VIENNTIANE CAPITAL
VIENTIANE CAPITAL OVERVIEW
Located: a Central Province on a curve of the Mekong River
Total area: 3,920 square kilometers
Population: 840,940 (2025)
9 Districts: Chanthabouly, Sikhottabong, Xaysettha, Sisattanak, Naxaithong, Xaythany, Hadxaifong, Sangthong & Pak Ngum
Capital of the province: Vientiane
GENERAL INFORMATION
Located on a curve of the Mekong River, Vientiane Capital has a recorded history that stretches back to around 1,000 AD. The area was originally settled because of the fertility of the surrounding alluvial plains, and Vientiane became the capital city of Laos around the mid-16th century.
Vientiane Capital is the home to the most significant national monument in Laos: That Luang (Great Stupa), which is the symbol of Lao and an icon of Buddhism in Laos. Of the many beautiful Wats in Vientiane, a visit to Wat Sisaket is a must; built in 1818, this is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. Other Buddhist holy places are Wat Ong Teu Mahavihan, known for its 16th century bronze Buddha sheltered by a carved wooden masterpiece, and Wat Si Muang, the site of the Lak Meuang or pillar-stone of Vientiane. Wat Si Meuang is also home to the guardian spirit of the city. Hor Phakeo, across the street from Wat Sisaket houses a beautiful collection of Buddha statues, including traditional Lao style of the “Calling for Rain” and “Offering Protection”. Spend a morning in the Lao National Museum, which displays an interesting mixture of revolutionary and contemporary exhibitions. The main sights in Vientiane are only a short walk or bicycle ride from most hotels. Wat Xieng Khouan, better known as the Buddha Park should not be missed: take a tuk-tuk to this unique park that includes Buddhist and Hindu. Shopping for handicrafts is easy in Vientiane Capital; visit Talat Sao (morning market) for a wide range of colourful textiles including silks, wall-hangings and other decorative pieces. For very fine handicrafts, try one of the many upscale galleries in the city center. Keep your eyes open for traditional wood carvings, mulberry paper and a variety of basketry made from bamboo and rattan.
In the old part of Vientiane city, an attractive and interesting settlement is situated along the Mekong River where the ancient temples, museums, monuments and parks are all located just a short distance apart.
The cosmopolitan capital of Laos, Vientiane, has galleries, boutiques, theatres, nightclubs and internet cafe, making it a major attraction for visitors from all around the globe. Although the city is small, it offers visitors a great variety of restaurants serving both Lao and foreign cuisine. When you get hungry try the nation’s signature dish, tam mak-hung (spicy green papaya salad), laap (spicy minced meat salad) and ping kai (fried chicken). Quench your thirst with a refreshing Beer Lao or fresh fruit shake from one of the many small restaurants found along almost every street in town. At dusk, find a spot along the Mekong promenade to enjoy an amazing view of the sunset over the river.
The largest fair, Boun Pha That Luang, is held in Vientiane Capital around mid-November each year. Celebrations begin at Wat Si Muang followed by a procession to That Luang. Festivities last a full week, ending in fireworks on the last night, which coincides with the full moon. In mid-October, the riverbank overflows with spectators watching the annual boat races. Boun Ok Phansa or the last day of Buddhist Lent precedes the boat races by one day. In the evening of Boun Ok Phansa, Lao people prepare small banana leaf boats called heua fai and set them afloat on the Mekong illuminated by candles and incense in a charming ceremony meant to bring good luck and prosperity.
VIENTIANE CAPITAL on Google Map
TOURIST DESTINATION
THAT LUANG STUPA (Great Sacred Stupa)
The site of That Luang has been builtin use since the year 236 of the Buddhist Calendar (307BC). When the first governor of Vientiane, Phaya Chanthabouri Pasitthisack or Bourichan built a structure that looked like a kiln of about 9 meters high and 10 meters wide. The original stupa was built on the site in 1566 by King Saysetthathirath, and was restored in 1953. The golden stupa is 45 meters tall and is believed to contain a relic of the Lord Buddha. The gold centerpiece of this stupa echoes the curve of an elongated Lotus bud. Today it is the most important national cultural monument.
