\n| <\/p>\n Languages<\/td>\n | :<\/td>\n | Laos<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n==============<\/h1>\nLaos Geography<\/h3>\nLao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao People’s Democratic Republic) is located in the heart of the Indochina Peninsula, in Southeast Asia, at latitudes from 14 to 23 degrees north latitude and from 100 to 108 degrees east longitude.
\nThe Lao People’s Democratic Republic shares 505 km of the border with China in the north, 435 km of the border with Cambodia in the south, 2069 km of the border with Vietnam in the east, 1835 km of the border with Thailand in the west, and 236 km of the border with Myanmar in the north-west. The length of the country from north to south is 1700 km, and the width from east to west exceeds 500 km, and in the narrowest – only 140 km.
\nThe Lao People’s Democratic Republic covers a total of 236,800 square kilometers, three quarters of which are mountains and plateaus. There are three separate regions in the country.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3-255x287.gif\") <\/p>\n
In the north, mountains prevail, an average of 1,500 meters above sea level. The highest peak is 2800 meter high Phu Bia in Xiang Khuang province. Fu Luang (the Annamite chain) extends from the southeast of the Fuang Plateau to the border with Cambodia. It has three large plateaus: the Fuane plateau in the province of Xiang Khuang, the Nakai plateau in the province of Hammuan and the Boven plateau in southern Laos, 1000 m above sea level.
\nThe plains area includes large and small plains along the Mekong River. The largest of them is the Vientiane plain, in the lower reaches of the Nam Ngum River. Also important are the Savannakhet Plain in the lower reaches of the Se Bang Fai and Se Bang Hieng rivers and the Champassak Plain, located on the Mekong River, stretching between the borders of Thailand and Cambodia. Fertile in fertile soil, these plains represent a quarter of the total area and are the “granaries” of the country.
\nThe Lao People’s Democratic Republic crosses many rivers and streams. The Mekong River flows through 1835 km of the country from north to south. Rivers and streams provide great potential for hydropower development. More than half of the energy potential in the lower Mekong Basin is in Laos.
\nThe Nam Ou River flows from Phonsaly to Luang Prabang at 448 km; Nam Ngum runs 354 km from Siang Khuang to the province of Vientiane; the length of Xie Bang Hieng of the province of Savannakhet is 338 km; Nam Ta runs 325 km from Luang Namta to Bokeo; Nam Sekong runs 320 km from Saravane and Secong to the province of Atopeu; Xie Bang Fai is located between Hammuan and Savannakhet at 239 km; Nam Beng of Udomsai Province extends for 215 km; Nam Sedong flows over 192 km between Saravane and Champasak; Nam Selanong in Savannakhet extends for 115 km; the length of Nam Kading, Borikhamsai region – 103 km; Nam Khan runs 90 km between Huaphan and Luang Prabang.
\nBeing a tropical country, the weather in Laos is influenced by monsoons. The weather in the mountains in the north and in the high range of the Annamite Chain bordering Vietnam in the east is semi-tropical. The difference in day and night temperatures is about 10 deg C.
\nLaos has about 2,300 to 2,400 hours of sunshine per year. Atmospheric humidity is usually 70-80%, and 75-90% of precipitation is recorded in the rainy season, from May to October. The rainfall in the dry season, from November to April, is only 10-25%. There is a sharp difference in rainfall between regions. For example, in Fu Luang (annamite chain), the average annual rainfall is about 300 millimeters. In the provinces of Xianhuang, Luang Prabang and Sayaburi, the annual rainfall is 100-150 mm; in Vientiane and Savannahet, 150-200 millimeters of precipitation per year.
\nLaos has an abundance of natural resources. Under the earth’s surface, mineral deposits include tin, iron, coal, zinc, copper, gold, silver, sulfur, and sapphires. Although mining is still in its infancy, studies show that the quantity and density of mineral deposits are quite high. On the surface, the country has a wealth of forests covering 47% of the surface. They include a variety of species, many of which are of high economic value, such as Hagnung, Khamphi, Dow, Eaglewood and Longleng ..
\nForest areas are also rich in non-wood products such as shellac, benzoin, cardamom, pine resin, rattan and medicinal plants, and there is a wide range of fauna, including elephants, tigers, bears, deer and recently discovered deer species named Saola.
\nSuch wealth represents a huge potential for the development of the country, ensuring a brighter future and improving the living standards of its people.<\/p>\n ==============================<\/p>\n People and Population<\/strong><\/h3>\n– Population: 6.5 million people.<\/p>\n – Density: 23 people \/ sq.<\/p>\n – The population consists of 49 ethnic groups, in 4 main language groups.<\/p>\n \n- The Lao Thai family includes 08 ethnic groups: Lao, Phutai, Thai, Liu, Gunan, Young, Saek, and Thai Nope.<\/li>\n
- The Mon Khmer family includes 32 ethnic groups: Khmu, Pray, Singmu, Khom, Tine, Idu, Bid, Lamed, Samtao, Katang, Makong, Tri, Trieng, Tao, Ye, Brao, Harak, Katu, Oh. , Krieng, Yrou, Souai, Gnaheune, Lavy, Kabkae, Khmer, Toum, Ngouane, Meuang and Kri.<\/li>\n
- The Tibeto-Burmese family includes 07 ethnic groups: Akha, Singsali, Lahu, Strength, Haya, Lolo and Choir.<\/li>\n
- The Hmong Lumien category includes 02 main tribes: Hmong and Lumien (Yao). These multi-ethnic peoples are scattered throughout the country, each with their own unique traditions, culture and language.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4-9-255x173.jpg\") <\/p>\n
It is believed that Laos has somewhere from 70 to more than 100 ethnic groups (no one can be sure!), And they are divided into four main cultural and linguistic collections. Hill tribes make up a large part of the population, although it is unclear how many ethnic groups actually exist in Laos; The numbers range from government list 68 to ratings of independent ethnographers 120 or more. The rich and complex language mix of Laos is such that in extreme cases, some minorities consist of only a few hundred people and occupy only a certain peak or valley!
\nLao, or Lao lowlands, speak Lao Thai and live in lowlands and cities and along the Mekong River. Lao make up about two-thirds of the country’s total population.
\nLao Thai, or tribal Thai, include black Thai and red Thai (the so-called depending on the color of the clothes of their women), who live throughout the country, especially at high altitudes.
\nLao Thun speaks Mon-Khmer languages \u200b\u200band is often called the Austro-Asian peoples (the largest group is kammu). It is believed that these peoples are descendants of the earliest peoples of the region; they live all over Laos and in neighboring countries, and their settlements are usually located on slopes at moderate heights, and this pattern could have been caused by immigration pressure from the early Lao, who eventually captured the valleys.
\nThe Laosong group, which includes the Hmong (Meo or Miao) and the man (Yao), probably migrated from southern China to Laos at the end of the 18th century and live in the mountains at the highest elevations, since most other land territories were already occupied in time of their arrival.
\nEach of these groups and their units have their own culture, but this website focuses on the Lao lowland culture.
\nIn the Jars Plains area, the most numerous peoples are the plains of Lao, Hmong, Black Tai and Kammu. The Poins, the Lao plain of the flasks, are a group of low-lying Lao, whose language and customs are slightly different from Lao looms in other regions. Nevertheless, in our time, after frequent population movements to and from the region, they were assimilated into the main Lao group, and their language, for all practical purposes, approaches the common Lao language, with the exception of some vocabulary and tonal differences.
