Mekong Inn

Top choice in Si Phan Don


This Lao-Canadian-owned spot a bit south of the centre is more upmarket than a typical guesthouse, but it's a very welcoming place. Rooms, which are solid and spacious with wonderful river views, are in two buildings, one of which fronts the pool. When we passed through they were conducting a Lao dancing class for the guests.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Si Phan Don attractions

1. Don Khong History Museum

0.18 MILES

When the local governor built this two-storey French colonial–style home in 1935, he was so proud of himself that he christened it Sathanavoudthi, which…

2. Muang Khong Market

0.72 MILES

This little morning market, full of both farmed and foraged foods, is a vibrant slice of island life.

3. Wat Jom Thong

0.78 MILES

At the northern end of Muang Khong is Wat Jom Thong, the oldest temple on the island, dating from the Chao Anou period (1805–28). The wihăhn (temple hall)…

4. Tham Phu Khiaw

1.5 MILES

Two kilometres north of Muang Khong a trail leads to Green Mountain Cave, a small, shallow shelter in the middle of the forest. It holds some fairly crude…

5. Ban Hin Siew Tai Palm Sugar Trees

3 MILES

Although sugar palms can be seen across the island, Ban Hin Siew Tai is southern Laos' sugar capital. Many farmers here climb the trees twice a day to…

6. Wat Phu Khao Kaew

4.34 MILES

About 6.5km northeast of Muang Saen, Wat Phu Khao Kaew was built on the site of some presumed pre-Khmer ruins, making it a holy spot for locals. Nothing…

7. Ban Khon Steam Locomotive

11.27 MILES

Rusting locomotives sit near each end of the main cross-island road, which follows the old railway route. Surrounding them are placards detailing the…

8. Wat Khon Tai

11.31 MILES

Don Khon's main Buddhist temple was built on the site of an ancient Khmer shrine. Hidden behind the old ordination hall, which is itself tucked away…