Tourist Attractions in Laos
A hidden gem in Southeast Asia, Laos is a country of eternal charm, where ancient temples, verdant mountains and tranquil rivers create a captivating setting for travelers. The 35 tourist attractions in Laos showcase the country’s incredible blend of culture, spirituality and natural beauty. From the tranquil banks of the Mekong River to the golden spires of the temples of Luang Prabang, visitors can experience the true essence of Laotian heritage. Notable among the 35 tourist attractions in Laos are the mysterious Plain of Jars, the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls and the peaceful town of Vang Vieng surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains.
The 35 tourist attractions in Laos also capture the simple yet profound lifestyle of its people, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Whether exploring ancient ruins or enjoying local cuisine, the 35 tourist attractions in Laos promise a memorable adventure for every traveler. In 2025, 35 tourist attractions in Laos continue to inspire travelers seeking authentic beauty, cultural depth, and tranquil landscapes.
01. Si Phan Don (4000 Islands), Champasak
There are three main destinations for travelers to the Four Thousand Islands. Don Khong Island is the largest, yet it is different from the usual coolness and there is nothing extraordinary to see there. Many people go to Don Det or Don Khon, where the facilities are cheap, you can walk to one of the huge Mekong-waterfalls separately from anywhere else, and the cycling, walking and swimming in the currents are the same as in Don Khong. A wonderful system of islands in contrast to the indifferent and winding area of the Mekong.
The largest waterfall in Southeast Asia is a must-see and talk to the inviting locals. Outside the city, one can see nearby people, rice fields and lots of farm animals, especially cows.
Location – Champasak, Laos.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM-9 PM
02. Buddha Park, Vientiane
Buddha Park (aka Xiang Khuan) is a famous sculpture park with over 200 religious statues including a giant reclining Buddha statue that is 40 meters high. The best place to take photos here is on top of the giant pumpkin structure that is almost three stories high. The entrance is made to look like a demon’s face (about three meters high) with a stone staircase inside that offers a bird’s eye view of the entire Xiang Khuan Park.
The most notable ones include the Hindu god Indra riding a three-headed elephant (aka Erawan and Airavat), a four-armed god on a horse, and an artistic deity with 12 faces and many hands, each holding an interesting object.
Highlights – This is why its park is filled not only with Buddha statues, but also with Hindu gods as well as demons and animals from both faiths.
Location – Vientiane Capital
Opening Hours – 8am to 4pm
03. Wat Phu, Champasak
Wat Pa Phu Kon is a ranger service protected temple in the Na Yung Forest and Num Chom Backwoods in Bankong (sub-district), Na Yung (area), Udon Thani (province). This sanctuary was built by Puttaborisatsi (Buddhist) to remember the nature and forest that was destroyed in 1984. It has been located in the backwoods, animals and upstream for quite some time. Wat Pa Phu Kon is a peaceful place and suitable for the routine of meditative Buddhists.
The Buddha statue in the sanctuary is made of marble, the outer outline is similar to the layout of the Ratnagashi era. Inside the sanctuary is an anecdote about the Buddha, which is told by divider paintings. This divider painting indicates the story of the ten resurrections of the Buddha and each incarnation tells the activities of the Buddha; for example, the diligence and charity that inspire the next incarnation to be an enlightened Buddha.
Location - Pakse, the main city of Champasak Province in southwestern Laos.
Opening hours: All year round
Best time to visit: November to March
04. That Luang, Vientiane
Laos is famous for its Buddhist stupas. In the heart of Laos, you will find Pha That Luang, which is covered in gold and is huge. Pha That Luang was founded before the 5th century. The best time to visit the stupa is after 8 am or after 1 pm. The stupa closes at 4 pm. You can rent religious robes for the stupa if you want. This stupa is 45 meters high and is designed like a pyramid. You have to pay 50,000 baht to enter.
The Luang has suffered a lot. Therefore, due to damage, this stupa has been rebuilt several times. Finally, in the 18th century, a French architect created a new design and art for the stupa. Pha That Luang is so large that you need a lot of time to explore the entire temple. This Lao culture will definitely fascinate you.
05. Plain of Jars, Xiangkhouang Plateau
Giant stone jugs from obscure ancient sites are scattered over many square kilometers around Phonsavan, giving the area the deceptive name of the Plain of Jars. In truth, it’s not much more plain than the rice-plate valleys of Muang Sing or Luang Namtha, and of course most of the curious pot destinations are located on the slopes.
