Xayaburi Dam

The Xayaburi Dam is the first major hydroelectric power project on the lower Mekong mainstream in Laos, representing a significant shift in the region's energy landscape. Located in Sainyabuli Province, the plant has an installed capacity of 1,285 megawatts, making it one of the largest power generators in the country. Construction commenced in 2012 and faced substantial opposition from downstream neighbors Cambodia and Vietnam, as well as international environmental groups, over concerns about fish migration and sediment flow. To address these issues, the project incorporated hundreds of millions of dollars in additional design features, such as sophisticated fish ladders and sediment sluices. Since becoming fully operational in October 2019, the dam has been providing electricity primarily to the Thai national grid under a long-term purchase agreement. The dam structure measures 810 meters in length and 32 meters in height and was developed largely with Thai investment. While it is a key component of Laos' economic development strategy, the Xayaburi Dam remains at the center of a global debate regarding the ecological sustainability of the Mekong River.

Nearby cities

Xaisomboun

Xaisomboun, also known as Anouvong, is the capital of the youngest province in Laos.

Sainyabuli

Sainyabuli is the capital of the province of the same name.

Muang Xay

Muang Xay is the most important transport hub in northern Laos.

Kasi

Kasi is a small town on Route 13 between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.

Pak Lay

Pak Lay is a town on the Mekong in Sainyabuli Province.

Boun Neua

Boun Neua is located in Phongsaly Province and is an important trading center for local hill tribes.

Sangkhom

A peaceful riverside town on the Mekong, known for its stunning river views, misty hills, and the skywalk at Wat Pha Tak Suea.

Luang Namtha

Luang Namtha is an important center for ecotourism in Laos.

Phongsaly

Phongsaly is the northernmost provincial capital in Laos.

Phonhong

Phonhong is the administrative center of Vientiane Province.

History & landmarks

Chiang Khan

Chiang Khan is a charming town on the banks of the Mekong River, famous for its traditional wooden houses and relaxed riverfront views.

Wat Mai

The largest and most richly decorated monastery in Luang Prabang, famous for its gilded reliefs on the front facade.

Pak Ou Caves

Sacred caves along the Mekong where thousands of small and large Buddha statues have been left by pilgrims.

Nature

Nam Song River

A picturesque river in Laos flowing through the stunning karst landscape surrounding the town of Vang Vieng, drawing tourists.

More places

Sayaboury Highlands

A mountainous region west of the Mekong, known for the Elephant Conservation Center and its rich teak forests.

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Hongsa Power Plant

The first and largest mine-mouth coal-fired power plant in Laos, significantly contributing to the country's energy supply and export cap…

Luang Prabang Range

A mountain range extending from Northern Thailand into Western Laos, forming the watershed between the Mekong and Nan rivers.

Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre

A rescue centre near the Kuang Si Falls that provides a safe and natural home for rescued Asiatic black bears.

Laos Buffalo Dairy

A socially responsible farm that produces cheese, ice cream, and yogurt from the milk of local water buffaloes.

Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden

The first botanical garden in Laos, dedicated to preserving the rich flora and ecological learning.

Luang Prabang SEZ

An economic center under development, aiming to bring light manufacturing and services to the historic and tourism-focused province.

Boten Specific Economic Zone

A rapidly growing trade and economic center on the border with China, serving as a major gateway for investments, tourism, and logistics.