Locals
and travelers can enjoy a relaxing time with a weekend trip to one of the
jewels of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area in Borikhamxay province,
Laos.
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| From Threeland Travel's Blog - July 2012 |
Tad Xay waterfall
This
site starts with a seven tier drop of about 30 meters where water flows as if
going down a massive flight of steps. This waterfall is called Tad Xay and
flows from the crystal clear waters of the Houay Xay stream. From there the
water curves to the left through a picturesque small valley just before running
800 meters downstream over a 50 meters drop into a breathtaking forested gorge,
Pha Xay.
Tad
Xay and Pha Xay are considered to be the most spectacular waterfalls in the
Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area. People come here to picnic, to see
the orchids, to go for a swim at the foot of the falls, and take a boat ride.
On a fine day you can see white orchids set against the verdant backdrop of the
Pa Khamkhiew (‘the green forest’).
The
site has been open to guests since 2003 and is now popular with visitors who
like adventure. October to April is the best time to visit Tad Xay and Pha Xay
before the waters become too turbulent. Park authorities in collaboration with
donor agencies have been promoting Tad Xay as part of a guided camping site and
home stay with the residents of nearby Hat Khai village.
Tourists
are also provided a chance to explore the area with local villagers who have
been trained as guides. The trips are aimed at promoting ecotourism and
conservation, and maintaining an environmental balance. Some people can be seen
canoeing upstream to the most navigable point. Then they trek north for two
hours to reach the falls. Boats are available at the villages of Hat Khai and
Houay Leuk.
City
dwellers should take time off one weekend to come here to absorb the smell of
nature and get to know the area on foot. So come and immerse yourself in this
calming place and discover a special experience on the doorstep of Vientiane.
Visitors
can reach Houay Xay directly from Vientiane starting with a left turn shortly
before entering Thabok (at Km 90 on Road 13 south). Next go towards Houay Leuk
village (5 Km). Then follow the road signs that say “National Park”. After
crossing the metal bridge over the Nam Leuk turn right after 1 kilometer. A further
2 kilometers on, you’ll pass another small village, Hat Khai, which is the
“gateway” to the park.
If
you have deep interest in this eco-tourism site, please visit Threeland Travel Indochina and contact us.
We ensure you a chance to access the best travel services.
