Pha Ngern View Point
Pha Ngern View Point
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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KJS
Bredbury, UK202 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
A 40 minute hike up a mountain and you get to see the views over the countryside of Vang Vieng. Google maps actually took us past this place and it did state “Pha Ngern Silver Mountain Viewpoint” so we weren’t actually sure if we were doing the right one, however after looking at pics it appears we did. 10,000 Kip per person for entry, free parking. Railings to hold on to on the way up. Very rocky so definitely wear appropriate footwear.
Written February 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ray C
30 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Such an enjoyable trek, saw only 6 people so felt secluded and not touristy. Not an easy hike but definitely manageable with good footwear and there is a wooden handrail most of the way. View at the top is great with place to stop to sit down, take it in and take pictures. Highlight of Vang Vieng by far!
Written March 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
careergappers
Greater London, UK106 contributions
Apr 2018 • Solo
This is an excellent hike, but not an easy one. Here are my tips for getting the most out of it:
1. Agencies in town offer tours to hike Pha Ngern, but it's quite easy to save money and go independently. My hostel was charging 150,000 kip for a tour, and doing it on my own I only spent 14,000 kip. Doing it solo does mean you need to walk the 3 kilometres or so from Vang Vieng town to the starting point. On the way there is a bridge which you have to pay 4,000 kip to return on foot, and then there is a 10,000 kip entry fee to the mountain hike.
2. Bring PLENTY of water. Due to logistical circumstances I did the hike at the hottest time of the day. I took two 1.5 litre bottles, and by the time I reached the first viewpoint I was getting low. There is a shop at the viewpoint, but it costs 10,000 kip for one small bottle of water.
3. Wear suitable shoes. The terrain is ok but quite rocky and dusty in places, and it's easy to slip. If possible wear walking shoes, if not, at least trainers. I wouldn't try it in flip flops.
4. I went in the afternoon, but it's a much better idea to go early in the morning. The temperature will be much better for the strenuous climb, and if you go early then there will be less tourists around.
5. There are two viewpoints. The first has a great panaoramic view of the area, and that was enough for me - I didn't do the next 450m up to the top. Most people I passed on the way did the same. I would only really recommend the top viewpoint if you're physically fit and have some hiking experience.
6. On timing: I would say to allow 45 minutes to an hour to get to the first viewpoint, and about the same again up to the top if you're doing that. It's possible to do it quicker, but it's advisable to take plenty of breaks to rest on the way.
7. Go to the loo before you go - there are no toilets on the way up.
8. I did the hike alone, but once I got started I realised that was a bad idea. Have a hiking partner(s). If you happen to meet some misfortune, slip or get injured, you might be stuck for a while before someone finds you.
This is a great way to see the beautiful area around Vang Vieng from above. As long as you're well prepared and aware of the challenge, it's a fantastic experience.
1. Agencies in town offer tours to hike Pha Ngern, but it's quite easy to save money and go independently. My hostel was charging 150,000 kip for a tour, and doing it on my own I only spent 14,000 kip. Doing it solo does mean you need to walk the 3 kilometres or so from Vang Vieng town to the starting point. On the way there is a bridge which you have to pay 4,000 kip to return on foot, and then there is a 10,000 kip entry fee to the mountain hike.
2. Bring PLENTY of water. Due to logistical circumstances I did the hike at the hottest time of the day. I took two 1.5 litre bottles, and by the time I reached the first viewpoint I was getting low. There is a shop at the viewpoint, but it costs 10,000 kip for one small bottle of water.
3. Wear suitable shoes. The terrain is ok but quite rocky and dusty in places, and it's easy to slip. If possible wear walking shoes, if not, at least trainers. I wouldn't try it in flip flops.
4. I went in the afternoon, but it's a much better idea to go early in the morning. The temperature will be much better for the strenuous climb, and if you go early then there will be less tourists around.
5. There are two viewpoints. The first has a great panaoramic view of the area, and that was enough for me - I didn't do the next 450m up to the top. Most people I passed on the way did the same. I would only really recommend the top viewpoint if you're physically fit and have some hiking experience.
6. On timing: I would say to allow 45 minutes to an hour to get to the first viewpoint, and about the same again up to the top if you're doing that. It's possible to do it quicker, but it's advisable to take plenty of breaks to rest on the way.
7. Go to the loo before you go - there are no toilets on the way up.
8. I did the hike alone, but once I got started I realised that was a bad idea. Have a hiking partner(s). If you happen to meet some misfortune, slip or get injured, you might be stuck for a while before someone finds you.
