2 Best Sights in Pakse, Laos

Across the river on the way to Champassak, this hilltop temple was built in 2011 and has an impressive "Big Buddha" statue that dominates the peak. A long staircase flanked with nagas (mythical water serpents) brings visitors to the top (allow 30 minutes for the climb), where there are great views of the river and the city, especially as they soak up the crimson sunsets. There is also a newer concrete road to the top.

Pakse's history museum displays stonework from the famous Wat Phou in Champassak, handicrafts from the Bolaven Plateau ethnic groups, and locally made musical instruments.