50 Places to Visit in Laos 2024, Tourist Places & Attractions

Places to See in Laos

Si Phan Don, Buddha Park, Wat Phu, That Luang, The Plain Of Jars, Wat Xieng Thong, Mekong Riverside Park, Nong Khiaw, Pathet Lao caves, Tham Kong Lo and many more.

From ancient Buddhist temples to beautiful limestone caves, one can never run out of places to visit in Laos. Whether you’re a leisure monger looking for a quiet vacation in the city, or an adventure lover desiring to challenge yourself, the attractions in this beautiful Vietnamese city will leave you spoilt for choice.

From natural attractions to historical monuments, the places to see in Laos are many. While the stunning caves, such as the Tham Chang Caves or the Tham Nam water caves, promise an adventurous visit with plenty of hiking and boating opportunities, the peaceful temples of Xieng Ngeun or Wat Mai pride in a serene, regal charm of their own.

Those keen on exploring the history and culture of the city can also spend their trip visiting heritage sites such as the Royal Palace or the World Peace Gong. Additionally, the museums such as the Lao National Museum and the Haw Phra Kaeo also offer delightful insights into the war-stricken history of Laos.

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Must Visit Places in Laos

Si Phan Don (4000 ISLANDS), Champasak

The Four Thousand Islands have three primary destinations for travellers Don Island Khong is the greatest, yet separated from the typical chill&look there's nothing incredible to do there. A great many people head to Don Det or Don Khon, where convenience is less expensive, you can stroll to one of the huge Mekong-Falls independent from anyone else, and biking and strolling and swimming in the stream is only the same as in Don Khong. An excellent arrangement of islands, set against an apathetic and twisting area of the Mekong.

Make sure to look at the biggest waterfall in Southeast Asia, and have discussions with the inviting local people. Outside of the visitor town, one can get a look at nearby individuals, rice ranches and a lot of homestead creatures, particularly cows.

Highlights – Dolphins, Tham Phu Khiaw, Tat Somphamit, Khon Phapeng Falls, Wat Phu Khao Kaew

Location - Champasak, Laos.

Opening Hours: 7:30AM–9PM

Buddha Park, Vientiane

Image Credit : roaming-the-planet

Buddha 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’s mouth (about three metres high) with a stone ladder inside leading to a bird's eye view of the entire Xieng Kuan Park.

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.

Highlights – 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.

Location – Vientiane Capital

Opening Hours- 8am to 4pm

Full Day Sightseeing at Vientiane and Buddha Park in Loas

30 Ratings

8H
Vientiane

Starting from ₹ 4,083

Wat Phu, Champasak

Wat Pa Phu Kon is a ranger service protection in Na Yung woodland and Num Chom backwoods Bankong(sub-locale) ,Na Yung (area), Udonthani(province). This sanctuary was worked by Puttaborrisatsee (the buddhist) so as to helps advantage to remember nature and woods which was obliterated in 1984. It moderates backwoods, creature and upstream for quite a while. Wat Pa Phu Kon is a tranquil spot and suitable for routine of Meditation Buddhist.

The Buddha statue in the sanctuary made of marble, the outside outline is like configuration in Rattanagshi period. Inside the sanctuary has an anecdote about Buddha, spoke to by divider painting. This divider painting indicates story of ten resurrections of Buddha, and each of incarnation speak to activity of Buddha; for instance, industriousness and benevolence which prompt the following incarnation as an understood Buddha.

Highlights – Middle Level, Upper Level, Lower Level, Prasat

Location - In Pakse, the main city of Champasack Province in southwestern Laos.

Opening Hours: All year round

Best time to visit: November to March

Day Tours Explore All (16)

Luang Prabang City Tour with Pak Ou Caves, Book Now @ Flat 9% off

1D
Luang Prabang

28 Ratings

Luang Prabang City Tour with Pak Ou Caves, Book Now @ Flat 9% off

₹ 5,466 ₹ 4,920

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

1D
Luang Prabang

29 Ratings

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

₹ 4,062 ₹ 3,250

Kuang Si Falls Tour with Pak Ou Caves & Whisky Village, Book @ Flat 5% off

9H
Luang Prabang

34 Ratings

Kuang Si Falls Tour with Pak Ou Caves & Whisky Village, Book @ Flat 5% off

₹ 11,909 ₹ 11,209

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That Luang, Vientiane

Image Credit : Raini Svensson

Laos is popular for Buddhist stupas. In the heart of Laos you will find Pha That Luang, which is covered with gold and huge in size. Pha That Luang was established before 5thcentury. The best time to visit the stupa in the morning after 8am or after 1pm. Closing time of the stupa is 4pm. You can rent the religious uniform of the stupa, if you want. This stupa is 45meters in height and made like pyramid in pattern. To enter you need to pay 50,000 kip.

