Vientiane
Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos which lies on the banks of the Mekong River, facing Thailand. With a long-standing history, it is now the economic centre of Laos after having been the administrative capital during the French Colonial. Despite having said to be the capital city, Vientiane defies the stereotypical image of a city. In addition to the absence of skyscrapers, it possesses a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere as a quaint and charming city.
A charming city, Vientiane houses innumerable temples, majestic monuments, and spectacular national parks. The slow-paced and calming nature of Vientiane is sure to give you a breather as you explore what the city has to offer while observing the daily lives of locals.
What to do in Vientiane
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Discover local flavours at the Morning Market
The morning market covers a large area, from a shopping mall to a wet market down the street. Looking for souvenirs, locally produced fresh foods, or local delicacies? The morning market would be the go-to spot. Observe the life of locals when they flock the morning market and learn how to turn local ingredients into delicious dishes by joining a cooking lesson! For foodies, take part in a food tour and visit stalls that are popular amongst locals!
True to its name, the park is filled with legendary Buddhist and Hindu statues.
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Time in the Buddha Park would fly pass as you learn about the stories behind the statues and gain a deeper knowledge on Lao culture and beliefs. On top of that, discover the levels of Hell as believed by the locals. Only 25 km away from the city, it is suitable for a day trip.
A war memorial for those who participated in the war of …
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independence from France, the Patuxai is a famous monument in Vientiane. The Patuxai, which translates to “Victory Gate”, has a Laotian design with mythological creatures carved on the monument. Upon climbing flights of stairs, be rewarded with a picturesque view on Vientiane. Take note of the position of the sun to avoid the monument’s shadow casting over the picturesque view from the top in your pictures!
The Pha That Luang, also known as “The Great Stupa”, is the most important Buddhist monument in Laos.
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It is believed that within Pha That Luang, a breastbone of the enlightened Buddha is housed. The interior encompasses a mystical atmosphere with ancient Laos and Khmer artifacts and inscribed steles. Do look out for the That Luang festival as well, where various stalls are set up near the monument and the streets flooded with locals.
Temples are definitely a regular sight in Laos with Buddhism being the predominant religion in Laos.
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They would go to these temples on multiple occasions to pray and seek advice from monks. The most famous temple in Vientiane would be the oldest temple, Wat Sisaket, which was the only temple not burnt during the Thai invasion. Other famous temples would include Wat In Peng and Wat Ong Teu. If you get up early, you can also observe the traditional Alms Giving Ceremony.
The Mekong River is of heavy importance to Laotians. The river is seen as the Mother River who brings the locals life and food. Heading over to the Mekong Riverside Park, you can see throngs of people gathered along the river to hang out whilst appreciating the magical sunset view. While at it, grab a drink at riverside bars as you sit back and enjoy the evening breeze.
Looking for waterfalls and jungles when in Vientiane? Located near the city, the Phou Khao Khuay National Park calls out to all nature lovers. The park offers a variety of contrasting landscapes and natural beauty, from evergreen dipterocarp forest to bamboo groves. With countless herbs lining the trail, one can learn more about what nature has to offer. This is easily accessible by joining one of GDL’s trekking tours.
For all coffee-lovers out there, this is the experience for you. Sample the different Laos coffee as learn more about them. Take on a barista course and challenge yourself to make your coffee aesthetically pleasing. Do a little café-hopping and visit the cafés that make up Vientiane’s café scene. All these activities would leave you wanting more!
Join a class and be inspired by the positivity radiating from each individual at Laos Disabled Women’s Development Center. The non-profit organization empowers disabled women by training them in handicrafts making while providing them with employment and support. You can also immerse yourself in the Lao tradition of silk weaving at Carol Cassydi Lao Textiles and create your very own precious garment.
COPE Visitor Centre is an educational place that covers the horrors inflicted on Laotians during the Vietnam War as more than 2 million tons of ordnance were dropped in Laos, making Laos the most heavily bombed country per capita today. It also provides prosthetics for those who were injured and disabled by the bombs, in hopes of bringing hope with their aid.
Vientiane by night
The Vientiane Night Market is located right beside the Mekong River, with goods sold at a great price and you can bargain for an even better deal.
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Clothes, shoes, electronics. A plethora of choices available for your choosing as you stroll along the Night Market. If you are looking for food, look no further as just across the street, you will see numerous hawker stalls set up to sell mouthwatering local dishes. Discover the most delicious treats joining a night food tour!
