Understand

Don't overlook this tiny town as just a pit stop. While there may not be many tourist attractions, it's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the laid-back Lao lifestyle. Sit by the serene Mekong River, savoring a refreshing Beerlao as you watch the gentle flow of the water.

Get in

Immigration When visiting Laos, it is important to know about the immigration process. The Lao immigration office is located 10 km south of town. Here, they issue 30-day Visas-on-Arrival for around $35 USD, depending on your nationality. If you prefer to pay in Euros, the cost will be equivalent to the dollar amount, as Lao authorities don't consider exchange rate differences. To obtain the visa, you will need a passport-sized photo. Don't worry if you don't have one yet, as you can get it in Chiang Khong, Thailand, before crossing the bridge or near the bus station in Chiang Rai. However, if you arrive without a photo, the immigration official can use a scan of your passport photo for a small fee of 40 baht. Take note that there are additional fees for weekend arrivals and arrivals after 16:00 pm on weekdays. The weekend fee is an extra $1, while the "overtime fee" also amounts to $1. These fees apply even if you are from a country that doesn't require a Lao visa. While it's possible to argue or quickly leave once you receive your stamp to avoid these fees, in the end, it's only $1. Once you have paid for the visa, the officials will take your passport behind the window for approximately 15 minutes to print and attach your visa.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Larb - A traditional Laotian salad made from minced meat, often chicken, pork, or beef, mixed with herbs, vegetables, and a spicy, tangy dressing. The dish is known for its balance of flavors, including sour, spicy, and savory elements. It is typically served with sticky rice and accompanied by lettuce leaves for wrapping.

Papaya Salad - A refreshing dish comprised of shredded green papaya, tomatoes, long beans, and carrots, tossed in a tangy lime dressing with fish sauce, garlic, and chilies. The dish is often garnished with peanuts and occasionally includes pork or shrimp.

Laab Xaek - Often referred to as 'Lao taco,' this dish consists of seasoned ground meat, typically pork or beef, cooked over charcoal grills and wrapped in a soft, steamed flour > wrapper. The filling is flavored with herbs such as mint and perilla, along with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chilies.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing