Also of interest are the historic towns of Muang Sing and Vieng Phoukha, river journeys on the Nam Tha and Nam Ha rivers, colorful markets, and between Xieng Kok and Houi Xay one of the country's most beautiful stretches of the Mekong River.

If you enjoy cave exploration, multiday forest trekking, visits to ethnic-minority villages, rafting and kayaking trips, mountain bike excursions, birding, or professionally-guided customized ecotours, you can arrange all of these activities through one of our local tour operator. There are also a number of significant archaeological sites in Vieng Phoukha that can be many ancient temple ruins.

Your stay in Luang Namtha is mutually beneficial for both you and your gracious host, we ask that you respectfully observe Lao customs when visiting Buddhist temples or participating in local religisous ceremonies or rituals. Please keep in mind that Luang Namtha is a living cultural landcape with over 20 different ethnic minorities, all with their own distinct language and custom. While the people that live here warmly welcome visitors, they kindly ask that you make a effort to be culturally sensitive, always keep yourself cool, and set a good example for Lao youth by dressing modestly and not using illegal drugs.

While in Luang Namtha, we suggest that you sample some of our delicious local food, and support indigenous artisans by purchasing one or more of the many types of handicrafts produced here. Tai Dam silks, Khamu basketry, Akha jewelry, Hmong embroidery and Lanten bags and paper are some of the most sought-after items.

Try rattan or bitter bamboo shoot soup, served througout the province, Kao Soi (Soft noodle spup) in Muang Sing, Lao Hai (rice wine fermented in an earthen jar) in Vieng Phoukha, and if you are visiting in March or April, pick up a jar of delicious forest honey. As there are major festivals almost every month of the year and a variety of landscapes that change throughout the rainy, cool and dry seasons, it is always a good time to visit.