\nLao lowland has much in common with the Thai people. Having a common origin, the language and customs are basically the same, while most of the differences between them are largely the result of the last 500 years of history, when their fates went their separate ways.
\nHowever, one noticeable difference is the food. Laotians have a tradition of eating raw foods, including wild meat, buffalo and fish, as well as raw vegetables, many of which are wild herbs, herbs, leaves, and roots.
\nThis may be due to the forested mountainous nature of their environment. The type of rice that Laotians eat is also different – glutinous or glutinous rice, which is eaten by kneading a small handful in a ball and lowering it into a seasoning dish. Sticky rice is served in reed baskets with a tight-fitting lid that is worn and removed. When Laotians go to work in a field or another place, you often see a small version of these round wicker baskets with sticky rice hanging on their side and, possibly, a small amount of fish or meat that will serve during the day. food. The most common dish eaten with glutinous rice is pa dec, a very spicy fermented fish sauce. On the back porch of a Lao peasant’s house, you can see a clay jar with a fermented pase deck.
\nThe second distinctive dish of Lao is som (mahong there), which is a salad of strips of unripe papaya, chili, pieces of crab, small eggplant and pall, another form of fermented fish. And then there is Laap. This is done with fish, chicken, duck, pork, beef, buffalo or game. The meat and entrails, often raw, are finely chopped and seasoned with onions, chili. and other herbs such as mint and lemon grass.<\/p>\n ===============================<\/p>\n Laos Climate\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nMost of the year is hot and humid. Laos enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The rainy season is from the beginning of May to the end of September, and the dry season is from October through April. The yearly average temperature is about 28 degrees Celsius, rising to a maximum of 38 degrees Celsius during April and May.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5-255x216.gif\") <\/p>\n
In Vientiane a minimum temperature of 19 degrees Celsius is to be expected during January. In mountainous areas, however, temperature drops to as low as 14-15 degrees Celsius during the winter months, and during cold nights, can easily reach the freezing point. The average precipitation is highest in Southern Laos, where the Annamite Mountains receive over 3,000 mm. annually. In Vientiane rainfall is about 1,500-2,000 mm., and in the Northern provinces only 1,000-1,500 mm.<\/p>\n When to go<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe best time for visiting most of Laos is between November and February, when it rains the least and is not too hot. It\u2019s also Laos\u2019s main season for both national and regional\u00a0bun\u00a0(festivals).
\nIf you plan to focus on the mountainous northern provinces, the hot season (from March to May) and early rainy season (around June) is not bad either, as temperatures are moderate at higher elevations.\u00a0Southern Laos, on the other hand, is best avoided from March to May, when day-time temperatures break into the 40s and nights aren\u2019t much cooler.
\nThe rainy season is not as bad as you might think. While it will rain \u2013 very heavily \u2013 the downpours are often fairly brief and can be bracketed by long periods of sunshine. The rains also clear dust from the skies and land, making everything clearer and brighter. Of course, there are downsides; unsealed roads can become quagmires and extensive travel in remote areas like Salavan, Phongsali and Sainyabuli might be impossible. River travel can be a good alternative during these months. If you intend to travel extensively by river, November is the best; flooding has usually subsided yet river levels are still high enough for maximum navigability. Between January and June, low water can make navigating some rivers difficult.
\nDecember to February and August are the peak tourist times. January, in particular, is very busy and booking ahead is advisable.<\/p>\n =========================<\/p>\n Lao visa policy<\/strong><\/h3>\nWith the launch of\u00a0e-Visa scheme<\/strong>\u00a0in July 2019, now the citizens of all nations can easily apply for Visa to Laos. We recommend you\u00a0apply for this online visa<\/strong>\u00a0as it helps avoid the tired long queue at the airport.
\nFor the one forgetting to apply for e-Visa, you can easily apply for\u00a0Visa on arrival,\u00a0<\/strong>but it is only eligible for a list of selected countries.
\nOthers, you can apply for\u00a0Visa at Lao embassy<\/strong>\u00a0before boarding the flight to Laos.
\nIn general, Laos visa policy is quite easy and straight forward, that can be divided into 4 main categories: e-Visa, Visa Free or Visa Exemption (14-15-30 days), Visa on Arrival (30 days), and Visa or official approval required in advance for 32 blacklisted countries.
\nLet\u2019s check the map below for the general idea.<\/p>\nVisa Online (Electronic Visa or e-Visa)<\/strong><\/h3>\nLaos government launched the online Visa (e-Visa) scheme on July 9th, 2019 for the citizens of all nations.
\nIt is now the most convenient way to apply for tourist visa. Let\u2019s check out below.<\/p>\n What is Laos e-Visa<\/u><\/strong><\/h3>\nThe E-Visa Laos is an electronic travel authorization which the Laos government has launched officially in July 2019. Citizens from eligible countries can apply online for their e Visa Laos.
\nAs soon as the e visa to Laos is approved, the travelers will be able to stay in Laos for tourism purposes for\u00a0a maximum period of 30 days for a single entry.
\n<\/strong>To be able to benefit from this easy and rapid way of obtaining an eVisa, applicants must provide the correct information concerning their passport.
\nWhen arriving in Laos, travelers must show their approved Tourist E visa Laos to the border authorities to enter the country.The Laos E visa application is aimed to make more fluid the immigration process and to amplify the border security checks.Applicants must answer some questions and give details such as their full name, address, date of birth, passport details, and travel plans, when doing their application online.<\/p>\nTourist Visa on Arrival<\/u><\/strong><\/h3>\nThe Lao government issues 30-day tourist visa on arrival at all international airports and most international border crossings.The whole process is very straightforward. You need between US$30 and US$42 in cash, one passport-sized photo and the name of a hotel or guesthouse.Those without a photo, or who are arriving on a weekend, holiday or after office hours, will have to pay an additional one or two dollars.The visa fee varies depending on the passport of origin, with Canadians having to fork out the most (US$42) and most other nationalities paying between US$30 and US$35.It\u2019s cheaper to pay in US dollars as a flat rate of 1500B (around US$45) is applicable in Thai baht. No other foreign currencies are accepted.<\/p>\n Where to Get Laos Tourist Visa on Arrival
\nAt the moment, you can apply Laos Visa on arrival at 4 International Airports, 16 Border checkpoints, and 1\u00a0 Train Station.<\/h3>\n3 International airports<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Wattay International Airport in Vientiane Capital;<\/li>\n
- Luang Prabang International Airport in Luang Prabang Province;<\/li>\n
- Pakse Internatioanl Airport in Champasack Province;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
9 International Border checkpoints<\/strong><\/p>\nLaos \u2013 Vietnam: 1 International borders<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Dansavan \u2013 Lao Bao (Savannakhet \u2013 Quang Tri)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Laos \u2013 Cambodia: 1 International border<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Dong Kralor \u2013 Stung Treng (Champasak \u2013 Stung Treng)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Laos \u2013 Thailand: 6 International borders & 1 Train station<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Huayxay \u2013 Chiang Khong (Bokeo \u2013 Chiang Rai)<\/li>\n
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane \u2013 Nong Khai-Udon Thani)<\/li>\n
- Tha Laneng Train Station (Vientiane \u2013 Nong Khai-Udon Thani)<\/li>\n
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge III (Thakhek \u2013 Nakhon Phanom)<\/li>\n
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet \u2013 Mukdahan)<\/li>\n
- Vangtao \u2013 Chongmek (Champasak \u2013 Ubon Ratchathani)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Laos \u2013 China: 1 International border<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Boten \u2013 Bohan (Luang Namtha \u2013 Yunnan)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
We have marked all the\u00a0Laos\u00a0Visa on arrival entry points<\/strong>\u00a0in the Google Maps, please check below for your reference<\/p>\nVisa at the Embassy (Mostly for Blacklisted Countries)<\/strong><\/h3>\nIn most of the case, Visa on arrival is the most convenient and recommended method to apply Visa to Laos.The visa issued at the embassy is generally for the tourists from Blacklisted countries only (33 countries listed above).However, in case you want to have visa ready before boarding the flight to Laos, you can also have it at one of the Laos Embassy or Laos Consulate.<\/p>\n General Requirement (maybe varied depending on the embassy that you visit)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Valid passport with remaining validity of at least 6 months from the date of your entry;<\/li>\n
- Two blank pages on your passport (Lao visa stamp takes up a whole page, plus there has to be space for immigration stamps too);<\/li>\n
- Two recent photographs (3cmx4cm), in color, front view and with a plain\/light background;<\/li>\n
- Duly filled\u00a0Visa <\/strong>Application <\/strong>Form<\/strong>\u00a0with one photograph attached;<\/li>\n
- Visa fee (amount depends on your nationality and where you apply);<\/li>\n
- A copy of your itinerary.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Laos Religion<\/strong><\/h3>\nBuddhism first appeared in Laos during the eighth century A.D., as shown by both the Buddha image and the stone inscription found at Ban Talat near Vientiane, now exhibited at Hor Pra keo Museum. After the foundation of the unified Kingdom of Lane Xang, King Fa Ngum (14th Century) declared Buddhism as the state religion and urged the people to abandon Animism or other beliefs such as the Cult of Spirits. His policy meant to develop the Lao culture based on a common faith: Theravada Buddhism.
