The 14 BEST things to do in Savannakhet, Laos

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Savannakhet, Laos!

Welcome to Savannakhet, the land of stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly locals! Located in the southern part of Laos, this city is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers like you. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, excitement, or a bit of both, Savannakhet has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes in Savannakhet, Laos

Vat à Luang Prabang in Savannakhet, Laos.
Photo by Desaga Thierry
Savannakhet is a laid-back place with a peaceful atmosphere. The people here are friendly and welcoming, and the pace of life is slow and relaxed. There’s a strong sense of community, and it’s not uncommon to see people chatting and laughing with their neighbors as they go about their daily routines.

Weather throughout the year

Drone Shot of a Hot Air Balloon Above a City in Savannakhet, Laos.
Photo by Pauline Tan
The weather in Savannakhet is hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the high 20s to the low 40s Celsius. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and while it can be quite wet during this time, the showers tend to be brief and refreshing.

Why Savannakhet, Laos is the best place to be

House Near Lake
Photo by Simon Berger
Savannakhet may not be as well-known as some of its neighbors, but that’s part of what makes it such a special place. It’s a place where you can escape the crowds and experience authentic Laos culture. The natural beauty here is breathtaking, with lush forests, rice paddies, and waterfalls to explore. And the food! Oh, the food. From spicy laap to sweet sticky rice, Savannakhet’s cuisine is a true delight for the senses.

Cost of Travel

Bright aged Asian church facade under sky
Photo by 竟傲 汤
Savannakhet is a budget-friendly destination, with affordable accommodation, food, and activities. You can easily find a nice guesthouse or hotel room for less than $30 per night, and a meal at a local restaurant will cost around $3-5. Transportation is also relatively inexpensive, with tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis readily available for short trips around town.

Top 14 best things to do in Savannakhet, Laos

urnes funeraires lao in Savannakhet, Laos.
Photo by Desaga Thierry
  1. Visit the Wat Pha Fa Lasa temple, a stunning Buddhist temple with a beautiful golden stupa and intricate carvings.
  2. Go hiking through the Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area, where you’ll find waterfalls, caves, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Take a boat trip down the Mekong River, where you’ll see traditional villages, fishing communities, and maybe even a few river dolphins.
  4. Try your hand at pottery at the Ban Nahin Village Pottery Cooperative, where local artisans create beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques.
  5. Explore the Savannakhet Museum, which has a collection of artifacts and displays showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.
  6. Visit the That Ing Hang Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site with a beautiful view of the surrounding area.
  7. Take a cooking class and learn how to make delicious Laotian dishes like laap and tam khao tod.
  8. Relax at one of Savannakhet’s many spas and get a traditional Laotian massage.
  9. Go rock climbing at the Pha Xayaburi cliffs, which offer challenging routes for climbers of all skill levels.
  10. Take a trip to the Ban Dongliu Elephant Conservation Village, where you can learn about elephant conservation and even ride one through the jungle!
  11. Go kayaking through the Xe Bang Fai Cave, a stunning underground river system with crystal clear water and breathtaking rock formations.
  12. Take a tour of the Phou Asa Temple, a sacred site located atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  13. Sample some local craft beer at the Lao Brewery Company, which produces a variety of refreshing brews using traditional Laotian ingredients.
  14. Shop for souvenirs at the Savannakhet Market, where you’ll find everything from handicrafts to fresh produce.

Conclusion

Pathway Covered With Green Grass in Savannakhet, Laos.
Photo by Suraphat Nuea-on
As you can see, Savannakhet is a truly special place with so much to see and do. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this city has something for everyone. So why wait? Pack your bags and head to Savannakhet for an unforgettable vacation!


Have you thought about staying in Savannakhet for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Savannakhet

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Laos, such as Vientiane, Vang Vieng or Champasak.