Where the canopy meets the river
In northern Laos, Nam Kat Yorla Pa sits in protected forest beside the Nam Kat River, with forest-facing cottages, an open-air pool, spa, canopy bridges, ziplining and locally sourced dining.
Set in Oudomxay’s rainforest, cottages and suites open to bamboo and water, so mornings begin with birdsong and mist rising from the trees. Paths lead straight from the door to forest trails, treetop bridges and viewpoints around the Nam Kat waterfall. The design is contemporary Lao — timber, stone and handwoven textiles — with generous windows that frame the greenery.
Days are shaped by the outdoors. Swim in the pool, unroll a mat on the open-air yoga deck or stretch out in the sauna after a traditional Lao massage. If you want more movement, there’s an outdoor gym, guided treks and quiet cycling through bamboo alleys and village lanes. Evenings settle into the sounds of the river and the forest.
Dining keeps things local and seasonal, with herbs, vegetables and rice drawn from the on-site garden and nearby producers. Expect Lao staples alongside lighter international dishes, unhurried breakfasts on the terrace and relaxed dinners as the forest darkens. Coffee and fresh fruit appear between outings; picnics by the river can be arranged.
NAM KAT YORLA PA
At a Glance
- Forest and river setting in Oudomxay, northern Laos
- Cottages, suites and a riverfront private pool villa, most with balconies or terraces
- Outdoor swimming pool, spa with sauna, open-air yoga deck and outdoor gym
- Easy access to forest trails, canopy bridges and waterfall viewpoint
For Leisure and Pleasure
- Canopy walks — treetop bridges through bamboo and old-growth forest to the Nam Kat waterfall
- Ziplining — multiple lines over river and canopy, guided and graded by confidence level
- Waterfall adventures — seasonal abseiling and river-based activities with full guiding
- Trekking & cycling — guided routes along ridgelines and through Khmu and Hmong communities
- Slow time — riverbank picnics, poolside hours and restorative spa sessions between outings
Planning my first solo trip felt like a big step, but The Ultimate Travel Company made it easy from the outset. I reached out over a year in advance, and Rob Kent quickly put together a thoughtful itinerary based on exactly what I was looking for, securing great flights and always being available to talk things through. Everything ran smoothly and I felt looked after every step of the way. The accommodation in Japan, Fiji and Tahiti was excellent and the experiences unforgettable.
We’ve been using Ultimate Travel for many years and have always experienced first-class, friendly, and professional service. Catherine has been our go-to person in recent years, and her exceptional support has made every trip trouble-free. Our holidays with AmaWaterways have been seamless, and we’re truly grateful to Catherine for making it all possible.