\nToday, Theravada Buddhism is the professed religion of about 90% of Lao people. Buddhism is an inherent feature of daily life and casts a strong influence on Lao society. Lao woman can be seen each morning giving alms to monks, earning merit to lessen the number of their rebirths. It is expected that every Lao man will become a monk for at least a short time in his life.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1-255x168.png\") <\/p>\n
Traditionally, men spent three months during the rainy season in a Wat (Buddhist temple). Today, however; most men curtail their stay to one or two weeks.
\nLao religious images and art is also distinctive and sets Laos apart from its neighbors. The \u201cCalling for Rain\u201d posture of Buddha images in Laos, for example, which depicts the Buddha standing with his hands held rigidly at his side, fingers pointing to the ground, can not be found in other Southeast Asian Buddhist art traditions. Religious influences are also pervasive in classical Lao literature, especially in the Pha Lak, Pha Lam, the Lao version of India\u2019s epic Ramayana.
\nProjects are underway to preserve classic Lao religious scripts, which were transcribed onto palm leaf manuscripts hundreds of years ago and stored in Wats.<\/p>\n =========================<\/p>\n Laos culture<\/h3>\nLao people are frank, open and friendly, and they possess a strongly developed sense of courtesy and respect. Everyone who adheres to the latter will receive a warm welcome.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2-12-255x189.jpg\")
\nThe generally accepted form of greeting among Lao people is the Nop. It is performed by placing one\u2019s palms together in a position of praying at chest level, but not touching the body. The higher the hands, the greater the sign of respect. Nonetheless, the hands should not be held above the level of the nose. The nop is accompanied by a slight bow to show respect to persons of higher status and age. It is also used as an expression of thanks, regret or saying good-bye. But with western people it is acceptable to shake hands.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3-13-255x191.jpg\")
\nThe feet form the inferior part of the body (as much spiritually as physically). You must never indicate or touch another person or object with your foot.<\/p>\n
Daily life and social customs<\/strong><\/p>\nMost families in Laos are involved in farming. Members of households work the land together, with a division of labour by gender. In wet\u00a0rice\u00a0cultivation, men plow and prepare the seedbed, control water flow to the fields, and thresh the crop. Women transplant the seedlings, weed the fields, and carry the sheaves of rice to the threshing place. In upland rice cultivation, men cut and clear the swiddens, while women do the sowing and weeding. Wet rice cultivation begins with the onset of the rains in April or May and ends with the harvest in October and November. In upland areas, fields are burned and cleared at the end of the dry season in February and March, and harvesting takes place in November. Cultivation of secondary crops is interspersed with rice cultivation; gardening on river banks, for example, follows the drop in water level at the end of the dry season.
\nIn addition to strictly agricultural activities, the daily lives of rural people involve a number of other tasks, such as fetching water from wells, hunting for game, and gathering various forest products. Common forest products include small game, birds and\u00a0\u2026 (200 of 10,312 words)<\/p>\n Laos<\/strong> Social<\/strong> Rules<\/strong><\/p>\nThe Lao people greet each other with a prayer-like gesture called a nop. A younger person or a person of lower status will nop their elder or social superior. The western custom of shaking hands has become more common in recent years \u2013 though a smile and a slight bow of the head is still considered polite. Backslapping, public displays of affection, shouting, and wild gesticulation are all considered impolite.
\nThe head is considered the highest part of the body, while the feet are considered the lowest, both literally and figuratively. Touching someone\u2019s head or pointing at people or things with the feet are, therefore, considered extremely rude. As with entering temples, shoes are removed before entering somebody\u2019s home.<\/p>\n Greetings<\/strong><\/p>\nFor\u00a0Men greeting\u00a0Men<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0The\u00a0standard Lao greeting\u00a0is,\u00a0\u201cSabaideebor\u201d\u00a0which means\u201dhow are you?\u201d\u00a0or\u00a0\u201care you well?\u201d\u00a0This is usually done\u00a0with both hands pressed together in\u00a0a\u00a0prayer in front of your body and accompanied with a slight\u00a0bow\u00a0or nod. The response for \u201csabaideebor\u201d is\u00a0usually\u00a0\u201csabaidee\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0Some men\u00a0will\u00a0also use a standard handshake.\u00a0\u00a0These tend to be on light side.\u00a0\u00a0Always smile during greetings<\/strong>.For\u00a0Women greeting\u00a0Women<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0The\u00a0standard Lao greeting\u00a0is,\u00a0\u201cSabaideebor\u201d\u00a0which means\u00a0\u201chow are you?\u201d\u00a0or\u00a0\u201care you well?\u201d\u00a0This is usually done\u00a0with both hands pressed together in\u00a0a\u00a0prayer position just below the chin and accompanied with a slight\u00a0bow. The response for \u201csabaideebor\u201d is\u00a0usually\u00a0\u201csabaidee\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0Always smile during greetings<\/strong>.Greetings\u00a0between\u00a0Men and\u00a0Women\u00a0\u2013<\/strong>\u00a0The\u00a0standard Lao greeting\u00a0is,\u00a0\u201cSabaideebor\u201dwhich means\u00a0\u201chow are you?\u201d\u00a0or\u00a0\u201care you well?\u201d\u00a0This is usually done\u00a0with both hands pressed together in\u00a0a\u00a0prayer position just below the chin and accompanied with a slightbow. The response for \u201csabaideebor\u201d is\u00a0usually\u00a0\u201csabaidee\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0Always smile during greetings<\/strong>.
