Laos is a Southeast Asian country that is often overlooked by travelers, but it shouldn’t be. Laos is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. There are many places to visit in Laos that offer something for everyone, from the bustling capital city of Vientiane to the tranquil countryside of Luang Prabang.
Note: Lao-China high speed train C82, C92, C86, C84 and ordinary train K12
Luang Prabang is a must-visit destination in Laos. This ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is known for its beautiful temples, French colonial architecture, and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can explore the town’s many temples, take a dip in the Kuang Si Waterfalls, or take a boat ride down the Mekong River.
History of Laos
- Laos is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture.
- Luang Prabang is beautiful temples, French colonial architecture, stunning natural scenery.
- Other top destinations in Laos include Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Pakse, and the Plain of Jars.
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a city located in northern Laos, and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique architecture. Here are some of the top attractions that visitors should not miss when they visit Luang Prabang.
Royal Palace Museum
The Royal Palace Museum is a must-visit attraction in Luang Prabang. It was built in 1904 and was the residence of the royal family until 1975. Today, it has been converted into a museum that showcases the history and culture of Laos. Visitors can explore the various rooms of the palace, including the throne room, the reception hall, and the royal bedrooms. The museum also has a collection of royal artifacts, including furniture, clothing, and weapons.
- Open hour: 8:30am-11:30am, 1:00pm-3:00pm
- Entrance fee: 30.000 kip/person
- Location map: click here
Mount Phousi
Mount Phousi is a hill located in the center of Luang Prabang. It is a popular spot for visitors who want to enjoy panoramic views of the city. To reach the summit, visitors must climb 355 steps, but the effort is worth it. At the top, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Mekong River, the surrounding mountains, and the city below. There is also a Buddhist temple at the summit that visitors can explore.
- Open hours: 5:30am-6:00pm
- Entrance fee: 20.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Kuang Si Waterfall
Kuang Si Waterfall is located about 29 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. It is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down into turquoise pools. Visitors can swim in the pools, hike to the top of the waterfall, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There is also a bear rescue center located near the waterfall that visitors can visit.
- Open hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 25.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Wat Xieng Thong
Wat Xieng Thong is a Buddhist temple located in the center of Luang Prabang. It was built in 1560 and is one of the most important temples in Laos. The temple is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful mosaics, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the various buildings of the temple, including the main temple, the ordination hall, and the funeral chapel.
- Open hours: 8:00am-6:00pm
- Entrance fee: 25.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Luang Prabang is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors who come to this city will be able to explore its many attractions and experience the unique charm of Laos.
Vientiane
Vientiane is the capital city of Laos and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the country. It is a charming city that offers a mix of traditional and modern sights and experiences. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Vientiane:
Pha That Luang
Pha That Luang is a gold-covered Buddhist stupa that is considered as the most important national monument in Laos. It is also known as the Great Stupa and is one of the most sacred sites in the country. The stupa is believed to contain a relic of Buddha and is surrounded by smaller stupas, temples, and statues. Visitors can explore the complex and learn about the history and significance of the site.
- Open hours: 8:00am-12:00pm, 1:00pm-4:00pm
- Entrance fee: 10.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Patuxai Victory Monument
The Patuxai Victory Monument is a war monument located in the center of Vientiane. It was built in the 1960s to commemorate the Lao people’s struggle for independence from France. The monument is also known as the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane and offers a great view of the city from the top. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach the top and enjoy panoramic view of the city.
- Open hours: 8:00am-4:00pm, Sat-Sun8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 10.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Buddha Park
Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, is a sculpture park located on the outskirts of Vientiane. It was created in 1958 by a Lao artist who combined Hindu and Buddhist mythology to create a unique collection of sculptures. The park is home to over 200 statues, including a giant reclining Buddha and a statue of Indra, the king of gods. Visitors can explore the park and admire the intricate details of the sculptures.
- Open hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 20.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Overall, Vientiane is a city that offers a mix of traditional and modern sights and experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history and culture by visiting its many temples, monuments, and museums. They can also enjoy the city’s modern amenities, such as its restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.
Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is a small town located in the Vientiane Province of Laos. The town is surrounded by stunning limestone mountains and is situated on the Nam Song River. Vang Vieng is known for its outdoor activities, including rock climbing, kayaking, and tubing.
Blue Lagoon
One of the most popular attractions in Vang Vieng is the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is a beautiful natural swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear water, relax on the sandy beach, or swing on the rope swing. The Blue Lagoon is located about 7 kilometers from the town center and can be reached by bicycle, motorbike, or tuk-tuk.
- Open hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 10.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Tham Phu Kham Cave
Another popular attraction in Vang Vieng is the Tham Phu Kham Cave. The cave is located at the base of a limestone mountain and can be reached by a short hike. Visitors can explore the cave’s stunning rock formations and underground pools. At the end of the cave, there is a beautiful Buddha statue that is illuminated by natural light. The Tham Phu Kham Cave is located about 6 kilometers from the town center and can be reached by bicycle, motorbike, or tuk-tuk.
