Laos
Laos offers a relaxed journey along the Mekong River. Luang Prabang is known for its temples and morning almsgiving ceremony, while Pakse serves as a gateway to the southern highlands. Road travel is slow, so a packed schedule can leave you exhausted.
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Laos currency guide — today's rate & payment tips
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Based on Luang Prabang · 5-year average
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Luang Prabang
An ancient city in northern Laos where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, with the entire town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering its quiet lanes and temples, you can feel the atmosphere of the past.
8 sights 9 guides Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)
Pāksē
The hub of Champasak Province in southern Laos, located where the Xedon and Mekong rivers meet. It's a pleasant spot to stroll and take in the view where the two rivers converge.
2 sights 9 guides Pakse International Airport (PKZ)
Savannakhet
A city in southern Laos on the Mekong River, also well known by its former name, Savannakhet. As the country's second-largest city after Vientiane, it offers striking riverside scenery.
1 sight 9 guides Pakse International Airport
Thakhèk
The main city of Khammouane Province in south-central Laos, facing Thailand across the Mekong River. Crossing the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, you can experience the feel of passing over the border.
2 sights 9 guides Wattay International Airport
Top sights in Laos
Castles & palaces
Royal Palace, Luang Prabang
This former royal palace was built on the riverbank in 1904 and served as the royal family's residence until the end of the Lao monarchy. After the monarchy fell in 1975, it was converted into a museum, where visitors can now see royal artifacts and glimpse into royal life.
Temples & religious sites
Wat Sen
Wat Sensoukharam is one of several Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang, Laos, offering a peaceful glimpse into the former royal capital's atmosphere. It's a great stop to explore alongside nearby temples while wandering the lanes.
Temples & religious sites
Co-Cathedral of St. Therese, Savannakhet
A Catholic co-cathedral in Savannakhet, southern Laos, located near the border with Thailand. It's a pleasant stop for a quiet moment admiring the church's architecture.
Nature
Tham Non
Tham Non is a cave to the north of Vang Vieng, Laos. It is located in close proximity to the Nam Song River.
Temples & religious sites
Vat Visounarath
One of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang, known for its distinctive watermelon-shaped stupa. It's a great place to photograph the striking stupa alongside the temple's antique wooden hall.
Temples & religious sites
Wat Mahathat
This Buddhist temple is located in Luang Prabang, Laos. Its ornate roof and intricate carvings make it one of the city's most notable temples.
Temples & religious sites
Wat Phol Phao
A Buddhist temple on a hill southeast of Luang Prabang, known for its striking golden stupa and forest meditation retreat. Set across the Nam Khan River, it's a quiet place to experience Lao Buddhist culture on foot.
Temples & religious sites
Wat Phabat Tai
Wat Phabat Tai, on the Mekong riverbank in Luang Prabang, has long served as a spiritual center for the local Vietnamese community. The grounds include a small cave enshrining a Buddha footprint and a reclining Buddha statue, making it a peaceful place to explore.
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