\nNotes:<\/strong>\u00a0The person who is socially inferior or younger should be the first to bow, but it is considered polite for the older\/socially superior person to respond quickly.\u00a0The higher the hands are held and the lower the bow, the greater the degree of respect. When addressing a social equal, the hands are usually held at the level of the mouth; when addressing a person of higher social standing (this includes monks, regardless of age), the hands are usually held in front of the nose; and when addressing a younger\/socially inferior person, they are usually held at the chin.<\/p>\nWedding and Marriage
\n<\/strong>In Laos culture, before a\u00a0Lao wedding<\/strong>\u00a0takes place, (after the proposal) a traditional procession call\u00a0Sou Khor\u00a0is arranged (an envoy of the boy sent to the girl to ask if her parents will allow the marriage). If her parents agree to let their daughter to marry the boy, a\u00a0Kha Dong\u00a0(bride-price) is negotiated as well as who pays for what at the wedding. This is usually the groom, but today often both parties share the expenses. The\u00a0Sou Khor\u00a0session takes place several days or even months before the wedding.
\nOnce married, the couple lives with the parents of the bride until after the marriage of the next daughter (if any) or in some cases they move out earlier but the earliest is seven days after their wedding.
\nWhen the couple has children, the stay-at-home parents or grandparents usually help raise their grandchildren before they reach school age. Grown-up children usually also live in until they get married and sometimes even until after they have their own children so that the grandparents can help raise them or sometimes until they save enough money to build their own house. However, one of the children (usually the youngest daughter in big families) lives with the parents, inherits the main house, and takes the responsibility of taking care of\u00a0aging parents. The moved-out children support their parents by sending money back if they live far away, otherwise they come to visit and eat together as a family very often.
\nIn Laos there is no\u00a0social security\u00a0or other welfare, such as\u00a0homes for the elderly\u00a0provided by the government. However, as our family bonds are strong and everyone in the family helps everyone out it is an important part of our culture to take care of our\u00a0aging parents\u00a0and grandparents. This might change in the future because the Lao simple life is slowly being replaced by modern lifestyles and the extended families are gradually being replaced by nuclear ones as people have fewer children these days.<\/p>\nLaotian Literature<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4-10-255x212.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Unfortunately very little is known concerning the history of Lao\u2019s literature because early society was generally decentralized and isolated, and the quality of parchment did not lend itself to preservation, which in turn led to the written word becoming illegible in a relatively short time. The political insatability, especially in areas such as Sieng Khuoang (the Plain of Jars) was as well a barrier to a more enduring literary heritage.<\/p>\n Laotian language was created in the fourteenth century and is read from left to right. The Laotian language contains fifteen vowels and thirty constants. The first record of Laos\u2019s traditional literature is from the 15th and 16th century and it differs prominently from western literature because Laos does not write fiction literature. Of all the literature that has been written ninety percent has a Buddhist religious theme, or else historical as traditional literature was not meant for entertainment, but rather, as an education or a teaching tool. Popular literature, in contrast, is maintained by an oral tradition of folk tales.<\/p>\n Spirit Gates<\/strong><\/h3>\nMany hill tribe villages have spirit gates on the paths above and below each village, to protect the residents and deter evil spirits. Some of these may have male and female wooden figures alongside. These gates act as a kind of barrier to the spirits outside the village and provide a way of purifying villagers returning from the forests. In most cases, they are never taken down, but they are rebuilt every year with a ceremony dedicated to the spirits. Usually, only men are involved in this activity. The top of the gates may be adorned with figurines, effigies, animal parts, or carvings depicting weapons such as an AK-47.
\nThe Akha in the Golden Triangle region are the peoples most often associated with spirit gates, however most tribes that live in forested mountains in Asia construct them, including the Hmong.\u00a0For some hill tribes, if a visitor enters a village through a gate, it is obligatory to enter at least one house.
\nThe Spirit Gate is used to separate the human world from the spirit world, Everything beyond the village gate is considered as part of the domain of the spirits. If one were to venture forth into the forest, they would be at the mercy of the spirits, which may follow that person back to the village to bring sickness or some other misfortune. Upon returning to the village, that person is expected to pass through the village gate in order to exclude any malicious spirits.
\nOccasionally, there would be a rash of sickness running through the village, and this would be interpteted to mean that the spirits are running havoc on the community, which requires an offering to be made to appease them.<\/p>\n Communication Style<\/strong><\/p>\n– Verbal communication tends to be non-confrontational and indirect.
\n– Many Laotians will offer you the response they assume you want to hear, regardless of their feelings or plans. Be prepared to receive seemingly contradictory information from different sources, and try to stay calm in these situations.
\n– Showing frustration with people in public does not usually win you any points.\u00a0\u00a0It may be more helpful to ask various simple yes\/no questions of different people in order to put together a picture of the situation than to ask complicated how\/why questions that may make someone uncomfortable.
\n– When there is a conflict, it is often resolved through an intermediary.\u00a0\u00a0Don\u2019t expect to discuss the issue directly with the person who has taken offense.\u00a0\u00a0Once the problem has been resolved, the two parties can meet congenially without addressing the conflict.
\n– \u201cYes\u201d does not always mean \u201cyes\u201d and \u201cno\u201d may be substituted for \u201cmaybe\u201d, \u201cpossibly\u201d or even \u201cyes\u201d. It\u2019s best to pay attention to non-verbal cues such as facial expressions and body language.
\n– Laotians tend to have various types of smiles.\u00a0\u00a0Some indicate pleasure while others embarrassment or even anger.<\/p>\n Etiquette and Behavior<\/strong><\/p>\nLaotians are generally gentle and polite, and visitors should take their lead from them\u2014avoiding any public display of anger or impolite behavior. Even showing affection in public is frowned-on.
\nLaotians traditionally greet others by pressing their palms together in a sort of prayer gesture known as a\u00a0nop; it is also acceptable for men to shake hands. If you attempt a nop, remember that it\u2019s basically reserved for social greetings; don\u2019t greet a hotel or restaurant employee this way. The general greeting is\u00a0sabai di\u00a0(\u201cgood health\u201d), invariably said with a smile.
\nAvoid touching or embracing a Laotian, and keep in mind that the head has spiritual significance; even patting a child affectionately on the head could be misinterpreted. Feet are considered \u201cunclean,\u201d so when you sit, make sure your feet are not pointing directly at anyone, and never use your foot to point in any situation. Shoes must be removed before you enter a temple or private home, as well as some restaurants and offices.
\nShorts and sleeveless tops should not be worn in temple compounds. When visiting a temple, be careful not to touch anything of spiritual significance, such as altars, Buddha images, or spirit houses. Ask permission from anyone before taking a photograph of him or her.<\/p>\n ==========================<\/p>\n National flower \u2013 Dok Champa<\/strong><\/h3>\nNational flower \u2013 Dok Champa:\u00a0You might know the Dok Champa by its other name, the frangipani. This evocative tropical flower, with its sweet romantic fragrance, is seen everywhere from north to south in Laos, most especially decorating the vats and monasteries. You might even receive a string of these white-and-yellow flowers around your neck as a welcoming gesture, or see a bunch of them used to decorate a ceremony, But everywhere the meaning of Dok Champa for Laotians is the same : Joy in life and sincerity.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5-9-255x167.jpg\") <\/p>\n
========================<\/p>\n Laos language<\/h3>\nThe Lao language resembles Thai, with familiar tones and sounds found in each. While some vocabulary words might cross over, the two tongues \u2014 spoken and written \u2014 are quite distinct. However, many Lao understand Thai (learned from school texts and TV), so if you\u2019ve picked up some words and phrases in Thailand, they\u2019ll still be useful here; people will understand and correct you with the appropriate Lao phrase.
