Laos Travel Guide: Things To Do & How To Plan Your Trip

Local Guide to help you plan a Travel to Laos in 2025

If you travel to Laos soon and would like to experience the real Laos away from touristy places, remember that away from the cities, there is so much more to see; the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khuang Province, the forested mountains of Northern Laos, the gothic limestone karsts around the backpacker-haven Vang Vieng and in the deep south, past the market town Pakse, is Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), where the mighty Mekong spreads out and all the hammocks are taken.

The Lao wilderness is drawing travellers looking for nature, motorbike adventure or both. Kayaking, rafting, rock-climbing and biking are all available, but it’s the community-based trekking that is most popular because it combines spectacular natural attractions with the chance to experience the ‘real Laos’ with a village homestay – while spending your money where it’s needed most.

Top 10: Must-see attractions in Laos

1: Wat Phu Champasak

Probably the must see tourist place in Laos for reason. Wat Phu, a tranquil Khmer temple complex in southern country, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, offers a soulful experience with its serene atmosphere, frangipani-lined stairways, and spiritual history. Most structures date from the 11th to 13th centuries, though some are over a thousand years old. Divided into six terraces, the site climbs to a hilltop sanctuary, best visited early in the morning to avoid heat and capture ideal lighting.

2: Phu Si

Phu Si Hill rises 100m above Luang Prabang’s old town, drawing sunset seekers with its panoramic views and a steep 329-step climb to the 24m gilded That Chomsi stupa, which glows like a chandelier when lit at night. A small anti-aircraft cannon stands near the summit’s flagpole, a relic from the war years. On the northern ascent, Wat Pa Huak features locked but tip-accessible doors and rare 19th-century murals of Mekong history.

Alternative paths from the south and east pass through Wat Siphoutthabat Thippharam and its oversized Buddha Footprint shrine, while nearby Wat Thammothayalan displays gilded Buddhas tucked into rocky niches.

3: Kuang Si waterfall

Tat Kuang Si, 30km southwest of Luang Prabang, cascades over limestone into stunning turquoise pools perfect for swimming and rope-swinging, with picnic spots and a bear rescue center where moon bears rescued from poachers now live safely. The newly paved road makes motorcycle trips enjoyable, with scenic village stops along the way. Tuk-tuks cost 150,000K solo or 50,000K per person in groups of three, while a private minivan runs about 350,000K.

Laos remains the most heavily bombed country in history, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) still injures and kills decades after the Vietnam War. COPE (Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise) is one of the must see attractions in Vientiane, the place provides essential support through prosthetics, walking aids, and wheelchairs, and its excellent Visitor Centre at the National Rehabilitation Centre features engaging multimedia exhibits and documentaries about UXO and rehabilitation. A gift shop and café support the cause, with all proceeds funding COPE’s work across Laos.

Luang Prabang’s most iconic monastery features a 1560 sǐm with sweeping roofs and a beautiful “tree of life” mosaic on its western wall. Nearby stand several stupas and three small chapels, including Hŏr Ɖąi with its standing Buddha, and the Red Chapel (Hŏr Ɖąi Pha Sai-nyàat), home to a rare reclining Buddha. The richly gilded Hóhng Kép Mîen stores a royal funeral carriage adorned with red-tongued naga, once used to carry the golden urns of Lao royalty.

Pha That Luang, a sleek golden stupa about 4km northeast of central Vientiane, stands as Laos’ most important national monument, symbolizing both Buddhism and Lao sovereignty. Legend says Ashokan missionaries built the original stupa in the 3rd century BC to enshrine a piece of Buddha’s breastbone. A high-walled, 85m-square cloister with small windows surrounds the 45m stupa and houses various Buddha images, including a calm statue of Angkor-era king Jayavarman VII.

Known as Buddha Park, lies 25km southeast of Vientiane and features a surreal collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created in 1958 by Luang Pu, a mystic who blended both traditions into a cryptic, mythic landscape. The quirky, weathered park offers great photo ops and a fun place to explore.

Wat Si Muang, Vientiane’s most visited temple, houses the city pillar believed to shelter the guardian spirit of the capital. The rebuilt sǐm, dating to 1915, includes two halls: the front displays a replica of the Emerald Buddha and a small, fire-scarred stone Buddha said to grant wishes, while the rear houses the ancient pillar, likely from the Khmer era, wrapped in sacred cloth. Visitors follow rituals of lifting the stone Buddha and offering bananas, coconuts, flowers, incense, and candles if their wish comes true.

The only way to explore Vieng Xai’s seven key war-shelter caves—set in lush gardens beneath striking karst cliffs—is by joining the 18-point guided tour, which includes site access and an audio guide packed with firsthand accounts and historical context. Highlights include the Kaysone Phomvihane Cave, still equipped with a working air pump.

The 2224-sq-km Nam Ha NPA ranks among Laos’ most accessible natural preserves, home to clouded leopards and possibly a few tigers. Surrounded by villages of Lao Huay, Akha, and Khamu people, the park balances conservation with local livelihoods through a 1999 ecotourism plan that encourages collaboration between tour operators and communities. Small-group treks follow varied routes, with each village hosting visitors no more than three times a week. Rather than impose rules, the program promotes sustainable forestry and fishing to inspire community-led forest protection.

Things to do: Best Places to Visit in Laos

Laos’ low population density keeps many landscapes pristine, offering thrilling adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the cities and towns invite visitors to explore historical gems, stunning temples, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Lao people.

Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Laos

1. Luang Namtha

2. Vang Vieng

3. Plain of Jars

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Plain of Jars, located near Phonsavan, features hundreds of megalithic stone jars from 600–1200 BCE, whose purpose remains mysterious, and visitors can explore the easily accessible Sites 1, 2, and 3 or embark on a trek to the more remote Site 52, while learning about the area’s tragic history of bombings and unexploded ordnance.