Luang had been through a lot. So this stupa has been reconstructed several times because of damage. Finally, a new design and art of the stupa was created by an architect from France in 18thcentury. Pha That Luang is so large that you need to have lot of time in your hand to explore the whole temple. This Lao culture will definitely impress you.

The Plain Of Jars, Xiangkhoang Plateau

Image Credit : Oiluj Samall Zeid

Monster stone jugs of obscure antiquated starting point are scattered over many square kilometers around Phonsavan, giving the territory the deceptive name of Plain of Jars. Truth be told it's no to a greater extent a plain than the rice-dish valleys at Muang Sing or Luang Namtha, and surely the vast majority of the inquisitive container destinations are on slopes.

Be that as it may, also intriguing than the jugs themselves is the secret of which civilisation made them. Surprisingly, no one knows. In the mean time, a whimsical legend guarantees that they were made to mix boundless amounts of rice wine to praise the neighbourhood individuals' sixth century freedom from unfeeling overlords by the Tai-Lao saint Khun Jeuam.

Highlights – Thong Hai Hin, Visit the MAG Information Centre opposite Craters restaurant, Stop at the excellent Plain of Jars visitor information centre.

Location - Laos

Entrance fee - US$ 1.30

Opening Hours - 9 am to 5 pm

Bolaven Plateau Waterfalls

Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is popular for its incredible landscape, ethnic towns and unexplored corners. It's presumably best known for being home to some of Southeast Asia's most awesome waterfalls including Tad Fane and Dong Hua Sao (otherwise known as Taat Fang). The level's rise goes around from 1,000 to 1,350 meters above ocean level and here the climate all in all is milder than whatever is left of the nation, getting cool, particularly during the evening.

Its ripe fields permit ranchers to deliver a portion of the best tea and espresso in the nation (espresso remains Laos' greatest horticultural fare.) Tourism has ended up another critical wellspring of wage for local people as the territory has practically boundless trekking and daytrip opportunities.

Highlights – Southern Laos by scooter, Ban Saphai, Tad Fane, Tad Yuang Gneuang, Uttayan Bajiang.

Location - Southern Laos

Adventure Explore All (5)

Vang Vieng Caves and Kayaking Tour, Book Now @ Flat 14% off

1D
Vang Vieng

37 Ratings

Vang Vieng Caves and Kayaking Tour, Book Now @ Flat 14% off

₹ 4,200 ₹ 3,600

Vang Vieng Adventure Tour, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

6H
Vang Vieng

27 Ratings

Vang Vieng Adventure Tour, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

₹ 1,712 ₹ 1,370

Chomphet Hike Tour Luang Prabang, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

1D
Luang Prabang

30 Ratings

Chomphet Hike Tour Luang Prabang, Book Now @ Flat 19% off

₹ 4,337 ₹ 3,470

Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang

Wat Xieng Thong is basically a Buddhist temple located at the northern tip of Luang Phrabang, Laos’s peninsula. Wat Xieng Thong is among those most important Lao monasteries and stands out as a significant monument. There are more than twenty structures including a sim, the shrines, the pavilions and the residences, in addition to gardens of flowers, shrubs and huge trees. There is a ‘tree of life’ mosaic set on the exterior wall at the west. Inside, a gold stencil work showcases the dharma wheels on ceiling and exploits from the life of King Chanthaphanit.

Dotted around the Sim are stupas and three chapel halls or Hor Tai. The rest two show striking external mirror-shard mosaics depicting the village life and exploits of Siaw Sawa. The Hor Pa Maan or the success Buddha sanctuary is usually locked except the week following Pi Mai. The Hor Tai Pha Sai-nyaat contains a rare reclining Buddha.

Mekong Riverside Park

Image Credit : Philip Roeland

The Vientiane Night Market is aimed primarily towards tourists, with clean, orderly stalls, and all manner of merchandise that make great souvenirs or mementos. It all begins around sunset when a small army of sellers begin setting up their red-roofed stalls directly on the riverside promenade. You can’t fail to see it. The whole riverside area is alive at this time with joggers and dog-walkers taking advantage of the cooling breezes and stunning backdrop of the sun lazily sinking into the Mekong river.

