Oudomxai is a mountainous province in the northern part of Laos, wedged between Luang Prabang in the east, Phongsali in the northeast, Sayabouri in the south and
a little bit with China. It is a mixture of 23 ethnic groups such as Hmong, Akha,
Thai dam Thai khao, Thai Neua, Khamu, Lao Huay, and many others. All are with their
own distinct culture, religion, language and colorful dress.
What to do?
Its capital, Muang Xai, is the junction of the highways connecting Lao Northern
provinces: Phongsali,
Luang Namtha, Bokeo and Luang Prabang.
Better roads are on
the northern part of the province, while in the southern part people depend more
on the river travel. The lower part of Nam Tha river is in Oudomxai province, where
travellers can take boat from Paktha village upstream to Luang Namtha taking two
days and a night in a village house normally prepared by the boat-man.
In Muang Xay, there are some very nice hiking including night stays in Khamu family houses
which makes the experience very special and intimate. Although not as colorful as
other ethnic groups of Laos, the Khamu people are very nice and happy to have foreigners
visiting their villages.
Travel Tips:
To prepare for trekking, wear good shoes. Also, in rainy seasons, nylon stockings
are recommended as a barrier that leeches cannot penetrate.
