VIENTIANE
The capital city and seat of government sits on
a bend in the Mekong River amid fertile alluvial
plains. Despite its chequered past, Vientiane
(pronounced 'Wieng Chan' by the locals) is a
laid-back city with a number of interesting wats
and lively markets. The most important national
monument in Laos is Pha That Luang (the Great
Sacred Stupa), which is a symbol of both
Buddhism and Lao sovereignty. Other sights of
interest include Wat Pha Kaew, a former royal
temple which is now a museum, and Wat Si Saket,
the oldest temple in Vientiane.
LUANG PRABANG
This 'city' is just barely waking from a
long slumber brought on by decades of war and
revolution. Luang Prabang has only 16,000
residents and few concessions to 20th-century
living, save for infrequent electricity and a
few cars and trucks. Its main tourist
attractions are its historic temples - 32 of the
original 66 built before French colonisation
still stand - and its lovely setting encircled
by mountains at the confluence of the Khan and
Mekong rivers. Sights include the Royal Palace
Museum, Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Wisunlat. Just
25km (15.5mi) along the Mekong River are the
famous Pak Ou caves, some of which are filled
with Buddha images, while 29km (18mi) south of
the town are the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls.
HOUEISAY
Located in the remote north-west near the
infamous ‘Golden Triangle’ with an entry
check-point from Thailand and a border with
Myanmar. The area is renowned for its gem
stones, including sapphires and rubies.
PAKBENG
A small village located above the Mekong River,
an interesting stop-over for river cruises
between Luangprabang and Houeisay.
VANG VIENG
Just 150km north of Vientiane on the Nam Xong
River, this quiet, scenic area abounds in caves
lurking in the distinctive beauty of the
mountain ranges.
PASKSE / CHAMPASSAK PAKSE
The ideal place for short trips to the former
capital of Champassak and the memorable World
Heritage pre-Angkor ruins of Vat Phou.
Khong Island Near Cambodia with the huge
Khonephapheng waterfalls; between November and
May the rare white Mekong River dolphins may be
seen.
BOLOVEN PLATEAU
This area is home to several waterfalls and
local, minority villages that can be visited by
riding on elephants. Also tea, coffee and fruit
plantations proliferate among glorious scenery
and rare flora and fauna.