Products on offer are fairly typical of night markets throughout the region. You will find a predictable array of Buddhist-inspired paintings and knickknacks, cheap sunglasses, and Beer Lao T-shirts. The clothes stalls tend to be geared towards the backpacker market with fishermen pants and one-size-fits-all dresses and skirts.

Highlights – Built in 1958 by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, the three-headed elephant (aka Erawan and Airavata)

Location – Night Market Quai Fa Ngum Vientiane Laos

Best time to visit: 6pm to 7:30pm

Nong Khiaw

Image Credit : dirtykoala

Nong Khiaw (Nong Kiau or Nong Kiew) is an excellent natural little town on the bank of the Ou River in Laos. It is crushed in the middle of the absolute most incredible limestone mountains north of Vang Vieng. Numerous voyagers go through in transit up stream to the much more disengaged Muang Ngoi, yet Nong Khiaw has an a lot of appeal, a nice scope of settlement, in addition to comforts, for example, 24 hour power and an association with the street system for those inspired by investigating the encompassing region.

Nong Khiaw is basic in design and sufficiently little to stroll around. It's conceivable to lease a bicycle at the Riverside Bungalows and Delilah's to investigate the 2 streets and encompassing territory.

Highlights – Indochina Traverse, Northern Laos Explorer, Laos Family Adventure

Location - Northern Laos

Transfers Explore All (6)

Luang Prabang Airport Transfers, Book Online @ Flat 13% off

Luang Prabang

23 Ratings

Luang Prabang Airport Transfers, Book Online @ Flat 13% off

₹ 890 ₹ 770

Vientiane Laos to Luang Prabang Shared Transfer, Flat 20% off

7H
Luang Prabang

36 Ratings

Vientiane Laos to Luang Prabang Shared Transfer, Flat 20% off

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Vientiane Airport Transfers, Book Now @ Flat 25% off

Vientiane

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₹ 770 ₹ 570

Pathet Lao caves

Image Credit : Peter Garnhum

The Viengxay collapses Houaphanh Province of North-Eastern Laos are a broad system of collapses limestone mountains. Four-hundred eighty of these holes were utilized by the Pathet Lao amid the Second Indochina War to protect from American siege. Up to 23,000 individuals lived in the holes, which contained a healing center, a school, Pathet Lao workplaces, pastry kitchens, shops, and even a theater. The zone was home to the Communist armed force, who were battling the royalist strengths, situated in Vientiane.

The caverns were utilized for living and acting as a part of in light of the fact that the U. S. Aviation based armed forces was bombarding the territory so vigorously. Local people say that ranchers needed to cultivate around evening time to abstain from besieging strikes. Vieng Xay served as a base for the Communist strengths (and holding office for caught US servicemen) in light of the fact that it was near the Vietnamese fringe for logistical and political backing.

Highlights – Nok Ann Cave, Noua Waterfall.

Location - North-Eastern Laos

Tham Kong Lo, Khammouane

Image Credit : dirtykoala

Tham Kong Lo is one of focal Laos', if not the country's, most striking highlights. An adventure into this mysterious underworld resemble a voyage into haziness itself; with 7km of winding waterway, scaling little rapids as it goes through the house of God high limestone hole. A segment of Kong Lo has now been climatically lit, permitting you a more noteworthy look at this epic scene; your longtail docks in a rough delta to permit you to investigate a stalactite wood of frequenting columns and growing stalagmites.

Your creative energy will be in overdrive as the vessel takes you facilitate into the bat-dark obscurity – you may compare it to Middle Earth (the lights of different water crafts like Gollum's eyes gulped in the misery) or the Greek Underworld of Hades. Whichever way you won't ever overlook it.

Highlights – Konglor Cave, The Loop, The Town, Tha Falang.

Location - Laos

Best time to visit: November to April

Phonsavan

Phonsavanh is the commonplace capital of Xieng Khouang territory. It was inherent the late 1970s and supplanted the old Xieng Khouang which had been annihilated amid the Second Indochina War. It is situated in the focal point of the Plain of Jars and has a lovely atmosphere all year around, in spite of the fact that it can turn out to be truly icy amid winter evenings (it is on a height of 1100m). The long winding principle road of Phonsavanh resembles the setting of a David Lynch propelled Spaghetti Western less the tumbleweeds.

When you leave town the wide open is overwhelmed by green slopes and pine timberlands. Towns comprise of vivid wood houses and frequently raise dairy cattle. You will see more than one Hmong rancher with chestnut and violet cowpoke caps. Amid Hmong New Year there are even bullfights in Phonsavanh.

