Small and entirely community-based (own initiative with little help from outside) conservation and nature tourism project. "Nong Nok" ('bird lake') is a creek that was converted into a small reservoir (60 hectares) through a dam in order to raise fish. This lake was quickly adopted by wetland birds (egrets, more than 800 individuals) and whistling ducks (1200 individuals) and others like Jacana etc. Water level varies with season. The villagers realized that the birds are fertilizing the pond thus stopped hunting and even actively protecting them.

One can walk around the lake. On the back side is a nice little forest. Very simple facilities for camping or over-night stay are available. Very friendly people! Easy to reach from Vientiane. Good for a one-day trip, if vehicle available. The last seven km dirt road may be difficult to pass after heavy rains.

How to go there:

From Vientiane Road No.13 (south). Go straight at km 12 (Rd. No. 10 then), where the main road turns sharp to the right. This is the alternative road leading to the Nam Ngum reservoir via Thangon bridge). At km 56 turn left into a small dirt road (no signs! A "restaurant " and a school at the corner). Follow that road, which turns after 3 km sharp to the right and after another 3 km to the left (watch out for a unique Buddha statue on school grounds) for about 7 km to reach Ban Sivilay. To see "Nong Nok", go another km beyond the village.

Note : Ban Sivilay may be visited in one day from Vientiane , if someone has a car and is in the hurry, since the access to both is via the same road.