Time: 08:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00, Open: Tuesday-Sunday (except Monday),
Admission Fee: 30,000kip/person
THAT LUANG STUPA (Great Sacred Stupa) on Google Map
SISAKET TEMPLE
Sisaket is the only ancient temple remaining infact after the destruction of the Siamese in 1828. It’s located in the center of the old city, where it was built in 1818 by King Anouvong. The old monastery stands intact in its original form and certainly is one of the most interesting in the country. Inside the main hall, the courtyard walls house hundreds of little inches and shelves containing a total of 6,840 Buddha images.
Time: 08:00-12:00, 13:00-17:00, Open: Monday-Sunday (closed public holidays), Admission Fee: 30,000kip/person
SISAKET TEMPLE On Google Map
PATUXAY (Victory Monument)
The memorial monument, Patuxay, was built in 1957 and is perhaps the most prominent landmark in the city. It is situated on Lanexang Avenue. While the arc de Triomphe in Paris inspired the architecture, the design incorporates typical Lao motifs including “Kinnaly”, a mythical bird woman. Energetic visitors can climb to the top of the monument, which reveals an excellent panoramic view of the city.
Open daily from 08:00-17:00, Admission Fee: 30,000kip/person
PATUXAY (Victory Monument) on Google Map
SIMUANG TEMPLE
Simuang Temple is one of Vientiane’s mostpopular sites of worship, and offers a fascinating insight into how old animist beliefs have blended seamlessly with Theravada Buddhism. The original city pillar of Vientiane is found in Wat Simuang located in Ban Simuang village along Setthathirath Road. It was built in 1956 and is believed to be guarded by the spirit of a local girl called “ Si ” Local legend has it that Nang Si, who was pregnant at the time, leapt to her death as a sacrifice, just as the pillar was being lowered into the hole. A very colorful Phasat Pheung (wax pavilion procession) attracts large crowds to Simuang Temple, taking place just two days prior to the That Luang Festival in November. On a daily basis, Wat Si Muang attracts crowds of local Buddhists who want to benefit from its ‘good luck’ powers. It is commonly thought that if you pray for something here and simultaneously make a promise, your wish will be granted, providing you return and fulfill your promise.
Open: Monday-Sunday, Time: 07:00-20:00.
SIMUANG TEMPLE on Google Map
HOR PHRA KEO MUSEUM
Originally, this ancient temple was built in 1565 by King Xayasetthathirath to house the Emerald Buddha 1565-1779 (lost to the Siamese in 1828) as his personal place of worship. It was reconstructed in 1936. For this reason and unlike other temples in Laos, monks have not taken up residence here. During the 1970’s, the temple was converted from a place of worship into museum and now houses the finest national collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts. From the terrace of Hor Phra Keo, one can enjoy a view overlooking the president’s Palace (former Royal Palace) and garden.
Open: Monday-Sunday, Time: 08:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00,
Admission Fee: 30,000kip/person
HOR PHRA KEO MUSEUM on Google Map
HOR LAK MUANG (VIENTIANE CAPITAL CITY PILLAR )
A new city pillar shrine, or Hor Lak Muang, was constructed on this ancient site in 2012. It now stands as a significant symbol of spiritual heritage in the capital of Laos. The city pillar shrine is not only a religious site but also a cultural landmark that reflects the heart of Lao identity.
The sandalwood pillar inside the shrine is believed to house guardian spirits which act as the protectors of the city. Locals leave offerings at the shrine, asking for good fortune and good health. Hor Lak Muang is often bustling with activity, especially during festivals. Within the shrine are fragments of stone tablets also found during the archaeological excavations.
Many Thai and Laotian cities have these pillars, called lak muang, which provide a home for the city’s guardian spirits.
HOR LAK MUANG on Google Map
THAT DAM (BLACK STUPA)
Standing in the center of a roundabout near the Talat Sao morning market, the stupa is believed to be around 500 years old, though the exact date of construction remains uncertain. The name That Dam (not that dam) means “black tower” in Lao, based on its current status. However, it was not always darkened and overrun with weeds; local legends claim that it was once gilded over and that the gold was all stripped away by the Siamese invaders.
Generally, stupas are built to enshrine Buddhist relics, most often the ashes of monks and nuns, sometimes of kings. In the case of That Dam, it is unknown what is buried inside, but locals whisper of an intriguing legend. According to them, lying dormant underneath the stupa is the Naga, a seven-headed serpent that will awaken whenever Vientiane faces a crisis. Many of them believe that it has protected the city from the 1827 invasion, as well as on other historical occasions.
