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For travellers seeking tranquillity, breathtaking scenery, and diverse cultures, places to visit in Laos—the only landlocked nation in Southeast Asia—are hidden gems. Unlike its bustling neighbours, Laos boasts a more relaxed pace of life, making it the perfect destination for introspective and immersive vacations. This guide to places to visit in Laos highlights must-visit locations that are perfect for first-time travellers and provide a perfect combination of history, adventure, and authentic local culture.
When to visit Laos?
Typically, the driest and coolest time to visit Laos is between November and January. The weather is pleasant throughout the day; however, it may become a little cold in the mornings and evenings. From June to October, you may anticipate severe rains. Due to road closures and floods (like the Sep 2024 deluge), travelling during the peak rainy season may be dangerous or impossible. Even after you reach your location, some sites, such as Vang Vieng's wet cave, may remain closed. Roaring waterfalls and full rivers would be your reward for braving the rain. The slash-and-burn season in the nation takes place from March to May. Avoid visiting Laos during this period as the thick, pungent pollution will cover the entire country, turning the sky a dirty orange and leaving a persistent burnt scent in your hair and clothing.
Best places to see in Laos
Start your journey with a visit to Laos’s crown jewel- Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a charming mashup of European influences and indigenous Lao wooden architecture. Situated in north central Laos, this city is made up of 58 neighbouring villages, 33 of which make up the Town of Luang Prabang World Heritage Site, which is recognised by UNESCO. True to its name, Luang Prabang's ancient city is a World Heritage site. Set on a peninsula in the middle of Laos' paddy-filled countryside, the city is situated at the junction of the •mightyê Mekong and the modest Nam Khan. From here, you can always enjoy a calming river view. The main centre's World Heritage classification is understandable given the remarkable fusion of French colonial and Indo-Chinese architectural styles that it houses. Giving alms to the local monks is a great way to start the day for every tourist. More than 1,200 monks call Luang Prabang home, making up almost 10% of the city's population. At times, it seems like you're walking inside a monastery. This is one of the best places to go in Laos!
Explore modern Laos with Vientiane
The French-influenced Vientiane, the capital of the emerging Laotian country, was once a more relaxed state. You may visit and worship at any one of the many temples here, which are located on the banks of the Mekong River. The French term "Wiang Jan," meaning "The city of Sandalwood," is an etymological ancestor of this city's name. There are many posh hotels, pubs, and cafés here, yet the city still manages to have a chill vibe. You won't witness much activity, not even on weekends, since the locals tend to lead a leisurely lifestyle. With a mere 850,000 people, its capital is among the most diminutive in all of Southeast Asia. A large number of international investors have contributed to the city's steady growth throughout the years. Now this is a must-see place to see in Laos!
For the adventurer in you, visit Luang Namtha
The northern city of Luang Namtha is the unashamed adventure centre of Laos, offering easy access to a variety of jungle activities like as hiking, kayaking, rafting, cycling, and more. Numerous trekking companies line the main strip of the town, each providing a different kind of excursion, from daily group trips to tailor-made adventures. You can go on 7-day jungle survival courses where you learn to build a home out of native bamboo and hunt for your food; alternatively, you can stay in a traditional Akha or Khmu village, which you can reach by boat or bicycle, for a more culturally immersive experience. For that adrenaline junkie in you, this is a must-see place to see in Laos!
For the scenery of a lifetime, sojourn in Vang Vieng
A breathtaking natural wonderland, Vang Vieng is located in Southeast Asia. As you float down the Nam Song River in an inner tube, you can take in the breathtaking scenery of hundreds of towering limestone karst peaks. This picturesque wilderness is perfect for bicycling, with miles of dirt roads to explore, stunning lookouts to climb, secret caverns to discover, and freshwater swimming holes to dive into. Vang Vieng also offers thrilling rock-climbing routes on the karst towers, the opportunity to paraglide or even just float in a hot air balloon over the enchanted scenery, and more. Previously inaccessible due to a rough route from Vientiane, the new high-speed rail has opened up Vang Vieng as a popular destination for backpackers. New boutique hotels have elevated the region to the level of a possible weekend retreat from Luang Prabang or Vientiane. This is a must-see Laos place to go!
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Melt away in the lap of nature at Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is a majestic northern Laotian location nestled among stunning limestone mountains and stretching out along the tranquil Nam Ou River. This town is a peaceful alternative to Luang Prabang, perfect for those who like hiking, are interested in nature, or are just looking for a less touristy place to explore local culture. Best experienced before daybreak, the 1.5-hour Pha Daeng Peak Hike is a challenging but worthwhile ascent to a vantage point overlooking the Nam Ou River valley and Nong Khiaw. Conveniently located just outside of town, the Tham Pha Thok Caves were bomb shelters during the Indochina War and provide fascinating insight into the resiliency of Laotian soldiers.