2024 Laos Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Popular Attractions
Patuxay Monument
Kuang Si Waterfall
Phousi Hill
Nam Song River
Pha That Luang Vientiane
Explore the Natural Beauty of Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau in Southern Laos is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Known for its cool climate and stunning scenery, the plateau is home to beautiful waterfalls, coffee plantations, and rare plant species. Its elevation and refreshing atmosphere make it a perfect retreat from the heat, ideal for hiking and immersing oneself in the lush greenery.
One of the highlights of visiting the Bolaven Plateau is witnessing the wildflowers in full bloom during the rainy season. Yellow, purple, and blue flowers spread across the area, adding vibrant colors to the verdant landscape. Each flower species has its unique charm, and walking through these wildflower fields feels like stepping into a magical realm of unspoiled natural beauty.
In addition to its flora, the Bolaven Plateau offers an authentic cultural experience for visitors through visits to local villages and nearby markets. Whether it's admiring the refreshing waterfalls, tasting the rich coffee, or marveling at the wildflower fields, this destination is filled with memorable moments and the beauty of Laos.
ลากแฟนเที่ยว - youandme
BELLE RIVE BOUTIQUE HOTEL : A 4 STAR GEM OVERLOOKING THE MEKONG RIVER
#boutiquehotels
The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel is a 4 star hotel located in a classic building in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos.
Whats great about this boutique hotel is it sits on a street directly opposite the famous Mekong River.
Highlights :
📍Complimentary 1 hour sunset river cruise on Mekong River (depending on the weather)
📍Complimentary Fruit Basket and Mini Bar
📍Complimentary Bicycles
📍Complimentary Breakfast
Rooms are quite small, 20 square metres, with nice traditional Lao touch.
Nice comfortable bed with mosquito netting which is very much needed.
Rating : 5 🌟
#100waysoftravel #traveldiaries
#myhiddengems #solotrip
PeaceBeUponUs
Laos | Detailed Travel Guide
Laos Travel Itinerary Suggestions
📅 Itinerary:
✅Day 1-2: Vientiane
Main attractions:
📍Pha That Luang: The most sacred stupa in Laos and a national symbol.
📍Patuxai: A monument built in the style of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The surrounding musical fountain square is particularly charming at night.
📍Wat Si Saket: One of the oldest temples in Vientiane, known for its exquisite murals.
📍Mekong River Walk: Enjoy the tranquility of the evening and watch the sunset by the river.
❤️Food recommendations:
🍭Try Beerlao and the local specialty French baguette sandwich.
✅Day 3-4: Luang Prabang
Main attractions:
📍Wat Xieng Thong: The most famous temple in Laos, known for its exquisite carvings and murals.
📍Mount Phousi: Climb to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the ancient city of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
📍Night Market: Experience the local night market culture and taste a variety of authentic snacks.
📍Alms Giving Ceremony: Participate in the alms giving ceremony in the early morning to feel the local religious atmosphere.
👍 Must-try experiences:
Participate in bamboo rafting or kayaking activities on the Mekong River.
❤️Food recommendations:
🍭Try local specialties such as Laap, bamboo rice, and grilled fish.
✅Day 5-6: Vang Vieng
Main attractions:
📍Blue Lagoon: Enjoy the tranquil lake and go snorkeling or swimming.
📍Tham Poukham Cave: Explore the spectacular limestone cave.
📍Nam Song River Rafting: Experience the exciting rafting activity.
👍 Must-try experiences:
Rent a bicycle or motorcycle to tour the surrounding countryside of Vang Vieng.
❤️Food recommendations:
🍭Try local barbecue and specialty dishes at riverside restaurants.
🚥 Transportation tips:
Public transportation in Laos is relatively inconvenient. It is recommended to rent a car or join a tour group for more freedom to visit various attractions.
🏠Accommodation:
Book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Health and safety: Pay attention to personal property safety, avoid drinking untreated water, and carry necessary medicines.
