Huayxai Duck Pho

Huayxai Duck Pho, a must-try delicious flavor on the Laos side

When talking about crossing the border from Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai Province, to Huayxai, Bokeo Province, Laos, this time mr.hotsia had the chance to experience something more interesting than a usual trip. That is the ferry terminal relocation to the Chalao Luang Phrabat pier, about one kilometer from Huayxai town. This area is not only a border crossing with immigration checkpoints but has also become a lively spot with surrounding shops and restaurants. What I find interesting and want to recommend is a small duck pho restaurant hidden under the road leading down to the pier on the right side.

I, mr.hotsia, did not miss the chance to try this duck pho because for me, anything related to duck is always delicious. This place did not disappoint with its clear broth, fresh vegetables served generously in the bowl. The flavor of the duck pho here is natural, without added starch or MSG directly. If you want a richer or more intense taste, you can ask the owner to adjust it at the table. The atmosphere is friendly, like eating at a friend's home. This restaurant is perfect for breakfast before boarding the boat to Luang Prabang, which departs at 11:00 AM. If you eat duck pho around 10 AM here, you can enjoy a relaxed trip without worrying about food on the boat.

Huayxai, a small town full of stories and lifestyle

After taking the boat from Chiang Khong to Huayxai, I spent two full days exploring this small town located in Bokeo Province, Laos. Huayxai is not just a border crossing point but also has an interesting lifestyle and atmosphere. Mr.hotsia recommends experiencing the morning and evening markets, which are not far from the town center. The morning market is about 2 kilometers from the town, while the evening market is north of the town, about a 10-minute walk along the Mekong River. These markets are community centers where locals buy and sell fresh food, vegetables, fruits, and daily necessities. Walking through the markets gives a clear picture of the real lifestyle of the Lao people in Bokeo Province.

For those interested in continuing from Huayxai to Luang Namtha, I, mr.hotsia, recommend taking the bus service available twice daily at 9:00 AM and 12:30 PM. I chose the afternoon trip to rest and avoid waking up too early. The route from Huayxai to Luang Namtha is about 195 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. The fare is affordable at only 55,000 kip, approximately 220 baht.

Dining and drinking culture in Ban Tonphueng near Huayxai

Speaking of restaurants near Huayxai, Ban Tonphueng, located south of Huayxai, offers various dining options. What impressed me, mr.hotsia, is the riverside a la carte food zone along the Mekong River, about 200 meters from the large casino in Ban Tonphueng. This area features authentic Lao dishes like stir-fried basil rice with fried egg, priced reasonably at 60 baht, with a large portion of rice and plenty of pork. It’s a great energy booster after sightseeing or morning market visits.

For those wanting to experience the culture and nature atmosphere in Ban Tonphueng, I recommend visiting the ancient stupa discovered in the middle of the Mekong River, not far from the town center, near Wat Phon Savan. You can conveniently take a tuk-tuk from Huayxai to this temple. The fare is standard and affordable, and this trip will let you see local beliefs and history that should not be missed.Stupa in the middle of the Mekong River, Wat Don Savan, Ban Tonphueng, LaosThis is another place I, mr.hotsia, want you to experience.

Unique travel and experiences

I, mr.hotsia, have noted that traveling in Huayxai and Ban Tonphueng is quite convenient, especially by tuk-tuk, which is the main transport for tourists and locals. The standard fare is about 10,000 kip or 40 baht. If you want to travel to places like the Huayxai bus station, located about 3 kilometers outside town, you can easily and quickly use this tuk-tuk service.Huayxai Bus StationIt is a connection point to other towns in Bokeo Province and increases your opportunity to experience the diversity of this province.

During my visit, mr.hotsia, the Mekong River at Chiang Khong and Huayxai was significantly low, making some boat trips to Luang Prabang less convenient than before. However, there is still a daily boat departure at 11:00 AM. Planning breakfast with duck pho at Huayxai before boarding the boat is the best choice because besides tasting authentic local food, it also allows you to travel comfortably without worrying about food on the boat.

Summary of experiences from mr.hotsia

For me, Huayxai Duck Pho is not just an ordinary restaurant but a small starting point that connects the overall picture of tourism in Bokeo Province. It covers travel, local lifestyle, and the diversity of local food. It also introduced me to nearby Ban Tonphueng, which has a casino, important historical sites, and many interesting restaurants. If you want a fulfilling and deep Laos trip, plan to visit Huayxai and Ban Tonphueng, and don’t forget to try the clear broth duck pho I, mr.hotsia, recommend. I guarantee you will have a unique experience and want to return again.