KUANG SI FALLS

The Kuang Si Falls, sometimes spelled Kuang Xi or known as Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls, is a three tier waterfall about 29 kilometres (18 mi) south of Luang Prabang. These waterfalls are a favourite side trip for tourists in Luang Prabang. The falls begin in shallow pools atop a steep hillside. These lead to the main fall with a 60 metres (200 ft)cascade. The falls are accessed via a trail to a left of the falls. The water collects in numerous turquoise blue pools as it flows downstream. The many cascades that result are typical of travertine waterfalls.

The Falls

To enter the Kuang Si Park everyone must pay an entry fee (20,000kip). 
From the entry you can walk through a forested area where there are enclosures housing Asian black bears rescued from poachers.

At the very bottom of the falls there are several blue pools of water and small cascades (3-5 metres high); some of the falls are multi-tiered. Most of the pools are open for swimming (one is closed as being a sacred site) though the water is a bit cold because this area is shaded by big trees. This makes the falls a popular cool-off place among locals and tourists alike during the hot season.

There are small wooden huts to change in. Picnic benches are also available all around the park. The whole park area is shaded and cool that makes it perfect for a relaxing family outing and picnic. Sitting under the shade watching children swimming or jumping up and down in the pools can be relaxing and enjoyable. Jumping in the pool yourself can be fun too. 

The site is well maintained with walkways and bridges to guide the visitors. 
There are also trails to climb to the top of the falls where there are more natural pools for swimming.  The trails are steep and can be extremely slippery, especially in rainy season…so you’ll need proper shoes to climb to the top, but the climb is well worth the effort. However it not suitable for unfit people or small children. Don’t forget to take a bottle of water with you; I’m sure you’ll need it.

If you climb up to the top at the left hand side (of the entrance) trails you’ll arrive at a huge and very impressive pool and its source. At the top you actually cross the top of the falls and this is a great place to get a good view down.

If you want to recharge your energy after exhausting yourself exploring the trails or swimming, there are many stalls selling food and drinks near the picnic area at the entrance to the falls.

The Bear Rescue Center

Rather than taking the asphalt road to the top section of the Kuang Si Falls, take the signed trail that veers off to the right for better scenery and a chance to see the bears lounging around their enclosure at the bear rescue center. The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre began in 2003 to house bears that were rescued from the illegal pet and Chinese medicine trades.

Climbing the Falls

Starting from a trail to the right of the top tier of the waterfalls, it is possible to climb to the top of the falls. The trail is steep, slippery, and especially difficult in flip-flops. The view from the top is incredible and you can carefully wade in the shallow water literally to the edge of a potentially deadly drop.

Cross the viewing bridge to the right side of the falls to begin your climb.

Safety Around the Waterfalls

While swimming at the Kuang Si Falls is very popular, the current can get strong enough during the rainy season to sweep people down the cascades. Know your limitations, watch out for strong currents, and swim with others well away from the edges of each tier.

With so many people milling around, keeping an eye on your valuables while swimming can be a challenge. Keeping everything together in a waterproof bag works best.

The small fish that ferociously attack unsuspecting swimmers' feet are completely harmless; people pay for the same dead-skin removal at fish spas around Asia!

Read more about staying safe in Asia.
Learn about the weather in Laos.