Laos Attractions: Who Needs the Sea?

Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia. As a result, it is often overlooked by many travelers-a major mistake. Laos offers breathtaking sights, stunning nature, tranquil and relaxing spots, as well as a myriad of cultural highlights. It's no wonder that the Buddhist country promotes itself with the slogan 'Simply Beautiful,' a sentiment our blogger Tobias wholeheartedly agrees with. During his journey, he discovered the country and its attractions.

The capital Vientiane is a great starting point for your exploration of Laos. Vientiane is situated right on the Mekong River, which forms a natural border between Laos and Thailand. After a trip through the northern region of Thailand, you can easily proceed to Laos. You can travel directly to Vientiane from Nong Khai in Thailand.

The architecture in Vientiane is influenced by French styles in many places, as Laos was a colony of France until 1949. This leads you to the first highlight of the city: the Patuxai Arch. Built starting in 1957 as a monument to Laotian independence from France, it interestingly resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Tip: You can climb the Patuxai Arch daily from 8 AM to 5 PM for just 5,000 Kip (approximately 60 cents) and enjoy the wonderful views of the capital.

In Vientiane, you'll also find significant Buddhist structures worth visiting. Surrounded by four temples from each cardinal direction, the national symbol of Laos stands tall-the golden stupa Pha That Luang. This is located about four kilometers west of the city center. If walking seems too far, you can take a Tuk Tuk to this most famous site in Laos for around 20,000 Kip (approximately $2.30).

You should also definitely visit Wat That Luang Tai. There you can find a massive reclining Buddha statue and often encounter monks.

In addition to these cultural highlights, I recommend taking a stroll along the Mekong. Once the afternoon heat becomes bearable and the sun starts setting over the river, the promenade comes alive. Locals flock to the Mekong to exercise or visit the evening night market in Anouvong Park. In this park, dedicated to the last Laotian king, you'll find countless stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and food starting at 6 PM. The sunset over the Mekong is a true spectacle.

From Vientiane, it's a brief 160 kilometers north to the small town of Vang Vieng, which is a very popular destination among backpackers. The mini-van journey takes between three and four hours and can be booked at many hotels and travel agencies for around 40,000 Kip (approximately $4.60).

Once you arrive in Vang Vieng, you'll find a small, sleepy town with few people on the streets during the day. The attraction here is less about the town itself and more about the breathtaking landscape surrounding it.

For a long time, Vang Vieng was known primarily for tubing and wild parties, which attracted many backpackers. Most bars along the Nam Song River have had to close. Today, those who float down the river in an old truck tire experience tubing as a peaceful nature activity.

You should definitely include Vang Vieng in your travels through northern Laos, as exploring the surroundings by scooter is unforgettable. Nature offers many discoveries. You can explore traditional villages, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, hike through dark caves, or take a kayaking tour on the Nam Song River.

You can skip the famous blue lagoon. It's a popular destination for group tours and can be quite crowded. I recommend visiting Tham Chang Cave instead. In front of the cave entrance, you'll also find a crystal-clear lagoon where you can cool off. The cave with the lagoon is located at the southern end of Vang Vieng. You will pass the Jammee Guesthouse and cross the Nam Song River via one of the many bridges. The crossing costs 6,000 Kip (approximately 70 cents).

Multiple buses travel daily from Vang Vieng along the adventurous route to Luang Prabang. Motion sickness tablets are a must for many travelers, as the road has many potholes, narrow curves, and countless bends, often close to the edge. Since Luang Prabang is situated in a valley surrounded by numerous mountains, your only option is to endure the six to seven-hour bus ride for about 100,000 Kip (approximately $11.50), which you can book at your accommodation or one of the small travel agencies.

Among many travelers, Luang Prabang is considered the most beautiful city in Southeast Asia, undoubtedly thanks to its charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many buildings from the colonial era are still well-preserved, making a walk among the old structures and impressive temples a 'must-do.'

At the foot of Mount Phou Si-right in front of the old royal palace, which is now a museum-you can visit the night market of Luang Prabang daily. The market differs from many other markets in Southeast Asia as there are no counterfeit goods, only handmade items for sale.

A highlight is visiting Wat Chom Si at the top of Mount Phou Si. The temple's 20-meter-high golden stupa towers high above the city. From the night market, 328 steps lead up the hill, where you can find many more Buddhist statues and viewpoints.

Halfway up, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 20,000 Kip (approximately $2.30). The ascent is particularly worthwhile at sunset. As the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, the summit of Mount Phou Si fills with visitors. To secure a good spot, make sure to arrive on time, ideally no later than 4:30 PM.

Tip: If you're exhausted from all the walking, look out for the small green electric cars. They will take you around the city for about 3,000 Kip (approximately 35 cents). Eco-friendly and inexpensive, it's a great option.

Just 30 kilometers from Luang Prabang is Tat Kuang Si, arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Southeast Asia, making it a perfect destination for a half-day trip. For 50,000 Kip (approximately $5.70), you can book a tour at any travel agency in Luang Prabang. The Kuang Si Waterfall Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with an entrance fee of 20,000 Kip (approximately $2.30). If you take the right path into the jungle after the entrance, you will pass the bear rescue center and then arrive at the first tier of the waterfall. On your way to the 60-meter-high main waterfall, you'll come across many natural pools that are perfect for photos and cooling off from the tropical heat of the Laotian jungle.

Tip: If you have sturdy shoes, you can hike along the side at the last tier of the waterfall for an excellent view from above.

Laos attractions are always worth a visit! Enjoy your time and let the beauty of the country captivate you.