Starting 1 September, the Lao government began collecting a fee of LAK 10,000 (USD 0.46) from all domestic and international tourists, including group tours and individuals, at all international border checkpoints.
This fee will be processed through the electronic banking system (Easy Pass) and is intended to contribute to the tourism fund, according to the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT).
The government introduced this fee to ensure transparency in income and expenses while transitioning to a fully digital payment system.
As per the new system, foreign tourists will pay the fee upon entering the country, while domestic tourists will be charged when exiting. The fee is set at LAK 10,000 (USD 0.46) for both groups.
For those facing difficulties with electronic payments, assistance will be available. An officer will guide tourists step-by-step through the payment process.
Exemptions to the fee apply to certain individuals, including disabled persons, children under 15, students (both national and international), religious figures (such as monks), as well as diplomats, medical professionals, investors, and civil servants.
In addition, all border checkpoints will no longer use paper receipts or traditional methods, instead transitioning to electronic payments via the “Easy Pass” system. This shift aims to improve data accuracy and provide greater convenience for travelers.
Currently, seven border checkpoints have implemented the new system: Boten border crossing, Friendship International Border Checkpoints 04 and 03 in Bokeo and Khammouane Provinces, Na Pao Checkpoint in Khammouane Province, Friendship International Border Checkpoint 02 and Dansavanh International Checkpoint in Savannakhet Province, and Vung Tao International Border Crossing.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Nam-Soy-LA-scaled-1.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-01-10 16:30:282025-01-09 16:32:00Lao Government Introduces Digital Border Fees for Tourists
The Ministry of Planning and Investment, in partnership with Bokeo provincial officials, convened on 28 November to discuss plans for the construction of the Suvannakhomkham Buddha statue, which will become Laos’ largest seated Buddha statue.
The meeting provided an overview of the project, which is set to be constructed on Kiu Lom Mountain in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Ton Pheung District. Standing at 88 meters tall and spanning 45 meters wide, the statue will be crafted from a special metal to replicate the original Buddha statue in Donthat village, reflecting traditional Lane Xang art and the historical identity of Suvanna Khom Kham.
Designed in line with ancient Lao Buddhist art, the statue will feature key elements like the face, ears, and Sangha robes, emphasizing the unique characteristics of traditional Lao Buddha statues. It is envisioned to symbolize prosperity and spiritual protection for the local community while promoting cultural and religious activities.
The project also aims to preserve Lao art and traditions, showcase the skills of Lao artisans, and attract both domestic and international visitors.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BUDDHA-1.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-01-09 16:28:212025-01-09 16:28:26Bokeo to Build Laos’ Largest Seated Buddha Statue
Today, 9 December, marks the 29th anniversary of Luang Prabang’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officially recognized on the same day in 1995, the city has become a symbol of cultural and architectural preservation in Laos.
Founded around 1,200 years ago as Muang Sua, the city took the name of Xieng Thong before becoming Luang Prabang. In 1353, it was declared the capital of the Lane Xang Kingdom, now Laos, becoming a key political and religious center in Southeast Asia.
Although Laos’ capital moved to Vientiane in 1560, Luang Prabang remained the royal capital until 1975, which is reflected in its grand temples, monasteries, and the Royal Palace, now the National Museum.
Before its UNESCO designation, Luang Prabang was a small town, relying on traditional crafts like lacquering and silversmithing, often supported by the royal family.
However, concerns about urban development threatening its historical buildings led to efforts to protect its cultural heritage. Important landmarks, like ancient temples and the Phra Bang Buddha statue, contributed to the city’s spiritual and architectural importance, earning it recognition as a site of global value.
After becoming a World Heritage Site in 1995, the city saw a rise in tourism, turning Luang Prabang into a busy destination for international visitors. Modern infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and the Laos-China Railway, helped develop the city. However, this rapid growth also created challenges in preserving its unique character.
To address these challenges, the Lao government has introduced Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA) to measure how new projects might affect the city’s heritage. A dedicated Heritage Department ensures that the town’s architectural integrity is maintained, while local heritage committees involve the community in preservation efforts. These initiatives aim to balance modernization with conservation, preserving Luang Prabang’s historical charm.
Luang Prabang’s importance goes beyond its buildings. As a regional hub for Theravada Buddhism, the city is home to many temples and monasteries that remain central to the spiritual life of the region. The name “Luang Prabang” comes from the Phra Bang statue, a symbol of protection and guidance for the Lao people.
Over the past 29 years, Luang Prabang has transformed from a quiet cultural gem into a global heritage destination. As the city celebrates this milestone, it continues to inspire efforts to protect the past while embracing the future.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Luang-Prabang-Celebrates-29-Years-as-UNESCO-World-Heritage-Site.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-12-30 09:59:512024-12-10 10:02:36Luang Prabang Celebrates 29 Years as UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lao Government Introduces Digital Border Fees for Tourists
Starting 1 September, the Lao government began collecting a fee of LAK 10,000 (USD 0.46) from all domestic and international tourists, including group tours and individuals, at all international border checkpoints.
