Laos entertainment. Laos - attractions, interesting facts and places, culture, nature, traditions
Indeed, in ancient times, Laos had a completely different name - Lang Sang. If you literally translate it into Russian, it will turn out - the Kingdom of a million elephants. This name was given to the country by King Fa Ngum after it re-united in 1532. Since that time, an aura of mystery reigned around this country, since it was difficult for foreigners to enter its territory. And this isolation continued until the end of the 20th century.
The main attractions of Laos, which you should definitely get acquainted with, can be considered - a large number of ancient temples, a rich culture, many ethnic groups and different nationalities, huge tracts of dense tropical forests, which are home to millions of very exotic inhabitants and, of course, a magnificent mountain landscape.
The capital and seat of government of Laos is located in a bend of the Mekong River, in the middle of very fertile alluvial plains. Already in 1563, thanks to the efforts of King Settatirat, this obscure village became the capital of the state of Lang Sang. Unfortunately, in 1827, the capital of the kingdom, the city of Vientiane, was captured by the Siamese army and almost completely destroyed it. For many decades the city was in a deplorable state, it practically lay in ruins. And so it continued until the time when it was restored by the French colonialists, or rather, was practically rebuilt. 
Approximately 500 kilometers north of Vientiane, in a large bend of the Mekong River, between Mount Phousi and the confluence of two rivers - the Great and Nam Khan, is the oldest city of Laos - Luang Prabang (Luang Prabang).
Literally 25 kilometers north of Luang Prabang, on the banks of the Mekong River, are the Pak U caves. They housed a whole complex of bas-reliefs and statues dedicated to the Great Buddha. Of these, two caves are of the greatest interest, literally crammed with Buddha images of different styles and different sizes. These are Tham Thing (lower cave) and Tham Theung (upper cave). If you go down the river from this place, you can get to the small village of Ban Sang Hai, which has gained popularity as one of the best and most famous distilling centers in the country. You should also see the picturesque cascade of waterfalls - Kuang Si, located 30 kilometers in southbound from Luang Prabang, and also the sacred caves of Pakau, located 25 kilometers north of the city. 
Unfortunately, travelers quite rarely visit the central part of Laos, but in vain. These regions are in fact distinguished by the most variegated ethnic composition population and its natural beauties, so here literally every settlement has its own unique colorful features.
Most often, tourists visit Savannakhet, often called southern Luang Prabang. It is the most famous provincial city of central Laos. And this is no accident, because it is located on the most ancient trade routes and has always been considered a major shopping mall, which connected the coast of the South China Sea with the mountainous regions of Laos and Cambodia.
If you go east from Savannakhet, you can get to the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail, which runs parallel to the border with neighboring Vietnam. This is an extensive system of roads, strongholds and trails, formed during the Vietnam War against the American aggressors. American bombers during this war, about 1.1 million tons of herbicides and explosives were thrown onto this land, thereby causing enormous damage to the nature of this region and the local population. Fans of military history love to visit here, because there are dozens and hundreds of tunnels, bunkers, many different underground structures of the Viet Cong, and in addition - the huge remains of combat fighters, helicopters, tanks, bombers and other military equipment. 
In the central part of Laos, you can also visit Thakhek. This is perhaps the least visited town in the Mekong Valley. In it, winding streets diverge from the tiny center to the outskirts, built up with old buildings of trading companies and French villas. Moreover, all these ancient buildings, including the buildings of shops and clubs, are framed by beautiful old gardens.
It must be said that decades of the past war actually led to the complete isolation of part of northern Laos. However, these same reasons contributed to the preservation of the amazing local way of life, completely lost in neighboring countries. The mountains and green hills of the northern part of Laos are full of original natural objects and are inhabited by ethnic tribes who have preserved their ancient culture. These are such tribes as the Hmong, Akha and Mien. However, unfortunately, in these parts there are also the borders of the Golden Triangle, widely known in the criminal world, which is one of the world's largest centers for growing opium. 
Here you can visit the picturesque town of Huaysai with its famous monasteries - Wat Keo Phonsavan Tanar, Wat Chom Khao Manilat and Wat Khon Keo; then the resort town, located in the upper reaches of the Mekong River, Xiengkok; museum in Luang Namtha; Muang Singh and his monastery Wat Sing Jai; gold mines located in the Bokeo region; and besides, the villages of the Hmong and Akha peoples.