📋 Tips:
Visa and documents: Make sure to apply for a Laos visa in advance and carry a valid passport.
Cultural respect: When visiting temples and participating in religious activities, please respect local customs and habits.
The above itinerary is for reference only. The specific arrangement can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. I hope you can fully experience the local natural scenery, cultural history, and gourmet food during your trip to Laos.
MarkkuToivonen
Officially announced that visa is exempted! I immediately went to this treasure city to taste the taste.
🎉Just now, Laos officially announced that Chinese tourists will be exempted from visa for ordinary passports for 15 days! Starting on July 1, 2024 and currently running until the end of the year!
🎉I can finally introduce you to the treasure city of Luang Prabang in Laos. The lazy city atmosphere is really suitable for a visit!
🛕Let’s quickly take stock of 6 little things you can do in Luang Prabang!
🌄Take the China-Laos Railway to Luang Prabang🚝
Last year, the China-Laos Railway officially started running from Kunming to Laos. After calculation, it only takes 4 hours from Xishuangbanna to Luang Prabang! It is a very novel experience to be able to see the landscape outside the window changing from a small town in Yunnan to Southeast Asia without taking a connecting flight!
🌄Take a look at the Tree of Life at Xiang Thong Temple🛕
As one of the famous temples in Luang Prabang, the main hall of Xiangthong Temple has a typical Laotian temple style, and there is also a rare reclining Buddha, which is composed of black, red, gold and green colors, especially the " "Tree of Life", shining brightly, is a rare temple style in China.
🌄Visit the habitat of the river god at Bawu Grottoes♒️
The Bawu Caves, located along the Mekong River, symbolize the soul of the Mekong River and are worshiped by people as the habitat of the river god. Walking through the cave at the bottom of the cliff, you feel as if you have entered another world: various vertical Buddha statues stand here in various shapes and sizes, like a private treasure house.
🌄Taste authentic Laotian food at the night market🌯
As night falls, the area next to the palace will turn into a bustling night market. There are many handicrafts that cannot be bought elsewhere, as well as a variety of authentic Laotian food! However, even if you don’t buy souvenirs, the brightly lit night market is still worth visiting. The usually quiet and lazy town has become lively. The red and blue tent roofs are the secular side of Luang Prabang.
🌄Understand the charity of Luang Prabang at dawn🙏
Every day at dawn, rows of monks wearing saffron robes walk barefoot through the streets to accept alms from the citizens. This alms-giving ceremony occurs all over Luang Prabang, and the most eye-catching area is next to Xiangthong Temple. . Next to the temple, watch the monks carrying tin bottles and accepting food from believers. You can also join in and experience the sacred ceremony first-hand.
🌄Stay one night in a top luxury hotel owned by LVMH🏨
Belmond is one of the top luxury hotel brands under LVMH. Belmond in Luang Prabang was transformed from an official residence of the American embassy. It occupies the best location and view in the area, overlooking the entire city's old town and the Mekong River.
The 32 suites combine traditional Laotian style with French-era architectural style. The hotel also provides an exclusive private luxury boat specifically for exploring the Mekong River🚣
🛕It should be noted that the visa-free trip in Luang Prabang must be organized by a Lao tourism company and obtained permission from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism~
HHtravel
Laos Free & Easy | Triple City Tour, 9 Days 8 Nights Itinerary~
| Triple City Tour, 9 Days 8 Nights Itinerary~.
I've finally arrived at the other side of the Anywhere Door - Laos!
🔶🔶🔶Laos seems to be the country with the least presence, known to me as one of the poorest countries in the world. However, I believe that every city has its unique scenery and cultural charm, worthy of exploration.