The stupa has fallen into disrepair since the Naga last showed itself, weather-worn and all but neglected, but there are still believers in the powerful serpent. In fact, some locals seem to continue to visit the ancient monument to dedicate flowers to the forgotten guardian of Vientiane, in hopes that its peaceful slumber will never again be disturbed.
THAT DAM (BLACK STUPA) on Google Map
COPE VISITOR CENTRE
The Vietnam War is still heavily present in Laos, the country that experienced the most bombings by the American military. Between 1964 and 1973, the U.S. dropped two million tons of explosives on Laos, and the effect can still be felt today. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) riddle the landscape, and cluster bombs in particular continue to injure and kill many people in rural areas.
The problem is so prevalent, an organization called COPE—short for the Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise—was created to help with the recovery of the victims of bombs, by providing custom prosthetics, rehabilitative services, and education to rural communities affected by the bombs to attempt to prevent future accidents.
To foreign visitors, particularly Americans, the COPE Visitor Centre is jarring and incredibly informative. The shadow war in Laos is clearly presented, complete with a sculpture of a dangling UXO right at the entrance. The “COPE” sign on the side of the building is created from used prosthetic feet. Dangling inside are dozens of worn-out prosthetic limbs, returned by bomb victims in exchange for new prosthetics.
Outside the building is a statue of a mother and child created from discarded bomb materials. Inside, there’s a full-scale replica of a rural Laotian stilt house, with daily household items created out of military equipment (and occasionally bomb materials) discarded by American and European militaries. It highlights how families are utilizing bomb materials while not understanding the danger they can cause. Pictures and stories accompany the displays, putting names and faces to the many thousands of victims of the military campaign in Laos. If there is one place for foreigners to visit in Vientiane, this may be it.
How to get there: The Visitor Centre is located in Vientiane, Laos, on the grounds of the Centre for Medical Rehabilitation (CMR), on Khouvieng Road, across the street from the Green Park Hotel. From the entrance of the CMR grounds, follow the road and turn right at the indoor stadium. Then head straight towards the white building at the end of the road with “COPE Visitor Centre” painted on it.
COPE VISITOR CENTRE on Google Map
BUDDHA PARK (Xieng Khuan)
Buddha Park is a famous sculpture park with more than 200 religious statues including a huge 40-metre high reclining Buddha image. The best spot for photography here is on top of the giant pumpkin structure standing about three stories high. The entrance is crafted to look like a demon’s mouth (about three metres high) with a stone ladder inside leading to a bird’s eye view of the entire Xieng Kuan Park. It was built in 1958 by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, a monk who studied both Buddhism and Hinduism. This explains why his park is full not only of Buddha images but also of Hindu gods as well as demons and animals from both beliefs. The most outstanding ones include Indra, the king of Hindu gods riding the three-headed elephant (aka Erawan and Airavata), a four-armed deity sitting on a horse and an artistic deity with 12 faces and many hands, each holding interesting objects. They are all equally impressive not only because of their enormous size but because they are full of interesting details and interesting motifs. There is a local eatery and café offering food and drinks to tourists at one end of the park right next to the Mekong River that makes a great spot to chill after all the walking and climbing. Among the popular snacks are papaya salad, fried bananas and cold Lao beer. It also has a souvenir shop and restrooms. There is a small fee for entering the park as well as for photography.
Open: Monday-Sunday, Time: 8:00-16:00,
Admission Fee: 30,000kip/person
BUDDHA PARK (Xieng Khuan) on Google Map
VIENTIANE NIGHT MARKET
Vientiane Night Market is aimed primarily towards tourists, with clean, orderly stalls, and all manner of merchandise that make great souvenirs or mementos. It all begins around sunset when a small army of sellers begin setting up their red-roofed stalls directly on the riverside promenade. You can’t fail to see it. The whole riverside area is alive at this time with joggers and dog-walkers taking advantage of the cooling breezes and stunning backdrop of the sun lazily sinking into the Mekong river. Products on offer are fairly typical of night markets throughout the region. You will find a predictable array of Buddhist-inspired paintings and knickknacks, cheap sunglasses, and Beer Lao T-shirts. The clothes stalls tend to be geared towards the backpacker market with fishermen pants and one-size-fits-all dresses and skirts. With only $US10 in your pocket you can pick up at least a couple of products here, but, for bargain hunters, it’s worth mentioning that everything on offer here can be found at a slightly cheaper price at other markets. The traders seem to have whittled down all the best-sellers from the Morning Market and set them up in more attractive, and convenient, surroundings.
