Laos Travel GUide

When entering a temple or someone's home, you should always remove your shoes. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness. 

In Laos, it is customary to greet someone with the "Nop" gesture, which involves bringing your palms together in a prayer-like position in front of your chest and bowing slightly. It's considered polite to reciprocate the gesture when greeted in this way. 

The sun in Southeast Asia always leaves you wanting to cool in any way possible. What better way to cool off than to visit some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos? The water is some of the bluest I have ever seen, and it was even more relaxed and refreshing. 

To get there, you can do day tours, cycle, or rent a scooter if you feel more adventurous. Most hostels and guesthouses offer scooter rentals. Finding scooters and bicycle rentals in popular tourist areas around Southeast Asia is also never difficult. Bike rentals usually range from $1-5 USD, and scooter rentals range from $5-10 USD.

Entrance fee: 20,000 Kip (USD $0.91 as of 10/2024)

Hours: Daily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: Kuang Si Waterfall is located approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) southwest of Luang Prabang, Laos. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes

The bamboo bridges in Luang Prabang, Laos, are beautiful and iconic structures that embody the local Lao culture's simplicity and resourcefulness. These seasonal bridges are constructed over the Nam Khan River and are typically rebuilt yearly after the rainy season when high waters wash them away.

The bamboo bridges serve as pedestrian crossings and offer a picturesque pathway, often lined with lush greenery and serene river views. They are especially popular with tourists for their rustic charm and are fantastic spots for photos, particularly at sunrise or sunset. A small fee is usually charged to cross, which helps fund the reconstruction efforts.

10,0000 KIP (USD $0.45 as of 10/8/2024)

Important Note: Open during the dry season, from November to April. Each year, 

Hours: Typically open daily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Hear the Story of Luang Prabang through traditional storytelling at the 30-seat Garavek Theatre. Hearing their storytelling is one of the most unique and culturally enlightening activities to experience in Luang Prabang. Located in the city's Old Town, the storytelling aims to preserve the myths, legends, and folktales of Luang Prabang by telling stories in English. 

Visit this show, and you will hear an animated storyteller with live musical accompaniment from his assistant while he recounts these tales. After the show, you can stop by the night market to grab a bite to eat and do some shopping, capping off a fantastic night during your stay at Luang Prabang.

Ticket Price: USD $5.00 (This is the price listed on their website.) You can purchase tickets at the theater starting at 6:00 PM every evening.

Show Times: Every Evening from 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

While having to get before 5 AM isn't my favorite thing to do, it was well worth it to observe this sacred tradition. Tak Bat, or Alms Giving Ceremony, is an old and sacred Buddhist tradition in Luang Prabang. Everyday the ceremony starts at 5 AM and goes until 6 AM. 

During the ceremony, monks line the street as locals, and some tourists place food into Alms Bowls as they pass by. Tak Bat is a silent ceremony, so the atmosphere was tranquil and reserved. It was still dark during the entire ceremony, so seeing the number of locals participating in the almsgiving was remarkable. 

Sometimes getting up early in the morning is worth it. I got to observe an essential piece of the culture in Laos. For me, that is what travel is all about.

 Wat Xieng Thong is a Buddhist temple completed in 1560 by King Setthathirath. Not only is this one of the largest temples in Luang Prabang, but it is also one of the most important historically. It features traditional Lao architecture, and you can't help but be amazed at the beauty and elegance of its design. The wat includes a "tree of life" mosaic on its exterior, several stupas, and three small chapel halls close to the main temple. The dramatically sloping roof and ornate interior and exterior design of the main temple make this one of the most beautiful temples in Laos. 

Today it is still celebrated by the people of Luang Prabang, and it is the site of many festivals and gatherings throughout the year. Located on the northern section of the Luang Prabang Peninsula, Wat Xieng Thong is a stone's throw from the Mekong River. It is near the Xieng Thong Dock along Khem Khong Road. 

With its great historical and spiritual importance, Wat Xieng Thong is a delightful addition to any Luang Prabang itinerary. 

Entrance Fee: 20,000 Lao Kip (USD 1.18 as of 11/2022)

Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

 You are mistaken if you think you will visit Southeast Asia without seeing something that makes you look twice. Snake whiskey is a thing. Yes, it is just like it sounds. Dating back as early as 1045 BC, the practice of infusing snakes into alcohol was practiced in Asia, China specifically. It was thought to create health benefits and cure various illnesses. Some even consider it an aphrodisiac. 

Today the practice is still used in parts of Asia, including Laos. Ban Xang Hai, a village near Luang Prabang, is well-known for producing snake whiskey using Lao Lao (a rice whiskey) and snakes. This makes sense since the Luang Prabang night market is where I caught a glimpse of the product. 

I am not afraid of new experiences in Southeast Asia, including bug-eating. Snake Whiskey is just something that is not for me. I don't even have a phobia of snakes, but drinking out of a bottle that contains one isn't for me. On a side note, my fiancé is scared to death of snakes, so I was hesitant even to include a picture of snake whiskey, so I hope you will forgive me if this photo creeps you out. 

Where? - Luang Prabang Night Market

Kayaking and tubing on the Nam Song River remains a popular activity in Vang Vieng, although the party scene has mellowed since the Lao government implemented measures to enhance the town's image. While there are fewer bars and revelers, Vang Vieng now boasts a more relaxed atmosphere that appeals to backpackers and solo travelers alike. Tubing and kayaking continue to be enjoyable options, with easy access to booking tours in town. As you drift along the tranquil river, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the landscape and have the opportunity to glide through a magnificent water cave, creating a truly memorable afternoon adventure

Rental Cost:  

Tube: LAK 60,000 (USD $2.74 as of 10/2024)

Kayak: USD $20.00 (as of 10/2024)

The terrain in Laos is rougher than in some other Southeast Asian countries, and Vang Vieng’s roads are no exception. With beautiful scenery and close access to key points of interest, renting a mountain bike is an affordable, active way to explore. 