\nThankfully, many people in Vientiane and Luang Prabang speak English, and older citizens will usually be able to speak French. Russian is not uncommon, and Chinese is growing in accord with the rising Chinese population (mostly in the north).
\nLike Thai, Lao has no officially recognized method of Roman alphabet transliteration. As a result, even town and street names have copious spelling irregularities, so for the vocabulary below, only phonetic pronunciations are listed. Most Lao will understand you, even without proper tones, and will appreciate your efforts to speak their language.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6-8-255x188.jpg\") <\/p>\n
=========================<\/p>\n Laos Food And Cuisine<\/h3>\nDue to its affection for fresh vegetables and herbs, which appear in almost every Lao meal. Both meat and fish are usually grilled or steamed and as a result, the flavours are fresh and the dishes are low in fat.
\nLao cuisine has many regional variations, due in part to the fresh foods local to each region. You can either enjoy and authentic Lao meal (khao niew or sticky rice is a staple) in many of the restaurants or spend a morning to cook delicious Lao dishes for your lunch.
\nLao food is traditionally eaten with sticky rice using fingers. In the countryside, people all eat as family style, sitting on the floor, sharing a few dishes. Lao traditional food is dry, spicy and very delicious\u00a0based on fish, buffalo meat, pork, poultry and especially herbs. It is always being freshly prepared and not being preserved. Other than sticky rice, which can be eaten either sweet or sour, or fermented and is eaten with fingers, Laotian food is very rich in vegetables and is often browned in coconut oil.<\/p>\n Laap<\/strong><\/p>\nLaap is a traditional Lao food is made from chopped meat, chicken or duck is a favorite. The\u00a0finely chopped meat spices and broth is mixed with uncooked rice grains that have been dry fried and crushed. Laap is eaten with a plate of raw vegetables and sticky rice.<\/p>\n Tam Mak houng<\/strong><\/p>\nTam Mak houng or Papaya salad is a type of salad made from sliced raw papaya, garlic, chile, peanuts, sugar, fermented fish sauce and lime juice.<\/p>\n Padeck<\/strong><\/p>\nPadeck is the distinctive and unique Lao traditional food. It\u2019s a mixture of fish and salt that is marinated and preserved in a jar for minimum of a year up to 3 years.<\/p>\n ===========================<\/p>\n Laos Transportation<\/strong><\/h3>\nTransportation would not be a problem during your Laos tours. Laos possesses a number of modern transportation systems, including several highways and a number of airports. Yet the Rail transport does not play a significant part in Laos’s transport sector.
\nGetting to Laos<\/strong><\/p>\nBy Flight
\n<\/strong>There are a few airlines that handle international flights in Laos. In Vientiane and Luang Prabang they are Lao Airlines, Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines while the Bangkok Airways only serves in Vientiane. The third international airport launched in Paske, offering flights to and from Siem Reap (Cambodia<\/strong>) and Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam<\/strong>) by Lao Airlines. Therefore, with direct flights, it\u2019s easy for visitors to take short travel to neighboring countries by air.<\/p>\nBy Train
\n<\/strong>There is an overnight sleeping train which departs from Thailand at 8pm every night and arrivals at the frontier of Laos the next morning. Visa on arrival is available. It\u2019s cheap to afford, but not many people opt to take due to the rare known location of the station and the poor service on train.<\/p>\nGetting around Laos
\n<\/strong>By Flight<\/strong><\/h3>\nMajor tourist cities are well connected by moderate-priced flights. The Lao Airlines is the only carrier that serves domestic flights and offers routes like Vientiane – Luang Prabang, Vientiane – Pakse, and Vientiane – Savannkhet. The trip is shorter than you can imagine. In high seasons the ticket is hard to book so please\u00a0contact <\/strong>us<\/strong>\u00a0to make your booking at an early stage.<\/p>\nBy Boat
\n<\/strong>River is a shortcut for those who have put up with the horrible road condition of Laos. The main Mekong route linking Houayxai to Luang Prabang is the\u00a0tour we can do on this itinerary.<\/p>\nBy Taxi
\n<\/strong>It charges with meters and certainly not a good option for sightseeing. Indochina Odyssey Tours offers air-conditioned, insured, clean vans for your convenience. With our\u00a0private van and tour guide service<\/strong>, you can stop off at any spots that you want to take a photo of and suffer from no pressure of staying too long at certain\u00a0attraction sites<\/strong>.<\/p>\nBy Highway<\/strong><\/p>\nJust as mentioned at the beginning of the article, highways of Laos have been improved a lot in recent years. Transportation choices including bus and truck are becoming popular with travelers. The capital Vientiane is connected by asphalt road with other cities like Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Savannakhet. Be mindful that traveling by highway takes up to more than 10 hours than by plane.<\/p>\n By Motorbikes or Tuk Tuk
\n<\/strong>Motorbikes are for the adventurous ones in Vientiane. It\u2019s suggested put on a helmet and bring with your motorcycle license since police are zero tolerant about those who without one.\u00a0Tuk tuk is a common mean of transportation in Laos. Passengers are expected to pay for each destination with negotiable price before the ride.<\/p>\n==========================<\/p>\n Laos Travel Tips<\/strong><\/h3>\n1.Telephone & Mobile Phone\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\nYou can make international calls at Laos Telecom offices in most provincial capitals or post offices. Calls to most countries usually cost between 0.75USD and 1.80USD per minutes. Still, cyber cafes are a cheaper way to go.\u00a0If you want to use your mobile phone in Laos, the simplest and cheapest way is to buy a prepaid phone card from most mini-marts or phone shops for around US$10. The major phone providers are Tango and Laotel. Or check if your phone company has international roaming coverage in Laos.<\/p>\n \n- Internet<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
You will find plenty of internet cafes in larger towns and cities, and in many guesthouse and\u00a0hotels<\/strong>\u00a0as well. Wi-fi is available in some upscale hotel.<\/p>\n\n- Voltage<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
The usual voltage is 220V. Power supplies can be erratic, so be prepared to be flexible. Plugs with two round pins are more popular than the three-pin. If you have any devices needing a special outlet, please bring its adapter kit. The best investment is the universal AC adapter, which will enable you to plug it in anywhere.<\/p>\n \n- Money<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
The official national currency in Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). Kip notes come in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10, 000, 20, 000 and the recently printed 50, 000 kip. Three currencies are used in Laos: Lao kips, US dollars, and Thai baht, the latter two are readily acceptable in large cities and towns at most business.<\/p>\n – Please note that only new crisp notes are accepted in Laos. US$100 notes receiving a better exchange rate; US$ notes of the series number before 1996 as well as US$100 notes with the series number CB, dirty and\/or damaged notes, or notes with any writing on it are not accepted in Laos. Please bring some small changes with you for your convenience.<\/p>\n \n- Credit card<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
