Attapeu - General Information

Located : Southernmost province bordering Vietnam and Cambodia
Total Area: 10,320 square meters
Population: 110,000
05 District: Samakkixay, Xaysetha, , Sanamxay, Sanxay and Phouvong
Capital: Samakkixay
Transportation: by Route 13 (south), Vientiane-Pakse-Pakxong-Attapeu = 985 kilometers
Attapeu Province is located on the southeastern tip of Laos and formed part of the Lane Xang Kingdom during the reign of King Saysethathirath. Before that it was called “IDKABUE” (means buffalo dropping) because of the wild buffaloes living in this territory. The French translated this into “Attapeu” during the time of French administration. During the war against the imperialists, Attapeu became the base for National Liberation. During this time it was totally destroyed. It was liberated on April 28, 1970. Remnants from the war are evident in the Province, Particularly in the eastern part along the Ho Chi Minh Road. After the National Liberation, Attapeu became known as the “The land of the Heroism”. The level of socio-economic development has gradually improved since National Liberation.
As it is home to many diverse ethnic minorities, it is well worth visiting. The early morning market is a great place to see ethnic minorities, who come to sell their product. Most of the population in Attapeu is comprised of upland minority groups. There are 15 major tribes in the area, including Lao, Alak, Katang, Kaleum, Katou, Suay, Oy, Taoy, Sadang, Nge, Lavea, Lavenh, Cheuang, Tariang and Nyaheung. Treks and excursions to local hill tribe villages are easy to arrange and highly recommended. It is also possible to go on long jungle treks.