| Location | village on the Nam Ou river, Ngoy district, Luang Prabang province |
|---|---|
| Known for | walking, cycling and mountain-climbing routes |
| Access | boats were once the only way; dams on the Nam Ou since 2017 changed this |
| Bridge | a bridge given by China links the two parts of the town |
| Also spelled | Nong Kiau |
In the North Highlands of Laos lays Nong Khiaw. It not only brims with natural beauty but offers cultural richness as well. It’s a lively town built along the banks of the Nam Ou River, overlooking the captivating limestone mountains. Nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and rest seekers alike. Everyone can get the idyllic experience they seek with a Nong Khiaw trip. Don’t believe us? Dig in and open your eyes with what Nong Khiaw can offer!
Things to Do in Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw doesn’t fall short when it comes to activities for the adventure-loving crowd. In Nong Khiaw, everyone can experience the amazing waterfalls accompanied by breathtaking Jiang views and the famous Nong Khiaw vantage point. Those who don’t prefer physically taxing sightseeing can reach serene sunrises and opt for a walk along the Katang Lake and stroll through or simply sit back and relax at ancient caves.
How to Get to Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is accessible in two major ways. Those looking for a more adventurous journey can take a boat ride from Muang Khua to sail through stunningly unspoiled nature and rustic towns. Or, if you have more time to spare, you can drive from Luang Prabang which will take a little longer but offer breathtaking views of valleys and mountains along the roadside.
Where to Eat and Stay
Nong Khiaw is famous for its guesthouses and lodges located right by the river and its cozy inviting nature makes this a perfect place for aimless adventurers. The hotels offer Lao and Western cuisine which allows tourists the perfect opportunity to indulge in some good food after sightseeing for a few hours.
Whether you want to do a lot of trekking and sightseeing or would prefer to relax, Nong Khiaw has packages that suit every traveler’s needs. Allow us at Absolute Asia Tours to organize your trip with everything from cultural activities to hiking for an amazing trip of a lifetime. Excited to visit Laos’ most beautiful location? Get in touch with us now!
The Nam Ou village
English Wikipedia describes Nong Khiaw as a village in Luang Prabang province on the Nam Ou river in Ngoy district. It is popular for walking and cycling routes near the village and for mountain climbing. The only good way to get there used to be by boat from Luang Prabang or Muang Khua, but dam construction on the Nam Ou since 2017 changed that, and there is now a road from Pak Mong to Hat Sao. A bridge given by China connects the two parts of the town and offers views of the river and the rocks. We have not verified the older text on prices, opening hours, transport or tours, so check them before you go.
Sources (read in English, English Wikipedia): Nong Khiaw. Last checked November 2026.
Nong Khiaw: FAQ
Where is Nong Khiaw?
On the Nam Ou river in Luang Prabang province.
How do you get there?
By road now; boats were once the main way before dams on the Nam Ou.
What is it popular for?
Walking, cycling and mountain climbing.
Who gave the bridge?
China.
How many days do you need?
Two nights.