Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
A charming town with elegant historical architecture and a distinctly French flavour, Luang Prabang in northern Laos is filled with interesting museums, bustling markets and traditional shops. 33 Buddhist temples dot the city.; the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong temple give travellers some background on and history of the Laotian people. Beyond the city, breathtaking nature and ancient sites await. Those who visit the Pak Ou Caves can see hundreds of Buddha statues accumulated there through the ages. The 180-foot Kuang Si Waterfalls, an hour’s drive out of the city, is one of the region’s natural highlights, with its layer upon cascading layer of turquoise pools and torrents.
Vientiane is the largest city in Laos, but surprisingly uncrowded and relaxed for its size. Travellers can look forward to an elegant, laid back destination with lovely historical architecture and a riverside setting. 'That Luang' (also known as 'The Great Stupta') is the most sacred monument in Laos and this impressive golden temple complex dates back to the 16th century. There are numerous restaurants, riverside markets and pavement cafes from where you can experience the serene atmosphere for which the city is known. The Laos National Museum is another of the city’s cultural highlights, where some fascinating exhibits reveal the history of Laos through the ages.
With its mist-shrouded limestone karsts, peaceful rice paddies, fascinating caves and ancient ruins, the vibrant little jungle town of Vang Vieng is surrounded by some jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery. While new regulations have toned down the wild river party scene which put Vang Vieng on the map, the town remains an excellent destination for travellers keen to indulge in some outdoor adventure including cycling, caving, tubing, rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking, or simply relaxing and enjoying the idyllic landscape. The town center boasts some excellent international restaurants and boutique hotels making it an ideal base for visitors looking to explore the area’s exquisite natural treasures. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch a spectacular sunset from Sunset Hill, or the chance to swim in one of town’s mind-blowing aquamarine swimming holes.
As previously described
Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
Serene and unpretentious, Thakhek lies across the Mekong River from the Thai town of Nakhon Phakom. The main draw card in the area is the spectacular Konglor Cave, located in the Phou Hin Bun National Biodiversity Conservation Area. This vast cavern system snakes for almost 8km through the limestone mountains, reaching up to 50m in height at some points, and encompassing a dazzling array of stalactites and stalagmites along the way. Konglor is accessible by way of boat tours along the Hin Bun River, which runs through the length of the cave. The surrounding national park is a worthy attraction in its own right, blanketed with ancient rainforests and dotted with impressive karst formations and glittering lakes.
Situated along the banks of the Mekong River in southern Laos, Muang Champassak is a tranquil riverside town steeped in history and charm. Once a royal capital, this sleepy destination offers a peaceful retreat with a rich cultural backdrop. The town’s main attraction is Vat Phou, an ancient Khmer temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site, older than Angkor Wat. Travellers can explore its crumbling sanctuaries, enjoy bicycle rides through quiet villages, or take a boat trip along the Mekong. With its French colonial buildings, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere, Muang Champassak is perfect for those seeking cultural discovery and scenic serenity in an off-the-beaten-path setting.