👣👣👣Itinerary:
D1: Kunming--Mohan
D2: Mohan--Boten--Vientiane
D3: Vientiane (Wat Si Saket, That Luang, Patuxai, Mekong River Night Market)
D4: Vientiane minivan--Vang Vieng (Blue Lagoon, Nam Song River Tubing, Vang Vieng Bar Street)
D5: Vang Vieng--Luang Prabang (Mekong River Sunset, Night Market)
D6: Luang Prabang (Morning Alms Giving, Morning Market, Kuang Si Falls)
D7: Luang Prabang (Amantaka--Wat Xieng Thong--French Old Bridge)
D8: Luang Prabang (Phou Si Hill, Royal Palace, Old Town Stroll)
D9: Luang Prabang--Boten--Mohan--Xishuangbanna
🌟🌟🌟Must-do in Luang Prabang: The ancient city of Luang Prabang, with its thousand-year history, Kuang Si Falls, Mekong River Sunset, Monk Alms Giving, Old Town Stroll. You can also stay in the mountains, find a resort to relax for a few days (Amantaka, Rosewood, and other resorts)~
🌟🌟🌟Must-experience in Vang Vieng: The pristine nature of Vang Vieng, if you like the outdoors, you can stay a few more days. Kayaking, tubing, cave exploration, hot air ballooning, and the lagoon are just some of the many activities available, and they are very cost-effective~
🌟🌟🌟Must-see in Vientiane: The capital Vientiane, a hidden Buddhist realm. If you have time, you can go and see, mainly the Patuxai and a few temples. Vientiane also has overland access to Thailand's Lamang~
🚝Transportation:
The entire journey can be done by high-speed train. I took a minivan from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, which was picked up and dropped off at the hotel, making it more convenient.
WanderlustMelody
Guilin in Laos- Vangvieng
This place is similar to Guilin in China ,but it is located in Laos. There are many beautiful mountains and I recommend you to come during afternoon. Therefore, you can see sunset. There are many boats provide for you. In one boat, you can sit for two seats. One big round can take like 30-45 mins. You should prepare sun glasses and a jacket because there is a wind. Also, you can have dinner there as well because there are many restaurants to serve. #laos #river #moutain
Tam_Tam
Xe Bang Fai cave
#gooutside
Amongst the most spectacular caves in Laos that explorers cannot miss is the one carved out by the Xe Bang Fai river.
The great cave of Xe Bang Fai river cave, is an underground segment of Xe Bang Fai River situated in a remote corner of Khammuan province.
Based on the expedition report Tham Khoun Xe Cave is considered to be one of the largest sustained river passages in the world with enormous caverns decorated with highly impressive structures. The Xe Bang Fai River Cave is almost 12 kilometres in length, some 76 metres high and 56 metres wide.
It originates from the edge of the large mountain chains between Laos and Vietnam. In imagination, following the river, it is seemed that the river disappears into a large channel into the karst mountains#asiatrip #laos #naturalwonders
Laos has the first High Speed Train in South East Asia. If you are travelling in Laos before 2021, travel on road from Vientiane to Luang Prabang was a very tough and difficult job. The distance between Vientiane and Luang Prabang is around 320km, since the northern part of Laos is mountainous area, it will take you 10 hours to arrive your destination by bus of by van.
High Speed Train has a speed of 160km/hour, going through around 30 tunnels to make the journey smoother, it just only take you 1 hour 45 minutes to arrive Luang Prabang from Vientiane, it makes your road journey in Laos more convenience.
This high speed train is direct connected to China and you can travel on a faster pace from Laos to China too.#本地遊 #summervacation #
BRps
VEINTIANE, LAOS
Laos is a Southeast Asian country traversed by the Mekong River and known for mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements and Buddhist monasteries. Vientiane, the capital, is the site of the That Luang monument, where a reliquary reportedly houses the Buddha’s breastbone, plus the Patuxai war memorial and Talat Sao (Morning Market), a complex jammed with food, clothes and craft stalls.
The word Laos was coined by the French, who united the three Lao kingdoms in French Indochina in 1893.
Laos is a mountainous country with a rich history that stretches back 10000 years. With Buddhism as its main religion, there are hundreds of Buddhist.