This fee will be processed through the electronic banking system (Easy Pass) and is intended to contribute to the tourism fund, according to the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT).
The government introduced this fee to ensure transparency in income and expenses while transitioning to a fully digital payment system.
As per the new system, foreign tourists will pay the fee upon entering the country, while domestic tourists will be charged when exiting. The fee is set at LAK 10,000 (USD 0.46) for both groups.
For those facing difficulties with electronic payments, assistance will be available. An officer will guide tourists step-by-step through the payment process.
Exemptions to the fee apply to certain individuals, including disabled persons, children under 15, students (both national and international), religious figures (such as monks), as well as diplomats, medical professionals, investors, and civil servants.
In addition, all border checkpoints will no longer use paper receipts or traditional methods, instead transitioning to electronic payments via the “Easy Pass” system. This shift aims to improve data accuracy and provide greater convenience for travelers.
Currently, seven border checkpoints have implemented the new system: Boten border crossing, Friendship International Border Checkpoints 04 and 03 in Bokeo and Khammouane Provinces, Na Pao Checkpoint in Khammouane Province, Friendship International Border Checkpoint 02 and Dansavanh International Checkpoint in Savannakhet Province, and Vung Tao International Border Crossing.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/13/lao-government-introduces-digital-border-fees-for-tourists/
Bokeo to Build Laos’ Largest Seated Buddha Statue
The Ministry of Planning and Investment, in partnership with Bokeo provincial officials, convened on 28 November to discuss plans for the construction of the Suvannakhomkham Buddha statue, which will become Laos’ largest seated Buddha statue.
The meeting provided an overview of the project, which is set to be constructed on Kiu Lom Mountain in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Ton Pheung District. Standing at 88 meters tall and spanning 45 meters wide, the statue will be crafted from a special metal to replicate the original Buddha statue in Donthat village, reflecting traditional Lane Xang art and the historical identity of Suvanna Khom Kham.
Designed in line with ancient Lao Buddhist art, the statue will feature key elements like the face, ears, and Sangha robes, emphasizing the unique characteristics of traditional Lao Buddha statues. It is envisioned to symbolize prosperity and spiritual protection for the local community while promoting cultural and religious activities.
The project also aims to preserve Lao art and traditions, showcase the skills of Lao artisans, and attract both domestic and international visitors.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/11/bokeo-to-build-laos-largest-seated-buddha-statue/
Luang Prabang Celebrates 29 Years as UNESCO World Heritage Site
Today, 9 December, marks the 29th anniversary of Luang Prabang’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officially recognized on the same day in 1995, the city has become a symbol of cultural and architectural preservation in Laos.
Founded around 1,200 years ago as Muang Sua, the city took the name of Xieng Thong before becoming Luang Prabang. In 1353, it was declared the capital of the Lane Xang Kingdom, now Laos, becoming a key political and religious center in Southeast Asia.
Although Laos’ capital moved to Vientiane in 1560, Luang Prabang remained the royal capital until 1975, which is reflected in its grand temples, monasteries, and the Royal Palace, now the National Museum.
Before its UNESCO designation, Luang Prabang was a small town, relying on traditional crafts like lacquering and silversmithing, often supported by the royal family.
However, concerns about urban development threatening its historical buildings led to efforts to protect its cultural heritage. Important landmarks, like ancient temples and the Phra Bang Buddha statue, contributed to the city’s spiritual and architectural importance, earning it recognition as a site of global value.
After becoming a World Heritage Site in 1995, the city saw a rise in tourism, turning Luang Prabang into a busy destination for international visitors. Modern infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and the Laos-China Railway, helped develop the city. However, this rapid growth also created challenges in preserving its unique character.
To address these challenges, the Lao government has introduced Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA) to measure how new projects might affect the city’s heritage. A dedicated Heritage Department ensures that the town’s architectural integrity is maintained, while local heritage committees involve the community in preservation efforts. These initiatives aim to balance modernization with conservation, preserving Luang Prabang’s historical charm.
Luang Prabang’s importance goes beyond its buildings. As a regional hub for Theravada Buddhism, the city is home to many temples and monasteries that remain central to the spiritual life of the region. The name “Luang Prabang” comes from the Phra Bang statue, a symbol of protection and guidance for the Lao people.
Over the past 29 years, Luang Prabang has transformed from a quiet cultural gem into a global heritage destination. As the city celebrates this milestone, it continues to inspire efforts to protect the past while embracing the future.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/09/luang-prabang-celebrates-29-years-as-unesco-world-heritage-site/