Laos - Places to visit

Despite being one of Southeast Asia's most stunning destinations, Laos receives very few tourists each year. It's a surprise that fewer people know about Laos because the country has as much to offer visitors as Thailand and Vietnam.

Although small and landlocked, the nation is well-known for its breathtaking limestone mountains, where you can go hiking and explore strange karst formations and caves.

Laos is famed for its mountains, forests, waterfalls, and superb Thai and Indian-influenced cuisine. Even in the capital city of Vientiane or the ancient city of Luang Prabang, a trip to Laos will seem like an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Southeast Asia.

1. Pak Ou Caves

Pak Ou Caves have thousands (4000+) of Buddha sculptures on a steep ledge overlooking the Mekong River. Buddha pictures depict meditation, tranquility, and happiness. Most statues were wood, although others were resin, earthenware, or animal bones, they're painted red or black and gold-covered. Two smaller caverns with little sculptures make up the cave. River view of the lower cave, named Tham Ting has 2500+ pictures. Tham Theung, the top cave, is darker and bigger. It requires a 10-minute trek up stone steps. Furthermore, hundreds of sculptures are concealed in the dark. Locals wash their Buddha statues in April in a wooden water channel to the left of the entrance (at Lao New Year).

Thousands Of Buddha Sculptures On The Pak Ou Cave

2. Luang Prabang Old Town

The ancient district of Luang Prabang Old Quarter contains the majority of the city's most significant monuments and Buddhist temples. The Old Quarter's architecture was heavily inspired by the blending of Western and Eastern styles, in addition to the traditional art tones of Laos.

This charming ancient town is the perfect place to spend a few quiet hours walking around charming historic homes and French colonial-style villas in a healthy natural setting filled with fresh air. Time passes slowly as tourists make their way through the city, where friendly street sellers and welcoming Laotians can be found around every corner.

Inspired By Luang Prabang Old Town's Mix Of Western And Eastern Styles

3. Wat Xieng Thong

Wat Xieng Thong is situated at the meeting point of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers. This is the most important and historic temple in Luang Prabang. Nowadays, the pagoda serves as a repository for numerous old treasures, holy spirits, and traditional Lao art. Wat Xieng Thong translates to "Golden City Temple" and is also a popular pilgrimage and worship site for both locals and visitors. This temple is becoming increasingly essential in life, spiritual culture, and as a peaceful haven in the midst of a bustling and successful metropolis.

The Holiest And Oldest Temple In Luang Prabang Wat Xieng Thong

4. Kuang Si Waterfalls

Tat Kuang Si Falls, often called Kuang Xi, is the country's most magnificent natural wonder. The colorful water cascades from 50 meters into small ponds before pouring into the forest river. Kuang Si Falls have carved a stunning travertine pattern onto the rocks throughout time. Swimming pools in the sky are a lovely scene of clear water and lush forest.

A day excursion to Kuang Si Waterfall outside the city will leave you with memories of relaxing in the turquoise pools and being drenched by the powerful stream. Swimming in the blue pools—except the "hidden pools" with no-entry signposts the most captivating pastime. If you're adventurous, you'll swing the ropes on the tree and jump into the pools. If required, change into bathing gear in conservative Laos.

Kuang Si Waterfall Bring The Tranquil And Peaceful Moments

5. Patuxai Victory Monument

Patuxai, located on Lan Xang Avenue to the northeast of Vientiane, was constructed between 1957 and 1968 to honor the sacrifices of Lao heroes during the fight with the French. Thus, it is also known as Anou Savary. This also represents the bravery of those who passed away to defend the nation's freedom.

Its design is very similar to that of Paris's Arc de Triomphe. Patuxai, however, has not lost its Lao cultural identity. Images of Kinari, a hybrid of a lady and a bird, reliefs describing a Rama song, and towers in the Laotian style all contribute to the design. The tower's seven stories were linked by stairways, and the windows were designed to resemble Buddha statues. Reaching the top floor of Patuxai, visitors may take in a panoramic view of Laos, Vientiane's tranquil and beautiful capital.

Patuxai Is Constructed To Honor French Independence Soldiers

6. Mount Phosi

If Luang Prabang is considered the spiritual heart of Laos, then Mount Phousi is considered the spiritual and geographical heart of this picturesque town. Being the highest point in Luang Prabang town, Mount Phousi provides visitors with a panoramic view of the whole city, including all of the temples and the natural scenery in the area. A stunning scene is created when the green and blue mountains that are covered in forest emerge over the tranquil rivers. It is especially beautiful in the evening when the sun is setting and reflecting off the city's golden temples against the backdrop of the misty mountains. It is simple to grasp the reason behind why people go there to see the sunrise and the sunset.

Climb Mount Phosi For A Bird's Eye Perspective Of The City

7. Wat Si Saket

Wat Si Saket is the only Laotian temple that survived the 1828 Siamese invasion, which devastated much of the city. It has 10,000 Buddha statues. The 1818-old temple boasts outstanding architecture and layout. Its 5-tiered roof, drum tower, Burmese-style library, and floral sim ceiling are must-sees (ordination hall). The hall houses 7,000 wood, stone, and metal figures. Most of these statues were carved between the 16th and 18th centuries. 

Wat Si Saket The Only Laotian Temple That Survived Siamese Invasion

If you are looking for some ideas for things to do in Laos but aren't sure where to start, BestPrice Travel has provided a list of some of the most well-known tourist destinations in the country. The province has some truly stunning landscapes, so that you won't be let down this time.