Paddling Down the Nam Tha River

Ease into a kayak and paddle down the province’s main artery, the Nam Tha River. You’ll stop at ethnic villages and tackle rapids, as the river winds through steep, tree-lined shores, while skirting the Nam Ha NPA.

A handful of Luang Namtha tour operators offer one- and two-day kayaking tours, each unique in its way, but all pass through the green-filled landscape. Of course, the longer you sign on for, the further you’ll go, the more villages you’ll visit, and the greater the choices you’ll have for spending the night.

Kayaking tours begin south of Luang Namtha Town with basic lessons, before entering the river with oars at the ready. The first stop is the Lanten village of Ban Sop Tod, where you can experience the people’s lifestyle and purchase their crafts.

The kayaking continues over the Tiger Leaping Rapids and through the thick forest to Ban Sop Sim, a Khmu villa ge where the Nam Ha River empties its waters into the Nam Tha. Some one-day tours end here with a ride back to town, while five-hour expeditions continue to Ban Houei Luat or Ban Hat Yawng.

Those on a two-day program can overnight at a forest camp, homestay at Hat Yawng or Houei Luat, or a community lodge in Ban Sop Sim. The second-day continues downriver to Ban Sin Oudom and returns to Luang Namtha by motorboat or pickup truck.

Consider an Adventure Season (June-October) kayaking tour when the river is high and the whitewater presents a greater test.