In any case, even more fascinating than the jars is the mystery of which civilization made them. Surprisingly, no one knows. Meanwhile, a strange legend claims that they were made by the Tai-Lao monk Khun Jeuyem to mix infinite quantities of rice wine in praise of the liberation of the local people from cruel rulers in the sixth century.
Highlights – Visit the MAG Information Centre opposite Thong Hai Hin, Craters Restaurant, stop at the Excellent Plains Visitor Information Centre in Jars.
Location – Laos
Entry Fee – US$1.30
Opening Hours – 9am to 5pm
06. Bolaven Plateau Waterfalls
The Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is popular for its extraordinary landscape, ethnic towns and undiscovered corners. It is known as home to perhaps the most amazing waterfalls in Southeast Asia, including Tad Phane and Dong Hua Sao (also known as Tat Phang). The water level rises from 1,000 to 1,350 metres above sea level and the climate here is generally milder than the rest of the country, especially in the evenings.
Its ripe fields allow herders to provide some of the country's best tea and coffee (espresso is still Laos' greatest horticultural food.) Tourism has become another important source of income for locals as the region offers almost unlimited trekking and daytrip opportunities.
Location - Southern Laos
07. Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang
Wat Xieng Thong is a Buddhist temple located on the northern edge of Luang Prabang on the Lao Peninsula. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most important monasteries in Laos and stands as a significant monument. It contains over twenty structures including a sim, shrine, pavilion and residence, as well as flower gardens, shrubs and large trees. A 'Tree of Life' mosaic is set into the western outer wall. Inside, a gold stencil work on the ceiling depicts the Dharma Wheel and the achievements of King Chanthaphanit's life.
The sim is dotted with stupas and three chapel halls or Hor Tai. The remaining two have attractive exterior mirror-block mosaics depicting the rural life and achievements of the Siaw Sawan. The Hor Pa Man or Successful Buddha Sanctuary is usually locked except for the week after Pai Mai. There is a rare reclining Buddha at Hor Tai Fa Sai-Nia.
08. Mekong Riverside Park
The Vientiane Night Market is mainly geared towards tourists, with clean, tidy stalls and a wide variety of goods to make great souvenirs or mementos. It starts at sunset when a small group of vendors start setting up their red-roofed stalls right on the riverbank. You can’t miss it. The entire riverside area comes alive at this time, with joggers and dog-walkers taking advantage of the cool breeze and the stunning backdrop of the sun lazily sinking into the Mekong River.
The goods on offer are pretty typical of night markets throughout the region. You’ll find a predictable array of Buddhist-inspired paintings and knick-knacks, cheap sunglasses and Beer Lao T-shirts. The clothing stalls are usually geared towards backpacker markets with fisherman’s pants and one-size-fits-all dresses and skirts.
Location – Night Market Kwai Pha Noum Vientiane Laos
Best time to visit: 6pm to 7:30pm
09. Nong Khiao
Nong Khiao (Nong Khiao or Nong Kio) is a beautiful natural little town located on the banks of the Ou River in Laos. It is located in the middle of the most incredible limestone mountains north of Vang Vieng. Many tourists head further north to the more isolated Muang Ngoi, yet Nong Khiao has plenty of attractions, an excellent range of accommodation, as well as amenities, 24-hour electricity and connections to the road system for those keen to explore the surrounding area.
Nong Khiao is simple in design and small enough to walk around. It is possible to rent a bicycle from Riverside Bungalow and Delilah's to explore the two roads and the surrounding area.
Highlights - Indochina Traverse, Northern Laos Explorer, Laos Family Adventure
Location - Northern Laos
10. Pathet Lao Caves
Vieng is a vast system of collapsed limestone caves in Huai Phan Province in northeastern Laos. The Pathet Lao used 480 of these caves to escape the American blockade during the Second Indochina War. Up to 23,000 people lived in these caves, which included a medical center, a school, a Pathet Lao office, a pastry kitchen, shops, and even a theater. Located in Vientiane, this area was home to communist armed forces who were fighting against royalist forces.
The caves were used for living and working because the US air force was bombing the area so heavily. Locals say that herders had to farm in the evening to avoid the blockade strikes. Vieng Xay served as a base for communist forces (and a staging post for captured US troops) because it was close to the Vietnamese border for logistical and political support.
Location - Northeastern Laos
16. That Ying Hang Stupa, Savannakhet
That Ying Hang Stupa is nearly nine meters high, with exquisite craftsmanship and restoration. It is believed to contain a relic of the Buddha’s spine. This 16th-century stupa is located in Savannakhet, central Laos. Savannakhet itself is well-known as the birthplace of Laos’ famous ancestor, Kayson Phomvihane.