Highlights – SOS orphanage, Navang Craft Centre, The Mulberry Silk Farm

Location - Laos

Vieng Xai

Image Credit : Mr ATM

Vieng Xai (likewise Vieng Xay, Vieng Sai) is a region and town in Hua Phan Province. The town is situated on Route 6, 30 Km from Sam Neua (Province capital) and 55 km from the Vietnam/Laos outskirt in Na Meo. The greatest fascination of the town are the caverns. The previous Pathet Lao central command of Vieng Xai sit in a striking valley of prolific slopes and limestone bluffs loaded with caverns, a few of which were utilized to shield the Pathet Lao officers amid the second indo-china war.

Amid the 1960s, political improvements in Laos were compelling later on of this entire locale. The United States trusted that Laos was urgent in the counteractive action of comrade extension, so this little nation got to be made up for lost time in the contention between the US and the north Vietnamese.

Highlights – Vieng Xai Caves visitor centre

Location - Laos

Wat Sisaket, Vientiane

Wat Si Saket situated in Vientiane is renowned for its group divider lodging a great many little Buddha pictures and lines with several situated Buddhas. These pictures for the most part date from the sixteenth and nineteenth hundreds of years and come in all sizes and are produced using wood, stone and bronze – more than 6,800 Buddhas altogether.

In the event that meeting the sanctuary at a young hour in the morning, guests will go over the numerous local people that go to beg and make merit and in addition to offer nourishment to the friars. It is an enchanting day by day function to witness. The sanctuary is very shady as it is encompassed by tropical organic product trees.

Highlights – Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, City on the Mekong, The Rugged Charm of the, Top of the Land of a Million Elephants

Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 16:00

Location: On Lan Xang Road (across the street from the Presidential Palace), Vientiane

Prices: 5,000 Kip per person.

Bokeo

Image Credit : Global Environment Facility (GEF)

Arranged in the heart of the brilliant triangle, Bokeo is right over the outskirt from Chiang Rai region in Thailand furthermore fringes Myanmar while China is under 100km away. Despite the fact that Bokeo is the littlest region in Laos, it harbors an expansive number of fascinating minority bunches (inexact 30 ethnicities). The territory split off from Luang Nam Tha and was made in 1983. The name Bokeo interprets as 'diamond mine' and the city is known as the 'place that is known for sapphires'. Searching for gold, and burrowing for valuable stones is a noteworthy occupation here.

Throughout the hundreds of years, Bokeo has remained a critical stopover for Chinese brokers going by water crafts in the middle of China and Thailand. These days, the main association in the middle of Bokeo and Chiang Rai is by means of ship and speedboat.

Highlights – Jom Khao Manilat, French-built Fort Carnot, Huay Xai Chiang Kong

Location: Ban Houayxay

That Ing Hang Stupa, Savannakhet

That Ing Hang Stupa is around nine meters high with wonderful cutting and improvement. It's accounted for to house a relic of Buddha's spine. The sixteenth century stupa is situated in Savannakhet, Central Laos. Savannakhet itself is well known as the origin of Laos' famous previous pioneer, Kaysone Phomvihane.

It was otherwise called a French exchanging station back in provincial times thusly there are various vintage French pilgrim and Sino-Franco structures in the business locale. The hallowed stupa is an essential spot of love for Laotian Buddhists as well as Thai Buddhists who live in northern Thailand.

Highlights – Visit That Ing Hang Temple, an important place of Buddhists and national treasure of Laos. Discover the mixture architecture of Hindu and Buddhist style as well as the beautiful embossments

Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 18:00

Location: In Ban That Village about 15km north of Kaysone Phomvihane District, Savannakhet Province in Central Laos

Kuang Sii Waterfalls, Luang Prabang

The Kuang Si Falls spelled also as Kuang Xi or called Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls, is basically a three tier waterfall 29 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. The falls start in shallow pools from a steep hillside leading to the main fall with 60 meters cascade. The water gets collected in many a turquoise blue pool as it flows downstream. The Cascades resulting are quite typical of the travertine waterfalls.

One can make way to the waterfalls on a hired motorcycle with some scenic village en-route or book a tour. Many opt for an unusual alternative and hire a boat and ride down River Mekong before catching yet another boat for the short hop across to these falls.

