© WWF-Laos
XEPIAN NATIONAL PARK
XEPIAN PRIORITY SITE OVERVIEW

© WWF-Laos

Xepian National Protected Area, spanning 258,634 hectares of lush forest in Champasak and Attapeu provinces, is a jewel of natural beauty and ecological diversity in southern Laos. It is one of the country's most important conservation areas and a key part of a global eco-region, connected to Virachay National Park in Cambodia.
 

The park includes the internationally recognized Ramsar site, Beung Kiat Ngong, which hosts valuable wetland complexes and supports diverse water bird and aquatic species. Xepian is home to over 300 bird species, the highest recorded in any protected area in Laos, with around seven species endemic to this landscape. Nearly 70 local communities live in and around the park.

© WWF-Laos

Working Together in Xepian: Key Activities

  • Land-use planning and zoning for sustainable landscape management

  • Promotion of agroforestry and sustainable farming practices

  • Livelihood improvement through nature-based and climate-resilient options

  • Forest restoration and enrichment planting in degraded areas

  • Community awareness raising on forest and wildlife conservation

  • Capacity building for local authorities and knowledge sharing with forest-dependent communities

  • Development of forest management plans and deforestation monitoring systems

© WWF-Laos

Our Vision for Xepian

Xepian National Park is one of the most ecologically important forest landscapes in Laos, home to rich biodiversity, endangered species, and a variety of critical habitats, including wetlands recognized under the Ramsar Convention. Its future lies in strengthened park governance, sustainable financing through a dedicated trust fund, and meaningful collaboration with local communities.

 

By improving co-management systems and supporting the long-term protection of its forests and ecosystems, Xepian can continue to deliver lasting benefits for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem resilience, and the well-being of people who depend on its resources.

Latest: Any updates on Xepian will appear here – stay tuned.
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