You can practically smell the fresh asphalt when you arrive at Udomxai, the major transport hub of northern Laos. Sometimes spelled Oudomxay, Oudomxai and also referred to as Muang Xai, the provincial capital’s importance can be attributed to the fact that it’s within a day’s drive of Thailand, Vietnam and most conspicuously, China.
Top places to stay
Top things to do
Hotels, food, sights, transport quick links
Keep reading to learn more about Udomxai!
Being the centre of all things has won Udomxai success as a commercial corridor but not for tourism—the city has about the same amount of charm as a major bus station. The key to Udomxai is getting out of the city and exploring the pockets of rural beauty the province has in bounds. There is also ethnic diversity to learn about. The province has approximately 12 different ethnic groups and the predominant one is not Lao Loum but Khmu, estimated to make up some 60 to 80% of the provincial population.
Bright lights big city. Photo: Cindy Fan
But first, the gritty nitty-gritty. The town is booming, primarily because of Chinese business interests and there are those who are definitely prospering—just wait until you see the unsubtle Greco-Roman mansion on the main street. At times it feels like there are more Chinese signs and blue Chinese license plates than Lao ones, and you wonder if you really are in Laos. Don’t be surprised if your warm “Sabaidee!” is met with a blank stare.
The centre is not very attractive save for Wat Phu That, an oasis of calm on a hill that is a must visit for sunset. From the top, look beyond the concrete and electricity wires to see that beautiful mountains and forest are within easy reach.
Pop up to the stupa. Photo: Cindy Fan
Nam Kat Yorla Pa is a new spot featuring both. The swath of forested area centred on the Nam Kat waterfall and river is 17 km northeast of the city. No longer a mere waterfall, there’s now a top-range nature resort and outdoor activities on offer. If a stay is not within your budget, the waterfall itself can be done as a half day trip or a full day motorbike loop with Muang La, one of our favourite spots in ... Travelfish members only (Around 1,000 more words) ... please log in to read the rest of this story.
Travelfish subscribers only
Travelfish subscribers please log in to read more.
Becoming a Travelfish subscriber costs A$35 for a year. Membership benefits include:
1) 250+ PDF guides
2) Discount coupons
3) 50% off our travel planning service
4) And of course, our gratitude and a warm fuzzy feeling for helping us stay in business!
By
Cindy Fan.
Last updated on 2nd June, 2018.
