Vientiane Laos: Top 10 things to see and do

For many travelers, during a trip to Laos, Vientiane, the country's capital, is an essential stopover, offering a multitude of captivating activities that promise an unforgettable trip. Do not miss out on any of these activities or sites to see while visiting the charming Laotian capital.

1. Discover the Phat That Luang

Easily recognizable from afar, this golden Buddhist stupa is the most sacred monument in the country and is a national symbol of Laos. In Laotian, "Phat Tha Luang" means "Great Sacred Stupa".The That Luang in Vientiane was built in 1566 after King Setthathirath made Vientiane the new capital of Lan Xang kingdom, and is believed to enshrine the breast bone of Buddha. Every year, on the first full moon of November, the That Luang festival is held for a week, during which thousands of Buddhist worshipers and monks flock to the Laotian capital to participate in religious ceremonies. In addition to Buddhist rites, many popular games, dances, and traditional songs also take place in the course of the festival. Don't miss this event if you are in the capital of Laos at that time.

2. Climb to the top of Patuxai

Located in the city center, Patuxai is a war monument built between 1957 and 1968 to pay tribute to the Laotian soldiers who died during World War II and the war against France for the country's independence. This monument was built using American funds and cement initially intended to build a new airport. "Patuxai" literally means "Gate of Victory". Designed by Tham Sayasthsena, a Laotian soldier, former journalist and self-taught sculptor, this architectural work embodies Laotian culture, decorated by statues of Laos's mythical symbol. The terrace of the monument is an open space where there are four towers built at the four corners and a larger tower located in the center. The latter has a staircase leading to the top floor, from which visitors can admire the panoramic view of the city, particularly Lane Xang Avenue which leads to the presidential palace and the Mekong River. 

3. Visit its many temples

Vientiane, while not as culturally significant as Luang Prabang, has a beautiful collection of temples that testify to the Laotians' Buddhist fervor. Let us highlight three of the most important temples in the capital. Vat Sisakhet, the city's oldest temple, stands out for its 2,000 small Buddha statues.Vat Phra Keo is right next door, a palace monastery surrounded by an 18th-century bronze Buddha statue gallery with various meditation positions. Vat Simuang, is revered by the inhabitants for containing the square pillar that founded the city.

>> Read more: Top 10 pagodas and temples to visit in Luang Prabang

4. Visit the COPE Visitor Center

Created in 1996, COPE ( Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise) provides orthotic services and prosthetic limbs to those in need, most of whom are victims of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from American bombing during the Vietnam War. The COPE Visitor Center was then established in 2008, continues this mission, introduces the charity's work, and educates visitors about the war through documentaries and an exhibition. Laos holds the sad record of being the most bombed country in history. Throughout the Vietnam War, more than 2 million tons of bombs were dropped on the country. COPE Visitor Centeropens daily from 8:30 am to 4 pm, entry is free, and donations are gladly accepted on-site or online.

5. Laos National Museum

Occupying the former residence of the French governor built in the 1920s, the Laos National Museum is essentially dedicated to the evolution of the country's history. From prehistory to national independence, the museum allows you to learn about the country's history through a series of thematic rooms. The ethnic groups of Laos are represented, as well as some remarkable pieces such as a Phonsavan jar, megalithic steles, bronze drums from the Dong Son civilization, and various objects from the Laotians' daily lives.

6. Go to local markets

The capital of Laos is home to many lively markets that take place every day. The Talat Sao morning market is the best known in the city. Located in the city center, not far from Patuxai and the presidential palace, this market offers a variety of products: traditional fabrics, clothing, jewelry, electronic equipment, antiques, and souvenirs... To discover all the richness of Laotian food products, go to the Talat Thong Khan Kham Market located North of the city center. The market is vibrant and full of life, stimulating the senses. To taste traditional Laotian cuisine, head to the Ban Ou Night Market.  

7. Hiking in Phou Khao Khouay National Park

Are you seeking wild and well-preserved nature? For a day or two, escape to the magnificent Phou Khao Khouay National Park located 40 kilometers northeast of Vientiane. This protected area is home to many natural wonders, including an ecosystem that supports a diverse range of endangered animal species such as panthers, gibbons, peacocks, and wild elephants. Plant and insect biodiversity is equally remarkable. A magnificent hike allows you to discover all of these treasures and bathe in spectacular waterfalls.

8. Stroll along the bank of the Mekong River

Strolling along the banks of the Mekong at the end of the day is a very pleasant activity to do during your stay in Vientiane. Every evening, a magnificent spectacle takes place on the banks of this renowned river. Laotians come in large numbers, often with their families, to relax on this long walk while the sun slowly sets, tinting the waters of the Mekong. Enjoying the sunset while sipping a bottle of Lao beer or tasting Laotian culinary specialties in one of the many small street restaurants that line the river is a simple way to unwind after a day full of explorations. 

9. Discover the Buddha Park

Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, located 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane, is home to some 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues made of concrete: Hindu deities, mythological animals, demons, or classic scenes from the Buddhist saga. The park was initiated in 1958 by an eccentric shaman priest yogi who wanted to merge Buddhist and Hindu philosophies, mythologies, and iconography. In this park, you will find sculptures of the deities of both religions, Shiva, Vishnu, or even a twenty-meter-long reclining Buddha.

10. Attend a boat racing festival

The boat racing festival called Boun Suang Heua, is celebrated every year, usually in October at the end of the rainy season, marking the end of Buddhist Lent. The day before the races, Buddhist ceremonies take place in all the temples of Vientiane and the evening the city is dotted with candles made by the inhabitants. They also place small boats decorated with flowers and candles on the Mekong to expel evil spirits and to make wishes for good health, prosperity, and longevity. The races then feature competitions between several villages in the surrounding area. If you are in the Laotian capital at the time, you should not miss this event.

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