Viang Xai

Viang Xai: An Introduction

The region's other significant attraction is the dozens of 'war caves' at Viang Xai, close to the Vietnam border. The caves only opened to visitors in 2006 and prior to this served as the houses and headquarters for the Pathet Lao during their thirty year struggle with the colonial forces.

In the past very few travellers have made it this far due to poor roads, communication and general lack of information on the site. However, this is all set to change with the caves being marketed as a new attraction thanks to the newly opened (sometimes) Vietnamese border crossing at Nong Het/Na Maew. The border opening has vastly cut the travel time and tourism is likely to ‘boom’ in the coming years (just don’t expect a McDonald’s anytime soon!).

UXO and tanks in storage near Vang Vieng

Explore Laos' less laid-back past in the heartland of the Pathet Lao