Kuang Si Falls, a haven of freshness near Luang Prabang

Take advantage of your visit to Luang Prabang to discover the Kuang Si Falls. A jewel of Laos' natural heritage, the Kuang Si Falls amaze you with their magnificence and the incredible natural setting in which they are hidden. Discover the different options available to you to explore this site of rare beauty.

The legend of the Kuang Si Falls

According to legend, the Kuang Si Falls was created by a man who dug the earth so deep at this location that water gushed out. A golden deer then came to shelter under a rock, and the name Tad Kuang Si was given. “Tad” means “waterfall,” “Kuang” means “deer,” and “Si” means “dig.”

An exceptional natural site

The Kuang Si Waterfall is the most spectacular in the Luang Prabang Region, at 50 meters high. After falling, the water pours into several natural pools that spread over several levels. The natural limestone basins reveal dazzling turquoise-blue water. The Kuang Si Falls are nestled in an exceptional natural setting. A lush jungle serves as a setting for this natural jewel of Laos.

To get to the main Kuang Si Waterfall, you walk on a slight slope through beautiful tropical vegetation dominated by majestic trees. These trees provide you with welcome shade during hot weather. In January and February, you can observe the flowering of certain species of orchids that have found a suitable habitat here. In the morning, you can also observe many butterflies and some species of birds.

It is not possible to swim in the main waterfall, only to admire it. On the other hand, there are many natural pools where you can swim. The water is cool and will bring you some comfort during the hot weather. There are changing cabins and also toilets. A few food stands are also at your disposal.

The Bear Rescue Center

Within the grounds of the Kuang Si Falls Park is the bear rescue center. Run by Free the Bears, this excellent center is home to a large population of wild Asiatic bears, confiscated from poachers who sold them to terrible bile farms, serving the appetites of traditional Chinese medicine. These happy little bears are worth a visit as much as the waterfalls themselves. The center depends on donations and sales of souvenirs such as t-shirts. You can observe the bears evolving in a fenced area and learn more about them thanks to several educational panels.

How to get to the Kuang Si Falls?

The Kuang Si Falls is located about thirty kilometers from Luang Prabang. Four options are available to you to discover the Kuang Si Falls:

- By vehicle, crossing the beautiful countryside and several small villages. Stops can be planned to admire the beautiful landscapes. Beautiful views of the Mekong are available to you and from July to September, the rice fields are a magnificent soft green.

- Sportsmen can cycle a distance of thirty kilometers. But it’s for experienced cyclists because the climbs and descents follow one another. There’s a possibility of returning to Luang Prabang by tuk-tuk with the bikes.

- Take a cruise on the Mekong from Luang Prabang. Either with a traditional boat called "long tail" or with the Khopfa Company. This one offers you more comfort with a beautiful two-story wooden boat equipped with sofas, deckchairs and a bar. On the way back, lunch is served while the boat sails on the Mekong surrounded by green mountains.

- It is also possible to go to the Kuang Si Falls by hiking. It’s a magnificent and easy three-hour hike featuring the discovery of ethnic villages and a beautiful preserved environment. This hike takes you to the top of the Kuang Si Falls, giving you a unique perspective of the waterfalls.

Interesting places to see near the Kuang Si Falls

- The butterfly farm which is home to 1000 to 1300 individuals from more than 50 endemic species. A truly unique spectacle of colors and shapes.

- Lunch at Vanvisa at the falls. Ideally located at the foot of the famous Kuang Si Falls, in the heart of a Khmu village, this local restaurant welcomes you to taste fresh Lao cuisine. The endearing Mrs. Vandara is a true master chef. Her cuisine, focused on inspired raw, comes directly from her organic garden.

- Another great place for lunch, the Carpe Diem Restaurant is nestled in a bucolic natural setting and offers high-flying fusion cuisine.

When to go to Kuang Si Falls?

It is best to go to Kuang Si Falls early in the morning when it opens to enjoy the magic of the place in complete serenity. As a major tourist attraction in Luang Prabang, the falls are very busy during the day.

Kuang Si Falls is at its most beautiful when full of water during and after the rainy season from June to November.

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