Quick Info

Visit Duration: 2-3 hours

Timings: Everyday 8:00am-5:00pm

Entry type: Paid

Entry Fee: 0.25

Entry Details: Tours usually cost 60.000 kip (7,4 USD) and take between two and three hours.

summary

Vieng Xai is a region and town in Hua Phan Province, together with Vieng Xay and Vieng Sai. The town is located on Route 6 about 55 kilometres from the Vietnam/Laos border in Na Meo and 30 kilometres from Sam Neua, the provincial capital. The town's caverns are its main source of curiosity. During the second Indo-Chinese War, some of the caverns in the limestone cliffs around the former Pathet Lao central command in Vieng Xai were used to protect the Pathet Lao officers. Political reforms in Laos throughout the 1960s had a profound impact on this region as a whole. In order to make up for lost time in the conflict between the US and the north Vietnamese, the US believed that Laos was crucial in the counteraction of comrade extension.

Vieng Xai functioned as the command centre for the Pathet Lao, the communist forces in Laos, during the Second Indochina War. The Pathet Lao exploited the caves as a base for their activities, sheltering troops, stockpiling weapons and ammo, and even constructing clinics and educational facilities.
From 1964 to 1975, when the Pathet Lao seized power in the nation, the caves of Vieng Xai were used as a base. To maintain its historical relevance after the war, the caves were converted into a museum complex.
The Pathet Lao's many rooms and facilities are now visible to visitors that explore the cave complex. There are additional displays and exhibits about the background of the conflict and Vieng Xai's contribution.
With a total area of almost 10 square kilometres and a variety of caves and tunnels to explore, the cave complex is enormous. Visitors are encouraged to carry a torch and wear sturdy shoes.
There are numerous temples and other historical landmarks in the city of Vieng Xai, which is worth investigating. Beautiful scenery with rice terraces and limestone cliffs surrounds the city.

Vieng Xai Overview

Points Of Interest for Vieng Xai

Vieng Xai Caves: The Vieng Xai caves are the city's top tourist destination. These caves were the Pathet Lao's command centre during the Laotian Civil War, and this is where many significant discussions and decisions were taken. The caves' significance and history can be learned by taking a tour.
Pathet Lao Caves Museum: This Vieng Xai-based museum offers insight into the Pathet Lao's history during the Laotian Civil War. Weapons, paperwork, images, and other artefacts connected to the battle are on show in the museum's exhibitions.
Tham Pha Phueng Cave: This cave, which is around 20 kilometres from Vieng Xai, is renowned for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. It is also claimed to have been used by the villagers as a location to hide during the conflict.
A chance to view a variety of wildlife in its natural habitat is offered by the Nam Nern Night Safari, which is around 50 kilometres from Vieng Xai. Visitors can take a boat trip down the Nam Nern River at night to see creatures such water buffalo, otters, and civets.
Muang Khoun: Muang Khoun is a small town located around 80 kilometers from Vieng Xai that was once the capital of the Xieng Khouang province. The town was heavily damaged during the Laotian Civil War, but some temples and stupas still remain and are worth visiting.
Plain of Jars: The Plain of Jars is a megalithic archaeological site located around 120 kilometers from Vieng Xai. It is known for its ancient stone jars that are believed to have been used in burial rituals. The site is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

Best time to visit Vieng Xai

Vieng Xai is best visited between November and April, which is the dry season. It is simpler to explore the caves and take part in outdoor activities during this season because the weather is typically dry and pleasant.