UXO Laos Visitor Center

Image Credit : ccarlstead

Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao) operates in the nine most impacted provinces all over the nation. UXO Lao makes way for land for agricultural and community related purposes (e.g. hospitals, schools, temples and water supply) along with developmental activities. UXO Laos Visitor Center is basically a permanent but small exhibition in Luang Prabang, which depicts the problems of UXO affecting Laos and efforts to clean affected areas.UXO Laos Luang Prabang visitor center is situated within a government building on Bounkhong Road.

UXO Laos visitors’ center usually stays Open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 12:00 and in the evenings from 13:00 to 16:00. There is no entrance fee or to the exhibition. This UXO Laos Luang Prabang visitor centre is exhibits with just 2rooms the different kinds of unexploited munitions (UXO), along with series of illustrations with appropriate data related to various wars that previously affected the country, the impact on civilian population and tasks of decontamination and cleaning are also exposed.

Elephant Village, Luang Prabang

Image Credit : rosshuggett

Elephant Village is basically an elephant sanctuary and a popular tourist destination in Luang Prabang, Laos operated by a team of caring individuals for the rehabilitation and protection and of elephants. The magnificent "elephant village" is located about 15 km from Luang Prabang on the bank of River Nam Khan. Elephant Village is ideally located in the laps of Mother Nature, by misty mountains near the river. It's the first and one of its kinds in Laos that offers Elephant interaction programs alongside an outstanding variation of Elephant activity tours for the young as well as for the old.

The area around Elephant Village offers approximately 4 hectares of lush green nature, and sandbank at the camp allowing visitors to watch Elephants during their daily bath. A beautiful Elephant Lodge is connected via a small path, only a few hundred meters from the "Elephant Village", offering a simple but relaxing stay with well-furnished rooms in exclusive colonial style.

Mount Phousi, Luang Prabang

Image Credit : rule37

Mount Phousi rises about 150 mtrs from the centre of Luang Prabang and is located between the Thanon Sisavangvong and the Thanon Phousi. From the summit, a 360-degree spectacular look of the city with River Mekong to the north, River Khan to its south and east, with all the temples, and surrounding landscape with the mountains has been marked favorite by tourists. When it comes to climbing Mount Phousi there are numerous steps. However the climb is gentle for one with reasonable health.

The popular time for visiting Mount Phousi is in the late afternoon, to watch the sunset over the Luang Prabang and surrounding countryside. For a much awaited peaceful experience, the sunrise view is worth catching, especially from the hill top. The Thanon Phousi staircase is comprising 355 steps zigzagging up till the summit, is well paved, offering several resting spots all along. The Wat Tham Phousi shrine, featuring a huge-bellied Buddha nestling in a grotto and reclining Buddha can be spotted halfway up on the hill. The golden Wat Chomsi, built in 1804 sits on top of Mount Phousi.

Places to Visit in Vientiane

Patuxai Park

Located in the heart of Vientiane, Patuxay Park is one of Laos’ most frequent tourist destinations. Patched with expansive gardens and snakelike walkways, the Park serves as an ideal location for casual strolls and romantic outings. The biggest attraction at the park, however, is the Patuai War Monument that occupies a central position here. The massive monument was built in honor of all those who laid down their lives in the war of independence, and is regarded as one of the best places to see in Laos.

Location: Vientaine, Laos

Xieng Ngeun Temple

Often overlooked, the Xien Nyeun Temple is a Buddhist monastery in the Vientiane region of Laos. Boasting of a typical Buddhist charm, the temple is characterized by its golden domes and intricate tombs. A nine headed Naga statue serves as a special attraction here. Being minimally crowded at all times, the temple Xien Nyeun is a good place to visit for those looking to observe the daily workings of a Buddhist temple.

Location: Vientiane, Laos

Presidential Palace

Image Credit : raymondtan

The official residence of the President of Laos, the Presidential Palace is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Sprawling along the banks of the Mekong river, this French-styled palace occupies a prominent place in Vietnam’s political past.

Although the palace itself is not opened to the public, the building is well-regarded for its architecture, and is generally flocked with tourists throughout the year. The imposing yet elegant beaux-arts style design, coupled with shaded balconies and colonnades, casts a colonial charm over the street. A large manicured garden surrounds the palace on all sides.

Location: 081, Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos

Haw Phra Kaew

Now functioning as a Museum, Haw Phra Keao is a former temple in Vientiane. The temple was constructed in the year 556 by King Setthathirath, when he moved the Laos capital to Vientiane. It was constructed to house the massive Emerald Buddha, which remained in the temple till the year 1779 when it was moved to Bangkok. Since its construction, the temple has been invaded, destroyed and rebuilt every time.

