Muang La

Boasting emerald jade rice fields, friendly people, scenic rivers and wooden bridges, Muang La is a special corner of Laos that will entice and enchant visitors. Only a few hundred locals actually live here. Located in Northern Laos, one might expect Muang La to have a distinct climate and unique set of cultures. The natural beauty of Muang La is enhanced by hill tribes such as the Ikhos, Khmu and the Hmong. Mountain biking, cycling, trekking, photography, champagne, a second honeymoon and wedding vow renewal via the Baci ceremony, a visit to an ancient Wat, stunning sunsets and awesome displays of stars in the night sky are just some of the things that make Muang La so special.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Ban Longya

Visit a beautiful and ancient Wat – one of the main highlights of Muang La. Buddhism is an integral part of life in Southeast Asia. Engage in a meditation ritual at a local monastery and take in the chanting and incense. As you pursue cross-cultural and inter-religious understanding, meeting with a local monk and gain a deeper perspective on the Buddhist faith and its role in life in Laos. Ban Longya is the site of a Wat believed to house the Buddha’s footprint.

Hiking

Hiking and natural hot spring tour: Trek from one stunning vista to the next, taking in the mountains, rivers, hill tribes and other sights before soaking your tired body in natural hot springs which bubble with healing powers.

Hill tribe villages

Undertake a river cruise and accompanying trek to visit with hill tribes such as the Ikhos, Hmong and Khumu. Enjoy an authentic meal in one of the homes of the local hill tribes. The Ikhos came from Yunnan and Tibet between 1799 and 1809. The Hmong are a rugged people who are also found in Vietnam, where they are called Montagnards. The treks take between two and three hours and are conducted above three-quarters of a mile above sea level. The Hmong village of Ban Tauser offers a spectacular 360 view of the surrounding area. Talk with the Hmong about their ancestors who once tamed the high steppes of Tibet. The Khumu are one of the largest ethnic groups in Laos and are found in China and Myanmar as well. The Khumu are one of the oldest peoples in Laos and their presence in China goes back to 40,000 B.C.

Mountain biking

Mountain biking is an outdoor activity you can engage in amid some of the most beautiful mountains and scenery in Laos. The scenery will take your breath away. Go at your own pace and enjoy and picnic lunch.

Photography

Muang La is situated between Udomsai and Phongsali and the gorgeous lush greenery and bamboo houses are augmented by the weaters of the Nam La and the Nam Pak. Engage in photography along the Nam Pak River as you investigate nature and the antique way of life which lured the French colonialists. Forests, gilded temples and pagodas are tempting photographic targets, but the quiet banks of the Nam La offer the chance for fishing, nature observation and splendid photography – especially at dawn and at sunset.

Laos Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Muang La Itineraries

All Itineraries
Intrepid
Mountainscapes of Northern Laos: Magnificent Muang La

Mountainscapes of Northern Laos: Magnificent Muang La

This four-day trip into Northern Laos highlights some of the most fascinating culture the region has to offer - but also sets aside time for both adventure and relaxation at the stunning Muang La Resort. 

Duration
4 days, 3 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary
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Trekking & Tribes in Northern Laos: Around Phongsaly & Muang La

Trekking & Tribes in Northern Laos: Around Phongsaly & Muang La

Adventure and Laos go hand-in-hand. This six-day tour takes on the best of what the region has to offer; you’ll scale mountains and tackle dense jungles in a 4x4, visit almost untouched hilltop village tribes and take time out to relax and rejuvenate at a gorgeous spa resort. 

Duration
6 days, 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $5,800
See Itinerary
Muang La Lodge
Preferred Hotel

Muang La Lodge

Muang La, Laos

This boutique lodge offers a private and authentic Laos experience with only five wooden villas and 10 bedrooms, designed with traditional architectural features and created to be a retreat away from it all within a lush tropical landscape. Tropical gardens, rivers, rice fields, numerous and varied local tribes, butterflies, incredible rich fauna and flora, this secluded hideaway offers the best in rest and relaxation. With a natural hot spring, a beautiful flowing river and private corners at every turn, leave...
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Nam Kat Yorla Pa

Nam Kat Yorla Pa

Muang La, Laos

The historic Oudomxay Province, located in one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic river basins, is an excellent locale for travelers wishing to experience the exotic beauty and meditative tranquility of this area known for its lush rainforests and jungles. It is an ideal home base from which to embark on activities and tours, and visitors will find all they seek at Nam Kat Yorla Pa — a protected forestry area along the Nam Kat River featuring both resort facilities and the capacity to outfit and guide guests on numerous adventures. The core ideology of Nam Kat Yorla Pa is built around the promotion of responsible eco-tourism and the financing of future conservation; this ethos is manifested in such outings as helicopter tours, jungle tours, and rainforest treks in which many fascinating species of the native flora and fauna can be observed in their natural habitat. From an accommodations standpoint, guests of Nam Kat Yorla Pa in Oudomxay will find an impressive array of options, with everything from a full-immersion Tent Safari offering to an ultra-luxe Executive room complete with a private balcony and an ensuite bathroom. Dining options at Nam Kat Yola Pa resort incorporate fresh, organic produce that is grown on-site into traditional Thai and Lao dishes.

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