It was known as a French trading post during the provincial period, so there are various old French pilgrim and Sino-Franco structures in the commercial area. The sacred stupa is an important place for Laotian Buddhists as well as Thai Buddhists living in northern Thailand.
Special mention – Visit That Ying Hang Temple, an important Buddhist site and a national treasure of Laos. Discover beautiful reliefs alongside a mix of Hindu and Buddhist architecture
Opening hours: Daily 08:00 - 18:00
Location: Ban That village, about 15 kilometers north of Kaysone Phomvihane District, Savannakhet Province, central Laos
17. Kuang Si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang
Kuang Si Waterfalls, also known as Kuang Si or That Kuang Si Waterfalls, are a three-tiered waterfall located 29 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. The falls start in a shallow pool on a steep cliff and cascade down to the main waterfall with a 60-meter cascade. The water collects in many turquoise blue pools as it flows downstream. The resulting cascades are quite typical of travertine waterfalls.
The waterfalls can be reached by rented motorbikes, with some picturesque villages along the way, or you can book a tour. Many people choose an unusual option and rent a boat and take a small boat to the waterfalls along the Mekong River.
18. UXO Laos Visitor Center
The Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Program (UXO Lao) operates in the nine most affected provinces across the country. UXO Laos allocates land for agricultural and community-related purposes (such as hospitals, schools, temples, and water supplies) as well as development activities. The UXO Laos Visitor Center is primarily a permanent but small exhibition in Luang Prabang, which depicts the problem of UXO affecting Laos and the efforts to clean up affected areas. The UXO Laos Luang Prabang Visitor Center is located within a government building on Bounkhong Road.
The UXO Laos Visitor Center is generally open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There is no fee to enter or visit the exhibition. The UXO Laos Luang Prabang Visitor Center features a display of various types of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in just 2 rooms, along with a series of images with pertinent information on the various wars that have affected the country in the past, the impact on the civilian population, and the decontamination and clean-up efforts.
19. Elephant Village, Luang Prabang
Elephant Village is primarily an elephant sanctuary and a popular tourist destination in Luang Prabang, Laos, run by a team of people who rehabilitate, protect, and care for elephants. The magnificent “Elephant Village” is located about 15 kilometers from Luang Prabang on the banks of the Nam Khan River. Elephant Village is ideally located on the banks of the misty mountains near the river. It is the first and only of its kind in Laos to offer an extraordinary variety of elephant interaction programs as well as elephant activity tours for young and old.
The area surrounding Elephant Village is about 4 hectares of lush greenery and the camp is located on a sandy shore, which gives visitors the opportunity to watch the elephants during their daily bathing. Just a few hundred meters away from the "Elephant Village" is a beautiful Elephant Lodge connected by a small path, which offers a simple but comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms in an exclusive colonial style.
20. Mount Phoui, Luang Prabang
Mount Phoui is located about 150 meters above the center of Luang Prabang and is located between Thanon Sisavangvong and Thanon Phoui. From the summit, there are spectacular 360-degree views of the city, the Mekong River to the north, the Khan River to the south and east, all the temples and mountains surrounding the landscape, which are popular with tourists. There are numerous steps to climb Mount Phoui. However, the climb is gentle for a fit person.
A popular time to visit Mount Phoui is in the late afternoon, to watch the sunset over Luang Prabang and the surrounding countryside. For a much-awaited peaceful experience, the sunrise is spectacular, especially from the top of the mountain. The Thanon Phoui staircase leads up to the summit with 355 steps, well-paved, which provide several resting places. Located in the middle of the mountain is Wat Tham Fousi, where a huge reclining Buddha is found in a cave. The golden Wat Chom Si, built in 1804, is located at the top of Mount Fousi.
21. Patuxai Park
Located in the heart of Vientiane, Patuxai Park is one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Laos. Surrounded by extensive gardens and winding walkways, the park serves as an ideal place for casual walks and romantic outings. However, the biggest attraction in the park is the Patuxai War Memorial which occupies a central position here. The massive monument was built in honor of those who sacrificed their lives in the War of Independence and is considered one of the best places to visit in Laos.
Location: Vientiane, Laos
22. Xieng Nguyen Temple
Often overlooked, Xieng Nguyen Temple is a Buddhist monastery in the Vientiane region of Laos. The temple is a symbol of Buddhist attraction, with its golden dome and intricate tombs. The nine-headed Naga statue serves as a special attraction here. Always sparsely crowded, the temple is a good place for those interested in observing the daily activities of the Xian Nuon Buddhist Temple.
