Vientiane

Vientiane, Laos

 Vientiane, Check out Pha That Luang, stroll by the Mekong, and feel the vibes at Wat Si Saket. Explore Patuxai for a French touch, savor Laotian food, and chill in this easygoing capital

History of Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a cool city by the Mekong River. It has French-style buildings and Buddhist temples like Pha That Luang. Vientiane is chill with a mix of history and markets, perfect for a laid-back stroll.

Patuxay - Vientiane

Ideal Time to Visit

  1. Good Weather: Visit from November to February for pleasant weather.

  2. Avoid Hot Season: Skip March to May, it gets uncomfortably hot.

  3. Festivals are Fun: Check out Boun That Luang festival for cultural vibes.

Vientiane Weather

VIENTIANE WEATHER

How to Reach Vientiane

  • By Air: Arrive at Wattay International Airport.
  • By Road: Accessible by taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental cars.
  • By Bus: Regular services connect Vientiane to various cities.
  • Self-Drive: Explore with local transport or a rental vehicle.

Location of Vientiane

Interesting Fact

Vientiane, Laos has its own “Arc de Triomphe” called Patuxai. It’s a symbol of Laos’ independence struggle. Climb to the top for awesome city views

Accommodations

Luxury Hotels:

  • Settha Palace Hotel
  • Crowne Plaza Vientiane

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Salana Boutique Hotel
  • Lao Plaza Hotel

Budget Options:

  • Numerous affordable hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in different parts of Vientiane.

Guesthouses and Homestays:

  • Provides a more personalized experience, allowing interaction with locals.

Hostels:

  • Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a social environment.

Resorts:

  • While Vientiane is primarily a city, some resorts may offer a more relaxed atmosphere on the outskirts.
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Restaurents

Lao Kitchen: Serves tasty local Lao dishes in a comfy setting.

Makphet Restaurant: Famous for yummy Lao food with a positive impact.

Kua Lao Restaurant: Popular spot for authentic Lao flavors.

Ray’s Grille: Modern twist on Lao and international cuisine.

Local Cuisine

Laap: Traditional Lao minced meat salad.

Khao Niew: Sticky rice, a Lao staple.

Tam Mak Houng: Spicy green papaya salad.

Street Food

Grilled Fish (Pa Nin): Enjoy grilled fish, a common street treat.

Khao Ji Pate: Baguette sandwiches with Lao-style pate.

Lao Coffee: Try traditional Lao coffee.

Best Places to Visit

  • Pha That Luang: Golden stupa, Laos’ pride.
  • Patuxai (Victory Gate): Lao Arc de Triomphe.
  • Wat Si Saket: Oldest temple with many Buddhas.
  • COPE Visitor Centre: Shows UXO clearance work.
  • Buddha Park: Sculptures along the Mekong.
  • Haw Phra Kaew: Former royal temple turned museum.
  • Chao Anouvong Park: Riverside park with art.
  • Morning Market: Traditional spot for local goods.
  • Lao National Museum: Exhibits Laos’ history.
  • Wat Si Muang: Sacred temple with local importance.
  • Riverside Promenade: Stroll by the Mekong.
  • That Dam: Black stupa with local stories.
  • Vat Haysoke: Unique Buddhist architecture.
  • Lao Textile Museum: Displays traditional textiles.
  • Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan: Temple with a reclining Buddha.
  • Mekong Riverside Park: Relax by the river.
  • Xieng Khuan Buddha Park: Sculptures of Buddha and Hindu deities.
  • Lao-ITEC Exhibition Centre: Hosts events and exhibitions.
  • Lao Bowling Centre: Fun spot for locals and tourists.
  • Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre: Supports women with disabilities.
  • Wat Chan Temple: Buddhist temple with a serene vibe.
  • Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge: Symbol of Laos-Thailand friendship.
  • Wat Inpeng: Peaceful temple atmosphere.
  • Lao National Culture Hall: Venue for cultural performances.
  • Sikhottabong Stupa: Ancient stupa with history.
  • Vientiane Center: Modern shopping and fun.
  • Nong Bone Lake: Relaxation and recreation spot.
  • Wat Si Long Hong: Temple with unique architecture.
Vientiane image

Vientiane 

Safety Tips

  1. Use legit transport.
  2. Be careful on the roads.
  3. Watch for scams, especially in tourist spots.
  4. Respect local temples and customs.
  5. Stay aware of health and weather.
  6. Follow local rules and traditions.
  7. Pick trusted vendors for street food.
  8. Keep your things safe in crowds.
  9. Stay updated on local happenings.
  10. Ask before clicking photos, respecting privacy.