Open daily from 17:00-22:00.
VIENTIANE NIGHT MARKET on Google Map
LAO TEXTILE MUSEUM
Lao is quite well known for its silk woven products. The country’s Silk fabric is appreciated for its exquisite beauty and fine workmanship. The technique used is sophisticated and potentially one of the most complex weaving techniques that exists. It requires as high level of perseverance and artistic talent to create exquisite fabrics, whose colors are natural products dyes. Weaving, as practiced by Lao people, depicts their way of life, their environment and spiritual beliefs and is thought by many to be an example of successful combination of the local knowledge and silk of the people of South East Asia. The curious mind may ask how Lao people used to produce silk fabrics, considered as masterpieces in their own right,hundreds of years before, at a time when commercial competition was not common. You can find answers to these questions and more at the Lao Textile Museum, Its a place worthwhile visiting. The Lao Textile Museum is the first private museum in Laos. On display are antique pieces of silk made by difference ethnic group of the country. Visitors can also see ancient household untensils. The Exhibition is display in wooden house of typical Lao style, amidst peaceful and pleasant surrounding and gardens of flowers.
Address: 151, Nongthatai Village, Chanthaboury District, Vientiane Capital; Open daily from 09:00-16:00.
LAO TEXTILE MUSEUM on Google Map
LAO NATIONAL MUSEUM
The Lao National Museum was first established in 1980 as the Lao Revolutionary exhibition Hall in the former French Governor’s Residence on Samsenthai Road, Vientiane Capital. This building was constructed in the French colonial style in 1925 and has an importance place in Lao history. It was in this building that Laos gained its independence from France on the 12th of October 1945………Read more
Address: Kaisone Phomvihanh Avenue, Sivilay Village, Xaythany District, Vientiane Capital
Opening hours: 08:00-16:00 (Monday –Friday), 09:00-16:00（Saturday－Sunday）
Admission fee for Lao nationals: 5,000 KIP/person, Foreigners: 30,000 KIP/person
Contact: Tel:＋856-21-212461, Fax: +856-21-720099
E-mail: museuminfo.2020@gmail.com
LAO NATIONAL MUSEUM on Google Map
LAO PEOPLE’S ARMY HISTORY MUSEUM
Lao people’s Army History Museum was first founded on January 20.1976.
It was then called “Lao People’s Liberation Army Exhibtion hall”.
-On January 20.1984 Changed the name to “Lao People’s Army Museum”.
-On November 30.2005 and given its name as “Lao People’s Army History Museum In 2018, it was updated again and opened on December 13.2023…..Read more
Open: In the Morning 08:00-11:30, In the Afternoon 13:30-16:00
Address: Kaysone Phomvihane Rd, Nongsangthor Village, Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.
Tel: +856-20-99829358, +856-20-22008453, +856-30-9735845, +856-30-9499612
LAO PEOPLE’S ARMY HISTORY MUSEUM on Google Map
CARUSO CREATIONS VIENTIANE
A visit to the Caruso workshop in Vientiane is a plunge into a wonderful world. Designers and craftsmen will show you the different stages of production of the most authentic Laotian know-how, silversmiths, sculptors, turners at the service of absolute beauty. The tour ends in the showroom, where the entire Caruso universe is represented: ebony vases, jewelry, carpets and the finest silks find their place in a traditional contemporary setting. Take advantage of Caruso’s chauffeur service to get to the workshop.
Address: Nongbouathong Neua, Homp 14, Unit 49, Vientiane
CARUSO CREATIONS VIENTIANE on Google Map
SUNSET BY THE MEKONG RIVER
Choose your favourite riverside restaurant from the many choices in Vientiane and enjoy fantastic views of the sunset right on the other side of the river (Thailand). Some restaurants provide good views, which include Bor Pen Yang, Tawan Riverside, Khong View, and Moon the night.
