Luang Namtha (Luang Nam Tha) (Lao: ມ. ຫລວງນໍ້າທາ) is a district as well as the capital of Luang Namtha Province in northern Laos. The city lies on the Tha River (Nam Tha). Luang Namtha is a popular tourist destination, and a base for treks, biking to the surrounding hill tribe villages. The Luang Namtha Museum is in the town.

History

From January through May 1962, troops from the Royal Lao Army (RLA) fought the Pathet Lao and People's Army of Vietnam in the Battle of Luang Namtha. The battle ended with the RLA's headlong retreat southward 150 kilometers across the Mekong River.

Climate

Transport

Waterway

In the rainy season, Luang Namtha can be reached by boat from the Mekong River.

Road

It is connected by Highway 3 to both the Thai border at Houayxay-Chiang Khong (197 km), the Chinese border at Boten-Mengla County (60 km), and the Burmese border at Xieng Kok-Kenglat.

Air

Luang Namtha is also served by Louang Namtha Airport, 6 km south of the city.

Rail

It has 2 railway stations which served by Boten-Vientiane railway: Nateuy railway station at Nateuy and Boten railway station at Boten.

Gallery