KVNSCPR28
L a o view
#travel #naturalwonders #lao
Kim Hor
Once in a Lifetime Backpacking Trip to Southern Laos
Travel for 4 Days with a Budget of 4,000 Baht, Staying in Pakse
Experience the Most Beautiful Waterfall View with Ziplining
Marvel at the Magnificent Tad Yuang, Tad Sae Phra, and Tad Sae Pong Lai Waterfalls
Stroll through the Wat Phou Stone Temple, a World Heritage Site in Southern Laos
Our Southern Laos Travel Plan
Day 1
Take a Bus from Ubon to Pakse
Check-in at Pakse Hotel
Visit Wat Luang Pakse
City Pillar Shrine
Pakse Church
Day 2 Rent a Songthaew to Explore Paksong
Visit Tad Yuang Waterfall
Zipline at Tad Fane
Lak 40 Cafe
Visit Wat Phou Salao
Enjoy BBQ by the Mekong River
Day 3 Rent a Pickup Truck to Explore
Visit Tad Sae Phra Waterfall
Visit Tad Sae Pong Lai Waterfall
Day 4
Visit Wat Phou Stone Temple
Southern Laos is Easy to Travel, Beautiful Nature, and Budget-Friendly
You Must Visit... Pakse, Southern Laos
พรุ่งนี้ก็วันใหม่แล้ว
Laos
Hiro traveler
Cultural, Culinary, and Scenic Beauty of Laos
Laos, a landlocked gem in Southeast Asia, offers a serene blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. The country’s traditional Buddhist heritage is reflected in its stunning temples, such as the UNESCO-listed Wat Phou, and the peaceful atmosphere of cities like Luang Prabang. Laotian cuisine is a delightful fusion of fresh herbs, spices, and local ingredients, with dishes like "larb" (spicy minced meat salad) and "khao piak" (noodle soup) showcasing the country's rich flavors. The landscapes are equally captivating, from the tranquil waters of the Mekong River to the dramatic limestone mountains of Vang Vien. The warm and welcoming people of Laos add to the charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking cultural immersion, adventure, and authentic food experiences.
#travel#staycation#seascapes#familytravel#resorts#museums#afternoonteatime#localfood#trip
Basil Enda
Luang Prabang Hotels.
Luang Prabang, fall in love with the hotels here
Many popular hotels were fully booked during the National Day holiday, so I booked two hotels blindly and was pleasantly surprised by both!
P1-2 The Grand Luang Prabang
I booked this hotel last minute because of a change in my itinerary. It's by the Mekong River and a little far from the night market, but the hotel offers a shuttle service. It's run by Chinese people, and the front desk staff speak Chinese. The breakfast is delicious and suits my Sichuan taste.
The rest are from Villa Maly Boutique Hotel, which is amazing and very photogenic~
It's close to the night market, and you can get there quickly on foot. The hotel offers a shuttle service, and you can also ride the hotel's bicycles.
Most of the guests are foreigners, and the breakfast is Western-style. The hotel staff only speak English.
The Culinary Jetsetter
Tad Khomud, Southern Laos
Tad Khomud is a beautiful and tranquil waterfall located in a national park in Laos. It is considered one of the tourist attractions with pristine nature, maintaining its natural state very well. The waterfall cascades down from high cliffs, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The sound of water hitting the rocks echoes throughout the area, providing a relaxing and truly invigorating experience from nature.
The surroundings of Tad Khomud are shaded by lush green trees, and there are small walking paths for exploration, along with resting spots where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the waterfall. Tourists can swim in the clear water pools or chill on the rocks to feel the refreshing coolness of the water. This area also has picnic spots and outdoor activity areas, making it perfect for family or friends to relax and enjoy.
ลากแฟนเที่ยว - youandme
Easy Hike, Amazing Views✨
Phousi Hill is a great place to visit during your trip to Luang Prabang. The walk to the top is easy, and along the way, you can enjoy many Buddhas, temples, and beautiful views.
