The Nam Xay viewpoint is considered the most popular in Vang Vieng. With its sprawling views, it attracts many visitors eager to catch the sunset from here. The hike to this spectacular spot is fairly easy, though on the steep side. This blog will act as your ultimate guide to scaling this viewpoint in style, knowing the ins and outs of the hike, and how to do it all on your own. Read on as we reveal the tricks we have up our sleeve. 

Nam Xay Viewpoint Hiking Guide

How To Reach Nam Xay Viewpoint?

You can reach Vang Vieng by train or mini-van from either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Check out our Vang Vieng blog for all the best ways to get there.

You can walk 7.8 km to the hike starting point in town or rent a scooter from the city center. You can also hitchhike or take a shared songthaew to Blue Lagoon 1.

Network Availability

We observed intermittent network availability in Unitel. However, Lao Telecom has a better network connection. To better navigate the hike, we recommend downloading offline maps in OSMAND and maps.me. 

Languages Spoken

You can see that Lao is the only language spoken in Vang Vieng. Very few people are seen speaking in English and French.

Parking Availability

There is a free parking space available at the hike’s entrance. You can park your two-wheeler or four-wheeler for free at the base.

Restroom Facilities

There is a neat and clean squat-type restroom available at the hike’s starting point, which can be used for free. Once you start the hike, you’re entirely dependent on nature.

Best Time To Visit Nam Xay Viewpoint

You can visit the Nam Xay Viewpoint all year round, but it’s best to hike between October and February after the monsoon season when the weather is pleasant. March to May are the hottest months, but the shaded trail makes it bearable. In summer, the view might be hazy due to crop burning. The rainy season is from June to September and be warned, the trail can get fairly slippery then.

Where To Eat?

You’ll find a shop at the hike’s starting point selling drinks, fruits, and snacks. There’s no shop at the viewpoint, so bring your own snacks, energy bars, and plenty of water for the hike.

Where To Stay?

Since most hikes in Vang Vieng are day trips, people usually stay in the city and travel from there. We lodged at Vang Vieng Backpackers Hostel. Here are some other places to consider in Vang Vieng.

• Vang Vieng Chill House ($)
• Vang Vieng Freedom View Hostel ($)
• Maylay Guesthouse ($$)
• Vang Vieng Charming Boutique hotel ($$)
• Confetti Garden Hotel ($$$)
• Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng ($$$)

Hiking Details

Entry Fee: 20000 KIP or 1 USD.

Registration: No registration or pre-online booking is required. You can walk up to the entrance and start the hike directly.

Timings: No restricted timings. Best for sunrise and sunset.

Duration: 20 – 30 minutes for the ascend and 20 minutes to descend.

Summit Height: 399 m

Hike Distance: 0.33 Km or 333 m one way

Difficulty Level: Easy – Moderate. The level of difficulty is highly subject to your fitness level.

Terrain: Mud, dry sand, tree roots, bamboo or wooden staircases, stones, and boulders

Hiking Route:

After getting your entry ticket, head towards the arched entrance to start the trail. Follow the stone steps upwards, holding onto the railings for support, as the path can be slippery, especially in dry weather.

Parts of the hike involve crossing large rocks, and some sections have wooden stairs. Stick to the visible trail and use the bamboo railings for guidance.

The trail becomes steeper as you reach a flat area resembling a junction. Take your time and proceed carefully, watching your footing.

At The Nam Xay Viewpoint:

At the summit, there’s a large, spacious shelter with two motorbikes adorned with Lao flags, one on each side—East and West. From the viewpoint, you can see breathtaking views of rice fields, winding roads, and nearby hills.

Take your time here before retracing your steps down the same path. During the descent, give way for the hikers who move up.

Important Things to Remember

• You don’t need a guide to hike the Nam Xay Viewpoint.
• Considering that Laos is the most heavily cluster-bombed country in the world, our advice is that you do not deviate and venture into far-off spots from your existing trail. It is safe, and it is recommended that you stick to the trail throughout the hike.
• Download the offline maps in that area in both maps.me and OSMAND. The trail is marked in both applications. You can crosscheck to make sure you’re following the correct trail.
• Using plastics and smoking is strictly prohibited. As a hiker, you must keep clean and not litter. Pick up your trash with you and dispose of it in the proper dedicated bins.
• There is no source of water available on this hike. Make sure to carry enough water with you. 
• We highly recommend you wear good hiking shoes as the terrain is slippery.
• Disclaimer: You can find leeches during monsoon season. Learn how to treat leeches the right way. 

Essential Things To Carry

• Ensure you carry at least 1 L of water per person.
• Take sufficient energy bars and snacks.
• Have your first aid kit handy.
• Do not forget your head torch if you plan to camp overnight or hike during the golden hours.
• Cap, sunscreen & sunglasses are essential and absolutely non-negotiable to ward off the summer heat.
• Carry a poncho or raincoat in case of rain.
• Above all, ensure you wear comfortable shoes with good traction and grip.

Read the blog to know more about what we usually carry for day hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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