Laos has earned renewed global recognition with the recent addition of the Fonelamvong dance to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list on 5 December. This honor adds to the growing list of Lao landmarks already recognized by UNESCO.
Among the listed sites are the Plain of Jars, an archaeological wonder in Xiengkhouang Province, and the town of Luang Prabang. However, Laos’ list of intangible heritage extends beyond these landmarks.
Fonelamvong
Laos’ traditional “Fonelamvong” dance was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list on 5 December.
This community dance, involving men and women forming circles and moving counterclockwise in repeated eight-step cycles, was originally a village tradition. Today, it is performed at weddings, cultural events, and taught in schools. The dance symbolizes Lao identity, culture, and unity, strengthening social bonds across generations.
Lao Naga motif
On 6 December 2023, Lao Naga motif Waving was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Lao women weave Naga designs into traditional skirts, symbolizing protection and strength.
The Naga motif tells cultural stories and reflects the identity of the Lao people.
The Plain of Jars
In addition to the cultural inscriptions, Laos’ Plain of Jars, located in Xiangkhouang Province, was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list in July 2019. The site, famous for its more than 2,100 megalithic stone jars believed to have been used in funerary practices, dates back to the Iron Age (500 BCE – 800 CE).
This addition marked Laos’ third World Heritage Site, following the historic town of Luang Prabang and the ancient Vat Phou temple. The announcement was made in July 2019 at the 43rd World Heritage Committee session in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Khaen
In December 2017, the traditional Khaen music of Laos, a crucial part of Lao culture, was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The Khaen is a traditional instrument integral to Lao music, and its inclusion highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural practices that are in need of urgent protection. This decision was made during the UNESCO 2003 Convention in Jeju, South Korea, with 24 members electing to preserve the practice.
Luang Prabang
UNESCO celebrates the town of Luang Prabang as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries.” It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list on 9 December 1995.
Vat Phou
In 2001, UNESCO also added Vat Phou to its list of World Heritage Sites. This ancient temple site is located in southern Laos, Champassak Province, and was a part of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century. . Designed to symbolize the relationship between humankind and nature, the temple’s construction is centered around an axis that reflects the spiritual and architectural harmony of the time.
Ongoing Efforts for Global Recognition
Beyond these recent additions, Laos continues its efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. In 2023, Laos submitted a proposal for the Baci ceremony, a traditional ritual that involves the “calling of the soul” using white cotton strings tied around the wrists to promote well-being. The Baci ceremony is practiced during important occasions, including weddings, housewarming events, and recoveries from illness.
Additionally, Laos is working to submit the Sao Hin Tang, a group of ancient stone pillars in Houaphanh Province, for consideration as a cultural World Heritage Site. The government has also put forward the Nakai Nam Theun National Park in Khammouan Province as a candidate for inscription as a natural World Heritage Site.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/16/laos-expands-unesco-legacy-with-new-cultural-inscriptions/
Seno Grilled Chicken Earns Official Recognition as Savannakhet’s New Symbol
On 12 December, Seno Grilled Chicken was officially recognized by Savannakhet authorities, becoming a new symbol of the central Lao province.
It all started in the early 1990s at a bus stop in Outhoomphone district, where Sing Souliyed and his family set up a small grill to sell their marinated, smoky grilled chicken to weary travelers. Little did they know, their venture would ignite a culinary legacy.
What started as a simple venture, with just a few skewers sizzling over charcoal, gradually grew into a local sensation, attracting customers from across the district and beyond.
By the early 2000s, around 20 shops had joined the trade, and by 2015, that number had more than doubled. Seno Grilled Chicken had become a must-try dish, with its rich, smoky flavor capturing the hearts of all who tasted it.
In 2017, the Pingkaiseno Association, recognizing the product’s growing reputation and rising customer expectations, set out to secure official recognition for the dish. Their efforts paid off when Seno Grilled Chicken was granted the national ODOP trademark, an endorsement of its quality, hygiene, and market standards.
