Xieng Khouang Activities

What to Do in Xieng Khouang

The harsh realities of war are not lost in Xieng Khouang, a recurring battle zone throughout the early 19th century up until 1975 and much of the land is still littered with unexploded munitions, land mines and cluster bombs. For obvious reasons activities such as trekking and hiking should always be done with an experienced guide, who can lead you away from areas of potential danger.

The Mineral Springs in Baw Nyai are an innovational government-run project that combine a hot springs experience with a weekend trip, in which guests can stay at the Hot Springs Resort. Hopefully, this is the start of many activities and tours to reach the area.

Mineral springs

The hot springs of Muang Kham are situated approximately 52km north of Muang Phonsavanh. Owned and operated by government organizations, the pool where the hot water bubbles up, can be reached by following a path parallel to the Hot Springs Resort, this pool is strictly off limits to the public but makes for some interesting viewing. The resort consists of a number of old-fashioned style bungalows where electricity runs from 18:00 to the early morning, with its water supply coming from the fresh springs.

For those who wish to frequent the hot springs, staying at the resort is part of the package. The mineral springs are within a wooded area where bamboo rigs have been built so that you can bathe nearby. Baw Noi is the smaller spring that feeds into a stream, here visitors can bathe where the cool stream waters meet with the warm waters of the springs.