While there are a few tuk-tuks in town, a bike offers more freedom, saves you the 10,000 kip per short trip, and helps burn off some of the street food and Beer Lao! Plus, Vang Vieng's less crowded streets make it a great spot to ride without the traffic congestion common in larger Southeast Asian cities.

Typical Cost Per Daily Rental:

Mountain Bike: 20,000 Kip (USD $0.91 as of 10/2024)

Regular Bike: 10,000 Kip (USD $0.89 as of 10/2024)

Renting an off-road buggy in Vang Vieng, Laos, is a thrilling way to explore the rugged terrain and stunning countryside. Several tour agencies in the town offer these rentals, giving you the option of either guided tours or self-exploration. The buggies are perfect for navigating dirt trails, rural villages, rice fields, and even some hidden caves and lagoons around Vang Vieng. 

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive option, it's a thrilling way to see the region's natural beauty. You'll need a valid driver's license, and the rental companies may require a safety deposit. Rest assured, they provide helmets and basic safety instructions, ensuring your adventure is as safe as it is enjoyable. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, as the trails can get dusty or muddy.

Price: Depending on the rental company and the package you choose, you can expect to pay around $50 to $100 for a few hours.

Buddha Park is a fascinating and unique destination in Southeast Asia, though it only dates back to 1958. The statues, with Buddhist and Hindu influences, look ancient but were built purely as tourist attractions. Operated by the Laotian government, the park feels more like a playground, with places to climb for sweeping views and even a structure you enter through a deity's mouth. A visit to Laos feels incomplete without seeing Buddha Park, though it’s 25 km from the city and requires a taxi, tuk-tuk, grab, or scooter to reach.

Location: Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, is located about 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane, Laos, near the Mekong River and close to the Thai border.

Hours: 

Monday-Saturday: 8 AM - 5 PM 

Sunday: 10 AM - 3:30 PM

Entrance Fee: 40,000 Kip (USD $1.83 as of 10/2024

Escape Vientiane's daytime heat with a stroll through the lively night market along the Mekong River. This bustling market features handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, souvenirs, and delicious street food, from Lao specialties to international flavors. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly vendors make for an enjoyable experience, free of sales pressure. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the market is open nightly and offers a vibrant glimpse into Lao culture. A visit to the Vientiane night market is a must for a memorable evening.

Hours: Daily 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Location: Chao Anouvong Park along the Mekong River

Pha That Luang, or "The Great Stupa," is a remarkable gold-covered monument located just four kilometers northeast of Vientiane's city center. Standing over 147 feet (45 meters) tall and adorned with 1,102 pounds of pure gold, this dome-shaped stupa is surrounded by thirty smaller stupas. Originally built in the 3rd century to house the breastbone of the Buddha, the current structure was reconstructed in 1566 by King Setthathirat when he moved the capital to Vientiane. 

The site features beautiful Buddha statues, including a giant reclining Buddha, making it essential for visitors interested in Buddhism. Its historical significance is immense, so be sure to add this stunning site to your itinerary. It's easily reachable by taxi, tuk-tuk, or the Grab app, and sharing transportation costs with another traveler is a great option. 

Entrance Fee: LAK 30,000 (USD $1.37 as of 10/2024)

Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–4:00 PM                                                                                                      

 If you're looking to learn about the history, culture, and people of Laos, the Laos National Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in an old 1920's French colonial building, this natural history museum boasts over 8000 artifacts covering a wide range of materials, from ancient fossils to contemporary Lao history. You'll find information on the French colonial period, the Siamese invasion of the 1900s, and the United States' presence during the Vietnamese American War. The struggle for independence is a central theme throughout the museum.  

The museum's mix of history, art, artifacts, and photographs creates a truly immersive and enjoyable experience. Plus, if you're visiting Vientiane during the hot months, the museum offers a welcome reprieve from the heat. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to learn more about the country, the Laos National Museum is well worth a visit. 

Hours: Daily 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Entrance Fee: 10,000 LAK (USD 0.58 as of 12/2022)

 That Dam, also known as the Black Stupa, is one of the most significant Buddhist structures in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. This well-known landmark is popular among visitors and locals alike and is a must-visit destination.  

According to local beliefs, the stupa was constructed in the 16th century to hold a sacred Buddha relic. Its name, "That Dam," translates to "Black Stupa" in English, which is a reference to its weathered and aged appearance that has turned black over the years.  

Legend has it that the stupa was once covered in gold, but it was looted during a Siamese invasion in the early 1820s. Since then, it has remained bare and black, standing tall at approximately 45 meters. The stupa is surrounded by a small park and is a popular destination for people to offer prayers and pay their respects.  

Despite the significant development that has taken place in the area around That Dam in recent years, with new buildings and businesses cropping up, the stupa still remains an essential cultural and spiritual symbol for the people of Vientiane. If you're visiting the city, be sure to add That Dam to your must-visit list.  

Location:  It is situated near the city center, just south of the old town area. Specifically, it is located on That Dam Road, near the intersection with Setthathirat Road. The stupa is easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or tuk-tuk from various points in the city.