Laos
Serene Splendor Awaits
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10
Highlights
Unique Flavours
Laos presents a diverse culinary landscape, from bamboo-themed cooking classes and handmade noodle workshops to indulging in traditional Lao coffee and exploring local coffee plantations. Delight in the rich flavors and cultural heritage woven into every dish, providing a taste of authentic Laos that will tantalize the senses and leave a lasting impression on food enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Mysterious Plain of Jars
Laos is home to the mysterious Plain of Jars, an archaeological wonder shrouded in enigma. Spread across the Xieng Khouang Plateau, thousands of ancient stone jars of varying sizes, some weighing several tons, dot the landscape. The purpose of these jars, believed to date back over 2,000 years, remains a mystery, sparking theories ranging from funerary practices to rituals or even storage vessels.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, where ancient temples and French colonial architecture merge in picturesque harmony.
- Cruise along the Mekong River, immersing yourself in the tranquility of Laos' rural landscapes and experiencing authentic river life.
- Visit the mysterious Plain of Jars, an archaeological wonder shrouded in intrigue and home to thousands of ancient stone jars.
- Trek through the lush jungles of northern Laos, encountering diverse wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and remote hill tribe villages along the way.
- Embark on a culinary adventure, sampling traditional Laotian dishes such as spicy papaya salad, aromatic larb, and sticky rice in bustling local markets.
- Discover the captivating history and culture of Laos at the National Museum in Vientiane, home to artifacts spanning the country's rich heritage.
- Experience the thrill of tubing in Vang Vieng, floating down the Nam Song River amidst stunning limestone karst formations and verdant landscapes.
- Pay homage to Laos' spiritual heritage with a visit to the Pha That Luang, the country's most revered Buddhist stupa located in the capital city of Vientiane.
- Relax and rejuvenate in the tranquil surroundings of the 4,000 Islands in southern Laos, where hammocks sway gently in the breeze and time seems to stand still.
- Attend a traditional Baci ceremony, a sacred Lao ritual of blessing and goodwill, to immerse yourself in the country's vibrant cultural traditions and hospitality.
Country Information
- Vientiane
- GMT +7
- Kip
- Buddhism
- 7.2 Million
- Laotian
- Luang Prabang, Vientiane
- As with most of Southeast Asia, Laos experiences both ‘dry’ and ‘green’ seasons. From May to October the tropical lowlands have very warm days with short, heavy showers of rain, green landscapes and fewer travellers. Pleasant temperatures are experienced throughout most of Laos from November to March, although it can become cold in the mountain regions.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
Secrets of Southern Laos
Discover the rich world of coffee with Mr. Kamsouk as you explore the picturesque Bolaven Plateau aboard a vintage army Jeep. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Don Daeng Island, nestled within the idyllic 4,000 Islands region. Cycle through its serene landscapes and encounter local villages, gaining insights into the island way of life. Delight in a traditional Sindat dining experience, where you become your own chef, grilling ingredients at your table and savouring the authentic flavours of Laos.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
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Top Places to Visit
Luang Prabang
The former capital of Laos, this UNESCO World Heritage City has to be one of the most charming places in all of Southeast Asia. A myriad of traditional Lao wooden houses and European architecture, with gold-roofed temples and ornate Buddhist decorations, set against a backdrop of verdant greenery and rugged mountains. It houses old monasteries, typically Indo-Chinese store houses and lots of artwork shops. The town is surrounded by various types of natural beauty, offering travelers a wealth of sites to visit.
Pakse
The capital of the Champasak province of Southern Laos, Pakse is an ideal base with its relaxing atmosphere on the Mekong and Sedone Rivers, friendly locals, ubiquitous riverside restaurants and bars, and numerous massage clinics. Pakse is synonymous with Wat Phou like Siem Reap is to Angkor Wat. Wat Phou was built by the founder of the first Khmer empire, Jayavarman II. It is much smaller than Angkor, but still a rival to that ancient empire. It is the capital of Champasak Province and an unspoiled place for travelers. Southeast Asia’s highest waterfall, Khong Phapend, and many interesting islands on the Mekong River can be found near Pakse.
Phongsali
The hiking mecca in Southeast Asia lies on the borders to China and Vietnam. A magical world in the evergreen Laotian mountains in the far north of the country. No region in Southeast Asia is more sparsely populated and yet 28 different mountain tribes live here, almost cut off from any civilization. A unique boat trip from Luang Prabang is the adventurous start of an excursion to the city of Phongsali, the center of the hiking region.
Vang Vieng
Still not much more than three streets and a bus station, the main attractions are the river, laid back countryside and cave-filled rock formations. Vang Vieng is embedded in rainforests and rice fields and thanks to its fascinating backdrop with picturesque karst mountains a tourist magnet. There are also some beautiful, blue lagoons that make for stunning photos. Vang Vieng is truly an outdoor paradise with plenty of outdoor activities available in the most beautiful of surroundings, such as kayaking, caving, rock climbing, and so many more.
Wat Phou Temple Complex
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins of the Wat Phou temple complex are one of the must-sees in the south of the country. The relics of the sanctuary can be found in the ancient royal city of Champasak on the Mekong and at the beginning of the historical road to the Angkor Wat temple complex. Wat Phou is considered to be an important testimony to the Khmer Empire. Today, the huge seated Buddha in the sanctuary and the temple complex, which extends over three levels, are highly frequented by Buddhist pilgrims.
Vientiane
Situated along the Mekong River near the border with Thailand, Vientiane is the largest city in Laos, and the capital. This unusual city is surrounded by lush, green paddy fields and is still peaceful and quiet. It contains many temples and Buddhist monuments, including Pha That Luang, one of the most famous Buddhist stupas in Laos. Vientiane is a typically old Indo-Chinese town with a mixture of Asian and French colonial architecture destined to charm you. Not only does the style of the buildings reflect Laos’ historical ties with France, but the freshly baked baguettes are often served next to shops selling Lao noodle soup.
Pak Ou Caves
The Pak Ou Caves are an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and rank among the most notable highlights of northern Laos. There are hundreds of Buddha statues in the two caves on the west bank of the Mekong near the confluence of the Nam Ou River. The Pak Ou caves are particularly easy to reach with a two-hour boat trip along the Mekong from Luang Prabang. A tuk tuk ride is a little faster, but more adventurous.
Kuang Si Waterfall
When visiting the Kuang Si waterfalls, swimwear is a must, as the water in numerous natural pools invites you to refresh yourself. The natural spectacle is located about 30 km southwest of Luang Prabang in the Tat Kuang Si Park nature reserve. The main waterfall of the Kuang Si plunges 60 m into the depth, numerous pools have formed above and below the falls. In the immediate vicinity of the Kuang Si waterfall, the Bear Rescue Center, a rescue center for Laotian collar bears, is another highlight.