There are several bars lining the Mekong River as one walks pass the Night Market.
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There are several rooftop bars and restaurants that can enhance your experience as you feel the evening breeze whilst savoring mouth-watering local foods or relaxing with a cup of beer.
Vientiane shows the great interest Laotians have in sports, with many locals exercising along the Mekong road.
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Attend a Zumba session near the Mekong River with locals! Prices differ from one group to another, but it is cheap and affordable in general. Dance to the beat of the blasting music and sweat it all out. Popular amongst locals, this would be something you might want to try.
When to go to Vientiane
There are two distinct seasons in Laos, which is the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season is from May to October, where you can partake in some activities that are especially amazing for this season. For example, you can enjoy a road trip along the Mekong River and the Nam Ngun Dam.
During the dry season, you can experience winter in Laos from November to February, and summer from March to April. It may drop to approximately 15 degrees during winter and can go up to the 30s in the summer, so make sure to prepare well for these temperatures.
Do take note of the festivals that would be held throughout the year. Festivals in Laos are one of a kind and should not be missed! You can join in the fun during the Boat Racing Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Laos.
The weather today in Vientiane
How to get around Vientiane
From & To the airport
Taxi
Take a taxi from the taxi stand located in the airport. Simply state where you are headed towards and your taxi will be arranged upon payment. A fast, simple, and efficient way of travelling after a long flight.
Public Bus
You can take the public bus from the Wattay Aiport Bus Station if your destination is near any of the stops. It would be very economic and worth it for those who are not lugging around large luggages.
In the city
Walk
The central area of Vientiane is small enough for you to wander around its streets as you head from place to place. However, there are still places that may be too far for you to walk.
Tuk-tuk
The friendly Tuk-tuk drivers would be more than happy to bring you around Vientiane and are located in many places. If there is no rate stated on the tuk-tuk, do try to bargain for a cheaper price and make sure that the driver is clear of the bargained price.
Public Bus
The public bus is the most economic transportation method. Take a look at the routes and figure out which bus you have to take. Upon informing the driver of your location, a price will be stated. When you would like to alight, press the bell and tell the driver to stop the bus.
Loca
Loca is the Laos’ version of Uber, the only application of its kind in Laos. Although not the best choice for long distance due to the high price, it is a very good option for those who are travelling short distances during non-peak hours.
Motorbike
Rent a motorbike at a rental shop and whizz your way through town. However, make sure that you are allowed to legally drive a motorbike in Laos and always wear a helmet before deciding on riding the motorbike.
Bicycle
The bicycle is a lovely way to explore Vientaine, whereby you can cycle several kilometers between the place of interests. Not only is it a healthier way, it also allows you to stop when you want to check out a certain place or observe an event.
Tours
Join tours where guides will bring you around Vientiane, feeding you with all the information you would need on the history, culture, and traditions of Vientiane and its people. One of the best ways to experience the city, check out the tours offered now!
Out of the city
Minivan
Take a minivan out of Vientiane, and head out to other cities and provinces, such as the neighbouring Vang Vieng. You can book through transportation or tour companies.
Bus
There are bus services heading out to Vang Vieng by some transportation companies. These buses area scheduled to go several times a day, so do check the schedule and prices before hand and book a ticket.
What to eat in Vientiane
Some ways to get to Vientiane
*price range is according to price for one-way
*disclaimer: the prices are approximate
*LEGEND:
$: 0-25
$$: 26-50
$$$: 51-100
$$$$: >100
| Flight | Bus/Van | Train |
|
Direct flight from Bangkok 1 hour 10 minutes Indirect flight from Siem Reap Direct flight from Hanoi 1 hour 10 minutes Flight directly from Hanoi 1 hour 10 minutes Direct flight from Phnompenh 1 hour 30 minutes Direct flight from Seoul 5h hour 50 minute |
Bus from Bangkok 9-10 hour Fairly convenient Sleeper bus/van from Luang Prabang 10 hour Sleeper bus from Pakse 9-12 hour Bus/van from Vang Vieng 3-4 hour |
Day Train from Bangkok 12-13 hour Night Train from Bangkok 12-13 hour |
What bring to Vientiane
Tips
Money exchange
It is ideal to use USD as the currency to conduct your currency exchange here. Some of the recommended money changers would be -.
Health care
If you feel uncomfortable or have fallen sick in Vientiane, you can head over to the French Clinic and Allianz Clinic Vientiane, where there are English speaking doctors working.