Located in the southern part of Laos, Wat Tham Fai is a Buddhist temple complex that is home to several temples, shrines, and statues. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to explore the local culture and history. Here are 10 things to do in Wat Tham Fai, Pakse, Laos.
1. Explore the Temples
Wat Tham Fai is home to several temples, including Wat Tham Fai, Wat Tham Khao, and Wat Tham Khao Luang. Each of these temples has its own unique architecture and design, and visitors can explore the various shrines and statues that are located inside. There are also several smaller temples located in the complex, and visitors can learn about the history and significance of each one.
2. Try Local Cuisine
Wat Tham Fai is home to several local restaurants and eateries, where visitors can sample traditional Lao cuisine. Popular dishes include Laab (a spicy meat salad), Khao Soi (a coconut-based noodle soup), and Mok Pa (steamed fish). Be sure to try some of the local snacks, such as spring rolls and sticky rice, as well.
3. Visit the Night Market
The Wat Tham Fai night market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of local handicrafts, including silver jewelry, wooden carvings, and hand-woven fabrics. There are also plenty of stalls selling food, snacks, and drinks.
4. Take a Boat Ride
Visitors can take a boat ride along the Mekong River, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The boat ride is a great way to get an up-close look at the wildlife and vegetation of the area.
5. Go Shopping
The nearby town of Pakse is home to several shopping malls and markets, where visitors can find a wide variety of goods. Popular items include clothing, jewelry, and local handicrafts. There are also several supermarkets and convenience stores where visitors can buy groceries and other essentials.
6. Visit the Waterfalls
The nearby Tad Fane Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction. The waterfall is located in a lush green valley, and visitors can take a boat ride to get a closer look. There are also several other nearby waterfalls, such as Tad Yuang and Tad Lo, which are worth visiting.
7. Go Trekking
The area around Wat Tham Fai is home to several trekking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the area on foot, or hire a guide to take them on a guided tour.
8. Visit the Elephant Conservation Center
The nearby Elephant Conservation Center is a great place to learn about the conservation of Asian elephants. Visitors can take a tour of the center and watch the elephants being trained and cared for.
9. Take a Cooking Class
Visitors can take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Lao dishes. The classes are usually held at local restaurants, and visitors can learn how to make dishes such as Laab, Khao Soi, and Mok Pa.
10. Go Birdwatching
The area around Wat Tham Fai is home to a variety of bird species, such as the White-rumped Shama, the Black-crowned Night Heron, and the Black-headed Munia. Visitors can take a guided tour of the area to spot these birds in their natural habitat.
Wat Tham Fai is a great place to explore the local culture and history, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventure-filled holiday, Wat Tham Fai has something for everyone.