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Laos >> Phongsaly Travel Guides
Phongsaly This is the northern most province of Laos, and juts up between Yunnan, China and Vietnam. The provincial capital, Phongsali, has a population of around 25,000, with the majority being ethnic Phu Noi. At an elevation of 1,400 meters, it has a very cool climate the year round. In the cold months, temperatures can get down 5°C at night.
Phongsaly Province is a main trade route between Laos and China, and Chinese influence in the province has increased in recent years. There are several Chinese manufacturing companies in the province, and Chinese style tea farming is replacing poppy cultivation. Chinese beer is cheap here, but Beer Lao is relatively expensive.
Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on your point of view, not many tourists make it to Phongsaly. This is mostly because getting there; whether by road from Udomxai or by river from Muang Khua, the journey is long and arduous. The bus from Udomxai takes from 8 to 12 hours, as it winds its way through steep forested mountains. Boats from Muang Khua take from 3 to 6 hours to the landing at Hat Sa, then by 4WD 20km to Phongsaly.
But for those who do make it to this enchanting mountain-top town, it is well worth it. Walking around the streets you see wood and brick structures similar to Tibetan and Chinese architecture, and hear the sounds of birds and rushing water. At night, the altitude and the distance from civilization, allows for a magnificent starry sky.
Trekking This is what Phongsaly is known for. The adventurous trekker will be rewarded with some of the most unspoiled nature and villages in Southeast Asia. Trekking and home-stay trips into the surrounding area can be arranged, and there is a heavy emphasis on preserving the environment and cultural awareness. You can explore this unique and rarely visited part of Laos, and stay in Akha and Up Noi villages. The cost will depend on the distance, the number of days, and the size of the group.
Travel Tips
As stated above, Phongsaly can get very cool in the winter months. Rain can be cold and heavy, so be sure to bring warm clothes and adequate raingear.
Cambodia
mostly because getting there; whether by road from Udomxai or by river from Muang Khua, the journey is long and arduous. The bus from Udomxai takes from 8 to 12 hours, as it winds its way through steep forested mountains. Boats from Muang Khua take from 3 to 6 hours to the landing at Hat Sa, then by 4WD 20km to Phongsaly. 
into the surrounding area can be arranged, and there is a heavy emphasis on preserving the environment and cultural awareness. You can explore this unique and rarely visited part of Laos, and stay in Akha and Up Noi villages. The cost will depend on the distance, the number of days, and the size of the group.