Wat Phu Khao Kaew

About 6.5km northeast of Muang Saen, Wat Phu Khao Kaew was built on the site of some presumed pre-Khmer ruins, making it a holy spot for locals. Nothing of that era is visible; now there is a bright red and gold modern stupa and a large reclining Buddha in the arm-down, ‘Entering Nirvana’ posture. It sits atop some exposed bedrock and the beautiful Mekong-side perch is more of a reason to stop than any of the structures.

It is also believed to be home to a naga (river serpent), though the entrance to its lair is covered. Don’t be confused by the sign on the road that misspelled the last word as ‘Kae’.

Ban Hin Siew Tai Palm Sugar Trees

Ban Hin Siew Tai Palm Sugar Trees

Although sugar palms can be seen across the island, Ban Hin Siew Tai is southern Laos’ sugar capital....

Don Khong History Museum

Don Khong History Museum

When the local governor built this two-story French colonial-style home in 1935, he was so proud of...

Tham Phu Khiaw

Tham Phu Khiaw

Two kilometres north of Muang Khong a trail leads to Green Mountain Cave, a small, shallow shelter in...

Wat Jom Thong

Wat Jom Thong

At the northern end of Muang Khong is Wat Jom Thong, the oldest temple on the island, dating from the...

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