Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.
Vang Vieng may have earned a reputation as a party town, but don’t let that stop you. This small riverside town between Vientiane and Luang Prabang is absolutely worth a visit, even if you’re looking for something more peaceful. The small town os set along the Nam Song River and surrounded by sharp limestone karsts, rice fields and quiet countryside. Once a sleepy village known for its authentic Laotian charm, it was later overtaken by budget backpackers looking to party, especially along the tubing route.
But the town has evolved, and in 2025 it’s much more balanced. You’ll still find tubing bars and nightlife, but also hiking trails, lagoons and stunning views that are hard to beat anywhere in Laos. For Indian solo travellers and those backpacking Laos, Vang Vieng is one of the top stops on the India to Laos route, thanks to its central location and easy access via the Laos Bullet Train.
In this blog, I’m sharing the best things to do in Vang Vieng, including the attractions and activities I tried, along with the delicious food I enjoyed along the way.
Why is Vang Vieng Popular
Vang Vieng started gaining popularity among young backpackers after Laos opened up for tourism in 1991. Over time, what was once a quiet rural village turned into a hotspot for party-loving tourists. With more visitors arriving, locals responded by building guesthouses, bars and tubing services, which helped the town expand quickly.
In its peak party era, Vang Vieng was known for all-night drinking, open drug use and loud riverside bars. Multiple tourist deaths were reported in the early 2010s and even a few in 2024 has led the government to crack down on unsafe practices. Now Vang Vieng has changed. The party scene has shrunk, and the town now feels calmer. Although if you want to find party, you will find it easily.
Compared to places like Phuket or Langkawi, Vang Vieng feels more grounded. Those islands still push a commercial, polished version of tropical tourism, while Vang Vieng holds onto its raw natural beauty. But one thing has changed across the board — budget backpackers can no longer find the kind of dirt-cheap hostels, meals and parties that were common before 2020. Prices have gone up, and while it’s still affordable, it’s no longer the ultra-low-cost party zone it once was.
Still, for Indian solo travellers or anyone backpacking Laos in 2025, Vang Vieng offers a unique mix of nature, adventure and quiet reflection — a side of Laos that’s hard to find elsewhere.
How to Reach Vang Vieng
There is no airport in Vang Vieng, so flights are not an option. Travellers usually reach this town from Luang Prabang or Vientiane using buses, minivans or the Laos China Bullet Train. Here’s what I experienced and recommend.
By Bus
Bus travel in Laos can be a bit tricky. From Luang Prabang, head to Naluang International Bus Station. Buses are supposed to leave at 9.00 am, 10.00 am and 2.00 pm, but timings change often. It’s best to check in person a day before and buy your ticket early, especially on weekends.
From Vientiane, go to the Central Bus Station. Most buses to Luang Prabang stop at Vang Vieng, so confirm this at the counter. Buses are basic and slow. Carry snacks and water.
By Minivan
Minivans are more frequent than buses and pick you up from your hotel in most cases. But space is tight. They try to fit in as many people as possible, so if legroom matters to you, stick to buses.
From Luang Prabang, minivans also leave from Naluang Bus Station. It took me about 6 hours to reach Vang Vieng by minivan. Book early, especially on weekends.
From Vientiane, go to the Northern Bus Terminal. Some minivans take the expressway and reach Vang Vieng in about 2 hours. Ask your hotel if they can help you book one.
By Laos China Bullet Train
The Laos China Bullet Train is the newest and fastest way to get to Vang Vieng. It takes around 2.5 hours from Luang Prabang and 2 hours from Vientiane. The stations are outside city limits, so factor in extra time and a tuk-tuk ride to reach them.
You can’t book tickets online easily. Either buy them at the station a few days in advance or use a travel agent. Prices vary by class. I paid around 250,000 kip for a premium seat from Vientiane to Vang Vieng.
Why I Recommend the Road Trip
Even though the Laos China Bullet Train is fast, I preferred the road journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. The views along the way — rice fields, villages, misty mountains — were worth the extra time. If you’re backpacking or on solo travel in Laos, the road trip gives you a stronger sense of the landscape and culture.
Top Things to do in Vang Vieng
Book a Bike Tour
Booking a bike tour in Vang Vieng is a great way to explore the countryside at your own pace. Most hostels and homestays can arrange rentals or tours, and it’s common to haggle a bit on the price. If you prefer a fixed rate with clear inclusions, check platforms like Klook, which often offer better deals for solo travellers or small groups.
Visit Blue Lagoons
There are several blue lagoons in Vang Vieng, but my top pick is Lagoon 4. It’s peaceful, less crowded and gets sun until around 3 PM. There are no food stalls, so carry your own snacks. I also visited Lagoon 1, which was packed with tourists, but has more facilities and a cave nearby. I skipped Lagoon 3 because it was too far and the road was dusty. A friend told me it only had sun until noon and left them covered in red dust.
Explore Tham Phu Cam Cave
Next to Lagoon 1 is Tham Phu Cam Cave. After a short climb, you’ll reach the entrance where you can rent a torch if needed. Inside, there’s an altar and a large open chamber further in. It’s pitch dark, so a headlamp is useful. It’s a nice break from the outdoor heat and gives you a feel of the cave systems in the region.
Hike Nam Xay Viewpoint
Nam Xay Viewpoint is one of the best hikes in Vang Vieng. The climb takes about 30 minutes and gives you a panoramic view of the surrounding limestone cliffs and rice fields. The viewpoint is famous for its two parked motorbikes at the top, perfect for photos. I went around sunset and it was crowded, but the light was worth it. Entry is 20,000 kip and the trail is open from 6 AM to 5 PM.
Rent a Scooter and Explore the Countryside
Renting a scooter is one of the best ways to see the area around Vang Vieng. I rode towards Ban Pha Thang, passing forests, villages and rice paddies.
Book a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Vang Vieng is one of the cheapest places in the world to try a hot air balloon ride. I skipped it because it was too expensive for my budget, but it’s a popular sunrise activity.
Try Tubing on the Nam Song River
Tubing is still one of Vang Vieng’s signature experiences. You float down the Nam Song River in an inflatable tube, passing a few bars along the way. It takes between 3 to 5 hours depending on the water flow. The party scene isn’t as wild as before, so if you want a relaxed float, just skip the bar stops.
Go Kayaking
Kayaking is a more active way to enjoy the Nam Song River. Tours usually start from Khmu village, about 10 km north of town, and let you paddle through scenic stretches of river surrounded by limestone cliffs. I couldn’t do this because the tour was full, but it’s highly recommended by other travellers.
Stay with a Local Family
If you want a more personal experience, consider staying with a local family. You can find homestays listed on Airbnb. It’s a good way to learn about Lao culture, eat traditional food and see life beyond the tourist side of Vang Vieng.
Responsible Travel and Personal Safety in Vang Vieng
While Vang Vieng is safer than it used to be, it’s still important to stay alert. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, as there have been cases of spiked beverages. Stick to bottled drinks and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded bars or tubing stops. Respect local customs, dress modestly near villages and support small businesses where possible. A little caution and cultural respect go a long way when travelling in Laos.
Leave a Reply