SUNSET BY THE MEKONG RIVER on Google Map
SINOUK COFFEE PAVILION
Located at the headquarters of Sinouk Coffee, one of Laos’ best known coffee planter and roaster, this place stand as a Coffee Learning House, unique in Laos. You will learn about the History of Coffee in the Coffee Gallery, including Planting and harvesting process. Watch a live roasting, and experience a cupping session to identify flavors and aroma like a master. Regular cupping sessions are held on Saturdays and require prior registration, you can check on Facebook for detail (sinoukcoffeeofficial). To book private session, it is recommended to book at least 1 day in advance. Cost per person is 80,000 LAK for a two-hour session. Barista course are also available to beginner and intermediate, for half day or 2 days. You will learn how to prepare latte art, and understand a coffee shop environment. Onsite, there is also a Coffee Shop, Café Sinouk, where you can enjoy coffee and food. That makes a good stop on the way to or back from Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) if you have your own wheels. It is sign posted just past the US Embassy when traveling towards the Friendship Bridge from Vientiane.
For reservation or additional detail, please contact: sinoukmarketing@gmail.com, Phone: (+856-20) 58392364.
SINOUK COFFEE PAVILION on Google Map
SETTHA PALACE HOTEL: A TIMELESS LUXURY RETREAT IN VIENTIANE
Nestled in the heart of Vientiane, Lao PDR the Settha Palace Hotel is a charming blend of colonial elegance and modern luxury. Since 1932, this beautifully restored boutique hotel has offered guests an intimate retreat, exuding old-world charm with its French colonial architecture, rich teak furnishings, and lush tropical gardens.
The hotel’s well-appointed rooms and suites reflect refined sophistication, featuring period décor, handcrafted furniture, and modern amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. The freeform swimming pool, set amidst manicured gardens, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. At the same time, the hotel’s La Belle Époque Restaurant serves exquisite French and Lao cuisine in an elegant setting.
Located just minutes from Vientiane’s top attractions, including the Patuxai Monument and the Mekong River promenade, Settha Palace Hotel is the perfect choice for travellers seeking history, luxury, and warm Lao hospitality. Whether on a romantic getaway, a cultural exploration, or a business trip, a stay at Settha Palace promises a journey back in time with all the comforts of today.
SETTHA PALACE HOTEL on Google Map
HALF-DAY CYCLING TOUR OF VIENTIANE’S HISTORIC LANDMARKS
Discover Vientiane’s rich history and cultural heritage on an immersive half-day cycling tour. Begin the journey with a hotel pick-up, where you’ll meet your guide and be fitted for a bicycle before setting off to explore the city’s most significant landmarks.
Pedal through the charming streets to Wat Sisaket, the only temple to have survived the Siamese invasion of 1828. This revered site is famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images, creating a mesmerizing display of devotion and artistry. Continue to Wat Ho Phra Keo, now a museum showcasing intricate carved wooden features, a stunning 16th-century lacquered door adorned with Hindu carvings, Khmer stone sculptures, and an impressive collection of Buddha statues.
Next, visit That Luang, a towering 44-metre-high gold-covered stupa, widely considered Laos’ most important national monument. This sacred Buddhist site, gleaming under the sun, symbolises both religious and national pride.
The journey continues to the Patuxai Victory Monument, an Arc de Triomphe-style structure dedicated to those who fought for Laos’ independence from France. While its French inspiration is clear, the monument features distinct Laotian elements, including mythological half-woman, half-bird creatures that embellish its façade.
After a morning of exploration, cycle back to your hotel, where you can spend the rest of the day at leisure, reflecting on Vientiane’s captivating history and culture.
TA LAT SAO (Morning Market)
Located on Lane Xang Avenue, the Morning Market consists of 3 main buildings each with 2 floors. This lively shopping market has become the commercial center of Vientiane. A large variety of goods are sold including Lao Antiques, textiles, souvenirs, handicrafts, jewelry, and products imported from abroad.
Open daily from 07:00-17:00.
TA LAT SAO (Morning Market) on Google Map
LAO ART MUSEUM
What was once abandoned is now reborn as beauty. The Lao Art Museum transforms reclaimed wood into breathtaking works of art, preserving both nature and culture. Walk through a space where every piece has a past-and a new purpose.
Open daily: 08:00-16:00
LAO ART MUSEUM on Google Map