The northeastern regions of Laos are also the least visited areas. During the Second Indo-Chinese War, they were brutally bombed and shelled. However, on the other hand, a huge number of natural and historical monuments are well preserved here. Here you can see the extensive cave system located in the Viang Sai area, which during the war was used as barracks and headquarters for the forces of the liberation movement of Vietnam and Laos; a very deep and very beautiful river valley - Nam-Nyun; stunningly beautiful cliffs near the Nam-U River; hot springs of Bo-Yai and Bo-Noi; the picturesque Xiang Khuang plateau and the picturesque village of Ban Liao. 
But, without any doubt, the famous Dja Valley is considered the main attraction of the northeastern part of the country. This is a wilderness located between Xieng Huang and Phonsavan. Here are several hundred urns, completely incomprehensible purpose and origin. They are sort of divided into five groups. In fact, these are huge structures (the weight of the largest of them is 10.6 tons) carved about two thousand years ago, and from hard stone, which is not found anywhere in the local area. Also, as a result of recent archaeological excavations, plains of the most extensive underground burials were discovered. In addition, the craters from numerous wartime bombings give this area a truly cosmic look. 
The southern regions of Laos, bounded by the territories of Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, are divided into almost two zones - the eastern mountainous area(Bolaven Plateau) and the western plains, located in the Mekong Valley.
Here you can visit the city of Pakse, considered the most important market town and major border point, the largest city in the south and in fact its commercial and transport center. In the eastern part of the region, the Bolaven Plateau is separated by the Mekong Valley from the Annamite mountain ranges, which form the border between Laos and Vietnam. The hilly plateau here rises an average of 600 meters. Stormy mountain rivers flow from it in all directions, plunging into the crowns of lush forests and forming hundreds of waterfalls. Some of them reach a height of up to 100 meters. 
Travelers from the countries of Southeast Asia have already explored these lands quite well, but the inhabitants of the European continent have studied this part of Laos very poorly. But in vain. After all, truly original tribes live here, one of the best coffee varieties in the world is grown, and the ancient center of the Mon-Khmer culture is located. By the way, this culture is still waiting for its detailed study.
Description of the sights of Laos is truly extensive. In addition to the famous temples, there are many streets, buildings, squares that are worth seeing.
The names of the sights of Laos include many natural places like caves and rivers. One has only to travel outside any of the centers of the country to be convinced of this. Of course, the main attractions of Laos are located in the capital and in large ancient cities. We can only advise which attractions in Laos to see first. Here are some of them:
Luang Namtha is the capital of Luang Namtha Province. It is located near the border crossing to China. The city attracts tourists not with significant temples, but with an abundance of colorful mountain tribes that live both in the city itself and near it.
Wat Phra That Sikhotabong- a temple six kilometers south of Thakhek. This is a stupa built in the 19th century. The Laotian-style golden stupa is located in a picturesque place next to the river. In February and July, colorful festivals take place here in honor of the annual Buddhist holidays.
Si Fang Don, or « Four thousand islands - the most southern part Laos. The Mekong River overflows here. There are, indeed, at least four thousand islands in these parts. You will find many waterfalls. On the largest islands there are settlements of local residents. In Indochinese times, there was a small French resort here. Stone villas are almost gone today, gradually being swallowed up by the jungle. Freshwater dolphins live in the waters of the river, and the rest here is relaxing and calm.
Lake Nam Ngum is located 90 km from the capital, on its shore is located as a landmark not Big city Pan Keun where locals salt is mined. From here they go on a cruise on long boats or boats. You will see picturesque landscapes, islands and enjoy the crystal water.
Bolaven Plateau- a natural attraction an hour's drive east of Pakse. His high - about 1200 m above sea level. There is almost untouched nature, waterfalls, national villages, tea and coffee plantations.
Waterfall Fan - two picturesque streams falling from rocks from a height of 130 meters. Located on the Bolaven plateau.
Limestone caves in Mahaksay village- Tham Yen, Tham Mha Ying and other caves are located near Thakhek. In the last cave there is a reservoir, it is illuminated by the sun through the holes in the cave ceiling.
