Thakhek on the Mekong: Cityscape, History and Nature

Thakhek lies on the banks of the Mekong. The city offers several points of interest when choosing a destination: colonial buildings in the centre, a historic memorial site and several natural destinations nearby. Depending on your interests, you can focus your stay on a city walk, history or scenery. If you are looking for a hotel in Thakhek, you can use these highlights to help plan your trip.

Colonial Buildings and City History

Many old colonial buildings still stand along the main streets in central Thakhek. Visitors can walk among the old houses and colonial buildings and photograph them. This is a way to explore the cityscape on foot: the buildings are not just individual sights but shape the central streets. When planning your walk, follow the main streets where these buildings stand. This will draw your attention to historic architecture in everyday street settings.

The March 21st Memorial Hall offers a different historical perspective. It preserves historical events, photographs and information about the battle of March 21, 1946. As a visitor attraction, it offers insights into the history of Laos and the struggle for national liberation. While a walk among the colonial buildings draws your attention to the cityscape, the hall brings you face to face with specific historical events. If you plan to visit, check the current visiting arrangements in advance.

Natural Destinations Nearby

Natural destinations nearby add to the impression of the city. Khoun Nam Don is a large natural spring and the source of the Nam Don. The sandstone blocks of the Phu Khanna Great Wall are about one metre thick. These two details highlight different things: Khoun Nam Don is a spring and its connection to the river, while the Phu Khanna Great Wall is notable for its rock and its thickness.

Caves and Route 12 as a Guide

For those interested in caves, the location details are useful points of reference. Nang Aen Cave lies 18 kilometres northeast of Thakhek on National Highway 12. Xiang Liap Cave is near Xiang Liap village on Route 12 and approximately 14 kilometres northeast of Thakhek District. Both descriptions mention Route 12, but give distances from different reference points: Thakhek and Thakhek District, respectively. Bear this in mind when comparing the figures for your trip planning; they do not give the distance between the caves.

That Sikhottabong: Monument and Festival

Another destination with historical significance is That Sikhottabong. The ancient monument dates from the time of the Sikhottabong Kingdom and is generally dated to around the 9th to 10th century. It lies about six kilometres from the centre of Thakhek. The That Sikhottabong Festival is held there annually in the third lunar month. The calendar is therefore another factor to consider, along with location: the festival follows the lunar month. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the exact dates for the year in question.

Discover more destinations: Ban Nakham, Na Hi, Ban Lao, Nam Theun, Ban Namsanam

Go to the regional travel overview: Khammuan.