1-day nature adventure

Operated by: Vieng Phoukha Ecoguide Service
Vieng Phoukha District, Luang Namtha Province

Morning - Nature Trail

Depart in the morning from the Eco-Guide Service office in town. For best viewing of birds departure is at early dawn. For those who prefer a relaxed pace departure is after breakfast.
Arrive at Ban Nammang, a traditional Khamu village, where our village-based guide joins us. From Nammang, we ascend through rice fields and into a district forest conservation area.
Atop the mountain ridge, referred to as ‘Mock Mooch' ( Ant Mountain ) in Khamu language, we sit and take time to absorb the sites and sounds of the forest. This area attracts many bird species with its fruit-bearing fig trees. Local guides will help you to recognize sights and sounds of birds, as well as tracks of wild animals.

Moving through the forest, you will learn about common plants used by the Khamu people. The guides collect edible plants to add to the picnic lunch in the forest.

Afternoon - Explore the Ruins

In the afternoon, the descent from the conservation area to the plain takes us to the site of the Ancient City and Temple , ‘Kou Vieng', ‘Mahapot Stupa' and ‘Vat Mahapot'.

Follow the map of the ancient temple area and piece together its history, imagining the civilization that dominated this area more than four-hundred years ago. Return to the Eco-Guide Service office by mid-afternoon.

Booking

• Contact the Vieng Phoukha Guide Service Unit at +856-81-212-400

Level of difficulty

Walking – moderate, some steep ascents/descents

Distance – 4-5 hours walking

Includes

local meals, water, local guide from town, village guide, forest conservation permit, local taxes

What to bring

Good shoes for hiking (closed shoes or sandals with straps), binoculars, nature guidebook, mosquito repellent, sunscreen/hat, camera, some money to purchase handicrafts. Better wear green/dark colored clothing to decrease visibility in the forest.

How villages benefit

local and village guide fees

Important do's & don'ts

Do not give individual gifts of sweets or money to children. Ask before taking photos of people. Help keep the trails clean by not littering. Do not remove any archeological remains from the site of the ancient temple.

Group Size

Limited to 8 persons