This is a great way to see the beautiful area around Vang Vieng from above. As long as you're well prepared and aware of the challenge, it's a fantastic experience.
Written April 3, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danielle Y
Singapore, Singapore225 contributions
Jul 2019 • Couples
We only went to the first viewpoint. The climb was quite difficult for me, and I consider myself to be of average fitness (to put in perspective, I jog about thrice a week at 9-10km/hr). So do consider your fitness level before going.
The estimated time to reach the first viewpoint (as indicated at the park entrance) is 40mins. Took us about tht time or a lil more. It has been raining so the ground is wet and slippery. At the top 100m or so, you will be climbing rocks with the help of a rope. Going up is ok, but coming down was scary.
Bring about 1 litre of water per person to stay hydrated on your climb up. There's a stall selling drink at the viewpoint (not cheap, a can of coke cost 15k (equiv usd2). We still treated ourselves to a cold drink despite the price haha.
There's an entrance fee of 20k per pax. In terms of transport, we rented bicycle and cycled there. Costed us 25k for two bikes from 8am - 2pm (With some bargaining from 30k initial quote). Our bikes were not mountain bikes, and doesn't have gear. The path is quite easy to cycle so it well suffice. You can also rent motorbikes. I think it's best to make your own way there, else you need to pay the tuk tuk driver to wait for you too cos you won't be able to get any tuk tuk there. (and I noticed tht tuk tuk is not cheap in VV - A short 5 min ride will cost you 20k per pax)
Follow Google map. Generally, you just need to Cross the wooden bridge (for bicycle is 6000, if you're walking is 4000). And you will be cycling on a fairly straight path for less than 20 mins. You just need to turn when you see the sign. We followed most review to follow the sign for "big pha nergn view point".
All prices mentioned are in lao kips.
The estimated time to reach the first viewpoint (as indicated at the park entrance) is 40mins. Took us about tht time or a lil more. It has been raining so the ground is wet and slippery. At the top 100m or so, you will be climbing rocks with the help of a rope. Going up is ok, but coming down was scary.
Bring about 1 litre of water per person to stay hydrated on your climb up. There's a stall selling drink at the viewpoint (not cheap, a can of coke cost 15k (equiv usd2). We still treated ourselves to a cold drink despite the price haha.
There's an entrance fee of 20k per pax. In terms of transport, we rented bicycle and cycled there. Costed us 25k for two bikes from 8am - 2pm (With some bargaining from 30k initial quote). Our bikes were not mountain bikes, and doesn't have gear. The path is quite easy to cycle so it well suffice. You can also rent motorbikes. I think it's best to make your own way there, else you need to pay the tuk tuk driver to wait for you too cos you won't be able to get any tuk tuk there. (and I noticed tht tuk tuk is not cheap in VV - A short 5 min ride will cost you 20k per pax)
Follow Google map. Generally, you just need to Cross the wooden bridge (for bicycle is 6000, if you're walking is 4000). And you will be cycling on a fairly straight path for less than 20 mins. You just need to turn when you see the sign. We followed most review to follow the sign for "big pha nergn view point".
All prices mentioned are in lao kips.
Written July 30, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
galacticnick
Singapore, Singapore95 contributions
Dec 2018
I wouldn’t have known about Pha Ngern Viewpoint had I not casually asked the staff at Restaurant du Crabe D’or what’s on the other side of the toll bridge.
“Blue Lagoon... Pha Ngern for views of Vang Vieng...”
Pha Ngern sounds interesting.
I set off early the next morning after breakfast and walked (strolled, actually) about an hour to the viewpoint. Google Maps is your good friend. There are quite a few viewpoints (caves and lagoons) along the way, one of which even has a similar sounding name. Don’t be distracted. Just look out for Pha Ngern Primary School (by the main road) as you approach the pin drop on Google Maps, turn right into the village and follow the trail, which leads you to the start of your climb.
Pay the entrance fee of 10,000 kip and up you go.
While it isn’t a walk in the park, it isn’t a difficult climb either. There are a lot of rocks, tree trunks and ropes to hold on to while you make your steep ascent (and descent later). It took me 30 minutes to go up to the higher/better (of the two viewpoints) and 40 minutes to go down. You may take a shorter or longer time depending on your level of fitness and agility. Just take it slow and be careful. Shoes are a must, but wear an old pair of trainers that you plan on discarding at the end of the trip. I’m glad I did. Mine came apart after the visit.
If the weather had been better (overcast skies seem to be following me through Laos), I would have enjoyed the view more. That said, it isn’t bad at all.
