Joanna James
Often described as a dream destination for nature lovers, Laos is home to its fair share of natural wonders. Here are five of the country's most spectacular natural attractions.
Tipped to be one of the most breathtaking natural enclaves in Laos, the Kuang Si Butterfly Park is both a leisure highlight as well as an edutainment point of interest in the country. Created with the aim of informing and educating visitors on the different types of butterflies endemic to and dwelling in Laos, the netted garden is a magical space the likes of which is found nowhere else in the country. The Kuang Si Butterfly Park is also laden with many flower beds and flora in general as they are the main food source of its chief inhabitants. Other hotspots inside the park include the fish spa where one can dip one's feet in a pond and have tiny fish eat away the dead skin cells.
Those based at Avani+ Luang Prabang or any other popular hotel in Luang Prabang should not miss the chance to visit the Kuang Si Waterfall. As the largest waterfall in all of the region, the cascade is located in the heart of a limestone forest. The three tiered fall resemble steps leading up to the summit of the mountain from afar. The name of the waterfall is derived from a local legend in which a man who dug into a deer's home in his search for water. "Kuang Si" is Laotian for "deer dig" and thus the cascade was named. Most travellers are struck by the awe inspiring beauty of the waterfall as the clear pools of water collecting at the base of the fall are also ideal for swimming activities.
Dedicated to fun and adventure, Vang Vieng is a vast expanse of lush landscapes devoted to enjoying a host of nature bound activities. Some of the most popular activities to enjoy at Vang Vieng including caving and tubing while exploring the area by kayaking is another popular way to experience Vang Vieng. Ideally situated near the Nam Song River, the Tham Nam Cave, the Pha Poak Cave, Tham Phu Kham Cave and Lusi Cave offer both tubing and cave exploration opportunities.
Holding the distinct honour of being the longest cave in Laos, Kong Lor Cave is another must visit hotspot for nature lovers. Stretching across 7km, the Kong Lor Cave is also ranked among the most impressive geological wonders in Southeast Asia. The easiest way to discover the cave is to hop on motor boat and cruise inside the river which flows right underneath and through the massive cave.
Located in the southern reaches of Laos the Bolaven Plateau is renowned for two famous attributes. The Tan Fan waterfall is one such highlight while the other is the excellent coffee produced in the region. The countless coffee plantations found on the plateau are a testament to the area's rich heritage while the stunning waterfall of over 100m is another reasons to head down to the Bolaven Plateau.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