Temple Pha That Luang in Vientiane - a Buddhist religious building, a symbol of the country's independence. It can be seen on state emblem. The Pha Jedi Lokayulamani or "World Precious Sacred Stupa" is huge and the central Stupa is surmounted by a huge stone lotus.
Simuang Temple- revered temple of Vientiane, they say that the keeper of the city, Nang Si, lives in the altar hall. This temple houses a large collection of bronze Buddha statues.
Wat Ho Phra Kaew Temple- a monastery and a royal temple in Vientiane, built in 1565 by King Setthathirat. There is also the Museum of Religious Art, or the Buddha Museum.
Buddha Park- museum under open sky 24 km south of Vientiane. There are many statues and sculptures on the theme of Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. The most famous, perhaps, can be called a giant statue of the Reclining Buddha.
Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge- road and rail bridge (1170 m) between the city of Nong Khai in Thailand and Laos across the Mekong River. Four trains cross the bridge every day, at this time car traffic stop.
Wat Xieng Thong, "City of Golden Temples" - a royal Buddhist monastery in the north of the peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khang rivers in Luang Prabang. The famous Tripitaka library is also located here.
National Museum in Luang Prabang - a repository of valuable works of art from the period when the kingdom of Lang San existed. Here lies a copy of a small sculpture of the Buddha Prabang, in her honor the city was named. The original of this statue was gold and weighed 50 kg with a height of 83 cm. In 1779, the Thais stole the statue, and returned it to Laos in 1839.
Tat Chomsy Pagoda on Phousi hill. To its foot one enters along a narrow stone staircase of 328 steps. In the shade of the Champa tree, there is a sculpture of the Buddha, and locals come here to ask for help.
Pak Wu Caves- located on the banks of the Mekong, 25 km north of Luang Prabang. This is a complex of statues and bas-reliefs of the Buddha in his incarnations. Tham Thing, or Tham Leusi, the "lower cave," and Tham Theun, or Tham Prakachai, the "upper cave," have the most Buddhas.
Caves near Vang Vieng. You will find whole columns of stalagmites and stalactites here. Guests are shown 5-7 safe equipped caves. There are paths and lighting, as well as underground rivers with the possibility of tubing. Some caves have real temples.
The Ho Chi Minh Trail near the city of Kayson Phomvihan is an open-air museum, which at one time was a military-strategic system of strongholds, firing points, strategically important roads and paths. The system was developed by the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. AT war time these places were bombarded, poisoned with chemicals. There are many remains of ground and air equipment, bunkers, trenches and much more.
That Ingkhang temple is located to the east of Kayson Phomvihan where he was ancient city Sikhotabong. The temple was erected in the 16th century. There are many images of Buddha here. The temple is crowned with a golden umbrella as a reminder of the "kingdom of a million elephants and a white umbrella." Every full moon year between February and March, That Ingkhang temple is visited by pilgrims for a religious festival. Women are not allowed here.
Wat Phu- the remains of a Khmer temple in southern Laos, at the foot of Mount Phu Khao, 6 km from the Mekong River, 40 km from here is the town of Pakse. Nearby is Champatsak, once it was the capital of the kingdom of Chenla. This city is considered one of the oldest in Laos. The complex was erected in the 6th-12th centuries on the foundations of temples dating back to the 5th century. On the territory of the temple are palaces, known as the northern (male) and southern (female). To the north there is a footprint of the Buddha in the stone.
Valley of pitchers(Xiengkhuang) - located on the Xiengkhuang plateau, 15 km from the city of Ponesawan. The valley belongs to the megalithic era. More than 300 huge stone vessels embedded in the ground are scattered on the territory of the valley. The oldest ones are at least 2000 years old. The purpose of the jars is still unknown.
Laos was known in ancient times as "Lang-Sang", which means "Kingdom of a Million Elephants". This name was given to the country by King Fa Ngum after the reunification of the country in 1353 AD. Since then this mysterious country, access to the territory of which was very difficult until the end of the 20th century, acquired the aura of the most unusual state in Southeast Asia. Many ancient temples, rich culture, a wide variety of peoples and ethnic groups, vast tracts of tropical forests inhabited by millions of exotic inhabitants, a picturesque mountain landscape - these are the main attractions of the country.