Once you reach the top, you will see stunning views of the rivers and the city. Watching the sunset from Phousi Hill is a nice plan, but be aware that it can get crowded, and the area is quite small. If you want to catch the sunset, I recommend arriving at least an hour before the golden hour to find a good spot.
I highly recommend this spot in Luang Prabang!
.
.
.
#travelgram #100waysoftravel #luangprabang #laotrip #laos #laostrip #hike #hill #localguides #buddha
Raquel Monreal
A must-visit gem💚
One of the most iconic viewpoints in Vang Vieng is undoubtedly Nam Xay Viewpoint. This stunning spot is a must-visit during your trip. It is famous for its motorbike at the top of the mountain, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and lush nature.
The hike to the viewpoint can be quite challenging, with steep and muddy paths. If you have knee problems, I recommend considering an alternative, such as Horkham Viewpoint, which is located nearby and offers an easier trek.
Overall, Nam Xay Viewpoint is a fantastic destination that provides unforgettable panoramic views. I really enjoyed my time there!
.
.
.
#travelgram #100waysoftravel#mountainview #panoramicviews #laos #laostravel #naturalwonders #naturelover #asia #asiatrip #vangvieng #hikingadventures #hiking #hikingtrails #laotrip
Raquel Monreal
Unforgettable experience 🤍
I had a breathtaking experience flying in a hot air balloon in Vang Vieng. The views were absolutely magical, with the lush mountains, rice fields, mist and cloud surrounding us.
Definitely I had the best sunrise of my life, it felt like I was in a dream! The landing was very smooth and the company prepared some breakfast for all of us, a bottle of champagne and a certificate.
For anyone considering this, I highly recommend Above Laos company. It is truly an unforgettable experience!
.
.
.
#travelgram #travelinspiration #laos #laostravel #vangvieng #asia #hotairballoon #sunrise #magical #naturelover #photography #dreamdestination #100waysoftravel
Raquel Monreal
Horkham Viewpoint 🌿
Vang Vieng has multiple viewpoints to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and one of them is Horkham Viewpoint. The hike to the top isn’t too challenging, it only took me about 20 minutes to reach the summit.
Once I arrived, the panoramic views were absolutely spectacular, and the atmosphere was so peaceful. I went around lunchtime and only saw three other people there, which made it even nicer.
At the top, there’s also an airplane and a unicorn decoration, where you can take nice pictures.
If you’re visiting Vang Vieng and enjoy hiking, I highly recommend Horkham Viewpoint!
.
.
.
#travelgram #100waysoftravel #viewpoint #mountainview #panoramicviews #laos #laostrip #vangvieng #climbing #naturelover #localguides
Raquel Monreal
A hidden gem in nature
A nice plan in Vang Vieng is to visit one of the blue lagoons. Since I prefer places that aren’t crowded, I chose to go to Blue Lagoon 3. I had a peaceful and relaxing experience there. The area is stunning, surrounded by nature, and is the perfect spot for swimming and having fun.
There’s also a small restaurant where you can enjoy lunch or snacks, making it easy to spend the day without needing to leave.
If you’re visiting Vang Vieng, I highly recommend Blue Lagoon 3. It’s a bit further than the other lagoons but less crowded, which makes the experience much more enjoyable and pleasant.
.
.
.
#travelgram #100waysoftravel #laos #laostrip #naturelover #bluelagoon #lushgreenery #asia
Raquel Monreal
Don Det Island
Don Det is an island in the Mekong River, part of the Si Phan Don archipelago in Champasak Province, southern Laos. Don Det, a small island in Si Phan Don, Laos, is part of a group of thousands of islands in the middle of the Mekong River. It is a popular tourist destination, second only to Don Khong. Both islands offer relaxing bungalow accommodations and a laid-back island lifestyle. From Don Det, you can arrange trips for rafting and kayaking. To get there, you can take a boat from Nakasang, and the boat ride to Don Det takes less than 10 minutes.
