Imagine decadent and ancient attractions consumed by ornate detailing, forested mountains boasting every shade of green and cities coming to life with the unique traditions of over 160 ethnic groups. Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is home to this vibrant landscape, and it’s a destination often overlooked by travelers. With its wide array of things to see and do, here’s why adventurers should add Laos to their bucket lists.
Intriguing Attributes
When travelers think of splendor and grandeur, iconic structures like the Taj Mahal come to mind. Or when considering destinations rooted in history and intrigue, an ancient territory like Athens and Egypt might be the first thought. Striking a balance somewhere in the middle, Laos is all of the things we love about those destinations wrapped into one.
Forgotten History
Archeologists and historians often make fresh finds here, and it’s evident in the number of attractions with unknown origins. The Hintang Standing Stones, while no Stonehenge or Easter Island, embody this sense of mystery perfectly. The standing rock slabs are estimated to be at least 2,000 years old, and locals aren’t exactly sure who placed them or why. Nearby, the Plain of Jars offers a similar experience. Carved from rock and scattered across the open plain, these massive jars tell a story no one really knows, though they’re thought to be a little newer than the Stones. Both sites are must-see attractions for visitors, despite the structures representing a long-lost piece of history.
Unparalleled Architecture
Where the Hintang Standing Stones and Plain of Jars leave visitors pondering their journey to Laos’ terrain, the architectural marvels in the heart of the city depict a much clearer picture of the country’s past. For instance, the Vat Phou temple complex is one of Southeast Asia’s best examples of early, classic Khmer architecture from the 7th to 12th centuries. The UNESCO World Heritage site also encompasses the ancient city of Shestrapura, housing more of Laos’ secrets and artifacts.
Perhaps one of the most jaw-dropping sites in Laos is Pha That Luang, meaning “Great Stupa.” The gold-covered Buddhist temple stands proud in the center of the capital city, Vientiane, and is thought to have been established sometime in the 3rd century. It’s often considered by locals to be the most important national symbol of Laos.
Other noteworthy attractions include That Sikhottabong, a sacred temple measuring in at 95 feet tall. The golden stupa was constructed to house the bones of Lord Buddha, hence the stunning exterior. Vat Kang, a resplendent temple, is another standout site. Not only is the outside finely detailed and beautiful, but the building is located in a pond to prevent termites from eating the holy manuscripts stored inside, a factoid that adds to Vat Kang’s intriguing aura.
Less-Traveled Terrains
Exploring culturally significant attractions or learning about a destination’s foggy history may not appeal to every intrepid traveler, but Laos fills in those gaps with unique terrains and a touch of adventure. Throughout the country, visitors will find some especially beautiful waterfalls, though some favorites among vacationers include Kuang Si Falls, Tad Yuang Falls (where twin torrents flow through the lush jungle) and Tad Fane, which stands at almost 394 feet tall.
Under the surface, Laos also boasts a one-of-a-kind cave system that will leave travelers in awe. Konglor Cave is a favorite place to start, as the limestone tunnel runs through a mountain and features the Nam Hin Boun river, creating a memorable underground experience. In Northern Laos, visitors will find the Chom Ong Cave system, which is the country’s longest at almost 10 miles long.
For a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos presents the perfect opportunity for travelers to reset while still soaking up the country’s landscape. This elevated region is filled with waterfalls, coffee plantations and small villages that offer a glimpse into local Lao life. Other intimate towns similar to what’s housed in the Bolaven Plateau are sprinkled throughout the territory, giving travelers plenty of opportunity to explore Laos away from the hustle and bustle of the inner cities, no matter where their itinerary takes them.
It would be unfair to talk about all the spectacular terrains in Laos without mentioning the famed Mekong River. The seventh longest in Asia, this channel also runs through China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. These gentle waters mean something significant to each territory, but in Laos, a visit here teaches travelers about its history as a trading route, source for food and water and social center for settlements along the bank, speaking to the area’s distant past.
A Tapestry of Cultures
Considering Laos’ geographic location in Southeast Asia, the country is an ethnically rich space. Each group — while many share similar traditions and customs — possesses distinguishing traits that primarily manifest in their artwork. As a result, travelers will find one-of-a-kind type tokens and trinkets throughout Laos, because the regional and ethnic differences contribute to the creation of original pieces. Traditional arts such as silk and cotton weaving, dyeing, embroidery, applique and basket weaving are among the few ways local Lao people express their heritage, and visitors should keep an eye out during their travels to purchase some of these handmade goods.
The cultural differences among the Lao people aren’t only depicted through their artwork, but also through religious sites as well. According to Laos’ tourism website, 67% of the citizens identify as Theravada Buddhists, with many also believing in animism (objects possessing a living soul). Religion is a central part of everyday life here, and the ornate exterior of buildings and homes, in addition to the elaborate festivals and daily rituals, reflects the significance of these inner beliefs.
One practice travelers might come across during their stay is Alms Giving, or Tak Bat. This ceremony takes place during the early morning hours, around 5:30 a.m. Tak Bat is an ancient Buddhist tradition where devotees cook sticky rice and bring it to the local monks as a food offering. In return, the monks bestow spiritual merit among the believers, which they view as generating good for the future.
Having access to these enlightening practices is a special way travelers can interact with local Lao culture and further immerse themselves in tradition. While visitors can witness some of these same customs in other Southeast Asian territories, Laos offers an intimate setting that can’t be beat.
Flavors That Echo Tradition
Tapping into the flavor profiles of its neighboring countries and diverse population, Laos boasts an underrated culinary scene. Foodies will find the dishes to be strikingly similar to traditional Thai meals, though Lao cuisine is often considered more bitter, sour and spicy.
One common meal travelers will likely encounter features spiced minced fish, chicken salad or laab (minced meat salad always served fresh and often consumed raw), served with a side of sticky rice. Tam mak hoong (green papaya salad) is another staple, with a spicy salad mixed with garlic, tomatoes, ground peanuts, crab and fish sauce serving as the base, then topped with crunchy greens and a chili and lime sauce.
Travelers should note that Lao people take pride in minimizing food waste and utilizing every natural resource in the area. This is why many dishes incorporate fresh catches from the Mekong River or game from the nearby forests. The best example is seen in lam (meat stew), which blends lemongrass, dried buffalo meat and skin, other game meat, quail or chicken, eggplants, mushrooms and beans to create a hearty meal.
If visitors need some time to warm up to this acquired palate, they’ll be happy to know that items such as baguettes, omelets, pate and croissants are easily accessible, due to years of French colonialism influencing the culinary scene.
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