Location: Vientiane, Laos
23. Presidential Palace
The official residence of the President of Laos, the Presidential Palace is one of the most important landmarks in the city. Spread along the banks of the Mekong River, this French-style palace holds a prominent place in Vietnam's political past.
Although the palace is not open to the public, the building is well-known for its architecture and is usually visited by tourists throughout the year. The striking yet elegant Aesthetic-style design, combined with shaded verandas and colonnades, creates a colonial charm above the street. A large manicured garden surrounds the palace.
Location: 081, Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos
24. Hao Phra Kaew
Hao Phra Kaew is a former temple in Vientiane, now a museum. The temple was built in 556 by King Setthathirath, when he moved the capital of Laos to Vientiane. It was built to house the colossal Emerald Buddha, which was in the temple until it was moved to Bangkok in 1779. Since its construction, the temple has been attacked, destroyed, and rebuilt several times.
The facility is no longer used for Buddhist ceremonies, but has been converted into a museum. The museum houses a collection of Buddhist relics, such as the golden throne of the Emerald Buddha, several icons, and wood carvings. The beautiful lawns surrounding the museum are filled with several sculptures.
Location: Vientiane, Laos
Time: 08.00-12.00 and 1.00-04.00 all days of the week
25. World Peace Gong
Newly established in 2008, the World Peace Committee of Indonesia presented the World Peace Gong to Laos. One of the most visited landmarks in Laos, the gong stands proudly in Patuxai. The World Peace Gong is about 2 meters in diameter and weighs about 150 kilograms. More than 450 years old, the Peace Gong stands as a symbol of the country's enduring peace and security.
Location: Vientiane, Laos
26. Lao National Museum
A visit to the Lao National Museum is a great way to learn about the city’s history, culture, and heritage. Housed in a French colonial building, the museum’s exhibits depict the city’s history from prehistoric days to the modern era through photographs and artifacts. The ground floor features exhibits of dinosaur bones, prehistoric carvings, and Khmer structures, while the upper floors feature exhibits depicting the city’s war history through photographs.
Location: 328 13, Vientiane, Laos
Hours: The museum is closed on Mondays. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on all other days of the week.
27. Tham Chang Cave
Located on the banks of the Nam Song River, Tham Chang Cave is one of the most beautiful sights in Laos. The caves served as an important military position in the 19th century, when the Vietnamese army used it as a bunker during its war against Chinese invaders. Now, it is a thriving tourist destination with plenty of adventure opportunities. The cave is perfect for trekking and hiking, with steep climbs leading into its hidden interior. Tham Chang also has two ‘secret’ blue lagoons, which promise some extraordinary natural scenery.
Location: Vang Vieng, Laos
Hours: 8am-4pm weekdays
28. Tham Nam Water Caves
The Tham Nam Water Caves are a series of beautiful underwater caves located in the Vang Vieng region of Laos. The only way to explore these caves is on a harnessed tube that is tied to a rope and pulled by the climber. The 500-meter-long journey travels through various stretches of clear water and dark corners, with the only light illuminating the interior coming from your own headlamp. However, this floating experience is limited to the rainy season; during the dry season, tourists can explore the caves on foot.
Location: Vang Vieng Laos
Time: 08.00 AM-04.00 PM weekdays
29. Tham Pokham Cave
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Laos, visiting Tham Pokham Cave is a must-see for adventure lovers visiting Vietnam. The path inside the cave is quite steep, making it ideal for hiking and trekking. Once inside, travelers are treated to views of the magnificent rock formations and ancient Buddha statues. The blue lagoons adjacent to the Ham Pokham Caves are ideal for a dip on a hot day.
Location: Vang Vieng, Laos
Time: 07.00 AM-05.30 PM weekdays
30. Kaeng Nyue Waterfall
A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, Kaeng Nyue Waterfall is a refreshing treat for all who visit. Despite its small size, the stunning waterfall is a sight to behold. The hike to the falls is quite short, and offers some amazing views of the surrounding area. The falls themselves drop into a shallow pool below where tourists can take a short dip. Although there are no designated picnic spots, the area around the falls is clean and refreshing and is considered a good picnic spot in Laos.
Location: Vang Vieng, Laos
31. Tad Saye Waterfall
Located on the banks of the Nam Khan River, Tad Saye is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos. Spread over a fairly wide area, the waters of Tad Saye fall in clear sheets over jagged limestone rocks. Along the length of this body of water, several shallow pools and cascades form, where tourists can swim at their leisure. The water itself is milky blue in color, which provides a stunning view. While trekking is a popular activity here, visitors can also try their hand at various extreme sports like ziplining at Tad Saye.