My name is jayjay
Jinghong River Promenade: Take A Night Walk along Mekong
#traveldiaries
The Lancang River (Mekong) originates in the northeast of Tanggula Mountain in Qinghai Province, China. It flows through Tibet and Yunnan provinces. After leaving the border of China, it is called the Mekong River. It flows through Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and finally into the South China Sea in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is the largest international river in Southeast Asia.The total length of the main stream of the Lancang River is 4,880 kilometers, and the total catchment area of the watershed is 810,000 square kilometers. Among them, the length of the main stream in China is 2,161 kilometers, and the catchment area is 167,487 square kilometers.
The Lancang River has a flow of 158 kilometers in Xishuangbanna and is the common mother river of the people of Xishuangbanna. In the ancient Dai language, it is called Nanlan Palm, which means the river where millions of elephants breed. The natural scenery along the Lancang River is beautiful, with different seasons. In spring, the river is clear and green; in summer, the river is sparkling and the rainforest is vibrant; in autumn, the river is golden and the rice is fragrant; in winter, the river flows slowly, as quiet as a mirror.The Grand Canyon of the Lancang River is a major spectacular spot in Xishuangbanna. The mountains on both sides of the river are steep, the rocks are lined, and the rivers rush between the canyons, forming a magnificent landscape.
Mekong is not only a natural river, but also a cultural river.The watershed area is a multi-ethnic agglomeration area. There are 16 ethnic minorities such as the Dai, Bai, Buyi, and Yi in the Yunnan basin alone. The customs, lifestyles, and religious beliefs of each ethnic group have their own characteristics and are integrated with the local natural environment.Visitors can feel the rich Dai style here, taste authentic Dai cuisine, and enjoy the traditional Dai song and dance performances.
The Lancang River or Mekong is a pearl of Xishuangbanna, attracting countless tourists both in terms of natural scenery and cultural heritage.Visitors can choose to start from Jinghong and go up against the water to the tiger jumping stone to feel the surging of the river and the changing scenery on both sides. They can also take a boat from Jinghong and pass through the olive Dam to the junction of the three kingdoms of China, Laos and Myanmar. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rainforest and the tranquility and peace of the Dai villages.
MaxS
Laos travel tips are here! Laos travel tips are here!
Laos Travel Guide
Explore the mysterious beauty of Laos and experience the unique charm of Southeast Asia!
️[Must-Visit Attractions]
1️⃣ Pha That Luang, Vientiane: The most sacred temple in Laos, with a golden tower full of religious mystery.
2️⃣ Vang Vieng: A paradise for photographers, with beautiful rural scenery and stunning karst landscapes.
3️⃣ Luang Prabang: An ancient town on the banks of the Mekong River, with many historical sites and temples, and a lively night market.
[Transportation Guide]
Public transportation in Laos is relatively inconvenient. It is recommended to rent a car or hire a car to better explore every corner.
[Food Recommendations]
1️⃣ Lao Coffee: Rich and mellow, a specialty drink of Laos.
2️⃣ Lao Hot Pot: Fresh ingredients paired with unique sauces, leaving a lasting impression.
3️⃣ Sticky Rice: Served with various meats and vegetables, it is a staple food for Laotians.
[Accommodation Recommendations]
Laos offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. In Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, you can also try staying in traditional Lao wooden houses to experience the local culture.
[Tips]
1️⃣ Kip is the currency of Laos. It is recommended to exchange some cash in advance.
2️⃣ Respect local religious customs and culture. Do not take photos or smoke in temples.
3️⃣ Pay attention to sun protection and mosquito repellent. The sun and mosquitoes in Laos are strong.
Come to Laos and experience this mysterious and beautiful country!
I hope these tips are helpful to you. Have a great trip to Laos!
Michael McNeil25
Huern Pae Supatra.
