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While the ancient capital of Luang Prabang is often referred to as the "City of the Midday Nap", Savannakhet, on the other hand, is known as the "City of Paradise". If you're planning a trip to Laos with Savannakhet as your destination, make sure to keep this comprehensive travel guide from Laos Travel Packages at hand. Your Savannakhet Tours & Excursions to explore the city of Savannakhet will give you a deeper understanding of the serene and tranquil beauty of the Land of a Million Elephants.
Savannakhet with the meaning "City of Paradise", derives its name from the words Savanh Nakhone. Unlike Luang Prabang, with its many historical landmarks, or the bustling urban development of Vientiane, Savannakhet attracts visitors with its ancient structures, such as the Wat Xaiyaphoum Temple, which sits gracefully on the banks of the Mekong River and holds deep spiritual significance.
Located on the East-West Economic Corridor and boasting one of the largest populations in Laos, Savannakhet is known as the second-largest economic hub of the country. It is also a famous shopping destination, offering a variety of bustling urban areas and markets teeming with vendors, buyers, and tourists. Savannakhet continues to win the hearts of visitors with its delightful, old-world architecture. It's definitely a must-visit destination in Laos!
The ideal time to visit Savannakhet is during the dry season, from November to March. During these months, the Savannakhet climate is cooler, making it more enjoyable to explore the old town on foot or by bike. If you're traveling in December or January, it’s wise to pack a long-sleeve shirt or a light jacket, as temperatures can drop in the evening.
The wet season begins in late April and lasts until October, with August being the least favorable time to visit due to heavy rainfall. However, if you plan your trip for mid-October, you can experience the vibrant annual boat racing festival. This lively event celebrates the significance of the Mekong River in the local culture. This Savannakhet festival takes place simultaneously on both the Lao and Thai sides of the river.
What to do in Savannakhet? Relate to the below things to do in Savannakhet to plan your Savannakhet itinerary!
Explore the historic That Ing Hang Stupa, one of Laos' most revered religious Savannakhet attractions. This sacred stupa, believed to house a relic of Buddha, is a popular pilgrimage destination, particularly during the annual That Ing Hang festival on December 20.
The Dinosaur Museum in Savannakhet is a must-visit, especially if you're traveling with family. This small but fascinating museum showcases the rich paleontological history of the region, which was once home to various species of dinosaurs. The museum's exhibits include fossilized remains, skeletal reconstructions, and informative displays that detail the prehistoric life that once roamed this part of Southeast Asia.
Savannakhet is home to several beautiful temples, with Wat Sainyaphum and Wat Rattanalangsi being two of the most significant places to visit in Savannakhet. Wat Sainyaphum is located along the banks of the Mekong River, and it's been around since way back in the 16th century. The temple complex is a peaceful haven, with its golden spires, intricate carvings, and serene Buddha statues.
One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Savannakhet tourist attractions is by cycling along the Mekong River. You can take in the scenic views of the river and the surrounding countryside. The route to Phonsavanh Temple is especially picturesque, passing through small villages, rice fields, and patches of forest.
Savanxay Market is the largest and most bustling market in Savannakhet, offering a vibrant glimpse into the daily life of the locals. The market is a treasure trove of goods, ranging from fresh produce, Savannakhet food, and traditional Lao snacks to handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. As you wander through the narrow aisles, you’ll be enveloped by the sights, sounds, and smells of the market.
Savannakhet is a well-connected city, making it accessible from several major cities in the region. Depending on your starting point, you can choose from a variety of transportation options including flights, buses, and even self-driving.
The most straightforward route to Savannakhet from Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is by bus. Several bus companies operate daily services between the two cities, with travel times ranging from 8 to 10 hours depending on the bus type.
For those looking for a quicker option, you can also take domestic Savannakhet flights from Wattay International Airport in Vientiane to Savannakhet Airport. If you prefer driving, the journey from Vientiane to Savannakhet takes approximately 7-8 hours by car.
Traveling from Bangkok to Savannakhet can be done via a combination of bus, train, and flight. One of the most popular routes is to take a train or bus from Bangkok to the border town of Mukdahan in Thailand.
From Mukdahan, you can cross the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge into Savannakhet. Buses from Bangkok to Mukdahan are frequent, with several overnight services available that take around 10-12 hours. Once you arrive in Mukdahan, a short bus or taxi ride will take you across the bridge into the Savannakhet border.
Traveling from Da Nang, Vietnam to Savannakhet is a popular option for those exploring the Indochina region. The journey can be made by bus, which is the most common and economical mode of transport. Several bus companies operate services between Da Nang and Savannakhet, with the journey taking approximately 12-14 hours. These buses typically travel through the Lao Bao border crossing, which is the main checkpoint between Vietnam and Laos.
So, is Savannakhet worth visiting? We believe that you can find out your own answer. With the experiences of traveling to Savannakhet that Laos Travel Packages compiled above, we hope that visitors will have the most convenient and safest trip to Savannakhet in Laos. Wishing you a visit to Savannakhet full of joy and emotions.
