Houaphan is a province of Laos, located in the east of the country. The province is home to the Viengxay caves, an extensive network of caves used by the Pathet Lao, and the Hintang Archeological Park, one of the most important pre-historic sites in northern Laos. Houaphan is one of the poorest areas of Laos, but home to spectacular scenery and fine textile traditions. Textiles from this region are recognised to be among the finest in Asia.