can easily cross over to visit Hue or Da Nang.

Savanakhet may not have the same level of fame as other Laos destinations like Luang Prabang or Vientiane, but it offers a truly authentic experience of the country. Whether you’re soaking in the natural beauty of Dong Phou Vieng, exploring French colonial architecture, or enjoying local delicacies, Savanakhet provides a slower pace of life that lets you experience Laos as it is today - peaceful, fascinating, and full of charm.

Take your time in this wonderful region and discover a side of Laos that’s full of hidden gems. Savanakhet might just surprise you!