With a stunning aerial view of the cozy village of Muang Ngoi, the Phanoi viewpoint is a spectacular hike with rewarding results. Also called the Muang Ngoi viewpoint, this beginner-friendly hike during the sunset hours is a match made in heaven.
Our blog highlights all the necessary information that you might need to undertake the Phanoi viewpoint on your own. With tidbits covering everything from the trailhead to network connectivity, the hiking route to where to eat, and everything in between, jump right into the blog for a virtual tour of our experience and what you need to know before you make your own memories there.
Table of Contents
How To Reach Phanoi Viewpoint, Muan Ngoi?
You can reach Muang Ngoi from Nong Khiaw or Muang Khua by ferry. For a more detailed explanation, read our blog on how best to reach Muang Ngoi and all the possible routes it has.
Once you reach the village, just walk over to the hike’s starting point. You will be able to spot a couple of large boards that indicate the hike’s entrance. Once you walk past the fence, you will reach the ticket counter, which stands as a home guarded by another bamboo gate.
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 Nong Khiaw. Very few people are seen speaking in English and French.
Restroom Facilities
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available throughout the hike. Attending to your nature calls before you start the hike is best. There is no restroom available throughout the hike. It is good to finish off your nature calls before starting the hike. While hiking, you are dependent on nature at all times.
Best Time To Visit Phanoi Viewpoint, Muang Ngoi
The Phanoi viewpoint remains a vision throughout the year. However, it is best to undertake this hike after the monsoon season between October and February. The weather is pleasant after this period. March to May remain the hottest months of the year, but since the trail is shadowed by trees on both sides, it shouldn’t make much of a difference. A torrential downpour starts in June and lasts well into September. Be warned that the trail is extremely slippery during the rainy season.
Where To Eat?
Once you begin the hike, there will be no eateries or water sources along the way, nor will there be snack shops at the peak. However, you can purchase water, snacks, or soft drinks at the ticket counter located at the base. Since it’s a short hike, it’s best to travel light.
Where To Stay?
During our stay, we chose the Phetdavanh Guesthouse. The 10-person mixed dorm we stayed in was super spacious and had its own attached bathroom. Keep in mind that several accommodations may not be listed on online platforms and welcome walk-in guests directly. Here are some recommendations based on our experience.
- Delilahs – Dorms for 100000 KIP or 5 USD
- Phetdavanh Guesthouse – Dorms for 80000 KIP or 4 USD
- Ning Ning Guesthouse ($$)
- Riverview Bungalows & GH ($$)
- Lattavongsa Guesthouse and Bungalows ($$)
Hiking Details
Entry Fee: 20000 KIP or 1 USD
Registration: No registration or pre-online booking is required. You can directly start your hike.
Timings: From 6 AM to 6 PM
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour for the ascend and 20-30 minutes to descend.
Summit Height: 500 m
Hike Distance: 1.25 Km one way
Difficulty Level: Easy, highly subject to your fitness level.
Terrain: Muddy sand, bamboo steps, rocks, boulders, forest
Hiking Route:
Once you pass the ticket counter, walk past the animal farm and keep following the flat trail until you come to a fork. Both paths will take you to the top. The shorter one, around 500 meters, is steeper, while the 700-meter one is easier and recommended. We took the longer route up and the shorter one down, but we suggest sticking to the longer path, especially if you have kids or want to go easy on your knees.
On the 700-meter path, you’ll gradually ascend through large boulders and follow the straightforward trail. After a bit, you’ll start hiking up sandy steps. Keep going until you reach the junction of the other route.
From there, bamboo stairs and railings will guide you forward. After a short hike, you’ll reach a wooden bridge. Cross it to arrive at the cliff overlooking the river.
If you opt for the shorter 500-meter route, hold onto the railings for the steeper sections and watch your step.
At The Phanoi Viewpoint:
At the summit, you’ll find a spacious shelter with wooden benches, offering the perfect spot to relax. From the Phanoi Viewpoint, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the entire village of Muang Ngoy and the Nam Ou River below. The summit is marked by a Lao flag, adding to its charm. Take your time soaking in the breathtaking scenery before descending via the same longer route.
Important Things to Remember
- You don’t need a guide to hike the Phadeng Peak or Nong Khiaw 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
Is a guide mandatory to hike the Phanoi Viewpoint?
A guide is not required to hike the Pha Khao viewpoint. The trail is well-frequented and relatively easy to follow, with directional markers provided along the way. You can confidently go on this hike independently, as there is a meager chance of getting lost.
Can the Phanoi Viewpoint hike be done in a day?
Of course, one day is enough to hike the Phanoi Viewpoint. Two to three hours is sufficient for hiking and observing the views at the summit.
Can I solo hike to the Phanoi Viewpoint?
Absolutely, yes! It is quite a popular hike in Muang Ngoy. You can see several fellow travelers around sunset.
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