Nong Khiaw is a sleepy town nestled in northern Laos and happens to be one of my favourites in the country. After the bustle of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang, I craved some downtime, and Nong Khiaw was the perfect escape.
It’s ideal for anyone who simply loves being surrounded by mountains The expansive views, framed by dramatic limestone peaks, feel like a natural brain reset. Staying here, you can hike to incredible viewpoints, explore caves, and visit nearby waterfalls.
During my visit, I did a two-day hike where I slept on top of a mountain. Watching the sunset and moonrise, gazing up as the Milky Way appeared above, and waking to the most incredible sunrise were experiences that left me completely in awe. Along with the Thakhek Loop, this is one of the most unforgettable moments of my time in Laos.
In this guide, I’ll share how you can plan your own adventure in Nong Khiaw, including a 3-day itinerary and tips to make the most of your time in this magical town.
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Why Visit Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is one of those rare places that feels untouched by time, offering a peaceful escape into nature. After 3 weeks in Laos, it quickly became my favourite place in the country. Whilst it will only become increasingly more touristy as people discover its beauty, it still feels wonderfully off the beaten path.
The towering limestone karsts and lush landscape (especially if you visit during or just after the rainy season) make it a dream for hikers and anyone who appreciates the outdoors. Most of your time here will likely be spent trekking to viewpoints. Then you can reward yourself with smoothies from the quiet cafés, which is pretty much the dream life.
What makes Nong Khiaw even more special is its atmosphere. Unlike the busier tourist hubs, it offers a slower, more relaxed vibe that invites you to unwind.
And finally – perhaps the most important reason of all – they have the best mango shakes in Southeast Asia. Seriously. Thick with coconut milk, these shakes taste like liquefied mango sticky rice. Let me tell you, I was absolutely there for it and am proud to say I indulged every day I was here.
How to Get to Nong Khiaw
Depending on which direction you are coming from, Nong Khiaw is a relatively easy place to get to in Laos. Just be ready for some rocky roads and cramped minivans.
From The South: Luang Prabang
If you’re travelling from southern Laos, it’s easiest to reach Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang. From here, it’s a 3-4 hour-long minivan ride along a rather rocky road. We booked ours through our hostel, Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang. Whilst this made it pretty easy to book, we did have a bit of a hiccup with the booking process.
We were given two time options – 8:30 am or 10:00 am. Wanting a head start don’t the day, we booked the earlier one. However, it seems like only the 10:00 am option existed. Whether this was a mix-up at our hostel or with the minivan drivers, I’m not sure. Either way, we ended up with a long wait in the morning. From the sounds of it, this happens quite regularly.
The cost was 170K Kip, which is about $2-3 cheaper than on 12Go (around $10). But, it wasn’t the most reliable option. The ride was also quite cramped with 11 people squeezed into a small minivan, and our luggage precariously balanced on the roof. Whether this would be better through 12Go I’m not sure as it is very likely just the Laos way. But, despite the discomfort and waiting, we made it in one piece.
From the North: Muang Ngoi or Muang Khau
If you’re coming from Vietnam, you may be entering Laos from the northern border. In that case, you’re probably travelling from the small riverside towns of Muang Ngoi or Muang Khua. From either of these towns, you can catch a boat to Nong Khiaw.
The boat leaves Muang Ngoi at around 9.30 am, and you can buy your boat ticket from the local agency a few buildings up from the pier. It costs just 70K Fkip and takes 1.5 hours.
From Muang Khua, the boat ride takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 350K Kip. However, I highly recommend breaking up the journey with a day or two in Muang Ngoi. The boat from Muang Khua to Muang Ngoi costs about 300K Kip then the 70K Kip to Nong Khiaw.
Where to Stay in Nong Khiaw
Dotted throughout Nong Khiaw are small guest houses at very reasonable prices. They’re perfect for couples or backpackers travelling in pairs, as the price for a room gets even better when shared. However, there are great options for both solo travellers and anyone looking for a little more from their accommodation:
Eco Farm Stay and Hostel: Best for Solo Travellers
I spent my first night in Nong Khaiw at the Eco Farm Stay. This is the only hostel in the village, and it’s been built by a lovely man to a very high standard. Currently $9 a night, it is more than most hostels you’ll find elsewhere in Laos. In fact, it’s more than some of the (very cheap) private guesthouses in Nong Khiaw.
However, it’s a great place to meet other solo travellers. Plus, some of the money from your booking goes towards development projects in the local area such as building a new school.
