Nong Khiaw: A river village in northern Laos

Nong Khiaw is a small village on the Nam Ou river, hemmed in by some of the most dramatic limestone cliffs in northern Laos. It's the kind of place that rewards travellers who like quiet mornings, big views, and minimal infrastructure.

Getting There

• Minivan from Luang Prabang — 3–4 hours, daily morning departures
• Boat — historically common from Luang Prabang and Muang Khua, now mostly limited to short upriver hops since the dams

What to Do

• Pha Daeng Peak Viewpoint — steep 1.5–2 hour climb to one of the best views in Laos
• Sleeping Woman / Nang None Viewpoint — the newer, slightly easier alternative
• 100 Waterfalls trek — full-day trek through a river canyon, book through a guesthouse
• Boat trip to Muang Ngoi — 1 hour upstream, runs daily
• Tham Pha Tok caves — wartime hideout caves, walkable from town
• Kayaking and tubing on the Nam Ou

Where to Stay

Most accommodation is on the east bank of the river, across the bridge from the bus drop-off. Riverside bungalows with hammocks and karst views are the classic Nong Khiaw stay; book ahead in high season as supply is limited.

Don't underestimate Pha Daeng — it's a proper climb with rough scrambles and limited shade. Start early, take more water than you think you need.