Things to Do in Laos

About Laos

Laos doesn't advertise itself—and that matters. This landlocked country in central Southeast Asia lets the Mekong River do the talking, where monks in saffron robes collect alms at dawn and temple bells carry across green rice paddies. Tourists haven't arrived yet. Time moves slower here. Ancient Buddhist temples sit in mountains that disappear into mist, while French colonial buildings decay gracefully in quiet riverside towns. The Lao people mean it when they say 'boh pen nyang'—no worries. They aren't performing for cameras. Luang Prabang earned its UNESCO status for good reason: the temples are impressive, the architecture intact. Vang Vieng offers dramatic karst peaks without the circus atmosphere you'll find elsewhere in the region. The Plain of Jars remains genuinely mysterious, with archaeologists still debating who put thousands of stone vessels across the plateau centuries ago. This country rewards patience. You won't find spectacle on demand, but you'll find something harder to locate these days—a place that hasn't repackaged itself for Instagram. Come here to disconnect. The modern world can wait.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Tuk-tuks in Vientiane cost 20,000-50,000 LAK ($0.92-2.30) for city trips with bargaining expected. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) charge 10,000-30,000 LAK ($0.46-1.38) along fixed routes. VIP buses to Luang Prabang cost 150,000-200,000 LAK ($6.90-9.20) with AC and reclining seats. Slow boats on Mekong River cost 220,000-280,000 LAK ($10.12-12.89) Huay Xai to Luang Prabang. Motorcycle rentals start at 80,000 LAK ($3.68) daily. Walking pleasant in UNESCO heritage areas.

Money: Lao kip (LAK) official but Thai baht and US dollars widely accepted. BCEL Bank ATMs reliable in cities but cash-based economy. Budget $25-50 daily. Credit cards work at upscale hotels and restaurants only. Tipping optional but 10,000-20,000 LAK ($0.46-0.92) appreciated. Currency exchange available at banks and gold shops. Keep mixed currencies for convenience. Small denomination notes essential for street food and tuk-tuks. Emergency USD useful in remote areas.

Cultural Respect: Lao language with 'Sabaidee' greetings showing respect. Buddhist customs paramount - remove shoes at temples and dress modestly. Wai greeting with palms together and slight bow appropriate. Head considered sacred - never touch someone's head. Feet are lowest - don't point them at people or Buddha images. Alms giving ceremony at dawn sacred - observe respectfully from distance. Business operates at relaxed pace. Family relationships central to society. Avoid public displays of affection.

Food Safety: Local restaurants serve laab (meat salad) for 25,000-45,000 LAK ($1.15-2.07). Sticky rice with grilled fish costs 20,000-35,000 LAK ($0.92-1.61). Beer Lao runs 15,000-25,000 LAK ($0.69-1.15) at restaurants. Tam mak hoong (papaya salad) at markets costs 15,000-25,000 LAK ($0.69-1.15). Bottled water essential at 5,000-10,000 LAK ($0.23-0.46). Avoid tap water and ice. Choose busy local restaurants. Fresh herbs and vegetables generally safe when properly prepared.

When to Visit

Laos experiences three distinct seasons, each offering unique advantages. The cool, dry season (November-February) provides perfect weather with temperatures of 15-25°C and minimal rainfall, making it peak season with prices 30-40% higher. December and January are ideal for trekking and outdoor activities, though nights can be surprisingly cold in mountainous regions. The hot season (March-May) brings scorching temperatures of 25-35°C with minimal rain, creating dusty conditions but 25% lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds—perfect for budget travelers who don't mind the heat. The rainy season (June-October) transforms the landscape into lush emerald beauty with temperatures of 24-30°C and 200-300mm monthly rainfall. While afternoon downpours are common, mornings often stay dry, and prices drop 40-50%. Major festivals include Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year, April 13-15) featuring nationwide water fights, Boun That Luang (November full moon) in Vientiane, and Boat Racing Festival (October). Adventure seekers should visit during cool season for trekking, while photographers will love the rainy season's dramatic skies and verdant landscapes. Cultural ensoiasts can enjoy temple festivals year-round, though many occur during the cool season.