The beds are larger than a single bed with curtains separating them so it feels very private. Breakfast is included with eggs, fresh fruit and bread, and you can order more from the restaurant throughout the day. They also offer an array of activities to do in the area including the sunrise overnight camp, 2-day trekking and 3-day trekking with a homestay.
Overall, I was really happy with my stay here and would highly recommend a visit.
Camping Site and Pool: Best for Unique Stay
Whilst this campsite is slightly outside of Nong Khiaw (about a 10-minute walk away) it offers a unique chance to sleep in cosy, wooden bungalow rooms with private bathrooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
With a swimming pool on-site, it’s a great spot to cool off after exploring nearby attractions like the Pha Daeng Peak viewpoint. The campsite also has its own restaurant, serving local and international dishes, which means you won’t have to venture far for a satisfying meal.
What sets this accommodation apart is its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after trekking or boat trips along the Nam Ou River. It’s well-suited for couples and small groups who appreciate natural beauty and want a comfortable base to explore Nong Khiaw.
Amphai Guest House: Best for a Budget Private Room
The second night we stayed in Nong Khiaw, we opted for a private room—sometimes, after months of hostel life, a bit of privacy feels like a luxury. We chose Amphai Guest House, drawn of its great reviews and excellent price, and it didn’t disappoint.
The rooms are simple but spotless, with thoughtful touches like bottled water and toothbrushes provided. The beds were comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep after a day of exploring. There’s even air conditioning if you need a cool down after those steep hikes!
Finally, the guest house’s location is pretty perfect – right next to the river, you can easily explore both sides of the town and access the viewpoint trails. All in all, it’s perfect for anyone on a budget looking for a clean and comfortable place to sleep but spend most of their day outside exploring.
Hiking in Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw sits in a valley surrounded by stunning mountains with incredible viewpoints. You can simply spend your days here hiking a new viewpoint every day and seeing the village from all angles.
The one thing I would recommend as a must-do is the sunrise hike by the Eco Farm Stay – but I’ll get onto that soon. For now, here are some of the most popular viewpoints which you can reach by yourself from the village:
Nong Khiaw View Point:
Perhaps the most well-known viewpoint in Nong Khiaw – hence the name – this 45-minute hike is the perfect one to get you started. It definitely has some steep parts to keep your heart racing and make it feel like a challenge, but it’s certainly not the longest hike in the village.
We headed here for sunset, and it was a gorgeous time. With a perfect view over Nong Khiaw, you can watch as the sun dips behind the mountains, lighting the village in a beautiful orange glow. I would advise heading up the trail at 4 pm at the latest to catch the sunset. Don’t forget to bring a head torch for the way down. A lot of the trail is in forest areas which gets pretty dark pretty quickly.
It costs 40k Kip to enter this trail.
Phadeng Peak Viewpoint:
If you’re looking for a slightly longer hike with equally breathtaking views, Phadeng Peak is a great choice. The trail takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the top, depending on your pace. It’s quite steep in places, so make sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.
About half an hour in you’ll reach Som Nang Viewpoint. Just a taste of what’s to come, make sure you keep going to the main viewpoint. The reward at the summit is a panoramic view of the lush valleys, winding Nam Ou River, and limestone karsts that seem to stretch on forever.
Sitting opposite the Nong Khiaw viewpoint, this spot is ideal for sunrise, as the soft morning light paints the landscape in gentle pastels.
Entrance costs 40k Kip, and starting early in the day is recommended to avoid the midday heat.
Nang None Mountain View Trail (or Sleeping Lady Viewpoint):
Another great hike for sunrise, the Nang None trail has two viewpoints – one about 15 minutes in, and another about an hour hike. But, it’s a pretty tough climb and very steep so bring plenty of water and wear good shoes. Of course, the reward is great views from high above.
As it’s slightly lesser known than the previous two trails, it’s a slightly more tranquil experience with less hikers on the road and at the viewpoints. Plus, this means it’s also slightly cheaper at just 20K Kip entrance fee.
Pha Keo Viewpoint:
This is one of the highest and most rewarding viewpoints around Nong Khiaw, making it perfect for a challenging but rewarding hike. The trail takes roughly 1.45 – 2 hours to reach the top and is steep pretty much all the way nd demanding in some sections, so a good level of fitness is helpful.
But with 800+ meters of elevation, the viewpoint offers stunning views of the Nam Ou River winding through the valley, surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. It’s particularly striking at sunset, though the hike down in the dark requires a head torch and extra caution, taking around 1 hour.
Entrance is 30k Kip, and it’s best to check local weather conditions as the trail can become slippery after rain.