The facility is no longer used for Buddhist ceremonies, but has been converted into a museum instead. The Museum houses an array of Buddhist artefacts, such as the gilded throne for the Emerald Buddha, several icons and wood carvings. The manicured lawns surrounding the Museum is riddled with several sculptures as well.

Location: Vientiane, Laos

Timings: 08.00AM-12.00PM and 01.00PM-04.00PM on all days of the week

World Peace Gong

Freshly installed in 2008, the World Peace Gong was gifted to Laos by the World Peace Committee of Indonesia. One of the most prominent historical places to visit in Laos, the Gong stands proudly in Patuxai. The World Peace Gong measures nearly 2 meters in diameter and weighs about 150 kilograms. Over 450 years old, the Peace Gong stands as a symbol for the country’s long standing peace and security.

Location: Vientiane, Laos

Lao National Museum

A visit to the Lao National Museum is an excellent way to learn about the history, culture and heritage of the city. Housed within a French colonial building, the exhibits at the museum details the history of the city from the prehistoric days to the modern era through photographs and artefacts. The ground floor covers exhibits of dinosaur bones, prehistoric carvings and Khmer structures, while the upper sections contain items depicting the war history of the city through photographs.

Location: 328 13, Vientiane, Laos

Timings: The Museum remains closed on Mondays. It operates between 08.30AM and 04.00PM on all other days of the week.

Places to Visit in Vang Vieng

Tham Chang Cave

Nestled by the Nam Song river, the Tham Chang Cave is among the most beautiful places to visit in Laos. The caves served as an important military location in the 19th century, when the Vietnamese army used it as a bunker during the war against Chinese invaders. Now, it is a thriving tourist hotspot with a plethora of adventure opportunities. The cave is ripe for trekking and hiking, with steep climbs leading into its hidden interiors. Tham Chang is also home to two ‘secret’ blue lagoons, promising some fantastic natural views.

Location: Vang Vieng, Laos

Timings: 08.00AM-04.00PM on all days of the week

Tham Nam Water Cave

The Tham Nam Water Caves are a series of beautiful underwater caves in the Vang Vieng region of Laos. The only way to explore these caves is on a harnessed tube that is tied to a rope and dragged along by the rider. The 500 meter long ride travels across patches of pristine water and dark corners, with the only light illuminating the interiors emanating from one’s own headlamp. This floating experience, however, is limited to the wet season only; the dry season allows tourists to explore the caves on foot.

Location: Vang Vieng Laos

Timings: 08.00M-04.00PM on all days of the week

Tham Poukham Cave

One of the most popular places to visit in Laos, a visit to the Tham Poukham Caves is an absolute must visit for adventure lovers coming to Vietnam. The road to the cave interiors is rather steep, making it ideal for hiking and trekking. Once inside, travellers are treated to views of fantastic rock formations and ancient statues of Buddha. The blue lagoons adjacent to the ham Poukham Caves are ideal for a dip on a hot summer day.

Location: Vang Vieng, Laos

Timing: 07.00AM-05.30PM on all days of the week

Kaeng Nyui Waterfall

Equally popular among locals and tourists alike, the Kaeng Nyui Waterfall is a refreshing treat to all those who come here. Despite its small size, the stunning waterfall is quite a sight to behold. The hike to the falls is quite short, and offers some splendid views of the surroundings. The fall itself opens into a shallow pool at the bottom where tourists can enjoy a short dip. While there are no marked picnic spots, the area surrounding the falls is clean and fresh and is well regarded as a good picnic spot in Laos.

Location: Vang Vieng, Laos

Places to Visit in Luang Prabang

Tad Sae Waterfalls

Located along the Nam Khan river, Tat Sae is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos. Stretching across a fairly wide area, the water in Tat Sae falls in clean sheets over jagged limestone rocks. The falling water forms several shallow pools and cascades along its length, where tourists can swim at their leisure. The water itself is milky blue in color, offering a dazzling sight. Although trekking is a popular activity here, visitors can also try their hand at a variety of other extreme sports at Tat Sae, such as ziplining.

Location: Nam Khan River, Laos

Timings: 08.00AM-05.30PM on all days of the week

Tad Thong Waterfall

Image Credit : patrikmloeff

For years, this path was hidden from the public but is open again to let the world witness the beauty of the natural jungle and waterfalls. The waterfalls usually are spring fed, as are many of the falls in this area, which naturally reduce to a trickle as the dry season comes to an end - but Tad Thong is more impressive and known for a Jungle walk, so the waterfalls are sort of a bonus, as claims tourists and not the primary reason for a visit.

