5 Tourist Spots in the Border City of Savannakhet to Discover Nature and History!

Bungva Lake is the largest lake in the Savannakhet area. With water buffalo leisurely strolling around and locals peacefully fishing, the lake is surrounded by idyllic scenery that might make you forget the passing of time. Even just riding a tuk-tuk along the road that runs along the edge of the lake offers a pleasant experience.
Located about 12 kilometers east of Savannakhet town, it's within cycling distance if you rent a bicycle. Several restaurants have opened on the lake, built in charming wooden structures with thatched roofs.
Lao cuisine enjoyed with the breeze blowing over the lake is guaranteed to be even more delicious. Since it's also on the way to the That Ing Hang, a famous sightseeing spot in Savannakhet, it's a good idea to include both in your travel itinerary.

2. That Ing Hang

That Ing Hang is a quietly standing Buddhist temple located about 15 kilometers from the town of Savannakhet. Built in the 16th century, it has long been considered a sacred site of Lao Buddhism. Due to its proximity to the Thai border, it attracts not only Laotians but also many Thai worshippers.
During festival seasons, revered monks from all over Laos gather here, creating a lively atmosphere.
If you offer alms to the nuns inside the temple, you can experience the Baci ceremony, where they pray and tie a sacred string (misanga) around your wrist. The 9-meter-tall stupa at the center is not flashy, but it stands with dignified presence. You’ll feel the strength and devotion accumulated through years of faith.

3. Dinosaur Museum

There is a truly unique museum in Savannakhet where visitors can experience the rare opportunity of touching real dinosaur fossils. These fossils were discovered in Savannakhet, with the first find dating back to 1936 by a French archaeologist. Since then, excavations have taken place at five different sites.
Thanks to support from France, the Science and Technology Bureau established this Dinosaur Museum to display these discoveries. Conveniently located near the Mekong River, it is an accessible tourist spot you can easily visit while strolling through the city.
The building itself is modest in size, with only two exhibition rooms, so the volume of exhibits is not large. However, the museum director and staff offer thorough and passionate explanations, allowing visitors to gain deeper understanding than by simply viewing the displays or reading the captions.
Excavation efforts are ongoing even now, so in the future, more valuable fossils may be exhibited here, potentially turning the Dinosaur Museum into one of Savannakhet’s major tourist attractions.

4. Heuan Hinh

Heuan Hinh is known as a ruin of the Khmer Empire. Although the details of its construction remain unclear, it is said to date back over a thousand years. This makes it a valuable archaeological site that, like the Wat Phou ruins in southern Laos, attests to the presence of Khmer culture.
Unfortunately, most of the original carvings that once adorned the site have either been taken away or have severely deteriorated. Nevertheless, true to its name—“Stone House” in Lao—Heuan Hinh features striking stone architecture. Exploring the site while focusing on its stone construction techniques might offer a fascinating experience.
Every year, a festival is held on the night of the full moon in April. Located about 65 kilometers south of Savannakhet, it’s recommended to join a sightseeing tour from the city center.

5. Sainte Thérèse Church

Located in the heart of Savannakhet, Sainte Thérèse Church is undoubtedly a symbol of the city. The area surrounding the church features Western-style buildings that reflect the influence of the French colonial era, making a simple stroll through the neighborhood feel like a sightseeing experience in itself.
Every Sunday, many people come to attend worship services, and the church takes on a solemn atmosphere. However, during other times, visitors are welcome to enter the chapel. Why not take a moment to calm your mind while basking in the warm light streaming through the stained-glass windows?
In the evening, a night market opens in the square in front of the church. It’s a popular spot with both locals and tourists, so be sure to enjoy the nighttime charm of Savannakhet!

◎ Summary

What did you think of these 5 recommended tourist spots in Savannakhet?
Many travelers might just pass through Savannakhet during a brief stay as a stopover between Vietnam and Thailand or along a Laos north-south route. However, the city itself is full of attractive places to explore.
The streets are wide and easy to walk, and even just strolling or cycling while admiring the colonial-style architecture gives a unique, exotic travel experience.
If you’re traveling in Laos, make sure to include a visit to Savannakhet on your itinerary!

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5 Tourist Spots in the Border City of Savannakhet to Discover Nature and History!