Tip for Hiking in Nong Khiaw: Download MyMaps! This is a great, free offline map that shows the hiking trails around Nong Khiaw. Whilst Google Maps is great, it’s not the best for trails. You’ll want this to know where to go to find the entrances and viewpoints.
An ultimate 2-day adventure in Nong Khiaw: Sunrise Hike and Mountain Camping
Throughout Nong Khiaw, you’ll find plenty of vendors offering overnight treks to the viewpoints surrounding the village. While these trips are still popular and rewarding, most of these viewpoints can be hiked independently. If you’re after something more exclusive, I recommend heading to the Eco Farm Stay for a unique experience that’s only been available in the last two years.
This hike doesn’t appear on any trail apps, which makes it feel extra special and far from overrun.
About the hike
Your hike begins at 12 pm with a 30-minute tuk-tuk ride from Nong Khiaw to the trailhead. The hike itself is steep but manageable, taking about three hours with plenty of breaks – it’s maybe only about 1.5 hours of actual walking. As you climb, you’ll pass through remote mountain landscapes, spotting local homes and the occasional pig along the way.
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. As one fo the highest mountains in the area, Nong Khiaw looks even smaller than it feels. You can see the rolling hills for miles around.
Tents are set up on wooden platforms (a little nerve-wracking to stand on but totally safe) with sleeping bags and blankets ready for a memorable night under the stars.
If the skies are clear, you’ll witness a stunning sunset over Nong Khiaw. Then, as evening falls, you’ll gather around a roaring fire while your guides BBQ chicken for dinner. Whether you’re playing cards or simply enjoying the moment with fellow hikers, it’s a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
When the sky turns dark, prepare to be amazed. With almost no light pollution, the Milky Way shines brightly, and the constellations are mesmerising. I spent most of my evening getting them incredibly wrong, but it’s all part of the fun.
If you stay up a little later, around 9:45 pm, you might also catch the moonrise—a large fiery orange ball slowly ascending into the sky from the silhouetted mountains. I’ve never seen this before and it will always be one of the most memorable moments of the entire trip.
Admittedly, the sleeping arrangements are basic, with a hard, cold floor and limited comfort – this is wear those extra layers become a must. But trust me, the incredible sunrise the next morning makes it all worthwhile.
Sunrise at the Summit
An early wake-up call at 4:30 am ensures you won’t miss one of the most magical sights in Laos. The layers of mountains bathed in deep orange hues, with low-lying clouds shifting through the valleys, make this sunrise unforgettable.
After soaking in the views, you’ll warm up by the fire and enjoy a simple breakfast. The descent down the mountain is quick, and you’ll be back at the Eco Farm Stay around 9:30 am
What’s Included in the Price
For $30, the package includes:
- Transportation to and from the mountain
- A guide
- Tent and sleeping bag
- Dinner and breakfast
Considering the cost of equipment, logistics, and safety (rural Laos has risks like unexploded bombs), I think this price is excellent value.
Packing List
The essentials are provided, leave your big bag at the hosel and take a small day bag with a few extras:
- 2-3 warm layers
- Snacks (post-hike treats are a lifesaver)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Camera or phone
- Portable charger
- Wet wipes (optional but helpful after the sweaty hike)
- Cards (great for group bonding)
You’ll also carry two large bottles of water provided by the guides, so pack light to save your back on the climb.
Where to Book
This tour is exclusively run by the Eco Farm Stay. It’s easiest to book if you’re staying there, as spots fill up fast. If not, you can visit or message them earlier in the day to secure your place.
If you’re arriving in Nong Khiaw before 12 pm, it may be possible to book in advance and start the hike that day. However, most people arrive later and spend their first evening enjoying the village before embarking on the adventure the next day.
3 Day Nong Khiaw Itinerary
We spent 3 full days in Nong Khiaw, but, honestly, you could spend a lot longer. This gives you enough time to do the sunrise hike plus one more viewpoint in the village. If you want to do more viewpoints or opt for a homestay, you may need 4-7 days to explore all Nong Khiaw has to offer.
Day 1 – Arriving in Nong Khiaw and Hiking Nong Khiaw View Point
Arrive in Nong Khiaw by late morning or early afternoon. Your first stop should be the Eco Farm Stay to book your sunrise hike for the next day, as spots fill up fast.
After checking into your accommodation, grab some food in the village. Home Coffee and Ping Moo are both great options. At Home Coffee, the mango shake with coconut milk tastes like liquid mango sticky rice, and their yellow curry is a standout. Ping Moo, a small family-run spot, offers authentic Lao dishes and has excellent reviews.
