Khone Phapheng Falls, Waterfall system in Champasak Province, Laos
Khone Phapheng Falls form a cascade across the Mekong that spreads over multiple tiers and reaches a height of 21 meters (69 feet). The water crashes over broad rock formations, creating clouds of mist and a constant roar from the current.
The falls blocked upstream navigation for centuries and forced traders to carry goods overland. The French attempted to build railway tracks along the river during colonial times to bypass them.
Fishermen from the area still use woven bamboo traps secured between the rocks to harvest from the river. Visitors often see bamboo structures extending over the water, which serve as fishing platforms during the season.
Platforms on both banks offer different vantage points, with the southern side closer to the main cascades. The best views occur during the rainy season when water levels rise and the cascades appear stronger.
The falls create such powerful whirlpools and currents that they make the river impassable for large vessels and form a natural limit to navigation. Locals know spots between the rocks where the water forms calm pools despite the force.
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