Last Updated on August 13, 2026 by Sarah Wilson
Viang Veng is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit in Laos. In Viang Veng, life is slower. This was the scene about 30 meters from the guesthouse I stayed in. These traditional fishermen use bait thrown on top of the water and lot of patience to lift small fish out of the river using net poles. I had to tromp through mud halfway to my knees and endure the laughter of a few boatmen on the shore to get the shots but I think it was worth it.
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Located on the Nam Song River in Northern Laos, Viang Veng is famous for its exotic scenery and water sports. After many years of infamy as a place where boorish, bratty backpackers would go to get wasted and behave badly in public — oblivious to the sensibilities of the locals — Viang Veng has returned to its roots. It is still a very fun, if more laid back place now.