Vang Vieng, Laos

Welcome to Vang Vieng, a picturesque town located in the Vientiane Province of Laos. This charming destination is situated just two hours by bus from the national capital, Vientiane, and is known for its stunning karst topography and the Nam Song River that flows through it. Vang Vieng has a rich history, having been first settled in 1353 as a staging post between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Originally named Mouang Song, the town was renamed Vang Vieng during French colonial rule in the 1890s. During the Vietnam War, the US constructed an air force base and runway that was used by Air America, and the airstrip, called Lima site 6, can still be seen today. Since Laos opened up for tourism in the late 1990s, Vang Vieng has grown substantially due to the influx of backpacker tourism and associated business development. Today, the town is a backpacker-oriented destination, with the main street featuring guest houses, bars, restaurants, internet cafes, and tour agencies. The town is known for its adventure tourism opportunities, including inner tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River, trekking and rock climbing in the limestone mountains, and exploring numerous caves such as Tham Phu Kham and Tham Non. Visitors can also visit ethnic Lao, Kmou, and Hmong villages just a short walk from town, or stay at the Vang Vieng Organic Farm, which offers opportunities for community involvement such as teaching. However, the town has also faced challenges due to the impact of tourism, including concerns about losing its charm and culture, drug use, and safety issues related to tubing on the river. The Lao government has implemented measures to address these issues, including awareness programs for tourists and controls on urban sprawl. Despite these challenges, Vang Vieng remains a unique and captivating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty and rich history of Laos.