Visiting an elephant village in Laos: Ban Khiet Ngon or Ban Papho?

Hi there,

We’re heading to Laos in February (2011) with two adults and a 5-year-old. While we’re in Champasak, we’d like to visit a village to see elephants. A few questions:

- The guidebook I was lent mentions two villages: Ban Khiet Ngon and Ban Papho. Has anyone visited these villages before? Which one would you recommend?

- Is it possible to do the trip from Champasak to the village, an elephant ride, and then the journey to Pakse all in the same day?

- What’s the best way to get around for these trips?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Hi,

Yes, of course it's possible. You need to go by boat, and I’d recommend Khiet Ngon.

Hi there, I was wondering if any of you have been to an elephant village like the one mentioned in your post? I’m finding very little info about it. We’re heading to Laos & Cambodia soon, so if you’ve got any great tips for guesthouses, nice stops, etc., we’d really appreciate it. Thanks in advance! Thierry

Hi Thierry,

Well, I went to both places this year. At Khiet Ngong, there are quite a few elephants and organized treks. To visit a Khmer site, the accommodation is very expensive, but it’s really beautiful—it has a bit of an African savanna vibe. You can also stay with locals, which is much more affordable!! The tourist office organizes treks as well.

Personally, I preferred Ban Papho, staying with Mr. Bounhomme, a retired pharmacist who rents out a great mountain bike for exploring the trails and nearby villages. An elephant ride is possible with a local mahout who really cares for his elephant. You can still visit the Khmer site with the Khiet Ngong tourist office on elephant back.

Wishing you an amazing trip!! ;)

Hi there, I personally tried Ban Khiet Ngong again (first time was in 2000). The accommodation at King Fisher Lodge is pricey for those amazing stilt bungalows, but you can also stay with a local family. For elephant rides, there are different routes, including one that takes you to the top of a hill to see the ruins of a temple of unknown origin. You can also take lessons to learn how to ride the elephant yourself—that’s so cool! But you’ll need at least a full day: lessons in the morning and the ride in the afternoon. The animals belong to the villagers and are well-treated, monitored by the lodge and the village promotion organization. Have a great trip! Eric

I’ve been to Ban PhaPho several times with a group of teens. Here’s the link to our visit: https://diabolomenthe-cambodge2011.over-blog.com/article-notre-sejour-a-ban-pha-pho-79929264.html