A growing number of hotels, upmarket restaurants, and gift shops in\u00a0Vientiane<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Luang Prabang<\/strong>\u00a0accept Visa and Master Card, and to a much lesser extent Amex and JCB. Outside of these three towns, credit cards are virtually useless and kip is more preferred. Major banks in Laos like Banque pour le Commerce Ext\u00e9rieur du Lao (BCEL) has branches in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng; Savannakhet and Pakse offer cash advances\/withdrawals on Visa credit\/debit cards at a 3% transaction fee, other banks may have slightly different charges. Advances\/withdrawals can be made in Lao kip only when it’s not possible to withdraw US dollars or Thai baht.<\/p>\n\n- ATMs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Travelers may get cheered to know that ATMs have made a tentative landing in Laos. But before you get overexcited, the ATMs are only available in Vientiane, Vang Vieng and there is a maximum of 700,000 kips (about US$70) a time, with each withdrawal incurring a US$2 fee from BCEL. Taking your plastic into the bank itself might be cheaper If you have to pay relatively high charges to your home bank on each overseas withdrawal. Please note that ATMs dispense cash in Lao kip to Visa and Master Card accounts only.<\/p>\n \n- Travelers Cheques<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Travelers Cheques can be cashed at most banks in Laos, but normally only in exchange for kip. Cheques in US dollars are the most readily acceptable, and in fact outside Vientiane the only cheques accepted. Very few merchants accept traveler’s cheques.<\/p>\n \n- Clothing & Shoes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
In Laos, remember to take off shoes before entering private houses and religious sites.\u00a0No sleeveless top and short pants are allowed in religious sites. Men should wear tops and women should avoid skimpy tops and tight shorts. In addition, you will gain more respect if you are well turned out and modest in your dress. Check out the\u00a0Laos weather<\/strong>\u00a0to prepare fitting clothes.<\/p>\n\n- Drinking Water &\u00a0<\/strong>Food<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Drink only purified bottled water. Many hotels provide complimentary bottled water in rooms, and if not, it is very convenient to buy in a local store; only eat well-done meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.<\/p>\n \n- Immigration\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Receipt of purchase and an export permit voucher for locally bought goods such as gems and jewelry may be required upon departure.<\/p>\n \n- Time \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Laos is 7 hours ahead Greenwich time.<\/p>\n \n- Photos\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Generally, the Lao do not have any objections against being photographed. However, being politely to obtain his\/her approval. It is not a problem anymore to bring along video cameras. Many pagodas charge a minimal fee for cameras; video cameras might be a little expensive. Some museums restrict photography. Read the rules at the\u00a0tourist attractions<\/strong>\u00a0before you get in.<\/p>\n\n- Tipping<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
While tipping has now become an accepted practice in Asian countries, it should always be considered a gesture of appreciation for good service and not an obligation. It is an incentive to guides to maintain a high-level service, helpfulness, and friendliness and we strongly insist to allow our clients a choice in this matter. Therefore our tour price doesn’t include a fixed amount to cover all potential gratuities.<\/p>\n If you would like to know the proper amount for tipping, the following standard is for your reference:<\/p>\n 1) If you are traveling in a small group between 2 and 5 members, We suggest approximately US $10 to US $15 \/per guest per day as tips for tour guide and driver and about US $3 to US$ 2 for hotel bellboys as a gratitude for their service.<\/p>\n 2) If you are coming in a group like 6 to 9 members, We suggest US $8 to US $10 \/per guest per day as tips for the guide and driver and about US $2 to US $3 for hotel bellboys as a gratitude for their service.<\/p>\n 3) If you are traveling in a group with more than 10 people, We suggest US $5 to US $7 \/per guest per day as tips for the tour guide and driver and about US $3 to US $5 for hotel bellboys as a gratitude for their service. Above is for your reference only, again tipping is a personal matter, and you can always adjust the amount based on your satisfaction with the service you get from your tour guides, drivers, bellboys and so on.<\/p>\n \n- Suggested Things to Bring<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
– Sun hat, sunglasses, sun lotion;<\/p>\n – Prescription medicines, antibiotic cream for minor cuts and scratches;<\/p>\n – Insect repellent; toothbrush, toothpaste or other toiletries;<\/p>\n – Umbrella, a small flashlight, sandals, international adaptor;<\/p>\n – Extra passport photos;<\/p>\n – Decaffeinated coffee (if you require).<\/p>\n \n- Monks & Nuns<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Respect: please show respect in certain manners to the monks and nuns; argument and criticism on their religions are taken insulting. Please ask for permits before photo shooting. Moreover, women are not allowed to touch monks, also women should put the object within the monk’s reach while passing stuff.<\/p>\n \n- Emergency Numbers\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Police: 119<\/p>\n Ambulance: 195<\/p>\n ==========================================<\/p>\n LAOS THINGS TO SEE<\/strong><\/p>\nVIENTIANE CAPITAL<\/strong><\/h3>\nLocation: Central Laos<\/p>\n Distance: 0 km from Vientiane Capital<\/p>\n Population :\u00a0 768,743<\/p>\n Total Area: 3,920 square kilometers<\/p>\n Administration Division: The Capital is divided into 09 Districts namely Chanthabouly, Sikhottabong, Xaysettha, Sisattanak, Naxaithong, Xaythany, Hadxaifong, Sangthong & Pak Ngum<\/p>\n GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT VIENTIANE CAPITAL<\/strong><\/h3>\nVientiane<\/strong>, also spelled\u00a0Viangchan<\/strong>, largest city and capital of\u00a0Laos, situated on a plain just northeast of the\u00a0Mekong River. The city\u2019s central river port location in a country relying heavily on its rivers for transportation and its surrounding hinterland of intensive rice cultivation have made Vientiane the major economic centre of Laos. The city has a tropical\u00a0monsoon\u00a0climate, every month having an average daytime temperature above 80 \u00b0F (27 \u00b0C) and more than 80 percent of Vientiane\u2019s annual precipitation on the average falling in the five months May\u2013September.
\nThe town was founded during the late 13th century, and in the mid-16th century the capital of the Lao kingdom (a state known as Lan Xang) was moved to Vientiane from its previous traditional location at\u00a0Luang Prabang\u00a0(now Louangphrabang). In 1778 Vientiane came under Siamese control; in 1828 it was sacked and destroyed when the subject Laotian king revolted against Siamese\u00a0hegemony. From 1899 to 1953, with the exception of the Japanese occupation (1945), Vientiane was in succession the seat of the French governor and the French administrative capital.
\nVientiane still has some of its older wooden structures, despite its government offices, foreign embassies, and schools. Its modern industries include brewing, lumber processing, and the manufacture of brick, tile, textiles, cigarettes, matches, detergents, plastic bags, rubber sandals, and iron and steel. The Lao farmers of the surrounding area tend rice, corn (maize), and livestock in some of the best alluvial lowlands of Laos. Before 1975 the city was the principal stock shipping and slaughtering centre of the country. Since the shift in the country\u2019s import trade from\u00a0Vietnam\u00a0to\u00a0Thailand, Vientiane has replaced\u00a0Pakx\u00e9\u00a0to the southeast as Laos\u2019s principal port of entry.<\/p>\nRESTAURANTS & CAFES<\/strong><\/h3>\nMost of the restaurants, cafes are in the main \u201cdowntown\u201d area and getting around is easy on foot, by bicycle or by tuk tuk. There are several mini markets selling western food and other necessities.There is a big variety of cuisine, from the local street food to good quality Lao and international restaurants including European, Indian, Japanese and vegetarian eating places.<\/p>\n PLACES TO VISIT IN VIENTIANE CAPITAL<\/strong><\/h3>\nThere are many temples in the town itself, so it is easy to stroll around and visit most of them, but remember the dress rules \u2013 women should wear modest clothes (covered arms and at least knee-length shorts and skirt, and men in T-shirts and shorts at a minimum) and shoes should be removed before entering a temple. Once a month, local monks gather at the Sangha College (Wat Ongteu) for Monk Chat with tourists. Monk Chat can also be found on Facebook.Some temples (Wat Si Saket, That Luang and Haw Pha Kaew) charge a small entry fee for Lao nationals and foreigners.<\/p>\n MARKETS<\/strong><\/h2>\nVientiane has several markets, both for day to day needs and for souvenirs; the biggest of these is the Morning Market, about 10-15 minutes walk from the centre of town. There is also a vast range of shops selling traditional silk weaving and other handicrafts.
