Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts with the label Laos

An Insider's Guide to the Best Things to Do in Laos

Tucked away in Southeast Asia, Laos is a landlocked country bordered by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. With a population of just over 7 million people, it remains one of the least developed and most pristine countries in Asia. Laos has a long and tumultuous history, having been under French colonial rule in the late 19th century before gaining independence in 1953. After years of instability, Laos has opened up and embraced tourism, showcasing its lush jungles, meandering rivers, Buddhist temples and vibrant culture to the world. The heart of Laos is the mighty Mekong River, which shapes the landscape and daily life. Limestone karsts and verdant rice paddies dominate the countryside. The capital Vientiane mixes French colonial architecture with glittering temples. But it's Luang Prabang that remains the jewel in Laos' crown, with its historic peninsula home to gilded wats and saffron-robed monks. Trekking, cycling, kayaking and ziplining are popular ways to ex

The Most Incredible Places to Visit in Northern Laos

Welcome to the enchanting region of Northern Laos, where rugged mountains and diverse ethnic cultures converge to create a truly unique experience. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, this region forms a part of the famed Golden Triangle, sharing its borders with China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The undulating terrain of Northern Laos is dominated by towering mountains that rise over 2,000 meters above sea level, making it a hiker's paradise. With its extensive network of trails cutting through lush green jungles and leading to remote ethnic minority villages, this region is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The lower northern part of Laos is equally fascinating, with its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Its quaint town centres are steeped in history, and its ancient sites, such as the Luang Prabang UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into Laos' glorious past. The landscape of lower northern Laos is a sight to behold.

Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang was the former royal capital of an ancient kingdom in northern Laos. Today, it remains as one of the most magnificent destinations in Southeast Asia, famous for its beautifully preserved Buddhist temples and spellbinding monasteries. Wondering what you can do here besides visiting the historical sites? Read about the top attractions in Luang Prabang that you may find interesting! Read more:  8 Must-try Traditional Food in Myanmar Table of Content Mount Phousi Wat Tham Phousi Wat Xieng Thong Royal Palace Museum Kuang Si Waterfall Green Jungle Park Boun Awk Phansa Festival Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos Mount Phousi One major reason why you must visit the city is to climb up Mount Phousi - Luang Prabang’s highest hill which stands at a hundred metres above sea level. This popular must-visit hill only takes approximately 300 steps to arrive at the summit. The steps are designed to make the climb ea

Best Things to do in Vientiane, Laos

Picture this: a city bursting with charm and tranquillity. Vientiane, the beloved capital of Laos, boasts fresh air and a serene atmosphere that will soothe your soul. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade and treat yourself to delicious street snacks that will tantalise your taste buds. And if you're a fan of history and culture, you're in luck - Vientiane is home to intriguing old structures and stunning Buddhist temples that will leave you in awe. But that's not all - the central region of Laos is a treasure trove of religious monuments and diverse cultures. It's where you'll find the national symbol of sovereignty and the iconic representation of Buddhism in Laos. The rugged limestone mountains with their underground rivers and caves will take your breath away, offering the perfect backdrop for trekking and wildlife spotting. And let's not forget about the stunning Mekong river valley, with its flat, fertile alluvial plains that stretch as f

Top Attractions in Southern Laos

The geography and nature of Southern Laos is extremely diverse. The Bolaven Plateau is well known for its coffee plantations, cascading waterfalls and cool climate. The ancient Vat Phou Temple complex in Champasak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an exceptional archaeological site originating from the 6th century. The 4,000 Mekong river islands feature extensive wetlands, world class rapids and riverside beaches. Read also: Things to do in Champasak, Laos Table of Content Vat Phou, Champasak Tad Lo Waterfall, Salavanh Coffee Plantation, Bolaven Plateau Ban Khan Don, Sekong Khone Phapheng Waterfall, Champasak Nong Fa Lake, Attapeu 4,000 Islands, Si Phan Don Top Attractions in Southern Laos Top Attractions in Southern Laos Vat Phou, Champasak Vat Phou Temple is a surprisingly well-preserved 1,000-year-old complex . It was designed to depict the Hindu vision of the harmonious connection between nature and humanity, with a 10-kilometer-long geometric pattern of temples, shrines, and wate

Things to Do in Champasak, Laos

Champasak is a town in southern Laos on the Mekong River. It is known as a gateway to Vat Phou, a sacred 11th-century Khmer temple complex with Hindu deity sandstone carvings. East of the river are the Dong Hua Sao National Biodiversity Conservation Area, coffee plantations on the Bolaven Plateau, and the Xe Katamtok Waterfall. The magical Champasak Province is home to some of the country's most beautiful waterfalls, jungles, and islands. It shares cultural influences with both Cambodia and Thailand. Accessible by motorcycle, organised tour or bus, this destination is well worth the journey to see everything southern Laos has to offer. Read more: Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang Table of Content Vat Phou Temple Bolevan Plateau Si Phan Don Xepian National Protected Area Don Khong Khone Phapheng Waterfall Don Daeng Island Ban Nong Bueng Village Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Area Hong Nang Sida Temple How to Get to Champasak, Laos Things to Do in Champasak, Laos Things to Do