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Savannakhet is the second biggest town in Laos. It is very quiet and is mainly a destination for tourists who want to get a visa for Thailand quickly.

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I originally went to Savannakhet to renew a visa for Thailand but as I was curious about it I wanted to stay at least one night there and visit the surroundings. I don't regret it because there are few tourists in Savannakhet  and even though there isn't much to see, I loved the friendliness of the Laotians and the feeling of being <a data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.fr/ou-partir/idee-voyage-hors-des-sentiers-battus/" href="https://www.evaneos.fr/ou-partir/idee-voyage-hors-des-sentiers-battus/" target="_blank">off the beaten path</a>. First I went to see one lake and then another. In both places we were alone, apart from a few buffalo and a village fete in the distance...I got lost looking for the ruins of a temple that is apparently untraceable without a guide, but it doesn't matter. You meet smiling people. It was a shame that the rice paddies were dry when we were visiting or it could have been even more beautiful. Savannakhet  is a sleepy country town, but the surrounding area is worth a visit for those who love a country atmosphere and meeting friendly local people.

The second largest town in Laos after Vientiane, Savannakhet promises several pleasant surprises that visitors can enjoy if staying there for a few days during a <a href="/laos/">trip to Laos</a>. Situated by the Mekong, which separates the town from Thailand, it's as quiet as its Thai sistertown is modern and buzzing! The town still has old colonial buildings albeit a bit shabby and unkempt. However the town's former splendour can be seen at a superb exhibition at Lin's Cafe in the town centre! Lin also offers a Walking History Tour around town where you can explore its rich architectural heritage. And whilst you're touring, take the time to chat with the locals - they're a smiley lot! After my walk I decided to visit the town's many religious sites. The Vietnamese Temple is certainly one of the most sumptuous and the monks were really welcoming
. Early in the morning the Buddhist monks walk the streets begging for alms. It's an emblematic sight you also see at Luang Prabang and a moving experience. Whereas Luang Prabang attracts hoards of tourists clicking their cameras, Savannakhet has managed to remain modest and discreet in comparison. The procession is not one to miss!

A former colonial town, Savannakhet is a quiet retreat by the River Mekong. Let yourself be seduced by its history and people!

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