"Thabok... goats on the road" Ban Thabok by picek

Thabok is small town by the Road 13 in Bolikhamxay province. It's close to wonderful Phou Khao Khouay NBCA and quite good starting point to explore the area.
For the Phou Khao area you need to turn left before Thabok - follow the sign - if you come by bycicle or car from Vientiane to the road towards Nam Leuk dam and waterfalls which is not paved.
The town of Thabok isn't that interesting itself... most of the houses stretch by the road and they have one small market where they sell local fish and forest animals like squirrels and forest chickens, edible flowers, snacks, fruits and other things for households and fun. People seem quite curious about tourists who visit their market and town; it's not really common destination despite its proximity to protected area.
There are few (local) restaurants by the road, 2 or 3 guesthouses, temples and Nam Mang river.

You can obtain good information on Phou Khao Khuay NBCA if you follow that link: http://www.trekkingcentrallaos.com/html/nationalpark.html. If you like to stay in the protected area overnight there are some families who offer home stays in some villages.