Tad Thong gives an opportunity of taking a short but vigorous hike through the jungles, and a spring-fed pool to a place entirely to oneself. The Tad Thong has always been a place of must visit as it is a quiet spot ideal for a long, nice nature walk with butterflies and beautiful falls and only a few tourists with friendly locals.

Wat Mai Suwan Poomaram

Just Wat Mai to the locals, this ancient 18h century temple is one of the most popular places to see in Laos. The largest temple in Luang Prabang, Wat Mai is well known for its ethereal beauty. The most striking feature of the temple is the gilded relief panels that cover the front panels here, narrating the story of Buddha’s reincarnation. During the Lao New Year celebrations, the sacred Buddha image at the Royal Palace is carried to Wat Mai for worship.

Location: Luang Prabang, Laos

Timings: 08.00AM-05.00PM on all days of the week

Haw Kham (Royal Palace)

Now converted into a museum, the Royal Palace was originally built as a residence for King Sisavong Vang and his family. Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, the location of the Palace was strategically decided to receive the royal guests who disembarked from ferries in the river. The Museum now preserves artefacts and exhibits from the royal past of Laos. The main attraction at the Museum is the Phra Bang, the country’s most prized Buddha image. A variety of other Buddha figures, ornamental shrines and royal thrones can be found here as well.

Location: 27 Ounheun Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos

Timings:
Thursday: 08.00AM-11.30AM; 01.30PM-03.30PM
Other days: 08.00AM-11.30PM; 01.30PM-04.00PM

Other Places to Visit in Laos

Wat Chanthaburi

Wat Chanthaburi or Wat Chan is a magnificent 16th century Buddhist temple in the Vientiane region of Laos. The temple had been destroyed during the Siam invasion in 1982, but has undergone several restorations since then. The temple is renowned for its massive Buddha idol, cast out of bronze in the 16th century. It is also highly rated for its decorative features, such as the wood carvings and images on the walls.

Location: Vientiane, Laos

Wat Phou Salao

Laos’ largest temple, Wat Phou Salao is one of the best religious places to visit in Laos. Visitors are greeted by a gigantic statue of Lord Buddha at the entrance of the temple, which is the biggest attraction here. The temple building itself boasts of traditional Buddhist designs, and is known for its peaceful ambience.

Apart from its religious prominence, the temple’s location on a hillock by the Mekong also makes it an amazing trekking destination. Visitors can choose to hike to the top and be greeted by fantastic panoramic views of the river. The views during sunset are especially resplendent, and should not be missed.

Location: Pakse, Laos

Timing: 06.00AM-06.00PM on all days of the week

Ban Tong Night Market

One of Laos’ most prominent night markets, the Ban Thong Night Market is well known for its traditional Lao wares. The market is a great place for those willing to try local Lao cuisine, with several street shops and stalls selling delectable delights and pocket friendly prices. The streets here are lined with tables and chairs, where visitors can sit and enjoy their purchases.

Location: Rue Phai Nam, Vientiane, Laos

Timing: 04.30PM-09.30PM on all days of the week

Chi Fa

The name Phu Chi Fa literally translates to ‘where the mountains point to the sky’, and it's not too difficult to see why. Nestled in the heart of the Phi Pan Nam ranges, this forest park is one of the most stunning places to see in Laos. Breathtaking views of lush forests and an overabundance of colorful flowers makes Phu Chi Fa worth a visit. The Park is a treat to trekkers as well, with several hiking trails snaking their way across the mountain. The sunset views at the Forest Park are especially popular, with the towering cliffs jutting out into the open blue horizon.

Location: Phi Pan Nam range

Pakbeng

Perched high by the Mekong River, Pakbeng is a small village in Laos. The sleepy little town is generally regarded as a stopover point between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang, and is known for its quiet rural beauty. Although Pakbeng is fairly untouched by tourism, there are a couple of temples around the town which are worth a visit. A number of bars and eateries line the place as well, offering local Lao delights.

Location: Mekong River

Chom Ong Cave

Located in the Oxumudoy province of Laos, the Chong Ong Caves are the longest chain of caves in the northern part of the city. The caves run to a length of about 18 kilometers, with a river and a fossil passage running side by side. The cave offers a tricky hiking experience that should only be attempted by seasoned hikers. The climb to the interiors is rather steep, although hikers are treated to views of splendid rock formations and numerous golden Buddha statues along the descent.

