The Vat Phou Temple Complex is one of Southeast Asia’s best examples of both early and classic Khmer architecture dating from the 7th to 12th centuries. In year 2001, UNESCO declared Vat Phou Temple a World Heritage Site, which includes the ancient city of Shestrapura and many little known but interesting archeological sites along the banks of the Mekong River. There are also many fine examples of traditional Lao houses and buildings from the colonial period. If you are in Champasak during February, don’t miss the Vat Phou Temple Festival.
To get there from Pakse, cross the Mekong bridge and turn left after a couple of kilometres on the new road that follows the Mekong all the way to Champasak Town. Alternatively, take Route No.13 south, turning right at KM 30 (look for the sign pointing the way to “Vat Phou”). Follow the road to its end at Ban Mouang village. From Ban Mouang, take a ferry across the Mekong River to Ban Phaphin (Champasak Town).
Public transportation leaving from Pakse to Champasak is available from the KM 2 and KM 8 bus terminals from 08:00 to 16:00. To allow for more flexibility in your travel plans, you may consider hiring a tuk tuk to take you directly there, or rent a motorbike in Pakse and ride there yourself.
