Nam Ngum Dam: head 90km north towards Luang Prabang and you’ll reach the Nam Ngum Dam, the area is responsible for generating most of the country’s electricity. This is not the main reason to visit the dam however, as the magnificence of its natural beauty far outshines any manmade creations to be found in the area. The large lake is a good place to relax and also to observe hundreds of tiny islets just visible above the water’s surface. The dam can be reached in a couple of hours by catching an early bus from Vientiane’s Morning Market or alternatively by rental motorbike.
The Stone Forest: located halfway between Vientiane and Savannakhet is the Stone Forest (known locally as Hinboun), a pleasant area relatively untouched and virtually unspoilt and ideal for nature lovers to explore. Boat trips from the forest can be made to caves while it’s also possible to trek to some nearby villages and see some traditional Lao life that’s a million miles from that of the big city. The journey takes five to six hours, so an overnight stop is recommended.