Location: Northern Laos, Mekong River

Wat Visounnarath

Founded in the early years of the 16th century, Wat Vissonnarath stood as a symbol for the country’s unity. The temple derives its name from Laos’ King Visounnarath, the then reigning emperor who sanctioned its building. The architecture of the temple was styled after the Wat Phou temple in southern Laos, with its characteristic wooden carvings. The courtyard at the temple is flanked by a watermelon shaped stupa, literally called Thak Mak Mo.

Location: Luang Prabang, Laos

Timings: 08.00AM-05.00PM

Dong Ampham National Biodiversity Conservation Area

Cover over 200,000 hectares of forested land, Dong Ampham National Biodiversity Conservation Area is an extensive conservation zone in northern Laos. The Biodiversity hotspot preserves some of the last remaining lowland and tropical forest regions still intact in Southeastern Asia. A couple of rivers snake their way through the Conservation zone, adding to the overall beauty of the place. A number of animals can be spotted here as well, such as crocodiles and elephants. The volcanic Nong Fa lake also lies within the park.

Location: Attapeu, Laos

Nam Ngum Dam

The Nam Ngum Dam is a hydroelectric power dam built across the river of the same name. Set against the dramatic backdrop of towering green cliffs, the lake boasts of an unparalleled pristine beauty. The glittering blue waters of the dam makes it a beautiful picnic spot, and is flocked by tourists throughout the year. The landscape appears twice as resplendent during the early evening hours, when the golden light of the setting sun permeates the place.

Location: Nam Ngum River, Laos

Bamboo Bridge

The bamboo bridge in Luang Prabang extends along the mouth of the Nam Khan river, right before it joins the Mekong river. The rickety bamboo bridge is generally used by workers travelling across the river, and is a prominent landmark in the city. However, the bridge can only be accessed for six months in a year, for it gets washed away by the swelling river during the rainy months.

Location: Nam Khan River, Luang Prabang, Laos

Pha Ngern View Point

The hills in Laos are notorious for their hiking trails, and the Pha Ngern View Point is one such excellent hiking destination here. The quiet and secluded viewpoint can be reached by a short but steep hike. The views from the summit, however, are worth the trouble. With sweeping green valleys opening on all sides, the spectacular views from here should not be missed at any cost. The spot is especially popular during the sunset hours.

Location: Vang Vieng, Laos

Phu Hin Bun National Protected Area

Riddled with untouched forests and towering limestone formations, Phu Hin Bun National Protected Area is one of the most pristine places to visit in Laos. Established as a protected area in 1993, the Park focuses on conserving the native natural wealth of Vietnam. The area is scattered with clear turquoise pools, virgin jungles, stunning limestone cliffs and karst formations that tower like tall buildings over the trees. The flowering forests area is also populated with several small animals, such as langurs, deer and monkeys. The Protected area is also home to the famous Tham Kong Lo Caves and the Laos Tham Pa Fa Buddha. Hiking is the most popular activity here, although cave excursions are also much sought after.

Location: Khammouane, Laos

Cave of the Monkeys

Also known as the Cave of the Monkeys, the Tam Pa Ling Cave is one of the most offbeat places to visit in Laos. Located at the very top of the Pa Hang mountains, the entrance of the cave is filled with banana and papaya trees, making it a popular allure for the groups of monkeys that live in the surrounding areas.

The caves however, is not just popular for its monkey population- recent discoveries have led geologists to believe that the Tam Pa Ling area had once been occupied by some of the earliest humans in history. The caves are ideal for hikes, and can be visited throughout the year.

Location: Pa Hang Mountains, Laos

Whiskey Village

Nestled on the banks of the Mekong river, the little village of Ban Xang Hai has earned quite a name for itself by producing and selling whiskey. The ‘Whiskey Village’ as it is now called, is known for its unique, often daring samples. Visitors travelling along its rustic roads will have no problem spotting the colorful bottles lining the displays at the stores and houses. Some whiskey producers also imbibe their products with venomous animals like snakes and scorpions, which is said to add a certain edge to the drink. Apart from its whiskey, however, the village is also known for its locally produced, handspun stoles and shawls, which are sold throughout the place.

Location: Ban Xang Hai

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Also known as the Vientiane Cathedral, the Sacred Heart Cathedral is the heart of Christianity in Laos. Built in 1928, the Cathedral is noted for its Romanesque Revival architectural style. The Church houses images of Joan of Arc and St. Therese of Lisieux in its chambers. The high steeple and stained glass windows serve as an added attraction here. The Cathedral also conducts Mass every day.

Location: Vientiane, Laos