Phongsali, one of Laos’ most remote destinations, offers a chilly climate, stunning sea of clouds, and incredible trekking opportunities to visit traditional ethnic hill tribes like the Akha, Phu Noi, Lolo, and Tai Dam. The area also features tea plantations and Yunnanese cuisine, with Chinese Yunnan dialect spoken more than Lao. To reach it, take a bus from Udomxai to Boun Neua and then a minibus for a 9-hour journey up the mountain.

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town, offers a mix of traditional Buddhist and French-Lao architecture, with highlights like the gilded Wat Xieng Thong and the large Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham monastery. Explore the vibrant night market, indulge in local dishes, and enjoy boutique stays in French villas and historic mansions. Nearby, visit the stunning Kuang Si waterfall or the Pak Ou Caves with hundreds of Buddhist statues. For a unique experience, visit during Pi Mai (Lao New Year) in April for a lively water fight celebration.

The Mekong River offers a serene, two-day boat journey from Luang Prabang or Huay Xai, with an overnight stop in Pak Beng, where you can visit the Mekong Elephant Park. The slow boats stop at small villages, providing an authentic way to experience Laos, passing misty hills and local fishermen. Each leg takes 7-9 hours, so pack food as there’s little available on board. For a more comfortable experience, opt for a high-season cruise with fewer passengers and a stop at the Pak Ou Caves.

7. Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)

8. Elephant Conservation Center

To support wildlife conservation, visit the Elephant Conservation Center at Nam Tien Lake, which works to save Laos’ dwindling elephant population. The center offers a unique experience where visitors walk with elephants, watch them bathe, visit the elephant hospital, and learn about their care and preservation. Sainyabuli Province, home to most of Laos’ elephants, offers an opportunity to explore the Nam Pouy Protected Area and witness efforts to return elephants to the wild. Arrangements must be made in advance for overnight stays, with transportation from Luang Prabang available.

9. Nong Khiaw

10. Vieng Xai

When should I go to Laos?

The best time to visit Laos is during the “winter” months from November to February, when the weather cools slightly, and the humidity drops, offering comfortable nights and perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Laos experiences a tropical climate year-round, with daytime temperatures ranging between 25°C–35°C (77°F–95°F).

The northern regions, like Luang Prabang and Luang Namtha, benefit from cooler temperatures due to their elevation. For those looking to avoid the winter crowds, October offers a great opportunity, as the monsoon rains subside, leaving mostly dry conditions and the chance to experience cultural festivals like the Boat Racing or Naga Rocket Festival.

However, from March to June, the summer heat can be intense, with temperatures rising and the rivers running low. The summer months are also marked by haze from slash-and-burn farming and low river levels, worsened by dam projects. The bright side of summer is Pi Mai (Lao New Year), a nationwide water fight to celebrate the new year. By July, the rains arrive, refreshing the landscape and making the monsoon season an ideal time to visit the Bolaven Plateau, where waterfalls and forests come alive.

How much time should I spend to travel in Laos?

First-time visitors to Laos have two great options for exploring the country. For a quick adventure, take a short, in-and-out trip as part of a wider Southeast Asia tour. Enter through Vientiane and spend a few days exploring the wild mountains of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. This could be a 7 days itinerary that gives you a taste of Laos’ treasures even on a tight schedule.

Vang Vieng, just an hour from Vientiane by high-speed train or 3 hours by bus, boasts stunning limestone mountains and crystal-clear lagoons, perfect for escaping the tropical heat. The town has evolved beyond its party reputation and now appeals to those seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities. After Vang Vieng, head north to the tranquil Luang Prabang, where you can immerse yourself in ancient architecture, jungle landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere. The high-speed train quickly takes you back to Vientiane in under 2 hours.

If you have more time, loop through Laos by entering from Thailand, Vietnam, or China and using intercity buses. Explore four key regions: the north (Luang Prabang, Luang Namtha, Plain of Jars), the Vientiane area (capital and Vang Vieng), the central provinces (Tha Khaek Loop, Savannakhet), and the south (Bolaven Plateau, Si Phan Don).

Do I need a visa for Laos?

Yes, American, Australian, Canadian are required and they can get one on arrival.

ASEAN citizens, along with those from Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Russia & Mongolia, do not need a visa to visit Laos. They enjoy free entry for stays ranging from 15 to 30 days.

The visa fee ranges from US$30 to US$45, depending on your nationality. While Laos has an e-visa web portal, it often faces technical issues. To avoid delays, head directly to the immigration booth upon arrival, where you’ll fill out a few forms and provide a passport photo (you can pay an additional fee if you don’t have one). This process will grant you a full-page visa sticker, allowing you 30 days of travel within Laos.

How much money do I need for Laos?

In Laos, always carry cash, as credit-card readers are rare and ATMs are mostly in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, and Vang Vieng. Many vendors accept Thai baht, US dollars, or Vietnamese dong but give change in kip. Banks exchange foreign currency at the official rate, and ATMs show the conversion before dispensing kip. Learn about Laos Currency in details

Here are some common prices to help with your budgeting (June 2025):

• 3 star Air-conditioned hotel room: 300,000 to 1,000,000 LAK

• Hostel room with fan: 100,000 LAK

• City tuk-tuk ride: 50,000 to 200,000 LAK

• Bus ticket between cities: 300,000 LAK

• Liter of gas: 34,000 LAK

• Admission fees to tourist attractions: 20,000 to 50,000 LAK

• Bowl of noodles: 30,000 LAK

• Bottle of water: 5,000 LAK

• Bottle of Beerlao: 10,000 LAK

Laos Travel: Frequently asked questions