The capital and seat of government of the country is located in the Mekong bend among the fertile alluvial plains. In 1563, King Settatirat turned this once obscure village into the capital of the kingdom of Lang Sang. In 1827 it was captured by the Siamese army and almost completely destroyed. For many decades, the city lay in ruins until the French colonialists restored, or rather, rebuilt it.
Approximately 500 kilometers north of Vientiane, in the great bend of the Mekong, between the confluence great river and Nam Khan, and Mount Phousi, lies the most Old city Laos and his ancient capital- (in Russian sources it is called Luang Prabang).
25 km north of the city, on the banks of the Mekong, are the Pak-U caves, in which there is a whole complex of statues and bas-reliefs depicting Buda in all its guises. The most interesting here are two caves, literally filled with Buddha images of all styles and sizes - Tham Ting or Tham Leusi ("lower cave") and Tham Theung or Tham Prakachai ("upper cave"). Just down the river is the small village of Ban Sang Hai, known as one of the best distilling centers in the country. Also noteworthy are the picturesque cascade of Kuang Si waterfalls, located 30 km south of Luang Prabang, as well as the sacred caves of Pakau (25 km north of the city).
Central Laos
Travelers rarely visit the central part of Laos, and in vain - these lands are famous for their natural beauties and the motley ethnic composition of the population, giving everyone locality their colorful features.
The city, more commonly referred to by the locals simply as Sawan or "Southern Luang Prabang", is the most visited provincial town in southern Laos. This is not surprising - located on ancient trade routes, it has always been a major trading center connecting the coast of the South China Sea and mountainous areas Cambodia and Laos.
East of Savannakhet stretches the famous "Ho Chi Minh Trail" - an extensive system of roads, trails and strongholds running parallel to the border with Vietnam, formed during the struggle against the colonialists and the Vietnam War. The strikes of the US Air Force, which literally dumped over 1.1 million tons of explosives and herbicides on this land in the period from 1965 to 1969, caused severe damage to the nature and population of the region. However, these lands have become a real mecca for lovers of military history - here you can see dozens and hundreds of bunkers, tunnels and other underground structures of the North Vietnamese army, as well as a huge number of remains of combat helicopters, fighters, bombers, tanks and other military equipment.
One of the least visited cities in the Mekong Valley. Its winding streets leading from the tiny town center are lined with French villas and old trading company buildings, while the typical local shops and clubs are framed by old gardens.
Northern Laos
Decades of war have led to the almost complete isolation of the northern part of Laos. But these same reasons have kept the amazing local way of life, which has virtually disappeared in neighboring countries. The green hills and mountains of the north are full of natural objects and inhabited by original tribes - carriers of ancient cultures, including the Hmong, Mien and Akha. But in the same region lie the borders of the infamous "Golden Triangle" - one of the largest centers of opium cultivation. The main points of attraction here are the colorful city Huaisai with its monasteries Wat Chom Khao Manilat, Wat Kaew Phonsavan Tanar and Wat Khon Kaew, a resort town Xiengkok in the upper reaches of the Mekong, the Provincial Museum in Luang Namtha, a good trekking area around Muang Sing with its Wat Sing Jai monastery, gold mines in the Bokeo area, as well as many Akha and Hmong villages.
The northeastern regions of Laos are one of the least visited areas of the country. These lands were subjected to severe bombing and shelling during the Second Indochina War, but retained most of their natural and historical monuments. Here you can see the extensive system Pathet Liao caves in the Viang Sai area, which were used as headquarters and barracks for the forces of the liberation movement of Laos and Vietnam (a whole underground city with developed infrastructure was equipped in almost 100 caves), the beautiful and deep river valley of Nam-Nuun, amazingly beautiful cliffs along the Nam-U river Nong Kyau, the hot springs of Bo Noi and Bo Yai (52 km north of Phonsavan), the picturesque village of Ban Liao and the beautiful Xiang Khuang plateau.
