Saravan, Lao People'S Democratic Republic
Museums
If you're in Saravan and interested in museums, you might consider visiting the Champasak Provincial Museum in Pakse, which is about a 2-hour drive from Saravan. The museum features exhibits on local culture, history, and art. Another option would be to visit the Savannakhet Provincial Museum in Savannakhet, which is also about 2 hours away from Saravan. If you're looking for similar types of museums nearby, you could check out the Lao National Museum in Vientiane or the Luang Prabang Provincial Museum in Luang Prabang.
Food
Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Saravan, Laos include:
1. Khao Piak Sen: A noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and topped with herbs, lime juice, and chili.
2. Tam Mak Houng: A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, chilies, peanuts, and fish sauce.
3. Larb: A spicy minced meat salad made with either chicken, pork, or beef, mixed with fresh herbs, shallots, and roasted ground rice.
4. Ping Kai: Grilled chicken marinated in lemongrass, garlic, and other spices, often served with sticky rice and dipping sauce.
5. Mok Pa: Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves with lemongrass, chili, and other seasonings.
6. Or Lam: A thick stew made with vegetables, meat, and herbs, cooked slowly with bamboo shoots and served with sticky rice.
These are just a few examples of the delicious local cuisine that you can find in Saravan.
Activities
Some fun activities that local people like in Saravan and the surrounding areas include:
1. Visiting Tad Lo Waterfalls: This beautiful waterfall is located about an hour from Saravan and is a popular spot for locals to go swimming and have picnics.
2. Exploring the Bolaven Plateau: This scenic region is known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and trekking trails. You can hire a guide or rent a motorbike to explore the area on your own.
3. Visiting the Alak Village: The Alak people are an ethnic minority group in Laos, and their village is located near Tad Lo Waterfalls. Visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life by interacting with the villagers.
4. Trying local cuisine: Lao food is delicious and diverse, with many unique dishes that you won't find elsewhere. Some popular dishes to try in Saravan include khao piak sen (rice noodle soup), laap (a spicy minced meat salad), and tam mak hoong (papaya salad).
5. Shopping at the local markets: Saravan has several markets where you can buy fresh produce, textiles, handicrafts, and other souvenirs. The morning market in the town center is a good place to start.