Location: Nam Khan River, Laos
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:30 PM all days of the week
32. Tad Thong Waterfall
For years, this trail was hidden from the public but has been reopened for the world to witness the natural jungle and beauty of the waterfall. The falls are usually filled with water in the spring, like many waterfalls in the region, which naturally recede as the dry season ends - but Tad Thong is more impressive and known for its jungle walks, so the falls are more of a bonus, as tourists claim, and not the primary reason for the trip.
Tad Thong is a short but strenuous hike through the jungle and offers a place to yourself with a spring-fed pool. Tad Thong is always a must-see as it is ideal for long, scenic nature walks with butterflies and beautiful waterfalls, and is home to friendly locals with only a few tourists.
33. Wat Mai Suan Phumaram
Simply known as Wat Mai to locals, this ancient 18th-century temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Laos. The largest temple in Luang Prabang, Wat Mai is well-known for its ethereal beauty. The temple's most striking feature is the gold-colored relief panels that cover the front panels, which tell the story of the Buddha's reincarnation. During the Lao New Year celebrations, the sacred Buddha statue from the royal palace is taken to Wat Mai for worship.
Location: Luang Prabang, Laos
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, weekdays
34. Hao Kham (Royal Palace)
Now converted into a museum, the royal palace was originally built as the residence of King Sisavang Wang and his family. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, the palace was strategically located to receive royal guests arriving by river ferry. The museum now preserves artifacts and exhibits from Laos' royal past. The museum's main attraction is the Phra Bang, the country's most valuable Buddha statue. A variety of other Buddha statues, ornate temples, and royal thrones can also be found here.
Location: 27 Unheun Road, Luang Prabang, Laos
Hours:
Thursday: 08.00AM-11.30AM; 01.30PM-03.30PM
Other days: 08.00AM-11.30PM; 01.30PM-04.00PM
35. Wat Chanthaburi
Wat Chanthaburi or Wat Chan is a magnificent 16th-century Buddhist temple located in the Vientiane region of Laos. The temple was destroyed during the Siamese invasion in 1982, but has undergone several renovations since then. The temple is famous for its colossal Buddha statue, made of bronze in the 16th century. It is also highly regarded for its decorative features, such as wood carvings and paintings on the walls.
Location: Vientiane, Laos
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FAQ – 35 Tourist Attractions in Laos
Q1: What are the most popular tourist attractions in Laos?
The most popular tourist attractions in Laos include Luang Prabang’s temples, Kuang Si Falls, Vang Vieng, the Plain of Jars, and the capital city Vientiane. These spots showcase the country’s cultural richness and scenic beauty.
Q2: Is Laos suitable for nature lovers and adventure seekers?
Yes, Laos is a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy kayaking on the Nam Song River, trekking through jungle trails, and exploring waterfalls among the 35 tourist attractions in Laos.
Q3: When is the best time to visit Laos?
The best time to explore the 35 tourist attractions in Laos is from November to February, when the weather is cool, dry, and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Q4: Do I need a visa to visit Laos?
Most travelers need a visa to enter Laos, which can often be obtained upon arrival or through an e-visa system depending on nationality.
Q5: Why should travelers choose Laos over other Southeast Asian destinations?
Laos offers a peaceful, authentic experience with less crowding and more opportunities to connect with local culture and nature. The 35 tourist attractions in Laos provide a perfect mix of history, spirituality, and adventure.
Conclusion: Exploring the 35 tourist attractions in Laos is like stepping into a world where time slows down and nature, culture, and spirituality blend beautifully. From the golden temples of Luang Prabang to the tranquil waters of the Mekong River, every corner of this captivating nation tells a unique story. The 35 tourist attractions in Laos not only highlight its captivating natural scenery but also reflect the warmth and hospitality of its people. Whether you’re looking for adventure in Vang Vieng, peace in ancient monasteries, or inspiration in the country’s untouched beauty, Laos offers an unforgettable experience. In 2025, the 35 tourist attractions in Laos continue to capture the hearts of travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and timeless charm in the heart of Southeast Asia.
Note: The 35 tourist attractions in Laos represent the country’s true essence — a blend of spirituality, nature, and cultural heritage. Each destination reflects the serene lifestyle and timeless beauty that make Laos unique among Southeast Asian countries. From ancient temples to natural wonders, exploring the 30 tourist attractions in Laos offers travelers a deep and meaningful connection with both the land and its people.