Savannakhet, Laos
Region: Savannakhet Province
Geographic Coordinates: 16.550000, 104.750000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Savannakhet, Laos has a tropical climate with a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year, averaging around 27°C.
Population: 124000
Language: Lao
Savannakhet is a charming and laid-back city situated in the southern part of Laos. It is the third-largest city in the country and is located on the banks of Mekong River, Making it an important trading hub between Laos and Thailand. The city’s name means city of paradise in Lao language, Which reflects its lush greenery, Beautiful temples, Friendly locals, And delicious food. The main attractions in Savannakhet are its numerous temples that showcase Laos’ rich cultural heritage.
Wat Xayaphoum is the most famous temple that dates back to 1542 AD and features intricate carvings and murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. Other notable temples include Wat Sainyaphum, Wat Inpeng Temple, And Wat Si Mongkhon Tai. Apart from temples, Savannakhet also has several museums that display its history and culture. The most popular museum among tourists is the Savannakhet Provincial Museum that displays various artifacts related to Lao history such as ancient pottery pieces or traditional costumes worn by Lao people centuries ago.
Another interesting attraction in Savannakhet is Dinosaur Museum where visitors can learn about prehistoric creatures that roamed this region millions of years ago. Savannakhet offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking through lush forests or kayaking along Mekong River’s calm waters while enjoying stunning views around you.
The city has a vibrant food scene with many street vendors selling local delicacies like Khao Piak Sen (rice noodle soup), Tam Mak Houng (spicy papaya salad), Laap (minced meat salad), Grilled fish or chicken served with sticky rice on banana leaves which are all must-try dishes when visiting this region! yet importantly; one cannot leave Savannakhet without experiencing the famous Lao traditional dance called Lam Vong which is performed in many local restaurants and bars. This dance is a beautiful display of Lao culture, And its unique steps are sure to leave you mesmerized.
Savannakhet is a hidden gem in Laos that offers a perfect blend of culture, History, Nature, And adventure. Whether you are interested in exploring temples or museums or indulging in local cuisine or outdoor activities, This city has something for everyone. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking to get off the beaten track and immerse themselves in authentic Lao culture.
Important Landmarks
- That Ing Hang Stupa is a revered Buddhist stupa and one of the most important religious sites in Laos.
- The Dinosaur Museum showcases the fossils of various dinosaur species discovered in the region.
- The Savannakhet Provincial Museum exhibits the history, culture, and traditions of Savannakhet province.
- Xayaphoum Temple is an ancient temple with beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Mekong Riverfront Park is a scenic park along the Mekong River with beautiful views and recreational activities like boating, fishing, and picnicking.
- Wat Sainyaphum is an impressive Buddhist temple known for its stunning murals depicting scenes from Buddha’s life.
- That Phon Stupa is another important Buddhist stupa located on top of a hill offering panoramic views of Savannakhet city.
- Dao Heuang Market is a bustling market selling local products like textiles, handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce.
- Ho Chi Minh Trail Markers are historical markers that commemorate the Ho Chi Minh Trail that passed through Laos during the Vietnam War era.
- Dong Natad Conservation Area is a protected area home to endangered species such as tigers, elephants etc., where visitors can enjoy hiking or nature walks while observing these animals from afar.
Primary Industries
- Agriculture
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Tourism
- Retail
Details:
- The city is known for its production of rice, rubber and cassava.
- Mining of gold and copper is also a significant industry in the region.
- Manufacturing includes textiles and garments as well as wood processing.
- Construction has been on the rise due to infrastructure development projects such as the Savan-Seno Special Economic Zone.
- Tourism has been growing in recent years with attractions such as the That Ing Hang Stupa and the Mekong River attracting visitors from around the world.
- Retail businesses include local markets selling fresh produce and handicrafts as well as modern shopping centers like Savan Mall.
Noteable History
- French Colonial Era: Savannakhet was once a part of French Indochina, and the city still bears the marks of its colonial past.
- Ho Chi Minh Trail: During the Vietnam War, Savannakhet served as an important hub for the Ho Chi Minh Trail, which was used to transport troops and supplies between North Vietnam and South Vietnam.
- Kaysone Phomvihane: Kaysone Phomvihane was a prominent political figure in Laos who played a key role in the country’s communist revolution. He was born in Savannakhet Province.
- That Inghang Stupa: That Inghang Stupa is a historic Buddhist stupa located in Savannakhet City that dates back to the 16th century.
- Tha Hae Market: Tha Hae Market is one of the largest markets in southern Laos and attracts visitors from across the region.
- Lao National Museum – Savannakhet Branch: The Lao National Museum has a branch located in Savannakhet City that showcases exhibits on local history and culture.
- Mekong River Crossing Point: The Mekong River serves as an important crossing point between Thailand and Laos near Savannakhet City.
- Boun Khao Padap Din Festival: This festival is celebrated annually by locals to honor their ancestors who have passed away, offering food to monks at temples throughout town over three days during August or September each year.
Museums and Things To See
- The Savannakhet Provincial Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the province. It has a collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Wat Xayaphoum is an important Buddhist temple in Savannakhet that showcases beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- The Dinosaur Museum in Laos features a unique collection of dinosaur fossils, including a complete skeleton of a sauropod.
- That Ing Hang Stupa is one of Laos’ most sacred sites, believed to contain Buddha’s relics.
- Ho Chi Minh Memorial Park honors Vietnamese revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh who spent time in Savannakhet during his struggle for independence from French colonial rule.
- Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum pays tribute to Kaysone Phomvihane, an influential political figure who played an important role in shaping modern Laos.
- Champasak Cultural Landscape, located just outside Savannakhet, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient temples and ruins dating back to the Khmer Empire era.
- Sepon Mine Tourist Center offers guided tours where visitors can learn about mining operations at Sepon Copper Mine – one of Southeast Asia’s largest copper mines located near Savannakhet province’s border with Vietnam.
Cultural Events
- Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival)
- Boun Khao Padapdin (Rice Planting Festival)
- Boun Thavet (Boat Racing Festival)
- Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao)
- Boun Suang Huea (Festival of Lights and Boats)
- That Inhang Festival
- Pha That Sikhottabong Festival
- Hmong New Year Celebration
- Elephant Conservation Center’s Elephant Day Celebration
Cuisine
- Khao Piak Sen – a noodle soup made with rice noodles, pork broth, and meat or vegetables.
- Tam Mak Hoong – a spicy papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chili peppers, lime juice, and fish sauce.
- Lao BBQ – grilled meats served with sticky rice and dipping sauces.
- Kua Mee – fried noodles with meat or vegetables.
- Thip Souvanh Restaurant – known for their Lao-style hot pot and seafood dishes.
- Dao Coffee Shop & Restaurant – serves traditional Lao food as well as Western-style breakfast items and coffee drinks.
- Nang Phom Hom Restaurant – offers a variety of Lao dishes including soups, curries, and stir-fries.
- Daolin Restaurant & Bar – serves both Lao and Thai cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating options available.
- That Phone Phouan Temple: A historic temple with beautiful architecture, it’s a must-visit for those interested in the history and culture of Laos.
- Savannakhet Cultural Hall: This hall hosts cultural events such as music concerts, dance performances, and theater shows.
- Sepon Mine: A former copper mine that offers guided tours to visitors interested in learning about the mining industry in Laos.
- Heuan Hin Market (Night Market): A vibrant night market where visitors can sample local street food and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- St. Theresa’s Cathedral: A stunning Catholic cathedral with intricate stained glass windows and ornate decorations inside.
- Dara Market: An indoor market selling a variety of goods including clothing, electronics, and household items.