Travel to Muang Fuang, stay in Muang Fuang, raft houses in Muang Fuang. Enjoy the new popular check-in spot in Laos, 'Muang Fuang'. Stay in raft houses by the river, surrounded by beautiful green mountains and mist. Room rates are in the thousands, but the view is priceless. The atmosphere is great, enjoy a delicious barbecue. In the morning, monks come to receive alms right in front of your accommodation by boat.
My name is jayjay
Tad Champi Waterfall
Tad Champi Waterfall may have fewer attractions compared to other waterfalls on the plateau, but it still offers plenty of interesting features. It is a peaceful and natural retreat, perfect for picnics, meditation, and more. You can walk along the path on the left side of the parking lot down to the stream (watch your step on the handmade stairs), where you can relax on long wooden benches or natural round stones.
The entrance to Tad Champi starts from KM 38 on the left side of Road No. 23, opposite the entrance road to Tad Fane Waterfall. The waterfall is just a few kilometers away, and you can follow the signs along the way.
My name is jayjay
Wat Phu Stone Temple
Wat Phu is an ancient site in Laos, recognized as the country's second World Heritage Site. It is a Brahmin temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on Phu Hill, also known as Phu Kao (meaning 'topknot'). The temple is located about 6 kilometers from the old town of Champasak. The structure of the temple is a Khmer sanctuary, similar to Preah Vihear Temple, and was built around the 11th century during the reign of King Mahendravarman by Phraya Kammatha. It is considered the oldest stone temple in existence.
My name is jayjay
Laos Backpacking Itinerary: 3 Days of Culture and Adventure
#backpacking #laos
Day 1: Exploring Luang Prabang
• Morning:
• Start early with the Alms Giving Ceremony in Luang Prabang, where monks receive food offerings from locals and tourists alike.
• Visit Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city and Mekong River. The short hike to the top is especially rewarding at sunrise.
• Explore Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important and beautiful temples in Laos, known for its ornate gold detailing.
• Afternoon:
• Head to the Royal Palace Museum to learn about Laos’ royal history and view artifacts from the country’s past.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River and enjoy a riverside lunch at a local café. Try traditional Laap (minced meat salad).
• Evening:
• Visit the Night Market to shop for handicrafts and enjoy local street food such as khao jee (Laotian baguette) and grilled Mekong fish.
• Finish the day with a traditional Laotian massage at one of the many spas in town.
• Accommodation:
• Stay at a guesthouse in Luang Prabang’s historic district, such as Villa Merry Lao for a budget-friendly option with great access to the main attractions.
Day 2: Kuang Si Waterfalls and Surroundings
• Morning:
• Take a tuk-tuk or rent a motorbike to visit the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls (about 45 minutes from Luang Prabang). Swim in the turquoise pools and explore the surrounding jungle.
• Visit the nearby Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, where you can learn about efforts to protect the region’s moon bears.
• Afternoon:
• Enjoy lunch at one of the local stalls near the waterfall entrance. Try Khao Poon (spicy noodle soup) for a filling meal.
• Head back to Luang Prabang and take a short river cruise on the Mekong River, stopping at Pak Ou Caves, where hundreds of Buddha statues are placed inside limestone caverns.
• Evening:
• End the day with a sunset view of the Mekong River from a riverside restaurant. Savor Or Lam, a traditional Lao stew, to round out your evening meal.
• Accommodation:
• Stay another night in Luang Prabang to continue enjoying the cultural atmosphere.
Day 3: Adventure in Vang Vieng
• Morning:
• Take an early bus or minivan to Vang Vieng (about 4-5 hours). Once you arrive, explore the famous limestone karst landscape.
• Go on a short hike to Pha Ngern Viewpoint for incredible views of Vang Vieng and the Nam Song River. The hike is steep but worth it for the panoramic vistas.
• Afternoon:
• Enjoy tubing or kayaking on the Nam Song River, which is both relaxing and a great way to take in the stunning natural scenery.