Vientiane Attractions - Laos Travel Tips

Located on the northern bank of the Mekong River, Vientiane is the capital city and the centre of culture, commerce and administration in Laos. With a population of a little over half a million and an area of 180 square km, its major attractions are the Buddhist monasteries and monuments.

Wat Sisaket - The only temple to have survived the 1828 destruction wrought upon Vientiane by the Siamese, Wat Sisaket is the oldest and one of the most interesting temples in Laos. The interior of the main hall, and the walls of the surrounding courtyard, are inset with thousands of tiny niches and shelves containing 6840 Buddha images and Buddhist inscriptions from the 18th century. A replica of Ho Trai, the main hall, was recreated to great acclaim for the 1970 World Expo in Osaka, Japan.

Wat Ho Phakeo - Built in 1565 by King Setthathirat, when he moved the capital of Lane Xang from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, the temple was originally designed to house the famous Emerald Buddha, which he had brought with him from the Kingdom of Lanna.

Wat Sisaket - The only temple to have survived the 1828 destruction wrought upon Vientiane by the Siamese, Wat Sisaket is the oldest

That Luang - The most important national monument in Vientiane and the national emblem of the country, That Luang was constructed in 1566 by King Setthathirat.

Patouxai - At the centre of the city, on Lane Xang Avenue, this concrete monument was constructed in 1958, allegedly with US cement intended for the city's new airport. Inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Patouxai (Lao for Gateway of Victory) is adorned with an array of rough hewn Lao historical imagery and offers a splendid, panoramic view of the city from its top.

Buddha Park - Located 24km downstream from Vientiane, this Garden of Statues enshrines sculptures of Buddha images and Hindu gods.

National Ethnic Cultural Park - 20km down the Mekong from Vientiane, Suan Vatthana Tham includes shady paths, sculptures of Lao literary heroes and a small zoo. It also offers views across the Mekong to Thailand and along the river to the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.

LaosTravel Tips