The halfway point on the Mekong, Pakbeng sits midway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang. As the Mekong was once the only major transport route in the country, Pakbeng developed as an overnight stop for both cargo and passenger ferries. As this route down the Mekong is so spectacular, it remains a popular transport route, and Pakbeng is flourishing.
(http://www.travelfish.org/location/laos/northern_laos/udomxai/pakbeng)