\nThere are three night markets along the riverfront selling ethnic goods\u00a0 as well as other stuff. The biggest one is at King Anouvong Park (upper part), another one is at the lower part of the park (closer to the Mekong River) and the last one is to the south of King Anouvong stupa, behind the buildings of many restaurants (close to Done Chanh Hotel). These are great places for your last minute shopping for souvenirs. There are also open-air bars, that offer all kind of drinks, BBQ, and more.<\/p>\n VIENTIANE BY NIGHT<\/strong><\/h2>\nIn Vientiane Capital, it is possible to enjoy bars and music venues of many types. Some of the most popular venues for a sunset beer are the small outside local \u201ccafes\u201d which spring up along the river front every night.
\nThe recent riverfront redevelopment added more public space and green areas to the city. King Anouvong Park locating on the river bank behind the Presidential Palace is a part of the project. This is the best place to watch sunset in Vientiane.\u00a0In the park there are gym equipment for the public to use for free. There is also children play ground a bit further up, thanks to the Korean government for installation of these.Apart from exploring the city itself there are several nice places to see around the capital city, where you can go kayaking, wild-water rafting, trekking through nature parks, such as Nam Ngum Lake, the Nam Lik eco-adventure area, Tha Ngon floating fish restaurant, Buddha Park and the Phou Khao Khouay national park.<\/p>\n \u00a0Buddha Park<\/strong><\/h3>\nBuddha Park (aka Xieng Khuan) is a famous sculpture park with more than 200 religious statues including a huge 40-metre high reclining Buddha image.The best spot for photography here is on top of the giant pumpkin structure standing about three stories high. The entrance is crafted to look like a demon\u2019s mouth (about three metres high) with a stone ladder inside leading to a bird\u2019s eye view of the entire Xieng Kuan Park.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7-5-255x170.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Buddha Park Highlights<\/strong><\/p>\nIt was built in 1958 by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, a monk who studied both Buddhism and Hinduism. This explains why his park is full not only of Buddha images but also of Hindu gods as well as demons and animals from both beliefs.The most outstanding ones include Indra, the king of Hindu gods riding the three-headed elephant (aka Erawan and Airavata), a four-armed deity sitting on a horse and an artistic deity with 12 faces and many hands, each holding interesting objects. They are all equally impressive not only because of their enormous size but because they are full of interesting details and interesting motifs.
\nThere is a local eatery and caf\u00e9 offering food and drinks to tourists at one end of the park right next to the Mekong River that makes a great spot to chill after all the walking and climbing. Among the popular snacks are papaya salad, fried bananas and cold Lao beer. It also has a souvenir shop and restrooms. There is a small fee for entering the park as well as for photography.
\nOpening Hours: Daily from 08:00 \u2013 18:00
\nLocation: About 25 kilometres southeast of Vientiane, along the Mekong River
\nHow to get there: The Buddha Park can be reached by public bus or tuk tuk<\/p>\n —————————–<\/p>\n Patuxai Victory Monument<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8-3-255x192.jpg\") <\/p>\n
With its crenellated upper level topped with five ornate towers in the traditional Laos style, the\u00a0Patuxai Victory Monument<\/strong>\u00a0cuts a distinctive figure on the Vientiane skyline. It forms the centrepiece of Patuxai Park, and is dedicated to the Laos who were killed in the fight to gain independence from France, as well as from the nation\u2019s earlier occupiers, Siam and Japan.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1-14-255x143.jpg\")
\nSituated at the end of one of the capital\u2019s grand avenues, the large, square arch is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. However, as a monument to Laos\u2019 resilience and eventual independence, Patuxai was designed to pay homage to its national culture and traditions. Its exterior embellishments feature both Buddhist religious symbols such as lotus leaves and the stupa-shaped towers, and statues of animist kinnari (half-female and half-bird figures) and nagas (dragons).<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2-13-255x168.jpg\")
\nThe interior of the monument is also richly decorated with painted walls and ceilings depicting gods, goddesses and elephants. For a small fee, you can climb to the top to enjoy the panoramic view of the charming, old-fashioned city of Vientiane with its many trees, low-rise buildings and temples, and all the way across the Mekong River to Thailand.<\/p>\n
\n- Patuxai was built between 1957 and 1968 using funds from the U.S. government.
\n\u2022 It is sometimes nicknamed the \u2018vertical runway\u2019 as the cement used was intended for the construction of a new airport.
\n\u2022 The name comes from the Sanskrit words for door or gate (patu) and victory (jaya).
\n\u2022 Patuxai features four arches, facing North, South, East and West.
\n\u2022 The four corner towers and fifth central tower that crown the arch symbolise the five Buddhist principles of thoughtful amiability, flexibility, honesty, honour and prosperity.
\n\u2022 The seven floors of the monument contain administrative offices as well as a gift shop, a museum and the upper viewing galleries.
\n\u2022 Patuxai Park is a popular place to stroll around in the afternoons among the palm trees and lotus ponds. There is also a musical fountain that was donated by China.
\n\u2022 The peace gong at the northern end of the park was presented to Laos by Indonesia in recognition of Laos being named the world\u2019s most peaceful country.
\n\u2022 For an entrance fee of 3,000 Kip (38 US cents) you can take the stairs or the new lifts to the top floor viewing area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3-14-255x172.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Opening Hours:<\/strong>\u00a0From 08:00 to 16:30 on Mondays to Fridays, and 08:00 to 17:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.
\nLocation:<\/strong>\u00a0Patuxai is situated at the far end of Thanon Lane Xang in the government and diplomatic district. The monument sits on the large \u2018island\u2019 formed where the avenue splits into two, opposite the Ministry of Justice to the south and the Prime Minister\u2019s office to the north.