“Blue Lagoon... Pha Ngern for views of Vang Vieng...”
Pha Ngern sounds interesting.
I set off early the next morning after breakfast and walked (strolled, actually) about an hour to the viewpoint. Google Maps is your good friend. There are quite a few viewpoints (caves and lagoons) along the way, one of which even has a similar sounding name. Don’t be distracted. Just look out for Pha Ngern Primary School (by the main road) as you approach the pin drop on Google Maps, turn right into the village and follow the trail, which leads you to the start of your climb.
Pay the entrance fee of 10,000 kip and up you go.
While it isn’t a walk in the park, it isn’t a difficult climb either. There are a lot of rocks, tree trunks and ropes to hold on to while you make your steep ascent (and descent later). It took me 30 minutes to go up to the higher/better (of the two viewpoints) and 40 minutes to go down. You may take a shorter or longer time depending on your level of fitness and agility. Just take it slow and be careful. Shoes are a must, but wear an old pair of trainers that you plan on discarding at the end of the trip. I’m glad I did. Mine came apart after the visit.
If the weather had been better (overcast skies seem to be following me through Laos), I would have enjoyed the view more. That said, it isn’t bad at all.
Written December 12, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arrin Shiro
Singapore, Singapore20 contributions
Nov 2018 • Solo
A nice and very challenging trek for people looking for a challenge, for me i took around 90 minutes to reach the top and 2 hours to get down. (i'm already in my forties).
For starters,
This can be done without a tour guide or group. (but remember that if without a guide, you have to be extra careful as if there is any mishaps, you are on your own.)
For me i did it solo without any group or guides. Also i went in the morning around 9 am. So there are no one climbing up when i was there, occasionally you see 1 or 2 that is climbing or descending the trail.
Clothing
long sleeves are recommended due to some areas with very steep slopes. you can use the the ropes in some places are a leverage to get you up and more importantly to secure yourself by wrapping the rope around your arms. so the sleeves will come in handy. (in case you slip and get a rope burn)
long pants for people who get lots of bug bites, i did it with berms since they are comfy and more airy.
tight fitting footwear and good sole grips are the best since the rocks and steps can be slippery.
optional a face/head mask to protect your neck and ears from buzzing insects
I rented a mountain bike (20000kip) and cycled for 20mins past the nam song bridge (6000 kip), cycle along the path that goes to the blue lagoon 1 and soon you see some buggy cars rental areas and you see some big signboards.
there are a couple of places that you can reach the various viewpoints in the area. for me i went to the one that states visit "We Went Big Phangern" in my photos.
just cycle more and buy a entrance ticket for 10000 kip. park and lock my bicyle up.
bought a Pepsi which cost 10000 kip
trek wise just look at my photos you get the idea.
but there is 1 spot in the middle of the way which can be a nice rest spot since there's a cave like formation and there's wind keeps flowing out. i took a nice rest there before going up more.
the paths to the view points are different, the paths are not mud, steps and trees but just purely rock formations which makes its tough and at some places elevation could be around 60-70 degrees. but once you reach it, view is nice, there's a small little hut which you can rest there, vendor selling snacks and drinks. ( ice cold cokes are at 15000 kip but you still pay for it XD )
Took a long break there and before attempting to climb up further, i found that my knees are beginning to buckle and twitch a lot so i know i can't go up further but i need to head down. if you are facing the same problem as me, i suggest that you head down slowly and take a lot of breaks along the way since the twitching in the legs may cause you to lose your foothold when descending.
in total i spend around more than half a day doing this activity (9am start - 3pm reach hotel)
I will like to try the higher viewpoint on my next trek there.
For starters,
This can be done without a tour guide or group. (but remember that if without a guide, you have to be extra careful as if there is any mishaps, you are on your own.)
For me i did it solo without any group or guides. Also i went in the morning around 9 am. So there are no one climbing up when i was there, occasionally you see 1 or 2 that is climbing or descending the trail.