Depending on how much daylight you have left, head to the Nong Khiaw Viewpoint for a short hike before sunset. The trail isn’t too demanding, and the views at sunset are spectacular. Spend a relaxed evening wandering the village or dining at a laid-back restaurant before turning in early.
Day 2: Setting Off on the Sunrise Hike
Start your morning with a good breakfast – the hostel has breakfast included, or you can try N & N Restaurant for options like their tasty “Egger” bagel. Pick up some snacks for the hike, as you won’t eat until a while after reaching the summit.
At noon, join a tuk-tuk ride from the Eco Farm Stay for a 30-minute drive to the trailhead. The hike takes about three hours, including breaks, with gradual climbs through local homes, roaming pigs, and incredible views.
You’ll arrive at the summit around 4 pm with time to rest, enjoy the scenery, or play a few card games before sunset. After sunset, gather around the fire, enjoy the BBQ meal prepared by the guide, and stair up as the sky fills with more and more stars. Stay up to watch the moonrise before getting some rest before your early start in the morning.
Day 3: Sunrise at the Summit and Return to Nong Khiaw
Wake up early to catch one of the most stunning sunrises Laos has to offer. The colours, combined with low-lying clouds drifting through the valley, create an unforgettable scene.
After sunrise, warm up by the fire, have breakfast, and pack your belongings. The descent back to the trailhead is quicker, and you’ll be back in Nong Khiaw by 9:30 am.
If you’re staying another night, use the afternoon to hike a different viewpoint or relax in town. Alternatively, head to your next destination feeling slightly mind-boggled and refreshed.
Is it Safe to Hike in Nong Khiaw, Laos?
Hiking in Laos and Nong Khiaw specifically is generally very safe and you shouldn’t have any issues. However, like most incredible adventures, there are some precautions to take and things to be aware of:
Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) in Laos
Laos has the unfortunate distinction of being the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world, a legacy of the Vietnam War. Many areas in Laos still have unexploded bombs (UXO), particularly in remote or off-the-beaten-path regions. However, the hiking trails around Nong Khiaw are well-traveled and considered safe from UXO threats.
Stick to marked trails and avoid venturing off into uncharted areas. This is the most important thing when staying safe from UXOs. The viewpoints listed in this guide are popular, maintained, and frequently used by locals and tourists alike, so there’s no reason to worry if you stay on these paths.
Hiking Trails During the Wet Season
If you’re visiting during the wet season (May to October), hiking conditions can become challenging. Trails often get muddy and slippery, especially after heavy rain, so sturdy footwear with good grip is essential.
Be prepared for leeches in jungle areas, especially after rain. Wearing long socks and applying insect repellent to your legs can help deter them. Heavy rainfall can also make some trails harder to navigate, so start early to give yourself plenty of daylight and avoid getting caught out in sudden downpours.
Trust your gut and if it feels too dangerous, simply turn back. Some parts of these trails have wooden paths that have seen much better days, and it’s just not worth the test.
Night Hiking
If you plan to hike for sunrise or sunset, a reliable head torch is a must. Trails in Nong Khiaw are often shaded by trees, and it gets dark quickly once the sun goes down. Navigating in the dark without proper lighting can lead to accidents or getting lost. And, as I said, you do not want to go off the established trail in Laos.
General Safety Tips
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes like Pha Keo or Phadeng Peak. Bring at least 1.5-2 litres of water with you.
- Dress appropriately: Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for the heat, and sturdy shoes are non-negotiable. Try wearing clothes with UV protection like a sun hoodie to protect your skin.
- Let someone know your plans: This is especially true if you’re hiking solo. Let someone at your accommodation know or message someone back home letting them know your destination and expected return time.
- Check local advice: Weather conditions and trail accessibility can change, so ask locals or your guesthouse staff for updates before heading out.
The Wrap-Up: Nong Khiaw Sunrise Hike
Nong Khiaw might be a small, quiet village in northern Laos, but it leaves a lasting impression when it comes to natural beauty. From breathtaking viewpoints to its unforgettable sunrise hike and overnight camp, it’s a place that will leave you in awe wandering what you just experienced.
With this guide and 3-day itinerary, I’ve shown you the perfect way to experience the best of what Nong Khiaw has to offer, whether it’s sipping mango shakes at cosy cafes, exploring the village, or soaking in 360-degree mountain views.
The sunrise hike with Eco Farm Stay offers a rare opportunity to escape the crowds, sleep under a star-filled sky, and wake up to one of the most spectacular sunrises in Southeast Asia.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just someone looking to try something new, Nong Khiaw is a destination worth adding to your Laos adventure. Take the time to slow down, soak in the scenery, and make memories that will stay with you for years to come.
