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Xe Pian NPA in Champassak and Attapeu provinces stretches east from the Mekong plain and south to the border with Cambodia covering 240,000 hectares. This huge, remote National Protected Area (NPA), with large undisturbed landscapes, is vital for biodiversity conservation. Xe Pian is unique in its habitat variety - at least 29 different ecosystem types provide a prime setting for rich and varied wildlife including globally endangered species of birds and mammals. The NPA contains ecologically important clear water rivers and streams with perennial deep pools as well as unique wetland habitats. For biodiversity, Xe Pian ranks in the top 3 Lao NPAs and in the top 10 in Southeast Asia.
It is easy to get to Xe Pian from Pakse and the southern Mekong. Xe Pian is a haven for bird watching in and around the wetlands. Visitors who want to explore this outstanding area can also enjoy treks, elephant rides and homestays operated by local villages. There is a fascinating cultural history to be discovered, including rural Lao Loum traditions, elephant mahout culture and historic sites.
Status
Established by PM Decree 164, 29 October 1993
Provinces
Champassak (Phathoumphon & Kong Districts)
Attapeu (Sanamxai District)
Area & Perimeter
2.400 km2
Perimeter of 360 km
Physical Features
The terrain is hilly and low with extensive areas of flat lands in the east and south at an altitude of 150 - 300 m with two higher mountainous up to 844 m in the central main block. The Xe Kong plains in the east are dissected by three main rivers - the Xe Pian, Xe Khampho and Xe Kong - and contains numerous mainly seasonal wetlands. Drainage is largely south to Cambodia and north to the northern wetlands.
| Watershed Values |
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| Three major watersheds: |
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Northeastern part of Xe Pian NPA, encompassing Xe Pian river, which enters into the Xe Kong, and its main tributary Xe Khampho. Xe Khampho itself has a lot of tributaries originating in Xe Pian NPA, the biggest of which is the Huoay Tauang.
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Western part of Xe Pian NPA, where many small streams originate, which run westwards to the Mekong.
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In the south there is the watershed of the Huoay Kaliang, where we find the highest biodiversity with respect to big mammals like Gaur, Banteng, Kouprey and Elephant, as well as birds like Green Peafowl and Giant Ibis.
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Endangered Species
Surveys in Xe Pian have documented many endangered species, including at least 13 globally and 12 regionally threatened mammals. Gaur, sun bear, Asiatic black bear and yellow-cheecked crested gibbon are present, with the Xe Pian-Dong Hua Sao NPA gibbon population of major global conservation significance. Tiger, Asian elephant, banteng and Irrawaddy dolphin are classified as Acute National Conservation Priority. For the diverse bat species it is an important refuge. Xe Pian protects significant biodiversity, with 44 recorded species of reptiles and 21 species of amphibians, including endangered freshwater crocodiles and monitor lizards, reticulated python and king cobra.
Lao PDR National Protected Area Network
The Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR or Laos) is home to the most abundant and intact ecosystems in the Indochina Peninsula. Laos embraces four of the Global 200 Eco-regions, the richest, rarest, and most distinct examples of the Earth's diverse natural habitats, which are critical for biodiversity conservation and global sustainability.
To help protect this stunning natural beauty the Lao government has designated a National Protected Area (NPA) network to conserve all key habitats and ecosystems. This network of 20 NPAs covering 14% of the country is recognised as one of the best designed in the world.
To gain a real insight into the heart of Laos you can visit NPAs from the north to the south of the country, discovering diverse habitats and lifestyles in areas ranging from mountain peaks to wetland plains. Your visit will contribute to the conservation of unique ecosystems and traditions that have shaped Laos over generations.
For a map of Lao National Protected Area System click here
For an interactive ecotourism map of the Lao National Protected Area click here
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