Saravan offers river boat trips as tourist draw

Khongxedon district in Saravan province is offering visitors the chance to spend time on the Xedon River by renting simple covered boats that cruise past riverside communities and give people the chance to drink in the pastoral scenery.
The scheme is part of the Lao Thiao Laos tourism campaign to persuade Lao people to explore their country and make the most of local attractions.
Khongxedon district Governor Dr Samai Phothisane told Vientiane Times the district is playing its part in the scheme by providing thatch-covered boats that can be rented in Tanbiew village.
The boat trips also enable visitors to sample the area’s agricultural produce, including cucumbers and other organically grown vegetables, which the locals sell on the riverbank.
The boats cruise for three kilometres up the river and cost 200,000 for 20 people.
In addition to bolstering tourism in Khongxedon district, the scheme gives local residents the chance to sell their produce and earn some extra money.
As part of the Lao Thaio Laos initiative, Saravan provincial authorities are improving facilities at tourist sites as well as upgrading the quality of services, in a bid to draw more visitors.
Saravan has a wealth of natural and cultural attractions as well as places of historical interest and visitors will not be disappointed. There are also 10 ethnic groups whose way of life can be observed, while there is plenty of local food to be sampled and souvenirs to be bought.
Saravan has 50 officially-designated sites of natural interest, 38 cultural attractions and six historical sites, of which seven have visitor facilities, according to the 2019 Statistical Report on Tourism.
The province is renowned for its stunning scenery, with the Tad Lor waterfall being one of the highlights and a jumping off point for further adventures in this remote province.
Another must-see is the Kaengkou waterfall, which carries water from the Xedon and Xeset rivers, and is a great spot for a picnic.
Visitors to Saravan should be sure to try the local grilled chicken and chicken soup along with sticky rice, while the province is also praised for its hand-made wood carvings and wicker goods.
Saravan province is located in the south of Laos about 690km from Vientiane by road. It contains the Phou Xieng Thong National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which extends over nearly 1,000 sq km in the western part of the province next to the Mekong River.

By Siladda Souliyong
(Latest Update March 4, 2021)