Things to Do in Laos
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Explore Laos
4000 Islands Si Phan Don
City
Attapeu
City
Luang Namtha
City
Oudomxay
City
Pakse
City
Phongsali
City
Savannakhet
City
Vientiane
City
Xieng Khouang
City
Champasak
Town
Huay Xai
Town
Luang Prabang
Town
Muang Ngoi
Town
Nong Khiaw
Town
Phonsavan
Town
Thakhek
Town
Vang Vieng
Town
Bolaven Plateau
Region
Si Phan Don
Region
Don Det
Island
Don Khon
Island
Your Guide to Laos
About Laos
Morning in Luang Prabang starts with bare feet on wet pavement—hundreds of monks in saffron robes walking for alms through misty streets. They pass French-colonial shutters on Sakkaline Road where last night's market incense still hangs thick. You'll smell it first: frangipani and river weed frying in sesame oil, drifting up from morning stalls along the Nam Khan. Women sell khao soi for 15,000 kip ($1.50) in plastic bags tied with rubber bands. The city moves at river pace—slow enough to notice light falling through teak shutters at Villa Chitdara. You'll clock the exact shade of gold leaf catching sun at Wat Xieng Thong. Beerlao arrives so cold it numbs your tongue at riverside bars where locals play petanque until midnight. Further south, Vang Vieng's limestone karsts cast shadows sharp enough to cut. They rise above the Nam Song where teenagers float on inner tubes between bars blasting reggae at full volume. Spectacular and ridiculous in equal measure—meditate in a cave temple by morning, drink cocktails from plastic buckets by afternoon. Buses between towns might break down for two hours while the driver fixes the fan belt with string. This is the trade-off: Laos doesn't run on anyone's schedule but its own. The reward? A sunset over the Four Thousand Islands that looks exactly like it did before Instagram existed. Where 10,000 kip ($1) still buys enough sticky rice and laap to make you forget you're supposed to be somewhere else.
Laos location map
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about Luang Prabang?
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town in northern Laos, known for its well-preserved Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture. The morning alms-giving ceremony (tak bat) starts around 5:30 AM, where monks walk through the streets collecting offerings. Most visitors spend 2-4 days here exploring temples like Wat Xieng Thong, climbing Mount Phousi for sunset views, and visiting nearby Kuang Si Falls.
What is there to do in Vang Vieng?
Vang Vieng is a small town surrounded by dramatic limestone karst mountains, located about 3-4 hours north of Vientiane by bus. The area is popular for outdoor activities like kayaking on the Nam Song River, rock climbing, exploring caves like Tham Chang, and hot air ballooning. While it was once known mainly for party tubing, the town has shifted toward adventure tourism and attracts visitors looking to experience the impressive natural scenery.
What is Vientiane like?
Vientiane is Laos's laid-back capital city along the Mekong River, much quieter than other Southeast Asian capitals. Key sites include Pha That Luang (the golden stupa and national symbol), Patuxai monument, and the Buddha Park about 25 km outside the city. Most travelers spend 1-2 days here, often using it as a transit point between Thailand and other parts of Laos.
How do I visit Kuang Si Falls?
Kuang Si Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools located about 30 km south of Luang Prabang. You can get there by renting a motorbike, joining a group tour (around 50,000-100,000 kip), or hiring a tuk-tuk for the day. The falls are open daily from 8 AM to 5:30 PM, entrance costs 20,000 kip, and you can swim in several of the lower pools—bring a swimsuit and arrive early to avoid crowds.
What are Lao people like?
Lao people are predominantly ethnic Lao (about 50-60% of the population), with significant minority groups including Hmong, Khmu, and other ethnic communities in the mountainous regions. The culture is strongly influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which shapes daily life and values like respect for elders and a relaxed, non-confrontational approach known locally as "bor pen nyang" (no worries). Most Lao people live in rural areas, and while younger people in cities may speak some English, learning a few basic Lao phrases is appreciated and helpful outside tourist areas.
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