Planning your next vacation in the land of a million elephants? Here are the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Laos!
With its landscapes still untouched by mass tourism, Laos has preserved all its authenticity. Less famous than its neighbors, and despite its lack of access to the sea, the country of a million elephants is not lacking in assets. Bordered by Thailand, Vietnam, Burma and Cambodia, this country of just seven million inhabitants stretches over one thousand six hundred kilometers from north to south, covering an area of two hundred and thirty-six thousand square kilometers.
Marked by Khmer civilization, Hinduism then Buddhism, and finally French colonization, Laos offers a rich and fascinating culture, in a lush natural environment that covers almost seventy percent of its territory. In Laos, each of your discoveries will take place in a serene, warm and gentle atmosphere. This Asian country is sure to satisfy your desire for adventure, nature and tranquillity.
Is your backpack ready? Come and discover the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Laos.
To get your trip off to a good start, head to Vientiane, the country’s capital, to admire one of the most beautiful places to visit in Laos: the Pha That Luang. This immense Buddhist monument is forty-five metres high and sixty-nine metres wide. Entirely covered with over five hundred kilos of gold leaf and precious metals, this symbol of Laos’ past splendour dates back to 1566.
Don’t hesitate to visit the interior and stroll through the surrounding gardens. You’ll love it!
Vat Phra Keo is also located in the city of Vientiane. Destroyed several times by Siamese invaders, then rebuilt, this temple was for a long time home to the Emerald Buddha, now in Bangkok. For this reason alone, Vat Phra Keo is well worth a visit!
3. Luang Prabang
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Lanzelot
Luang Prabang is without doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Laos. This colonial city and former royal capital lies deep in the mountains, on the banks of the mythical Mekong River. You’ll be charmed by the atmosphere that reigns in this small town.
Take time to stroll the pedestrian streets, and look up to admire the colonial architecture and colorful houses. Night markets, charming stalls, monk processions – everything in Luang Prabang invites the senses to marvel.
Then take a detour to the city’s temples. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham will amaze you with its lavish decorations and impressive dimensions. Built in the 18th century, it is located very close to the Royal Palace. The elegant Vat Xieng Thong temple is also well worth a visit. This Buddhist temple was founded in 1560 by King Setthathirat of Lan Xang.
For a panoramic view of the city, climb the 300 steps to the top of Phu Si mountain. At the same time, you can admire That Chomsi, a white and gold stupa topped by seven royal umbrellas, caves and Buddha statues.
4. The village of Nong Khiaw
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / taboga
Take a small boat from Muang Khua to the peaceful village of Nong Khiaw, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Laos.
You can admire the white limestone cliffs, caves and lush tropical jungle. Boat races are held here every year. Lovers of board sports are sure to appreciate this place for water sports sessions.
5. The Mekong
Photo credit: Shutterstock / i viewfinder
Almost all life in Laos revolves around this legendary river. By taking one of the many cruises available, you’ll be able to admire floating villages, desert islands, lush green rice paddies and gain a better understanding of Laotian life. A trip along the river not to be missed!
In some places, it’s possible to swim in the Mekong, but beware of the current, which can sometimes be strong. For a safe swim, find out beforehand and stay close to the shore.
Welcome to Vang Vieg, on the banks of the Nam Song River, not far from Vientiane.
You’ll fall under the spell of this little paradise. So get out your camera – the scenery is absolutely splendid! Kayaking, climbing, trekking: sports enthusiasts will also be delighted by the discovery of one of the must-see places in Laos.
Looking for a pristine paradise destination? Head for the Bolaven Plateau. In the lush jungle, you’ll be amazed by some exceptional waterfalls. Don’t miss Tad Champee, or the twin waterfalls of Tad Fane and Tad Katamkok.
Feeling a little hot? Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the nearby rivers. A magical, timeless place. Incidentally, one of the best coffees in the world is grown here: don’t miss the chance to taste it!
Would you like to discover one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Laos? Head for Wat Phou, which will no doubt remind you of the famous Angkor temples. Located in the heart of nature, at the foot of the sacred Phu Kao mountain, just eight kilometers from Champassak, this immense temple was built between the 9th and 12th centuries. It was not until the 16th century that it became a Buddhist temple. Built over an area of more than eighty hectares and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is considered a representation of heaven on earth.
For the more courageous, head to the top of the sanctuary for a breathtaking view. Awe-inspiring!
9. Kuang Si waterfalls
Photo Credit : Shutterstock / Jusky.T
Without a doubt, the Kuang Si waterfalls are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Laos. Close to Luang Prabang, in the middle of a bamboo forest, in a turquoise-blue basin, a multitude of waterfalls cascade down to cool off.
You’re sure to be dazzled by the natural surroundings of the fabulous Kuang Si waterfalls.
10. Kong Lor caves
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Tong_stocker
Board a pirogue for a flashlight cruise and discover the Kong Lor caves. The visit stretches over seven kilometers and the discovery is impressive. An experience not to be missed. Claustrophobic visitors please refrain!
Built on the banks of the Nam Ou tributary, between mountains and karst cliffs, the small village of Muang Ngoi Neua will charm you with its authenticity. Here, life moves slowly and modernity still seems a long way off. Eight hundred inhabitants still live here, mainly thanks to fishing, agriculture and tourism.
12. Buddha Park
Photo credit: Shutterstock / GlebSStock
Just twenty-five kilometers from the city of Vientiane, along the Mekong River, you’ll discover Buddha Park, a public park created in 1958 by a shaman-priest-yogi, whose aim was to merge Hindu and Buddhist philosophy, mythology and iconography. The idea was a bit far-fetched, but the result is astonishing. We’ll leave you to discover for yourself one of the most surprising places to visit in Laos.
13. Bokéo nature reserve
Photo Credit: Instagram – adawitam
Do you enjoy jungle trekking? In north-western Laos, not far from the Thai and Burmese borders, lies the Bokéo nature reserve, set up in 2004 to preserve one hundred and twenty-three thousand hectares of virgin forest and its incredible biodiversity.
It’s an ideal place to observe numerous insects and birds, as well as monkeys, elephants and buffalo. You might even spot tigers and bears!
14. Si Phan Don or the 4000 islands
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / BTWImages
Here’s a real corner of paradise, which you’ll soon come to regard as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Laos. In reality, there aren’t four thousand islands, but just a hundred or so scattered along the Mekong River, on the Cambodian border in Champassak province.
Only three of them are inhabited: Don Det, Don Khong and Don Khone. To visit them, take one of the pirogues that leave regularly from Paksé town. You’ll spend a relaxing day with your family, cycling in fabulous surroundings. If you wish, you can stay for several days in bungalows on the island of Don Det.
On the island of Don Phapheng, you’re sure to be impressed by the Khone Phapheng Falls, which rise to a height of 21 metres. These are the largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia and the longest rapids in the world, stretching over ten kilometers. Impressive, isn’t it?
Have you already visited this magnificent country? Share your favourite places to visit in Laos in the comments!
