After covering a news event in Champassak province recently, I decided to take the opportunity to explore the area with my friend Mr Phonesavanh Chanthalangsy, who works at the Champassak District Tourist Information Centre.

Travelling during the rainy season means cheaper flights and accommodation is available as it is the tourist low season; the wet conditions also create opportunities for some unique photographs.

Champassak province is known for its beautiful waterfalls, including Khonphapheng, Somphamit (Li Phi), Tad Fane, Tad Yeuang, Tad Champee and Pha Suam waterfalls.

Other fascinating sites to visit in the province are the Vat Phou temple complex the World Heritage Site of Laos, and Siphandone.

My friends told me to visit the relatively unknown Phou Phae waterfall, located just 200 metres from Vat Phou temple in Champassak district.

Phou Phae waterfall is popular with local residents who often visit the site with family and friends, especially during the traditional festivals of Boun Khao Phan Sa (Buddhist Lent festival) and Boun Hor Khao Padap Din.

The name Phou Phae means ‘Broken Mountain' and was given to the site due to the numerous large rocks that the water tumbles over. The rocks look like they have fallen from the mountain and are plummeting down with the water. The waterfall does not frequently appear in guidebooks because it only has water during the wet season and can be dangerous due to the risk of flash floods.

We spent one and a half hours walking and scrambling on the slippery rocks around the waterfall, frequently stopping to take photos of the falling water, snails, crabs, wild flowers and amazing greenery.

At the base of the fall, the water tumbling 25 metres and crashing onto the rocks creates a thunderous roar and provides a refreshing spray.

Beautiful scenes are created by the spray as it generates a misty atmosphere and reflects the sunlit, forming glistening rainbows.

Those who want to visit Phou Phae waterfall can contact the Champassak District Tourist Information Centre and view photos at http://laorock.wordpress.com.

There are numerous amazing sites waiting to be discovered and taking a local guide with you means you can find the unknown and unique attractions that many do not get to see. Those who decide to travel during the rainy season would not be disappointed with the beautiful sites awaiting them on their journey.

By Phoonsab Thevongsa
Vientianetimes