Things To Do In Laos

Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming locals. Among its allure are the UNESCO-listed "must-see" sites and mythical locations that captivate our imaginations and have long been dreamed of visiting in Laos

Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, Laos provides an unforgettable experience with Hanoi Voyages. Discover places to visit Laos and the best time to visit? So without further ado, let’s get started!

Things to do in Lao: Must-see destination

Laos, often called the “Land of a Million Elephants,” is a country of timeless charm. With ancient temples, mysterious archaeological sites, and serene river landscapes, Laos offers travelers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are the must-see destinations in Laos that should be on your itinerary.

Luang Prabang - The Ancient Religious Capital

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang is the most serene and spiritual city in the country. There are still many active monasteries here, and incredible golden temples with elegant, traditional roofs that inspire not only to meditate but are also a photographers dream.

See the procession of barefooted, saffron-robed monks and listen to religious chants.

• Wat Xieng Thong - A stunning Buddhist temple known for its exquisite architecture and intricate mosaics.

• Kuang Si Falls - A breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools perfect for swimming.

• Mount Phousi - A hill in the center of town offering panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the surrounding landscape.

• Royal Palace Museum - A historical museum that was once the royal residence, showcasing artifacts and the rich history of Laos.

Vientiane - The Charming City of Mixed Cultures

Being described as a small, sleepy and peaceful capital, tree-lined boulevards and numerous temples are a layoff from the busy and noisy capitals of other Southeast Asian countries. Vientiane would be one of the best places as it has many activities for visitors to experience

Catch your breath, especially at dusk when you can sit at the riverside restaurants. Try Laotian cuisine and watch the skies turn red.

The Plain of Jars - The Mysterious Archaeological Site

The Plain of Jars, located near Phonsavan, is an archaeological marvel. Scattered across this vast area lie hundreds of enormous jars, each weighing an incredible amount. Most jars range from 550 kilograms to 1 tonne, with the largest one tipping the scales at a staggering 6 tonnes!

Archaeological studies haven't yet unraveled all their secrets. However, one thing is clear: these colossal jars were meticulously carved from solid boulders. What's even more astonishing is that nothing similar has been found anywhere else on the planet.

The Plain of Jars continues to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike. The sheer size and craftsmanship of these jars hint at an advanced civilization from a bygone era. Unraveling the secrets of these enigmatic jars promises to shed light on Laos's fascinating history.

The Bolaven plateau - Land of Waterfalls and Coffee

Wat Phou - The Sacred Mountain Temple of Champasak

You guessed right, the “Wat” in the name is not the only similarity. The same monarchs who are responsible for building Angkor Wat built Wat Phou complex. It is even older than Angkor Wat!

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wat Phou in Champasak is a must-visit for any traveler to Laos. Its cascading terraces, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Khmer Empire.

The climb to the top of Wat Phou is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the mighty Mekong River. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this sacred site and discover the wonders of ancient Khmer architecture.

Si Phan Don - The 4000 islands

The largest of the islands of this river archipelago are inhabited all year round, and the tranquil river-oriented village life of the area makes this beautiful part of Laos somewhere to spend some relaxing time.

If you are lucky, you will spot some freshwater dolphins, and there are some spectacular waterfalls and river rapids in the area to visit.

Things to do in Si Phan Don:

• Indulge in culinary delights: Embark on a culinary journey and savor the flavors of Laos.

• Relax with a riverside massage: Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating riverside massage.

• Witness stunning sunsets: Capture the beauty of the 4000 islands as the sun dips below the horizon.

Handpicked Laos tours for the best trip

Exploring Laos is more than just seeing lush terraced fields or ancient temples; it’s an opportunity to experience its culture, cuisine, and traditional lifestyle. To make your journey truly unforgettable, consider the handpicked Laos tours by Hanoi Voyages, a travel provider specializing in personalized itineraries that highlight local experiences.

Laos tour 7 days

📍 Highlight destinations: Luang Prabang - Vientiane

📌 Type of tour: Family - Laos family tour - Classic - Laos classic tour

Day 1 : LUANG PRABANG Day 2 : Luang Prabang - Tuk Tuk Day 3 : Luang Prabang - Ban Long Lao - Kuang Si Waterfall Day 4 : Luang Prabang – Cruise on slow boat – Pak Ou Caves Day 5 : Luang Prabang - VIENTIANE Day 6 : Vientiane - Explore the city Day 7 : Vientiane - Departure

Check out more details: Panorama of Laos 7 days

Laos tour 14 days

📍 Highlight destinations: Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng - Vientiane - Champasak - 4000 Island - Khong Island - Khone Island - Pakse

📌 Type of tour: Classic - Laos classic tour

For more details about this tour: Panorama of Laos 14 days

Laos tour 18 days

📍 Highlight destinations: Luang Prabang - Oudomxay - Muang La - Muang Ngoy - Xiengkhuang - Vang Vieng - Vientiane - Pakse - Khong Island - Khone Island

📌 Type of tour: Family - Laos family tour - Classic - Laos classic tour

Check out more details: Laos family tour 18 days

In our opinion, those are the best places to visit in Laos.

Agree? Have some additional place on your mind? Contact us to discuss it!