But, undoubtedly, the main attraction of the northeastern part of the country is the famous Jah valley- wilderness between Phonsavan and Xieng Huang. On the territory of the plain, several hundred stone urns of unknown origin and purpose are concentrated, collected in five groups. These huge structures, the largest of which weighs 10.6 tons, were carved about two thousand years ago from hard stone, which, by the way, is not found in the surrounding area. Recent excavations have shown the presence of extensive underground burials on the territory of the plain. And the craters left over from numerous bombings of this strategically important area give the landscape of Jah a completely unearthly look.
Southern Laos
Limited to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, southern regions The countries are divided into two zones - the western flat part, adjacent to the Mekong, and the mountainous eastern region, lying within the Bolaven Plateau.
The most important market town and major border point, the largest city in the south, its commercial and transport center.
Fertile highlands in the east of the region Bolaven Plateau separates the Mekong valley from the Annamite mountain ranges that form Laos' border with Vietnam. Dominant over areas Salawang, sekong and attapu, the hilly plateau has an average height of about 600 m. Numerous turbulent rivers run off the plateau in all directions, plunging under the crowns of lush forests, and forming over a hundred spectacular waterfalls, some of which are over 100 m high. Most of the plateau area is practically unexplored by tourists from Europe, but is well known to travelers from Southeast Asia. Many original tribes live here, one of the best coffee in the world is grown here, there is ancient center Mon-Khmer culture, whose monuments are still waiting for their researchers.
Laos is famous for its rich culture: monuments, temples, magnificent landscapes of forests and mountains, exotic flora and fauna. All of its sights are very colorful (and some are not even fully explored and trails are not laid) and cause admiration.
Many centuries ago, Laos was poetically called " kingdom of a million elephants". Now there are fewer elephants, but the Laotians still love these animals. Tourists can even visit the "Elephant Village" (near Luang Prabang), where they learn many different interesting facts about elephants, join the profession of a mahout and see a beauty contest among these animals.
For all the inhabitants of Laos, this stupa means a huge religious significance. The capital Pha That Luang is the most important architectural landmark of the country, depicted on the coat of arms and even has its own festival.
Outwardly, it looks like a golden pyramid, near which there are two temples. There are three levels in the stupa. Every detail, every element of the structure has a special religious meaning. Until the beginning of the last century, the stupa was completely destroyed in wars and invasions. Then the French restored it, and at the end of the twentieth century, the Laotians gilded it.
As a symbol of the country's liberation from the French, the concrete Arch was built in 1968, the twentieth year of state independence. Outwardly, it resembles the Parisian Arch, however, there are many differences between them. It has 4 passages - on the cardinal points.
The ceiling is a delicate blue with painted Lao gods. And at the top there are 5 turrets - symbols of peace between nations. Decorations are the most national: elephants, Buddhas, warriors, flowers and leaves. It offers splendid views of the capital.
The official residence of the President, also used for official ceremonies. The building of a beautiful mansion was built in the style of classicism. Year of construction - 1986. From all sides, the building is surrounded by well-groomed lawns and trees, and high columns and balconies with openwork lattices fit well into this elegant style.
It is located in the building of Wat Ho Phra Kaew. Whose building dates back to 1565 and the times of King Sethatrirat. The museum is located in a French garden, where an atmosphere of complete tranquility and harmony reigns. The main attraction of the museum is a copy of the Emerald Buddha. The original is kept by the Thais, taken there during the war of the eighteenth century.
According to urban legend, the pregnant Nang Si lives in the altar - personification the city itself. The temple was erected on the orders of Sethatrirat after he moved the capital in 1563. The entrance is decorated with a snake and a dog guarding it. The building houses the most valuable and largest collection of bronze Buddhas.
Wat is famous for its huge chic collection of Buddhas from 7000 copies. Figurines are different: from bronze and wood, from silver and gold, from stone and clay. Many of them are in niches around the perimeter, and the most important statue is in the middle of the sacred hall. There, under a huge cobra that shelters him from the rain with his own hood, sits the Buddha. The statue in the temple appeared in the eighteenth century. Nearby is a gilded candle. The ceiling of the hall is decorated with paintings from the life of the founder of the religion.
The museum is located in the former residence of the governor of France, which was built in 1925. The whole history of Laos is shown here: from the finds of the Stone and Bronze Ages to photographs and documents of the liberation of the country from the French. The museum recently won a US grant to support cultural property.
Location: Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane.
