Where to stay in LaosNorthern Laos

Where to stay in Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoy

Three levels, and what each one actually gets you. Prices are the lowest advertised nightly rate we found, and they move — treat them as a guide rather than a quote.

Read the full Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoy guide →

Backpacker

Dorm beds and the simplest private rooms.

Comfortable

A private room, without paying resort prices.

  • An infinity pool beside a wooden bungalow, with forested limestone hills behind

    Mandala Ou Resort

    An infinity pool over the Nam Ou.

    Worth knowing. Rooms are fan-cooled, not air-conditioned. In the hot season that matters more than the price.

    From US$579.1/10 · 30 reviewsBook Mandala Ou Resort

Best in town

The most comfortable rooms available locally.

Before you book in Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoy

Five things cause almost every accommodation complaint in Laos, and checking them takes a couple of minutes.

  • The exact room type. The cheapest category is often in an older building, or has no window. A private bathroom, air conditioning, hot water and breakfast are none of them automatic at the lower prices.
  • The exact location. Map pins are unreliable, and railway stations sit 3 to 15 kilometres outside the towns they serve. A cheap room far out costs a tuk-tuk fare every day.
  • Noise. Bars, traffic, temples and construction all decide whether you sleep. Ask before booking, not after.
  • Payment. Smaller properties often want cash on arrival even when a platform took the reservation. Ourguide to money in Laoscovers where ATMs are reliable.
  • Cancellation. On a route involving buses, boats or mountain roads, a flexible rate is worth more than a small prepayment discount.

For how the property types differ across the country, and when each season needs booking ahead, read ourguide to where to stay in Laos.