Keodavan Manivong, owner and operator of Pingkaiseno Shop in Vientiane Capital who is a member of the Seno Grilled Chicken Association, shared her thoughts on the recognition and its impact on local businesses.
“Our shop has been open for around 8 years. We use 100 percent fresh hens from Seno. These chickens are naturally raised by villagers, which give them a unique taste. Grilled chicken is the star of our menu,” she said.
“Joining the Seno Grilled Chicken Association has helped us promote our shop. This recognition also offers an opportunity for local parents to build careers and support each other in improving their businesses.”
The certificate was presented at a formal ceremony held at the district’s Association Club. Speaking at the event, Ratsami Souliyo, President of Pingkaiseno Association, highlighted the product’s growth over the decades. What began as a family operation expanded into a community effort, with more families joining the trade.
Ratsami emphasized that the ODOP certification not only boosts customer confidence but also motivates vendors to uphold consistent quality and hygiene practices.
Today, the association boasts 52 member shops, each selling at least 20 grilled chickens daily, with total sales reaching between 1,200 and 1,500 chickens per day.
With official recognition, Seno Grilled Chicken has cemented its status as a symbol of community pride and tradition in Savannakhet, bringing people together one skewer at a time.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/19/seno-grilled-chicken-earns-official-recognition-as-savannakhets-new-symbol/
Laos Expands UNESCO Legacy with New Cultural Inscriptions
Laos has earned renewed global recognition with the recent addition of the Fonelamvong dance to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list on 5 December. This honor adds to the growing list of Lao landmarks already recognized by UNESCO.
Among the listed sites are the Plain of Jars, an archaeological wonder in Xiengkhouang Province, and the town of Luang Prabang. However, Laos’ list of intangible heritage extends beyond these landmarks.
Fonelamvong
Laos’ traditional “Fonelamvong” dance was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list on 5 December.
This community dance, involving men and women forming circles and moving counterclockwise in repeated eight-step cycles, was originally a village tradition. Today, it is performed at weddings, cultural events, and taught in schools. The dance symbolizes Lao identity, culture, and unity, strengthening social bonds across generations.
Lao Naga motif
On 6 December 2023, Lao Naga motif Waving was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Lao women weave Naga designs into traditional skirts, symbolizing protection and strength.
The Naga motif tells cultural stories and reflects the identity of the Lao people.
The Plain of Jars
In addition to the cultural inscriptions, Laos’ Plain of Jars, located in Xiangkhouang Province, was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list in July 2019. The site, famous for its more than 2,100 megalithic stone jars believed to have been used in funerary practices, dates back to the Iron Age (500 BCE – 800 CE).
This addition marked Laos’ third World Heritage Site, following the historic town of Luang Prabang and the ancient Vat Phou temple. The announcement was made in July 2019 at the 43rd World Heritage Committee session in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Khaen
In December 2017, the traditional Khaen music of Laos, a crucial part of Lao culture, was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The Khaen is a traditional instrument integral to Lao music, and its inclusion highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural practices that are in need of urgent protection. This decision was made during the UNESCO 2003 Convention in Jeju, South Korea, with 24 members electing to preserve the practice.
Luang Prabang
UNESCO celebrates the town of Luang Prabang as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries.” It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list on 9 December 1995.
Vat Phou
In 2001, UNESCO also added Vat Phou to its list of World Heritage Sites. This ancient temple site is located in southern Laos, Champassak Province, and was a part of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century. . Designed to symbolize the relationship between humankind and nature, the temple’s construction is centered around an axis that reflects the spiritual and architectural harmony of the time.
Ongoing Efforts for Global Recognition
Beyond these recent additions, Laos continues its efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. In 2023, Laos submitted a proposal for the Baci ceremony, a traditional ritual that involves the “calling of the soul” using white cotton strings tied around the wrists to promote well-being. The Baci ceremony is practiced during important occasions, including weddings, housewarming events, and recoveries from illness.
