Basic Information
- Chinese Name: 巴色
- Location: South of Laos
- Administrative Category: City
- Area: 126.5 km²
- Population: 80,944 (as of 2020)
- Population Density: 639.9/km²
- Main Religion: Theravada Buddhism
- Time Zone: UTC+7
- Famous Attractions: The Chinese Vat SopSé Temple; Wat Pha Bat; Friendship Supermart; Pakse Chinese Temple; Champasak Historical Heritage Museum
Geography
Pakse is a city located in the Champasak Province of southern Laos, along the Mekong River. It is situated on a flat plain that is surrounded by mountains and hills, including the Bolaven Plateau to the east and the Annamite Range to the west. The city is located at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Sedone River, which flows down from the Bolaven Plateau. The area surrounding Pakse is known for its natural beauty, including the waterfalls and coffee plantations of the Bolaven Plateau, the forests and mountains of the Annamite Range, and the islands and wetlands of the Mekong River. The region is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds and butterflies. Pakse is an important transportation hub in southern Laos, with an international airport and several major roads connecting it to other parts of the country and neighboring countries like Thailand and Cambodia.Climate
Pakse has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot and humid conditions throughout much of the year. There are two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season typically runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in July and August. During this time, the city experiences frequent rain showers and thunderstorms, and humidity levels are high. Temperatures during the wet season generally range from 23 to 32°C (73 to 90°F). The dry season runs from November to April, and is characterized by lower humidity levels and less rainfall. Temperatures during the dry season are typically higher, ranging from 25 to 35°C (77 to 95°F) in March and April, which are the hottest months of the year. Overall, Pakse has an average annual temperature of around 27°C (81°F). The city receives an average of 1,800 millimeters (70 inches) of rainfall per year, with the majority of the precipitation falling during the wet season.Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pakse depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Here are some things to consider:
- Weather: The dry season from November to April is generally considered the best time to visit Pakse in terms of weather, as there is less rainfall and temperatures are more moderate. However, keep in mind that temperatures can be quite hot in March and April, which may not be comfortable for everyone.
- Festivals: If you're interested in experiencing traditional festivals and cultural events, you may want to plan your visit around one of the major celebrations in Pakse. For example, the Boun Awk Phansa festival, which marks the end of Buddhist Lent, usually takes place in October, while the That Inhang Stupa festival, which celebrates the ancient stupa of the same name, usually takes place in February or March.
- Outdoor Activities: If you're planning on hiking, visiting waterfalls, or other outdoor activities, you may want to visit during the wet season from May to October, when the waterfalls are at their most impressive and the forests are lush and green. However, keep in mind that heavy rainfall can make some activities more challenging or even dangerous.