Located on a curve of the Mekong River, Vientiane Capital has a recorded history that stretches back to around 1,000 AD. The area was originally settled because of the fertility of the surrounding alluvial plains, and Vientiane became the capital city of Laos around the mid-16th century. Vientiane Capital is the home to the most significant national monument in Laos: That Luang (Great Stupa), which is the symbol of Lao and an icon of Buddhism in Laos. Of the many beautiful Wats in Vientiane, a visit to Wat Sisaket is a must; built in 1818, this is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. Other Buddhist holy places are Wat Ong Teu Mahavihan , known for its 16th century bronze Buddha sheltered by a carved wooden masterpiece, and Wat Si Muang , the site of the Lak Meuang or pillar-stone of Vie

Luang Prabang is an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions. Outstanding Universal Value Brief synthesis Luang Prabang is located in northern Laos at the heart of a mountainous region. The town is built on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. Mountain ranges (in particular the PhouThao and PhouNang mountains) encircle the city in lush greenery. Many legends are associated with the creation of the city, including one that recounts that Buddha would have smiled when he rested there during his travels, prophesying

Located in the South of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Waterfalls is one of the most interesting places when you have a trip to Laos. This waterfall which owns outstanding scenery and a great natural pool is considered a heaven for nature lovers in the world. Kuang Si Falls, also known as Tat Kuang Si, is a three leveled fall with a height of 50 meters. The fall has a special structure with pools atop a steep hillside, the flow of water falls down strongly creating a turquoise blue pool before flowing downstream into the jungle river. Over years, Kuang Si Falls have etched deep lines and stratified steps into the stones creating a beautiful travertine pattern. On the trails to the waterfall, you can find many rare species of plants and flowers. Amidst the fresh air of Kuang Si Falls, you have a c

Located 400 kilometers northeast of Vientiane Capital, Xieng Khouang Province is on the mountainous Tran-ninh plateau. It is set at an altitude of more than 1,000 metres above sea level and enjoys mild temperatures for most of the year, although winters can be surprisingly cold. Kham District is a low-lying basin set at around 600 meters above sea level. Xieng Khouang enjoys a remarkable geographical location, surrounded by mountain ranges, with Phou Bia (2,700 meters) the highest peak in Lao PDR. The province sits at the crossroads of traffic from central Vietnam and northeast Thailand. Historically, these two powerful neighbours-Siam and Vietnam have vied for control of its soil. The province shares borders with Houaphanh, Luang Prabang , Vientiane and Bolikhamxay provinces, as well as a

Champasack lies to the Southwest and is one of the main political and economic centers of Lao PDR. The capital city, Pakse, is located at the confluence of the Mekong and the Sedon Rivers. In this province you will find ancient temples which were influenced by the Angkor people who settled in Cambodia. There are many different minorities in Champasack who have their own language, culture and lifestyles. Champasack Province is known for its relaxed pace of life, warm hospitality and rich cultural, historic and natural heritage. The province has been ruled by various kingdoms through the ages, and today there are many archaeological remains scattered throughout the province. To the south of Pakse is the Wat Phou Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Attractions also include the Ancie

Deep in the northeast of Laos lies Nam Et-Phou Louey, home to some of the most remote wilderness in Southeast Asia. Due to the near inaccessibility of the park, wildlife is left relatively undisturbed and as a result, gaur, sambar deer and white-cheeked gibbon have been spotted in recent years. The National Protected Area (NPA) of Nam Et-Phou Louey is the largest of 20 parks scattered across Laos . You can choose to explore its rich biodiversity by foot, hiking through the jungle or into the cloudforest, or by boat on a night safari. This area is often overlooked by visitors due to its remote location -- spend a few nights here and you're in for an intimate experience. Nam Et-Phou Louey is named after its features, the Nam Et river and Phou Louey mountain. The area boasts an array of biodi

Located 10 kilometres from Champasak, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wat Phu is one of the most impressive Khmer temples outside of Cambodia. A highlight of southern Laos , the temple complex demonstrates the dominance and religious commitment of the Khmer Empire. he site originated long before Angkor. Inscriptions from the fifth and sixth century mention the sanctuary, and it's believed it was originally connected with the first Khmer state of Chenla, then with the Champa kingdom from the 7th century on (source: Wat Phu museum). The complex we see today was built in the Angkorian period early in the 11th century, with additions constructed in the 12th and 13th century. The location and orientation of the temple is far from arbitrary. The natural landscape held enormous spiritual significanc