Additionally, Laos is working to submit the Sao Hin Tang, a group of ancient stone pillars in Houaphanh Province, for consideration as a cultural World Heritage Site. The government has also put forward the Nakai Nam Theun National Park in Khammouan Province as a candidate for inscription as a natural World Heritage Site.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/16/laos-expands-unesco-legacy-with-new-cultural-inscriptions/
Laos Ends Visa Special Exemption Policy After Visit Laos Year 2024
Laos has officially ended its visa exemption and extended stay policy for several countries, which were specifically introduced during Visit Laos Year 2024. Starting 1 January, tourists will need to follow standard visa regulations.
The Immigration Police Department has instructed all international immigration checkpoints, Vientiane Capital Police Headquarters, and provincial police offices to revert to pre-2024 visa rules, including 30-day visas on arrival and embassy-issued visas.
The special visa exemptions, which were in effect from 1 July to 31 December, included free visas for Chinese travelers and visa-free entry for tourists from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan for up to 15 days, provided they were booked through accredited travel agencies.
Also, other visitors from countries like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and eight European nations were allowed to stay for up to 60 days, an increase from the usual 30 days.
Multiple-entry visas were available through Lao embassies or consulates, while single-entry visas could be obtained online or at immigration offices.
Tourists from Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Spain, and Greece could travel visa-free for up to 15 days. Thai and Vietnamese travelers with a “Border Pass” or “Temporary Border Pass” were also granted a ten-day stay, an increase from the original three days.
The government will review the policy’s outcomes and continue to explore ways to enhance tourism. Tourists planning to visit Laos in 2025 should check standard visa requirements and entry regulations in advance.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/06/laos-ends-visa-special-exemption-policy-after-visit-laos-year-2024/
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/
Laos-China Railway Celebrates 3 Years: Over 43 Million Passengers
On 3 December, the Laos-China Railway celebrated its third anniversary.
Since its launch in 2021, the railway has transported 43 Million passengers, including over 740,000 passengers within Laos. It has also moved 4,830 tons of goods.
The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism reported that 85 percent of passengers in Laos traveled between Vientiane Capital and Luang Prabang during this period.
Over the three years since its opening, daily passenger numbers have increased significantly from 20,000 to around 100,000. The range of freight transported has also expanded from 10 categories to over 3,000, featuring Lao exports such as BeerLao, durian, cassava flour, mangoes, and other products bound for the Chinese market.
Between 2021 and 2024, the Laos-China Railway has seen significant growth in both sectors.
In the first ten months of 2024, the railway transported 3 million passengers.
On the freight side, the railway transported 3.58 million tons of goods in the first eight months of 2024, a 22.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Citing statistics from Kunming Customs, the railway’s freight operations have also grown significantly over the past three years.
By 2024, the railway had transported over 10.6 million tons of import and export goods, valued at more than 44 billion yuan (approximately USD 6.05 billion). In comparison, on 17 January 2022, Kunming Customs approved an international freight train carrying 59,500 tons of goods worth 1.068 billion yuan (approximately USD 147 million).
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/12/04/laos-china-railway-celebrates-3-years-over-4-3-million-passengers/
Laos Earns Over 200 ASEAN Tourism Awards, Global Acclaim
Laos continues to shine on the global tourism stage, earning 219 ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards for its dedication to sustainability and exceptional travel experiences.
On 26 November, Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket announced these achievements, highlighting areas such as green hotels, clean tourism cities, and community-driven tourism.
The prizes include 113 ASEAN Green Hotel Awards, 12 People’s Homestay Awards, 10 Communities’ Participatory Tourism Awards, Seven Clean Tourism City Awards, 34 Event Venue Awards, 12 Spa Awards, 22 Public Toilet Awards, and six Sustainable Tourism Awards.
In addition, The country has graded 151 accommodation facilities, including five-star hotels and local guesthouses, while over 1,300 businesses have been certified under the LaoSafe hygiene and safety program.
Adding to its accolades, Lonely Planet recently ranked Laos 4th among its Top 30 Places to Visit, spotlighting its natural beauty, rich culture, and eco-friendly tourism efforts.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/11/29/laos-earns-over-200-asean-tourism-awards-global-acclaim/
Textile Treasures of Laos: A Celebration of Culture, Craft
Silk weaving in Laos has been a cherished tradition for generations. In rural areas, girls often begin learning the craft before the age of ten, guided by their mothers and grandmothers.
They weave traditional patterns onto garments like the Sinh and other traditional clothing, as well as everyday apparel.
The hand-woven patterns vary, with popular designs featuring animals like the elephant and lion, each holding deep spiritual significance.
To celebrate this cultural heritage, Vientiane has organized a “Textile Treasures of Laos Exhibition,” which is open from 23 October, 2024, to 28 February, 2025, at the Traditional Laos Silk Residence in Xiengyuen Village, Chanthabouly District.
This symposium aims to highlight Laos’ silk weaving and its cultural importance. It brings together artists, designers, researchers, and textile lovers from all over the world to share knowledge and work together to preserve traditional textile arts. The event will have speakers from different fields, including experts in natural dyes and museum curators.
Head Clothes
This pattern, featuring Naga and bird motifs, is over 100 years old and belongs to the Tai Daeng ethnic group from Houaphanh Province. It was once commonly worn as a headpiece in their daily life. The fabric is handwoven silk, dyed with natural colors, and crafted using both discontinuous and continuous supplementary weft techniques.
Hmong Traditional Dress
This Hmong Traditional dress from Xaysomboun Province is approximately 90 years old, representative as pleated skirt hemp wax resists applique with natural dye.
Yaru Traditional Dress
A 60 years old Sinh from the Yaru ethnic group in Champasak Province, showcasing detailed geometric motifs woven with backstrap loom techniques and faced cotton.
The Textile Treasures of Laos Exhibition emphasized Lao tradition through the pattern of traditional clothes, it shows the significance of practices of Lao women that handed from ancestors pass through their family. The exhibition opens daily from 9am – 6pm until 28 February 2025.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/11/28/textile-treasures-of-laos-a-celebration-of-culture-craft/
Savannakhet Sees Tourism Boom, Economic Growth in 2024
Savannakhet Province has witnessed growth in tourism and economic development in 2024.
Tourist arrivals from January to October reached 683,166, marking a 26 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to Savannakhet Governor Bounchom Ubonpraseuth, who highlighted that promoting tourism has been a key priority for the province.
Bounchom noted that while efforts in the past year have centered on natural tourism, there is a need to emphasize history, nature, and culture further. This, he explained, involves enhancing infrastructure and facilities, supporting local businesses, and attracting foreign investment.
Key initiatives included developing tourism services and products, organizing traditional festivals, and hosting events such as the Savannakhet Souk San Nen Sa Festival, food and beverage festivals, and bicycle caravans.
The province is also investing in renovating Kaysone Phomvihane City, transforming it into a unique historical tourist destination. By preserving its traditional structures, the area aims to serve as a hub for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Alongside tourism, Bounchom also reported that Savannakhet’s economy has grown by 7.8 percent this year, driven by industry and agriculture. The Savan Seno Special Economic Zone, the Sepon mining industry, and various processing industries have played key roles in boosting production, exports, and employment.
One standout contributor is the Sun Paper industry, which operates a large-scale paper production facility in the province. To meet growing demand, the company is expanding its eucalyptus plantations, requiring hundreds of hectares of land to support its production lines.
With continued investment in infrastructure, traditional festivals, and cross-border initiatives, the province is prone to attract even more visitors and investors in the coming years, Bounchom added.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/11/26/savannakhet-sees-tourism-boom-economic-growth-in-2024/