The Akha people is commonly found in Phongsaly.

The Akha originated in the Tibetan plateau and gradually migrated south through Yunnan, China and Myanmar in the mid-19th century, settling in the mountainous regions in Northwestern Laos. Visitors can meet the Akha people in Phongsaly and Luang Namtha Provinces at altitude above 1,000 metres, where they subsist on mountain rice and forest food. In spite of the numerous water ways in the area, the animist Akha fear water, which they view as a powerful spirit. As such, they never settle near the rivers.

The Akhazan (Akha Way) code, a complex system of behaviour and beliefs, governs their lives. The Akha have orally passed their traditions down through the generations in their own language as they have no written alphabet. The Akha way shows strong respect for people and natural resources, which they believe are guided by the spirits of their ancestors. The Akha are known for their weaving skills and produce elaborate and decorative textiles. Akha women wear distinctive black or indigo clothing and head-dresses with ornamental coins and shells.

Most villages will have untouchable gates, which mark the boundary between the human and natural worlds. A highlight of an Akha visit is the annual swing ceremony held between mid-August and September.

It is believed that the Phou Noi migrated from Muang Sing and Burma to Phongsaly at the end of the 1700s. Fast forward to the late 1800s, some Hmongs from Southern China also migrated to Phongsaly and settled there.

In the late 1900s, a treaty was signed between China and French to transfer the Tai Lue’s Sipsongpanna principalities of Phongsaly and Muang Sing to the French colony in Laos. A new boundary was drawn up by the French to separate the watersheds of Nam Our River so that Sipsongpanna’s east can be absorbed into French Indochina and Phongsaly.

From 1908 to 1910, Tai Lue rebelled against the French authority which ended in failure. This allowed the French military to assume full control over Phongsaly by 1916.

From 1934 to 1936, there was an armed uprising against the French led by Ong Kommandam. This got Sithon Kommadam and his brother, Kamphanh jailed in Phongsaly for their involvement in the uprising. Sithon was released in 1945 and had established resistance bases in Phongsaly. Shortly after, he made contact with the Viet Minh. In 1954, the area came under the control of the Communists in Laos.

Following the 1954 Geneva Accords, the Pathet Lao forces in Phongsaly were given zones to regroup. Fast forward to 1957, the area was given to the Royal Lao Government on 18 December 1957. In 1975, Laos achieved independence and Phongsaly became a province.  

Phongsaly has three seasons:

- Cool-dry (November to February): During this period, the average temperature hovers around 20C. The temperature may drop as low as 11C and soar as high as 27C as it approaches the hot-dry period. This period is the best time to visit Phongsaly due to its comfortable and cool temperature. Small showers may also occur during this period. Do take note that temperature drops rapidly especially after sunset, it is advisable to bring along warm clothing to stay warm during this period.

- Hot-dry (March to April): During this period, the average temperature hovers around 27C. The temperature may soar as high as 33C especially in the hottest month, April. The temperature may also drop as low as 15C especially during the first month, March just after the cool-dry period. It is advisable to stay hydrated and under shade to get some relief from the heat.

- Rainy season (May to October): During this season, average temperature hovers around 25C and usually decreases along the season. The temperature may soar as high as 33C especially during the beginning of the season. The temperature may drop as low as 16C especially as it approaches the cool-dry period. Rainfall is expected throughout the season and is heaviest in the months of July and August. Do bring along an umbrella or raincoat to stay dry.

Transportation from Provinces to Phongsaly

Transportation from Phongsaly to Provinces/Countries       

Boat timetable

Getting around Phongsaly

There are mainly three ways of transportations, tuk tuks, sawng taews and boats which could be boarded in district centres. Bicycles can be rented for $1 to $2 per day. Motorbikes can be hired too in Phongsaly.