A wide bridge is thrown across the Mekong River at the very border between the two countries. As part of the AN12 network, it links Vientiane and Nong Khai. Length - almost 1200 meters. One railway meter gauge and two automobile 3.5 (wide) lanes were laid on the bridge. Despite the fact that the design of the bridge provides for pedestrian wide sidewalks, it is impossible to walk on it. To cross the river, tourists should sit in free bus walking along this route.
25 km from the capital is a fun park Wat Xiengkhuan. There are more than 200 statues of Buddhist and Hindu beliefs on the banks of the river. All are artificially aged, so that they seem to be many years old, and are made of reinforced concrete.
Against the background of the rest, a large three-story building with an entrance in a three-meter head of a demon stands out. By itself, it symbolizes hell, heaven and the earth between them. And on the floors there are corresponding thematic compositions. The park appeared in 1958.
Location: Thanon Tha Deua, Vientiane.
Located right in the middle between the capital and Lung Prabang, the village is known for its karst caves. Many have not even been fully explored yet. The most famous - well-lit Tham Chang with amazing views of the surrounding area. To the north is the narrow long Tham Papue. The figure of the sleeping Buddha is inside the Poukham cave. Also known is the Elephant Cave, which has an elephant-shaped stalactite, many pretty religious figurines and an internal stone pool in which swimming is allowed. The village will also be of interest to lovers of rafting.
Located in the north of the peninsula, the Golden Monastery (or Wat Xieng Thong) has been considered one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Laos since the 16th century. In the monastery, you can see exquisite mosaics depicting the life of the Buddha and a special precious statue of the reclining Buddha. To the east is a chic 12-meter building, where members of the royal family used to be buried.
Location: Khem Khong, Luang Prabang.
When the old palace of Luang Prabang was destroyed in 1887, a new one was built only in 1907. The place was chosen intentionally - it was very convenient for guests to arrive in boats then. royal residence the building was considered until 1975, when the last king was overthrown and sent with his family to a labor camp to learn the basics of communism.
The architecture of the palace-museum is a mixture of tradition and French neoclassicism. There are beautiful frescoes on the walls of the palace, by which you can determine the time of day. Now many valuable things from the time of Lang San are stored here. A carefully made copy of the Golden Buddha, presented as a gift by the Khmers, is the most valuable exhibit of the museum. Previously, the original statue was in Vientiane, but in 1779 it was captured by the Thais. They returned it to Laos only in the middle of the 19th century. The 80 cm statue is made of gold and weighs almost 50 kg.
Standing on the top of the Pu Xi hill, the temple is several religious buildings connected in one grandiose architectural ensemble. The golden spiers are visible from anywhere in Luang Prabang. Year of construction - 1804. An old tree grows nearby, under which stands a statue of Buddha. And the imprint of his foot, a grotto with numerous statues and flowers are located in a small pagoda, which is part of the temple ensemble.
One of the oldest Lao temples is also located near Pu Xi. It was built at the beginning of the 15th century and contains a 6-meter wooden Buddha statue, as well as a Lotus stupa.
Located on the banks of the Mekong (near Luang Prabang), the ancient cave complex is a must-see for every traveler who comes to Laos. The famous caves have an extensive collection of wooden Buddhas (more than 4,000 pieces) collected by pilgrims.
The location of the picturesque system of waterfalls in the Mekong National Park. The highest water level and at the same time the most beautiful they are in the first two months of autumn. The most important and highest water cascade is about 54 meters. Not only locals, but also tourists love to relax here.
On the east side low Khao, just south of Champatsak, the ruins of an ancient temple complex. The earliest buildings date back to the 5th century. Initially, the temple was the center of Shaivist cults, then - Buddhist.
Of particular importance was the mountain in the form of a lingam, and the world ocean was symbolized by a nearby river, whose waters were considered sacred. In the 10th century, religious buildings were located on the territory of the Khmer Empire - the buildings of those years have survived to our time. The temple is oriented to the east. Around are the northern and southern palaces; the first is better preserved. In general, the whole complex, unfortunately, is in a very poor condition. To the north of the sanctuary, you can see a crocodile stone, on which human sacrifices were made to Shiva. Wat Phu itself is still functioning - in February, holidays are always held here.
