The Best Places to Visit in Laos

If you are travelling to Southeast Asia for the first time, do not miss to add Laos to your itinerary. You may think what is so special about this place? It’s the natural beauty and thrilling escapades this country offers. There are several places to visit in Laos where you will find hints of

French colonial architecture, scenic views, and cultural heritage which make it an ideal destination for your next vacation.

Surrounded by the Mekong River and Buddhist chants, Laos is the best escape for anyone seeking tranquillity in their lives. Apart from this, you can also find historically rich tourist sites in Laos that will take you back in time and show you the struggles the people of this country have been through.

Best Places to Visit in Laos

Read on to learn more about the places to travel in Laos: -

• Kuang Sii Waterfalls
• Plain of Jars
• COPE Visitor Centre
• Buddha Park
• Si Phan Don
• Pha That Luang
• Tham Phu Kam Cave
• Nong Khiaw
• Tham Kong Lo
• Mount Phousi

1.     Kuang Sii Waterfalls

One of the most beautiful places to see in Laos is the Kuang Sii Waterfalls. Featuring three tiers, this waterfall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unspoiled charm. The water pours down in a turquoise-blue pool and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it one of the top places to visit in Laos with such beauty. If you want to come to this waterfall, make sure you opt for a weekday to avoid crowds. Additionally, the best time will be after monsoon as the views become even more special after the showers.

2.     Plain of Jars

If you want to dive deep into the secrets of the olden times, then one of the places to visit in Laos is the Plain of Jars. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you in awe with its mysterious appeal and fascinating story. In Laos, it has become a place of interest for many due to the jar-shaped stones that have a story to tell. After years of exploration, the Lao and Japanese archaeologists found burial grounds, human remains, and ceramics around the jars. It is recommended to avoid going off the main paths as it is speculated that there can be unexploded American bombs (UXOs) from the Vietnam War.

3.     COPE Visitor Centre

If you want to experience something different than just beautiful destinations, then do keep the COPE Visitor Centre in your Laos places to visit list. It is a rehabilitation centre and a museum that offers rehabilitation services to people with disabilities. Many of the people who get their services are affected by UXO which shows the impact of the war that continues in Laos. It is one of the tourist places in Laos that will give you a chance to have a different perspective on this nation.

4.     Buddha Park

The Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan is one of the best places to see in Laos. Boasting more than 200 religious sculptures, it is an ideal place for photography. It is said that the park was built by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat built this park to integrate Hinduism and Buddhism. You can spot the king of Hindu gods, Indra, riding the three-headed elephant and many other deities. The most interesting sculpture is that of the 40-metre-high reclining Buddha giving you a grand show. It is one of the most loved places to go in Laos as visitors enjoy looking at the beautiful structures and clicking pictures to save them as memories.

5.     Si Phan Don

Si Phan Don, which means Four Thousand Islands, is a cluster of small islands in the Mekong River in Southern Laos. As the name suggests, it comprises four thousand islands but the four main island groups are Don Khon, Don Kong, Don Det, and Don Som. It is one of the most visited places to visit in Laos as one can enjoy stunning views and the island life here. The islands boast lovely forests, villages, and mountains that never stop impressing people who come to visit this place. Another place of interest in Laos is the Don Dhet island where you can enjoy a few drinks along with music.

6.     Pha That Luang

Pha That Luang is one of the most sacred places to go in Laos with a Buddha stupa placed inside the temple. The stupa is built in a pyramid-like shape and is 45 meters high. It was established in 1566 when Vientiane became the capital of Laos due to the fear of Burmese invasion. Having been subject to multiple attacks in the past, the stupa was finally restored in 1963. It is one of the best places to see Laos culture as each year the famous Luang festival takes place here.

7.     Tham Phu Kam Cave

If you want a see a lesser-explored tourist spot in Laos, then you should go to Tham Phu Kam Cave. Nestled on a limestone cliff, the cave can be reached via a steep path featuring natural views of flora and fauna. You can check out the chambers inside the cave and take a swim in the natural pool that will leave your soul rejuvenated. You can either hire a guide or explore the cave on your own, depending on your convenience. Whenever you plan the places to travel in Laos, do not miss out on Tham Phu Kam Cave as it will give you a memorable experience.

8.     Nong Khiaw

Nong Khiaw, also known as Nong Kiau is one of the most sought-after tourist places in Laos. It is a quaint, little town situated on the banks of Ou River. This town has a natural abundance and consists of charming caves, limestone mountains, and forests, ensuring beauty wherever you look. You can participate in activities such as kayaking, boating, hiking, and nature park visits while you are in this town. Many visitors also enjoy cycling around the town to explore different spots and the rich culture of Laos. Overall, this is one of the best places to go in Laos as it has something to offer to both nature and adventure lovers.

9.     Tham Kong Lo

A voyage to Tham Kong Lo will be the highlight of your trip to Laos. Also known as the Konglor Cave, it is a large limestone cave that is becoming a treasured tourist spot in Laos. As this cave is somewhat unexplored, many off-beat travellers are taking the chance to visit it before it gets crowded by people. You can enjoy its natural beauty by taking a boat and steering through one of the world's longest river cave systems. This should be on your places to travel in Laos list as you can discover extraordinary limestone formations, fascinating stalactites, and mysterious caverns throughout your boating journey.

10. Mount Phousi

One of the most incredible places to go in Laos is the Mount Phousi. Situated in the heart of Luang Prabang, the mountain top offers breathtaking views of the Mekong River and lush forests. As you climb up the numerous steps of the mountain, the views will keep getting better. Once you reach the top of Mount Phousi, you will find a temple along with a small Buddha shrine where you can enjoy the tranquillity and slowness of life.

While booking Southeast Asia tour packages make sure to add Laos on your list. This destination has so much to offer to the visitors in terms of natural beauty, adventure, and rich culture. The above-mentioned are some of the best places to visit in Laos that you can add to your itinerary.