Clothing
long sleeves are recommended due to some areas with very steep slopes. you can use the the ropes in some places are a leverage to get you up and more importantly to secure yourself by wrapping the rope around your arms. so the sleeves will come in handy. (in case you slip and get a rope burn)
long pants for people who get lots of bug bites, i did it with berms since they are comfy and more airy.
tight fitting footwear and good sole grips are the best since the rocks and steps can be slippery.
optional a face/head mask to protect your neck and ears from buzzing insects
I rented a mountain bike (20000kip) and cycled for 20mins past the nam song bridge (6000 kip), cycle along the path that goes to the blue lagoon 1 and soon you see some buggy cars rental areas and you see some big signboards.
there are a couple of places that you can reach the various viewpoints in the area. for me i went to the one that states visit "We Went Big Phangern" in my photos.
just cycle more and buy a entrance ticket for 10000 kip. park and lock my bicyle up.
bought a Pepsi which cost 10000 kip
trek wise just look at my photos you get the idea.
but there is 1 spot in the middle of the way which can be a nice rest spot since there's a cave like formation and there's wind keeps flowing out. i took a nice rest there before going up more.
the paths to the view points are different, the paths are not mud, steps and trees but just purely rock formations which makes its tough and at some places elevation could be around 60-70 degrees. but once you reach it, view is nice, there's a small little hut which you can rest there, vendor selling snacks and drinks. ( ice cold cokes are at 15000 kip but you still pay for it XD )
Took a long break there and before attempting to climb up further, i found that my knees are beginning to buckle and twitch a lot so i know i can't go up further but i need to head down. if you are facing the same problem as me, i suggest that you head down slowly and take a lot of breaks along the way since the twitching in the legs may cause you to lose your foothold when descending.
in total i spend around more than half a day doing this activity (9am start - 3pm reach hotel)
I will like to try the higher viewpoint on my next trek there.
Written November 9, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jojoA6663NT
Singapore, Singapore5 contributions
Oct 2018 • Friends
I am an extremely unfit person but I read the reviews here and thought that I should try but it was hard. I managed to climb up in 90 minutes and the climb down took 2 hours. There was heavy rain the night before and the soil was loose. So the climb down was painful because I was slipping and there was nothing to hold on to except the full occasional tree trunks. The way to the top 2 spots were very hard at one point. There were only rocks, and definitely, nothing to hold on to. I was able to make it up even though I was unfit... but it took all the strength I had. Would strongly advise that you think carefully about going up. The view is nice and if you love a challenge, it's worth a try but wear proper shoes to protect your feet and also long pants because there're lots of bugs and you won't get cuts from pointy rocks. Do it when it's bright... it's too unsafe to walk in the dark and this is the time of the year when the sun sets early.
Written October 18, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cassandra C
49 contributions
Jul 2018 • Solo
Although difficult, this hike is 100% worth it and a must do in Vang Vieng. It was probably my favourite part of my time here. You can walk, cycle or ride a motorbike out to the start of the hike (about 4-5 km from town). I chose to cycle and it took about 30 min on the paved and flat road. The views along the way are lovely. The way to the start of the hike is well marked and would be hard to miss. You have to pay 10,000 kip to hike and pay to cross the bridge in town as well (6,000 kip on bike). At the start of the hike there were a bunch of walking sticks. Take one! The hike is pretty strenuous and steep and the heat does not help. I am in moderate shape and it was challenging and I took lots of breaks. It took about a little more than an hour on the way up. I thought the view from the second viewpoint was the best, but you’re so close to the top, you might as well go to the top. On the way back down it took about 40 min. It had rained the day before and the path was very muddy and slippery. I would not recommend doing this in the dark so make sure to head down before sunset. Also, running shoes are a must and bring at least 1.5 L of water. Although others said there were people selling water at the top, this was not the case when I was there. Lastly, I did the hike alone. Although it was fine and safe, there were not many people doing the hike at the same time as me and coming down I was the last one and a bit apprehensive if I was to slip and hurt myself. Definitely do not do this hike alone in the dark or right after it has rained (same day as rain). Amazing views and a really fun but challenging hike!
Written July 4, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mhazza
50 contributions
Oct 2019 • Couples
It’s 30-40 minutes of uphill to the top, often steep and over rocks. There were hand railings the whole way up and it felt relatively safe (although I imagine it could get quite muddy after rain). Certainly don’t risk it in the dark though! Once you reach the top there are several viewing platforms which provide incredible views of the surrounding limestone karsts and patchwork of rice fields. It’s not far out of town but we hired a tuk tuk to avoid getting lost
Written October 13, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andre A
Sao Paulo, SP80 contributions
Oct 2019 • Solo
I didn’t get to the top but I felt quite uncomfortable because there wasn’t signs pointing to it and the paths were bad. You have to pay ten thousands kip to enter it and it is something like 30 minutes to the “almost top” (650 meters)
Written October 11, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wie hoch ist denn der Pha Ngern View Point exakt?
Vielen Dank im voraus
Alex Roscioli
Written March 22, 2019
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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