Notes on the Geography of Laos: HouayxayHouayxai, variously transliterated, is the Laotian port of entry for travellers coming from Chiang Rai, Thailand. We're heading downstream on the Mekong. Make default image size larger ![]() A simple ferry crosses the Mekong from Chiang Khong on the Thai side. The immigration office is on the river, and a block uphill is this main street. ![]() Looking the other way. The taller white building, with the satellite dish, is a hotel. ![]() The Wat Jawn Khao looks down on the street. The stairs are flanked by rippling nagas or serpents. ![]() At the bottom of the stairs, the serpents are fed. ![]() So are the monks who come down the long flight. ![]() The temple itself. ![]() Nearby drums, protected from the rain. ![]() The path up the back side of the hill is less formal. ![]() Roadcuts reveal hard laterite. ![]() From the top of a nearby hill one can see Thailand, the Mekong, and the roofs of Houayxai. ![]() So did French eyes 50 years ago, when they were stationed at Fort Carnot, atop the hill. ![]() Sharp eyes may detect the word "honneur" near the top. |
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