- Open hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 10.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Vang Vieng is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Laos. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, it is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Pakse (Champasak Province)
Pakse is a city located in southern Laos and is the capital of Champasak Province. It is a bustling town that serves as a gateway to many of the popular tourist destinations in southern Laos. Here are some of the top attractions in Pakse.
Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau is a stunning natural wonder that is located just a short drive from Pakse. It is a highland region that is known for its lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, and coffee plantations. Visitors can explore the area by taking a guided tour or renting a motorbike and exploring on their own. Some of the top attractions in the Bolaven Plateau include Tad Fane Waterfall, Tad Yuang Waterfall, and the coffee plantations.
Wat Phou
Wat Phou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located just a short drive from Pakse. It is a stunning temple complex that dates back to the 5th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple and learn about the history of the Khmer Empire. The temple is located on the side of a mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Open hours: 8:00am-6:00pm
- Entrance fee: 30.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
Si Phan Don
Si Phan Don, also known as the Four Thousand Islands, is a popular tourist destination that is located in the Mekong River near the border of Laos and Cambodia. It is a stunning archipelago that is home to many beautiful waterfalls, traditional villages, and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can explore the islands by taking a boat tour or renting a kayak.
Overall, Pakse is a great destination for travelers who are looking to explore the natural beauty and rich history of southern Laos. Whether you are interested in exploring the Bolaven Plateau, visiting the ancient temple of Wat Phou, or relaxing on the beautiful islands of Si Phan Don, Pakse has something to offer everyone.
Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is a mysterious and fascinating prehistoric site located in central Laos. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, and it is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. The site is named after the thousands of large stone jars scattered across the landscape, each weighing several tons.
- Open hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Entrance fee: 30.000 kip/ person
- Location map: Click here
More than 90 jar sites have been identified in Xiangkhouang Province, and each site has from one to 400 stone jars. The jars vary in height and diameter between 1 m and 3 m and are all hewn from rock. The origin of the jars and their purpose remains a mystery, and researchers have yet to determine their exact age. Some believe that the jars were used for funerary purposes, while others speculate that they were used for storing rice wine.
Visitors to the Plain of Jars can explore the various jar sites and learn more about the history and culture of the region. The Xieng Kouang Tourism Office is an excellent starting point for visitors, as it provides information about the jar sites and some interesting relics in the gardens, leftover from the ‘Secret War’ that happened in Laos. The site is also a popular destination for trekking, as the rolling landscape and stunning scenery make for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Overall, the Plain of Jars is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or culture. Its mysterious stone jars and beautiful landscape make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Thakhek
Thakhek is a charming town located in the Khammouane Province of Laos. It is situated on the banks of the Mekong River and surrounded by stunning limestone mountains. Thakhek is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery, and historical landmarks.
One of the must-visit attractions in Thakhek is the Wat Pha That Sikhotabong temple. This holy pilgrimage site is located 6km south of the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the temple’s intricate architecture and learn about its rich history.
Another popular attraction in Thakhek is the Thakhek Loop, a scenic motorcycle route that takes riders on a journey through the stunning countryside. The loop covers a distance of around 450km and passes through a number of charming villages, limestone caves, and natural hot springs.
For those interested in history, the Khammaounae Museum is a must-visit destination. This museum showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage and provides visitors with an insight into the local way of life.
Thakhek is also a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Laos. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Mekong River, go swimming in one of the many natural pools, or simply enjoy a sunset over the stunning limestone mountains.
Overall, Thakhek is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Laos. Its natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see places in Laos?
Laos is a country with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Some of the must-see places in Laos include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, the mysterious Plain of Jars, the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, and the capital city of Vientiane.
What are the top 10 tourist attractions in Laos?
The top 10 tourist attractions in Laos include the aforementioned Luang Prabang, Plain of Jars, Kuang Si Waterfalls, and Vientiane, as well as the Pak Ou Caves, Wat Phu, Si Phan Don (4000 Islands), the Nam Ou River, Bolaven Plateau, and the Golden Triangle.
What is the best itinerary for a week in Laos?
For a week-long itinerary in Laos, visitors could start in the charming city of Luang Prabang, spend a few days exploring the surrounding area, then head south to Vientiane for a couple of days. From there, they could venture east to explore the Plain of Jars and the Bolaven Plateau before ending their trip in the 4000 Islands region.
Where are the best places to stay in Laos?
There are a variety of accommodation options in Laos, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the best places to stay in Laos include the historic hotels in Luang Prabang, the boutique hotels in Vientiane, and the eco-lodges in the countryside.
Is Laos a safe country to visit?
Laos is generally considered a safe country to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.
What are some unique experiences to have in Laos?
Laos offers a range of unique experiences for visitors, including participating in an alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang, exploring the underground river cave of Kong Lor, taking a sunset cruise on the Mekong River, and learning about traditional Lao weaving techniques in the countryside.
