Nong Khiaw Hotels

A small town on the banks of the Nam Ou River, Nong Kiaow boasts a gorgeous backdrop of imposing limestone mountains, picturesque river views and genuine local colour. Sometimes referred to as Muang Ngoi Mai, it is often confused with Muang Ngoi, a smaller town an hour's boat ride upriver. Both towns are very popular with backpackers, and are fully equipped with restaurants and basic guesthouses. Street lighting and hot water showers are virtually non-existent in Nong Kiaow, with electricity, private bathrooms and concrete walls still not the norm. The village wat is 250 years old -- one of the oldest in the area. The journey makes it all worthwhile. Two to four hours by road from Luang Prabang -- depending on your mode of transport -- and about eight hours up the spectacular Nam Ou by boat, the routes pass through lush and mountainous scenery and a handful of small towns which offer a peek at Lao rural life.