Things to see and do in Laos
Attractions in Laos
Bolaven Plateau
A cool highland region near Pakse known for coffee plantations, waterfalls and trekking. Tad Fane and Tad Yuang Falls are spectacular, and the area's rich volcanic soil produces some of the best coffee in Southeast Asia.
Kuang Si Falls
Located just outside Luang Prabang, this multi-tiered waterfall cascades into turquoise pools surrounded by jungle. Visitors can swim in the lower pools, hike to the top or visit the nearby bear rescue centre.
Luang Prabang
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the country's cultural gem, Luang Prabang sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Its blend of gilded temples, colonial villas and morning almsgiving ceremonies make it a spiritual and visual delight. Don't miss the views from Mount Phousi and the serene Wat Xieng Thong.
Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park
An ecotourism area in northern Laos offering night safaris, jungle treks and community-run lodges. The park protects rare wildlife, including leopards and gibbons, while providing income for local villagers.
Pak Ou Caves
A sacred site on the Mekong near Luang Prabang, these riverfront caves are filled with thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over centuries. The journey upriver itself, past villages and forested hills, is as enchanting as the destination.
Plain of Jars
An archaeological mystery near Phonsavan, this plateau is scattered with thousands of stone jars believed to be over 2,000 years old. Theories abound, but the site's eerie beauty and war-scarred landscape make it a hauntingly memorable stop.
Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands)
A peaceful stretch of the Mekong dotted with islands where the river fans out before reaching Cambodia. Don Det and Don Khon islands are favourites for cycling, waterfalls and spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphin.
Tham Kong Lo Cave
This immense limestone cavern, seven kilometres long, is traversed by an underground river. Travellers can take a boat ride through its dark chambers and emerge into lush valleys on the other side — a magical journey into the heart of Laos.
Vang Vieng
Once infamous for backpacker antics, Vang Vieng has reinvented itself as an outdoor playground. Surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, it is perfect for kayaking, hot-air ballooning, caving and cycling. Sunset over the Nam Song River is unforgettable.
Vieng Xai Caves
A network of limestone caves in Houaphanh Province that once housed the Pathet Lao leadership during the war years. Visitors can tour the underground tunnels, living quarters and command centres that sheltered thousands of people for nearly a decade.
Vientiane
The capital of Laos retains a relaxed, small-town feel. Highlights include Pha That Luang, the country's most sacred stupa, and the Patuxai Monument, offering panoramic city views. The riverside night market and Wat Sisaket temple provide glimpses of everyday Lao life and devotion.Wat Phou
In southern Laos, near Champasak, stands this ancient Khmer temple complex dating back to the 5th century. Set against a forested hillside, its crumbling sanctuaries and carved lintels recall the grandeur of Angkor while offering far fewer crowds.
