Located on the left bank of Mekong River, the capital of Laos is the starting point for all excursions to the country, either by road or by boat. Vientiane is a mixture of colonial buildings and ancient temples that blend with colors of the daily markets. Vientiane is a quiet and peaceful capital for visitors.
Stretching out on the north-eastern bank of a Mekong River bend, Vientiane reserves a great number of wonders. The city used to be capital of the Kingdom of Lan Xang literally “Million Elephants”.
Vientiane was officially founded in 1560 when King Setthathirath moved the capital of Lan Xang. Vientiane in Laos means "moon gate" which represents his calmness and charisma.
Unlike other Southeast Asian capitals, Vientiane is rather a small and quiet town. Albeit its relaxing and sleepy atmosphere is awakening with an increasing influx of tourists, it remains a little paradise to get lost around.
Vientiane boasts huge colonial buildings, ancient temples and colorful local markets. Traveling across the center on a tuk-tuk offers a really enjoyable discovery. You will be amazed at the golden roofs of its splendid temples, old buildings stamped with French colonial architecture or the striking Triumphal Arch (locally called "Patouxai") in front of the President Palace. A myriad of exotic masterpieces are waiting for you!
Laos - Thailand Friendship Bridge
Laos - Thailand Friendship Bridge is the first bridge built on the lower Mekong River and also the first one to cross over the river, connecting Nong Khai city of Thailand and Vientiane of Laos. About 1170 meters long, the bridge has both road and railway.
Patouxai
Patouxai is also known as Lao’s "Arc de Triomphe", a memorial complex dedicated to the victims of the war in Laos. From its top, you can savor a panoramic view of the Vientiane capital.
Pha That Luang
The Pha That Luang or “Supreme Stupa” is considered the national symbol of Laos. The sacred religious monument features a striking three-layered gilded stupa which houses a Khmer statue of Jayavarman VII, the last king of Angkor.
Wat Sisaket
Built between 1819 and 1824 by King Anouvong, the Wat Sisaket is one of the oldest temples in the capital. This temple features a set of well-preserved buildings typical of Thai architectural style.
Buddha Park
Located 24 km from downtown Vientiane along the Mekong River, the Park of Buddha is absolutely a must see. It exhibits a multitude of Buddha sculptures of different shapes and sizes.
Haw Pha Kaw
The royal temple Haw Pha Kaw (or Wat Phra Keo) was built in the sixteenth century during the reign of Setthathirat to house the Emerald Buddha. It is now turned into a religious art museum with a superb collection of 10,000 bronze statues of Buddhas.