Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoi Neua

Stay in the peaceful riverside town of Nong Khiaw and take a boat to the car-free village of Muang Ngoi Neua on the Nam Ou River. This area is perfect for travelers who want to disconnect from noise and reconnect with nature. Spend your days exploring caves, rice fields, and mountain trails — and your evenings watching sunsets over the water. Travel with DCS — discover hidden places, connect with locals, and feel at home anywhere in Laos.

Why go there

Nong Khiaw lies about four hours north of Luang Prabang, where the Nam Ou River winds between limestone peaks. It’s the starting point for beautiful treks, caves, and river adventures with local guides. From here, you can continue by boat to the quiet village of Muang Ngoi Neua — no cars, no rush, just nature and starlit nights. A great choice for slow travelers and photographers who love peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

How to get there

From Luang Prabang: Take a minivan or bus (3–4 hours) to Nong Khiaw bus station, then a short tuk-tuk to your lodge. Road travel is the most reliable option year-round.
To / from Muang Ngoi: Public boats (30–45 min) run along the Nam Ou River, depending on water levels. Boat schedules may change with the season or dam management — check locally before traveling.

Where to stay in Nong Khiaw

All places are within walking distance of cafés, bridges, and river viewpoints.

High: Mandala Ou Resort (pool) – Garden bungalows with mountain views, peaceful setting across the bridge.
Medium: Nong Khiaw Riverside – Spacious decks overlooking the river, short walk to main bridge and restaurants.
Budget: Sunrise Bungalows and other small riverside guesthouses – Simple, clean, and great value right by the water.

Where to eat & drink in Nong Khiaw

Deen Indian Restaurant: Very popular curries and chapatis.
Alex Restaurant: Quick service, Lao and Western dishes.
Café Nong Khiaw: Riverside cafés great for breakfasts, fruit shakes, and sunset beers.

Muang Ngoi Neua

Why go there

Muang Ngoi is a small riverside village surrounded by rice fields and karst mountains — slower and quieter than Nong Khiaw. It’s only accessible by boat, giving it a relaxed, remote feeling. Days here are filled with walks to caves and local farming villages, and nights are peaceful under starry skies.

How to get there

From Nong Khiaw: Take a scenic boat ride (30–45 min) up the Nam Ou River.
By road: Some access roads now exist, but the river remains the most beautiful and practical way to arrive. During the rainy season, always check local advice.

Where to stay

High: Ning Ning Guesthouse – The nicest rooms in the village, riverside balconies, and friendly hosts.
Medium: Lattanavongsa Guesthouse – Clean, comfortable rooms and easy river access.
Budget: Bee Bee / Rainbow / Sunset Bungalows – Simple bamboo huts with fans, hammocks, and classic Muang Ngoi charm.

Where to eat & drink

Ning Ning Restaurant: Delicious Lao food with great river views.
Gecko Bar: Easygoing traveler spot with simple Western and Lao dishes.
Local stalls: Try grilled fish, laap, and noodle soups along the main lane.

What to do in Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoi

Viewpoint hikes: Climb Pha Daeng (Nong Khiaw Viewpoint) or Sleeping Woman Mountain for epic views — go early or late for cooler weather. Stargaze from Muang Ngoi’s riverbanks at night.
Caves: Visit Pha Tok Caves (short hike and local history), Tham Kang, and Tham Pha Noi (bring a flashlight).
River trips: Take a boat to nearby villages or enjoy a scenic half-day cruise.
Adventure: Kayak or zipline combos, or rent a bicycle to explore rice fields and small villages like Ban Huay Bo or Ban Na.

Practical tips

Bring enough cash from Luang Prabang — ATMs are not always reliable.
Trails can be slippery after rain; wear good shoes and carry a headlamp.
Electricity in Muang Ngoi may be limited at night — bring a power bank.

Travel with DCS

Travel solo, never alone. DCS Travel connects you with local companions and guides for authentic experiences, safe adventures, and meaningful travel moments.