Vientiane, the capital of Laos: 4 must-see places
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is characterized as one of the most tranquil capitals in the world, with only 200,000 inhabitants. It is located in central Laos, and the Mekong River flows alongside the city, serving as a natural border with Thailand.
In the city, the blend of French colonial architecture with traditional Buddhist temples is noteworthy, as is its night market by the Mekong. Here is a list of the 4 most famous places in the city that you absolutely shouldn’t miss during your visit to Vientiane. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Let’s begin:
What to see in Vientiane?
1. The night market next to the Mekong
The center of Vientiane is concentrated in three main streets parallel to the bank of the Mekong, where the heart of the city is located. This area, along the river, is the epicenter of daily life. A wide promenade invites people to exercise or enjoy a stroll, keeping the area active throughout most of the day.
At night, the atmosphere becomes even more lively. A street market is set up offering clothing (soccer jerseys for 2-4 euros), decorations and local food, while the restaurants in the area fill up with tourists and locals, attracted by the aroma of barbecue and the good atmosphere.
Food stalls offer local specialties such as grilled kebabs, tam mak hoong (papaya salad), fried noodles and typical sweets. Remember, bargaining is common and part of the experience, but always in good humor and with respect.
2.Climb to the top of the Patuxai Monument
The Patuxai monument is a gigantic triumphal arch built to commemorate the independence of Laos from France. The word Patuxai means “Gate of Victory”. Built in the 1960s, this majestic arch combines traditional Laotian elements with Western design influences, similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but with a unique style that reflects the local culture.
It is located right in the center of Vientiane, on a large esplanade at the end of Lane Xang Avenue, known as “Vientiane’s Champs Elysees”. Exactly, not far from the Buddhist Stupa Pha That Luang, another must-see in Vientiane. You can climb to the top of the monument and appreciate the beautiful views of the center and surroundings.
3. The amazing Pha That Luang Stupa
The most famous monument in the city and in the whole country is the Phat That Luang, a Buddhist stupa covered with gold. Although it has been rebuilt several times, it was originally built as a Hindu temple in the 3rd century. Pha That Luang, meaning “Great Sacred Stupa” represents the Buddhist faith and sovereignty of Laos. According to tradition, relics of the Buddha are preserved inside, making it a place of great devotion.
The main stupa, 45 meters high, is completely covered with gold leaf and surrounded by stepped terraces, symbolizing the different levels of Buddhist enlightenment. The design combines traditional Laotian elements with Khmer and Hindu influences, creating a unique and majestic monument.
Phat That Luang Stupa is located 4 km northwest of the city, just 2 km away from the Patuxai Monument. The entrance fee is 10,000 Kips (0.50 euros) and visiting hours are from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 16:00 every day of the week.
4. Enjoying the surreal Buda Park
The charming Buda Park is 25 km from the city. It is a unique place where religion, art and creativity are combined. It was created in 1958 by a sculptor and spiritual leader who wanted to capture his religious visions through impressive statues.
The park houses more than 200 sculptures, many of them Buddhist, Hindu and mythological figures, creating a surreal and mysterious atmosphere. Although the park turned out to be smaller than I had imagined, it had some really interesting sculptures. Admission only costs approximately 40,000 kips (2 euros) and visiting hours are from 8:00 to 17:00. A must-see in Vientiane.
Next Destination: From Vientiane to Kunming by bus
During my stay in Vientiane I had decided that my next destination would be ancient China, specifically, the province of Yunnan, which borders the north of Laos. I asked for the Chinese visa at the Chinese embassy and after a few days they returned my passport with the visa to enter China (35 euros, one month).
With the visa in hand, I took the bus to Kunming, 35 more hours of rest awaited me, luckily with a big bed inside the bus. I say goodbye to Laos, a country that I did not expect much but that I ended up falling in love with. Now, another new adventure begins, I’m going to Kunming, China, here I come!
You can subscribe to the blog to keep you informed of new posts and the trips I start organizing in Asia. If you are planning a trip to Laos you can also take a look at our Tips and Curiosities about Laos and our list of The Best Temples in Luang Prabang.
