1. Vientiane
Source: Bass Supakit / shutterstock
Vientiane is the charming capital of Laos and even though this is technically a capital city, it still feels like a small town rather than anything else.
Vientiane used to be a former French trading post during the colonial period, and as a result it has a delightful old French quarter than you can explore.
As you walk around you will also find a plethora of French inspired architecture such as a Laotian version of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris known as Patuxai.
There are also other attractions that are well worth a visit such as sprawling local markets and temples like Wat Si Saket which is the oldest of its kind in Vientiane.
2. Luang Prabang
Source: Torjrtrx / shutterstock
If you are looking for the serene heart of Laos then you may want to travel to Luang Prabang which is a town that lies on the mighty Mekong and Khan rivers.
The town is also known for its gorgeous little European style cafes which are located along the scenic river banks and this area is so delightful that it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will also find gorgeous temples all over the town and if you like trekking then you can go out to the Kuang Si Waterfalls where you will find amazing azure cataracts that have deep pools which are perfect for bathing in.
3. Vang Vieng
Source: Suchada Rujayakornkun / shutterstock
Van Vieng sits between Vientiane and Luang Prabang and is one of the main backpacker locations in Laos.
In the days of old this part of Laos had a rather wild reputation and a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene, although now it has become a little more staid thanks to action taking by the local government to clean up its image.
One of the main reasons to come to Van Vieng is to enjoy the tubing down the Nam Song River and you can take in the lush jungle scenery here at the same time.
There are also other spots such as the Tham Phu Kham Cave which is known for its lagoon and bronze statue of the Buddha.
4. Huay Xai
Source: Pongpon Rattanathammawat / shutterstock
Huay Xai is located on the border between Laos and Thailand which is the reason that many people visit when they cross from one country to the other.
It is also known however for its Mekong River cruises as you can take a boat from Huang Xai to Luang Prabang and for many visitors this is the highlight of a trip to Laos.
It is also the gateway to Bokeo Nature Reserve which is known for its spectacular Gibbon Experience.
5. Si Phan Don Islands
Source: Kieu images / shutterstock
Laos is known for not having a coastline so it may sound strange to hear that it is the home of the Si Phan Don Islands which means ‘Four Thousand Islands’ in Lao.
The islands are caused by the Mekong River dispersing close to the border between Laos and Cambodia which has created these amazing little islets.
The islands vary in size which is great as you can choose some of the larger islands like Don Khon and Don Det if you want a little more nightlife and a wider range of accommodation options.
You can also visit smaller and sleepier island like Don Khong if you really want to fall off the grid and get away from it all in Laos.
6. Bokeo Nature Reserve
Source: livingnomads.com
The Bokeo Nature Reserve lies outside the town of Huay Xai and is a well known nature reserve that is known for its conservation work to protect black-cheeked gibbons which were rediscovered in 1997 after it was thought that they had become extinct.
The park allows you to stay in tree houses which give you a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy and you can also partake in fun jungle activities such as swinging on a zip line As well as the famous gibbons, you will also find elephants, bears, tigers and buffalo in the park and keen bird watchers can check out hundreds of species of colorful avians.
5 Best Places to Visit in Laos:
- Vientiane
- Luang Prabang
- Vang Vieng
- Huay Xai
- Si Phan Don Islands
- Bokeo Nature Reserve
إرسال تعليق