16 km from Savanakhet, on the site of an ancient settlement, there is a 9-meter stupa That Ingkhang. A real golden umbrella on top of the temple is one of the most memorable elements of decor and a symbol of the medieval state. On the February full moon, pilgrims come to this temple to pray. But women are not allowed inside.
The museum from the military times of the Vietnam War, right under the open sky, is located on the border between Laos and Vietnam on the site of the city destroyed by the bombing. This is a network of strategically important dirt roads and tracks with the remains military equipment, bunkers, trenches and various ingenious traps. Attention: visiting this area without a local guide is not recommended.
Among the bright tropics is a group of unusual archaeological sites in Xiangkhouang province. The height of stone and coral jugs reaches 3 meters, and their weight is up to 6000 kg.
According to scientists, the age of the finds is about 1800 years. Presumably they were used for water or funerary urns. The people who invented them are unknown. And according to Lao legends, giants lived here or they were ordered to be made by an ancient ruler who kept special wine in them. Previously, there was a cave with burial places right there, but during the Secret War it was destroyed. Most of the valley, unfortunately, is still inaccessible to travelers due to American "gifts" during the bombing.
Picturesque Laos is one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, but one of the least visited. This is a big omission, as Laos has just as much to offer travelers as Thailand and Vietnam. This small country has no access to the sea, and therefore is of no interest to beach tourists. But in terms of tourism, Laos is famous for its impressive mountain landscapes, excellent opportunities for hiking, huge caves and other wonders of nature. Here you can go on a tour of forests and waterfalls, as well as taste delicious local food with hints of Thai and Indian influences. If you are looking for a real adventure in Southeast Asia, then the sights of Laos will definitely make it possible. Here is a list of 15 the best places to visit in Laos.
Vientiane
Vientiane is the charming capital of Laos, which still feels like a small city with historical charm. Vientiane was a former French trading post during the colonial period. As a result, there is a delightful old French Quarter worth exploring. During the tour, you will also find many masterpieces of French architecture, including the Laotian version of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris, known as Patusai. There are also other Laos attractions worth visiting, including dozens of local markets and temples. For example, Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple of its kind in Vientiane.
Luang Prabang
If you are looking for quiet place in the heart of Laos, then head to Luang Prabang. The city sits on the powerful Mekong and Han rivers and is known for its great little European cafes along picturesque shores rivers. This delightful area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll also find magnificent temples throughout the city, or head to the Kuang Si Falls for azure deep pools perfect for swimming. Luang Prabang is included in the list of 29 best attractions in Asia, which have a separate LifeGlob feed.
Vang Vieng
Van Vieng is located between Vientiane and Luang Prabang and is one of the main tourist spots in Laos. In the old days, this part of Laos had a rather wild reputation and a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, but is now a little more decent thanks to the actions of the local authorities to clean up their image. One of the main reasons to visit Van Vieng is the breathtaking descent down the Nam Son River where you can admire the lush jungle scenery at the same time. There are also other attractions in Laos, including the Tam Phu Kham cave with a lagoon and a bronze Buddha statue.
Huaisai
Huai Xai is located on the border between Laos and Thailand, so many people visit it during the transition from one country to another. Many cruises on the Mekong River also stop here. You can take a boat from Huang Sai to Luang Prabang, which for many visitors is the highlight of a trip to Laos. It is also worth visiting the Bokeo Nature Reserve, which is famous for its gibbons.
Sifandon Islands
Laos has no coastline, so even more surprising is the presence of the Si Phan Don islands here, which means “Four thousand islands”. Amazing small islands are located on the Mekong River, scattered near the border between Laos and Cambodia. The islands vary in size so you can choose from more major islands like Don Hong and Don Dete. Here travelers are waiting for a little more nightlife and a wider range of accommodation options, hotels, hostels and private pensions. You can also visit the smaller and quieter Don Khong Island if you really want to get away from the outside world in Laos.
Bokeo Reserve
The Bokeo Nature Reserve is located outside of Huai Xai City and is a well-known landmark in Laos. The site is famous for its conservation efforts to protect the black-cheeked gibbons, which were rediscovered in 1997 after they were thought to be extinct. The park allows you to stay in village houses that offer a bird's eye view of the forest canopy. In the jungle, guests can enjoy many activities, including bungee rides. In addition to the famous gibbons, you will also find elephants, bears, tigers and buffaloes. Bird watchers will find hundreds of species of colorful birds in the Bokeo Reserve. Bokeo is included in the list of 10 most beautiful places in Laos.
Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is also known as Nong Kiaw and is quite a popular tourist attraction in Laos. It is quickly making a name for itself as one of the best places to visit in the country. Here you will find amazing routes and tours, cycling through the picturesque villages surrounding the main city. Nong Khiaw is located on the stunning Nam Ou River, so you can take a boat tour to see all the scenery from the water side. This part of the country is surrounded by majestic karst formations and limestone caves. Fa-Tok Cave is a great place for those who love speleology.
Tam Kong Lo Cave
Tam Kong Lo is the name of a cave that is part of a wider national park Fu Hing Bun. The park and cave are located along the Phu Hin Bun River, and its central part is considered one of the most impressive in all of Southeast Asia. The cave, about 6.5 kilometers long and up to 100 meters high, is known for its stunning jade pools, which, according to legend, are the same color as the skin of the Hindu god Indra. The best way to visit the cave is to take a boat trip through the mystical labyrinths and enjoy the crystals, stalagmites and stalactites.
Luang Namtha
Luang Namtha is known as the largest city in the northwestern part of Laos. It is famous as a stopover for any traveler between Laos and neighboring China. It is also a popular attraction in Laos for those who love to hike. You can venture into the surrounding mountains and visit the country's ethnic hill tribe villages. If you don't like hiking, you can rent a bike or motorbike and then spend the day in a few villages and see the picturesque waterfalls in this part of the country. In the city of Luang Namtha itself, you can spend time in the lively local markets, eat street food and indulge in herbal saunas.
Wat Phu
Wat Phu is a magnificent Khmer temple near Mount Phu Khao in the province of Champasak. This Hindu temple was built between the 11th and 13th centuries, a strategic site in the mighty Khmer kingdom that stretched from Angkor to neighboring Cambodia. Today you will find temples partially destroyed by the jungle, similar in style to the neighboring Angkor Wat.
Phonsavan
Phonsavan actually means "Paradise Hills" in Lao and it is perfect place to get acquainted with the rural life of the country. This part of Laos is surprisingly known for its cowboy culture. You'll find real Laotian cowboys here wearing Stetson hats herding cattle in the lush plains of Phonsavan. It is also a good starting point for visiting places like the "Valley of Jars". The magnificent natural attraction got its name because its pillars resemble jugs. This place is included in the list of strange attractions in Southeast Asia according to LifeGlobe.
Muang Ngoi
Muang Ngoi used to be a sleepy town, but has now become much more popular thanks to its location on the legendary Banana Pancake Trail, which spans several countries in Southeast Asia. As you might expect, it is now becoming more and more popular with tourists. People come here to enjoy riverside relaxation and spend time at places like Nam Ou Beach. You can also visit the small ethnic villages that surround the city, or book a guided tour of several famous caves with magnificent waterfalls.
Pakbeng
Pakbeng is located between Luang Prabang and Huai Xai. One of the main reasons for visiting it is to stop for the night during a river trip between the two cities down the Mekong. There are no big Laos attractions in Pakbeng, but this beautiful place for a stopover on the way to Luang Prabang. The city has several good restaurants overlooking the river, where you can drink a cold beer and watch the sunset against the backdrop of the majestic Mekong.
Muangsai
Muang Sai is the capital of the large province of Oudom Xai and is located near the scenic Nam Ko River basin. Known for its magnificent mountain ranges, it is the largest city in northern Laos. Many tourists come here to get to other parts of the country. However, you can easily spend a few days here as the city is close to a number of famous caves and other Laos attractions.
Pakse
Pakse is the capital of Champasak Province and one of the largest cities in southern Laos. Many come here to continue on to neighboring Si Phan Don, Wat Pho or the Bolaven Plateau, as well as the Ha Pyan National Protected Reserve, or Lao Ngam. However, there are many interesting places in Pakse itself, so try to spend a few nights here if possible. The city sits on the Mekong and Sedong rivers, where you'll find gourmet seafood restaurants along the waterfront, as well as the herbal saunas the area is famous for.