Budget Travel Tips

  • Budget Stay: Pick affordable guesthouses in the city center.
  • Stroll by the Riverside: Explore the Mekong Riverside on foot.
  • Street Food Delight: Enjoy pocket-friendly local Lao food.
  • Patuxai Monument Visit: Check out Patuxai with a small entry fee.
  • Pha That Luang (Optional): Visit the grand Pha That Luang; entry fees apply.
  • Buddha Park (Optional): Explore Buddha Park for unique sculptures; there’s an entry fee.
  • Relax in Free Parks: Chill in parks like Chao Anouvong Park for free.
  • COPE Visitor Centre (Optional): Learn about UXO clearance at COPE; donations welcome.
  • Night Market Shopping: Shop for souvenirs at the Night Market.
  • Wat Si Saket Visit: Explore historic Wat Si Saket with no entry fee.

Photography Tips

  • Golden Monument (Pha That Luang): Snap the shiny symbol of Laos.
  • Victory Arch (Patuxai): Click pics of this impressive arch.
  • Oldest Temple (Wat Si Saket): Take shots of the ancient temple with many Buddha images.
  • Mekong River Sunset: Capture serene sunset views along the river.
  • COPE Center: Document important exhibits on unexploded ordnance.
  • Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): Photograph unique Hindu and Buddhist statues.
  • Black Stupa (That Dam): Capture the mysterious black stupa.
  • Royal Temple (Haw Phra Kaew): Photograph the temple that once housed the Emerald Buddha.
  • Night Market: Document vibrant colors and activities.
  • Local Street Scenes: Capture daily life in Vientiane’s neighborhoods.
  • National Museum: Explore exhibits showcasing Laos’ history and culture.
  • Riverside Biking: Take casual shots along the Mekong River with a rented bike.

Travel Essencial

  1. Light Clothes: Pack light, modest clothes for the warm weather.
  2. Comfortable Shoes: Walking shoes for exploring.
  3. Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.
  4. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in the heat.
  5. Power Bank and Adapter: Keep devices charged.
  6. Local Currency: Carry Lao kip for small expenses.
  7. Camera or Phone: Capture Vientiane’s beauty.
  8. Basic Phrases: Learn a few Lao words for better communication.
  9. Insurance: Have coverage for emergencies.
  10. Documents: Passport, visa, and necessary permits.
  11. Map or App: Navigate the city easily.
  12. Respectful Attire: Modest clothing for temples.
  13. Reusable Bag: Handy for shopping.
  14. Bug Repellent: Especially for outdoor activities.
  15. Snacks: Carry some for quick energy.
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Adventure Activities

  • Golden Stupa – Pha That Luang: Iconic and gleaming.

  • Victory Monument – Patuxai: Climb for city views.

  • Oldest Temple – Wat Si Saket: Unique architecture to discover.

  • COPE Centre: Learn Laos history and UXO awareness.

  • Mekong Riverside at Sunset: Relax by the river.

  • Buddha Park: Sculptures telling Buddhist and Hindu stories.

  • That Dam Stupa: Visit the mysterious black stupa.

  • Vientiane Night Market: Vibrant shopping and local eats.

Seasonal Events

  • Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao): April
  • Boun Pi Mai Boun Wat Phu Khao Khouay: April
  • Rocket Festival (Boun Bang Fai): May
  • That Luang Festival: November
  • Lai Heua Fai (Festival of Lights): October/November
  • Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent): October
  • Vientiane International Half Marathon: December

Local Attraction​

  • Pha That Luang: Famous golden stupa, a symbol of Laos.
  • Patuxai (Victory Gate): Landmark monument with city views.
  • Wat Si Saket: Oldest temple with many Buddha images.
  • COPE Visitor Centre: Raises awareness about UXO in Laos.
  • Wat Si Muang: Sacred temple with a local legend.
  • Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park): Sculpture park with Buddhist and Hindu statues.
  • Chao Anouvong Park: Riverside park dedicated to King Chao Anouvong.
  • That Dam: Mysterious black stupa in the city.
  • Mekong Riverside: Relaxing spot for sunset views over the Mekong River.
  • Vientiane Night Market: Vibrant market with local crafts and street food.
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Related Other Information about Vientiane

Nearest Place to Visit

  • Pha That Luang: In Vientiane.
  • Patuxai (Victory Gate): City center, nearby.
  • Wat Si Saket: In Vientiane.
  • COPE Visitor Centre: In Vientiane.
  • That Dam: In Vientiane.
  • Chao Anouvong Park: Along the Mekong.
  • Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): About 25 km southeast.