Tourist Destinations in Laos

Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, has a population of just over half a million. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is the centre of Lao culture, commerce and administration.

Major attractions are Buddhist monasteries and monuments that dominate the streets of central Vientiane.

It's a small city and easy to get around with pleasant streets in the central area and an easy going, friendly ambience.

Wat Sisaket - is the only temple in Vientiane that survived the sacking of the city by the Siamese in 1828, and is the oldest and one of the most interesting in the country. In the interior of Ho Trai, the main hall and inset into the walls of the surrounding courtyard are hundreds of little niches and shelves containing a total of 6,840 Buddha images and Buddhist inscriptions of the 18th century. A replica of Ho Trai was greatly venerated at the 1970 World Expo in Osaka, Japan.

Wat Ho Phakeo - Ho Phakeo was built in 1565 by king Setthathirat when he moved the capital of Lan Xang from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. It originally housed the famous Emerald Buddha, now in Bangkok.

Patuxay - Situated in the centre of Vientiane prefecture. The Arch of Triumph, or Victory Gate, was formerly known only as Anousavary (monument). It was built in 1958 on Lan Xang Avenue, with architecture inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and adorned with typical Lao motifs. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view.

That Luang - That Luang Shrine (Great Sacred Stupa) is the most important national monument in Vientiane, with a golden Stupa believed to contain a relic of the Lord Buddha. It was constructed in 1566 by King Say Setthathirath in typical Lao style and is one of the best know That (Stupa) in Laos. That Luang is the national Emblem of the country.

National Ethnic Cultural Park - The National Ethnic Cultural Park or Suan Vatthana Tham, is located 20 km downriver from Vientiane. The park includes Shady paths, sculptures of Lao literary heroes and a small zoo. Visitors can also relax at the Mekong riverside and enjoy the view of the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.

Buddha Park - Or garden of Statues, enshrines sculptures of Buddha images and Hindu gods, is located 24 km. downstream from Vientiane.

Luang Prabang

It's hard to imagine a town as magical as Luang Prabang. The ancient capital of the Lam Xang Kingdom wakes up every day to the sound of bells gongs and drums from the local temples which send the monks and novices on their morning rounds. Luang Prabang has around 1,000 resident monks and novices who make the circuit around the town each morning to collect rice for their daily meal.

This former Royal capital still remains the main centre for Buddhist learning in Laos and is the perfect location for spiritual contemplation. Situated between two rivers, the Mekong and the Khan, surrounded by ring of mountains, Luang Prabang is a treasure trove of beautiful temples, and historical monuments.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the town centre is dominated by 33 temples and has a long history as a centre for the study of Buddhism. Named after the golden statue, the Prabang. Luang Prabang was the first capital of Laos and has somehow managed to remain unscathed by war and (so far) modernisation. It's one of the few places where you feel this is the genuine article and one that retains its unique ambiance.

Highlights

Wat Xieng Thong - wat Xieng Thong is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture of the 16th century, impressing visitors with its golden facades and mural paintings. The temple was used for the highest royal ceremonies and to temporarily house the bodies of the deceased kings.

Kuangsi Waterfall - The cave is about 30 km away from Luang Prabang. Travelers can also visit hilltribe people along their way to the cave. Beautiful natural scenery, flowers and wildlife surround the location.

Pak Ou Cave - This highly venerated underground sanctuary houses thousands of Buddha images, and is accessible by boat along the Mekong River from Luang Prabang. Lao people traditionally bring a Buddha image to house in the cave. A nearby village, Ban Shang Hai, allows visitors to taste their fermented rice whisky called " Lao Lao"

The National Museum, the former Royal Palace between 1904 and 1909 AD, during the reign of King Sisavangvong. The museum houses the Royal throne of Lan Xang Kingdom religious treasures and gifts from foreign nations including a piece of moon rock given by the US. Located close to the Mekong River, facing Mount Phou Si

Mount Phou Si A Buddhist stupa on the top of hill. The views over the surrounding valleys and hills are worth the climb up the steps (we lost count how many) to the top.