\nHow to get there:<\/strong>\u00a0Vientiane is such a small city that it is easy to get around on foot, by bicycle, or by tuk-tuk. To get to Patuxai, head north-east from the Presidential Palace near the river and follow Thanon Lane Xang for five blocks until you see the imposing sight of the Patuxai arch.<\/p>\n———————————–<\/p>\n National Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\nA visit to the Lao National Museum, also known as the Lao National History Museum, is an excellent way to learn about the history, culture and people of Laos while spending a couple of hours out of the sun. Many of the exhibits are a bit faded and the old French colonial building is falling apart, but the museum covers a lot of ground, from prehistoric times to the modern day.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4-11-255x152.jpg\")
\nAlthough the range of artifacts and photographs is not as comprehensive or as well organised as you might expect in a national museum, there are nonetheless some fascinating exhibits here. The ground floor houses a mixture of ancient items such as dinosaur bones, pottery shards and Khmer sculptures that trace the early history of the region.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5-10-255x144.jpg\")
\nUpstairs, you will find more detail in the exhibits, which depict the turbulent modern history of Laos from the Siamese invasions and the French colonial period to the American military presence during the Vietnam War, and through to the present day. There is a heavy emphasis on the struggle for independence and the introduction of communism in 1975, which explains why the museum was originally named the Lao Revolutionary Museum.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6-9-255x191.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Lao National Museum Highlights<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- The Lao National Museum is housed in the old French Governor\u2019s mansion, which was built in 1925.<\/li>\n
- Formerly known as the Lao Revolutionary Museum, it was renamed in 2000 and is sometimes also referred to as the Lao National History Museum.<\/li>\n
- The exhibits of ancient Lao history and culture on the ground floor include a particularly interesting display from the Plain of Jars (Savannakhet), which features an intact jar from the site.<\/li>\n
- Of the modern-day exhibits, many visitors find the one about unexploded ordinances from the American War the most fascinating and thought-provoking. From 1964 to 1973, Laos was heavily bombed, and many unexploded shells remain scattered around the countryside.<\/li>\n
- Be prepared for many of the displays and their labels to show an anti-Western bias, describing the Americans in particular as \u2018imperialists\u2019.<\/li>\n
- Stop and sign the guestbook at the entrance, and read some of the amusing exchanges on communism.<\/li>\n
- The entrance fee is minimal.<\/li>\n
- No bags or cameras are allowed in the museum. You will need to hand in your belongings for storage in the lockers at the entrance (free).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7-6-255x170.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Opening Hours:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0From 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00, seven days a week. Closed on public holidays.
\nLocation:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>The Lao National Museum is located in the centre of town on Thanon Samsenthai, one block from the\u00a0Lao Plaza Hoteland in front of the Tennis Club and the National Stadium.
\nHow to get there:<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0You can easily walk, ride a rented bicycle, or take a tuk-tuk or jumbo to the National Museum from anywhere in central Vientiane. Thanon Samsenthai is one of the main boulevards in the city, and runs parallel with the river.<\/p>\n———————————<\/p>\n Wat Si Muang<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8-4-255x191.jpg\") <\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>How to get there:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nWat Si Muang is one of Vientiane\u2019s most popular sites of worship, and offers a fascinating insight into how old animist beliefs have blended seamlessly with Theravada Buddhism.<\/p>\n According to local legend, when the temple was being built in 1563 a young pregnant woman named Si Muang volunteered to sacrifice herself to appease the angry spirits. She threw herself into a hole in the ground where the building\u2019s central pillar was to be placed, and was crushed when the massive pillar was lowered into position. This central pillar also formed the centre of the town that was springing up around Wat Si Muang, which to this day is revered as the \u2018mother temple\u2019 of Vientiane.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1-15-255x187.jpg\") <\/p>\n
During the That Luang Festival every October or November, this temple is one of the focal points of the celebrations, and Si Muang is f\u00eated as a guardian of the city. On a daily basis, Wat Si Muang attracts crowds of local Buddhists who want to benefit from its \u2018good luck\u2019 powers. It is commonly thought that if you pray for something here and simultaneously make a promise, your wish will be granted, providing you return and fulfil your promise.<\/p>\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2-14-255x189.jpg\") <\/p>\n
\n- The first Wat Si Muang was constructed in 1563, but was destroyed by Siamese invaders in 1828. It was subsequently rebuilt a number of times, and the present wat dates from 1915.
\n\u2022 The temple is named after Si Muang, who sacrificed herself in the pit that holds the central pillar of the structure. There is a small statue of Si Muang behind the building, along with a heap of old bricks that are said to date back to her time.
\n\u2022 The building itself is fairly unremarkable, although it does, unusually, contain two rooms rather than one. In the front chamber, you will find a monk offering blessings, while the back room contains an ornate altar where worshippers give their offerings.
\n\u2022 The interior of the temple is lavishly adorned in the usual manner with carved gold pillars, brightly coloured ceiling friezes and painted scenes from the life of the Buddha.
\n\u2022 There is no entrance charge, but you do have to pay to park your bicycle or motorcycle on the temple grounds.
\n\u2022 King Sisavang Vong\u2019s monument is located next door, and is reachable through a gate from the Wat Si Muang grounds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nOpening Hours:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0The temple is open from 06:00 to 19:00 every day
\nLocation:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0Wat Si Muang is located at the eastern end of Thanon Setthathirath, in the triangular area formed just before the street merges with Thanon Samsenthai and turns into Thanon Thadeua.
\nHow to get there:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0Follow either Thanon Setthathirath or Thanon Samsenthai in an easterly direction towards the Friendship Bridge. If you are on Thanon Setthathirath, go past La Leela Hotel, and you will see the yellow Wat Si Muang on the other side of the street, surrounded by parked bicycles and motorbikes, as well as stalls selling flowers and other offerings.<\/p>\n————————————-<\/p>\n Wat Ho Phra Keo<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3-15-255x170.jpg\") <\/p>\n
Vientiane<\/strong>\u00a0boasts several beautiful temples or wats, but one of the most impressive and interesting of them is\u00a0Wat Ho Phra Keo<\/strong>. It was originally constructed in 1565 as the Lao royal family\u2019s personal chapel, and as a home for the Emerald Buddha after it was snatched from northern Siam (Thailand). This sacred jade statue was reclaimed by the Siamese in 1778 and now sits in\u00a0Wat Phra Kaew\u00a0in Bangkok.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/attravel.vn\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4-12-255x121.jpg\")
\nEven without the Emerald Buddha, however,\u00a0Ho Phra Keo<\/strong>\u00a0is well worth a visit. The only part of the old royal palace that has survived, the temple is no longer used for religious purposes and is now a museum. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, as it is often known in English, is richly adorned with carved wooden features, a magnificent 16th century lacquered door with Hindu carvings, numerous Khmer stone carvings and a variety of Buddha statues.The stone balustrade of each of the temple stairs features a dragon with its head facing the grounds, guarding the sacred building. The shady, well-kept garden is an oasis of calm that offers a welcome respite from the sun and a quiet place to meditate or simply rest.<\/p>\n\n- The name\u00a0Ho Phra Keo<\/strong>means \u2018Altar of the Emerald Buddha\u2019, in reference to the fact that only the altar remained when the statue was removed
\n\u2022 It is also sometimes spelled Haw Phra Keow, Ho Prakeo or Ho Phra Kaew. English-language guidebooks often refer to it as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
\n\u2022 The temple was first built on the grounds of the royal palace in 1565, but was destroyed in the Siamese invasion of 1828-29.
\n\u2022 Prince Souvanna Phouma, an engineer and future prime minister of Laos, directed the reconstruction of Wat Ho Phra Keo between 1936 and 1942.
\n\u2022 Although it is relatively new, the Bangkok-rococo style structure has a distinctly traditional look.
\n\u2022 On its veranda you will see some of the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture in Laos.
\n\u2022 The interior of the temple is now a museum that houses many Lao treasures such as a gilded throne, Khmer Buddhist stone tablets, wooden carvings, bronze frog drums and palm-leaf manuscripts.
\n\u2022 The entrance fee is less than a dollar.
\n\u2022 The neatly tended garden contains colourful flowers, lush green lawns and charming statues set among the shady trees.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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