Northern Highlands
Remote mountain wilderness of ethnic villages, karst peaks, and some of Southeast Asia's last untouched landscapes
Quick Stats
location_city Cities in this Region
Nong Khiaw
Dramatic river valley village flanked by sheer karst cliffs and jungle-covered peaks
Phonsavan
Gateway to the mysterious Plain of Jars and the scars of the Secret War
Muang Ngoi
Electricity-free riverside hamlet surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone walls
emoji_events Bounties in Northern Highlands
Decipher the Mystery of the Plain of Jars
Walk among thousands of ancient stone jars scattered across a plateau that defies explanation.
Hike to the 100 Most Beautiful Views Viewpoint
Climb through jungle to a cliff-edge panorama over the Nam Ou river and endless karst peaks.
Learn the Story of the Secret War at the MAG Centre
Understand why Laos is the most heavily bombed country in history at this sobering exhibition.
Trek to Hmong Villages Through Rice Paddies
Walk through emerald rice fields and limestone valleys to remote Hmong hilltop communities.
Explore Pha Tok Cave and Its Secret War History
Crawl into a cliffside cave that sheltered villagers during the American bombing campaign.
Eat Khao Soi Noodles at a Riverside Morning Stall
Slurp rich coconut-curry noodle soup unique to northern Laos at a dawn-lit riverside table.
Taste Jar-Aged Lao-Lao Rice Whisky with Locals
Sample homemade rice whisky distilled in villages around the Plain of Jars.
Eat Freshly Caught Nam Ou River Fish at a Village Kitchen
Taste charcoal-grilled river fish prepared by families who have fished the Nam Ou for generations.