Hor Phakeo Museum Remains a Must-Visit Cultural Site in Vientiane
VIENTIANE — The Hor Phakeo Museum continues to attract visitors interested in Laos’ history, religion, and traditional art, offering a quiet cultural stop in the heart of the capital. Originally built in the 16th century as a royal temple to house the Emerald Buddha, Hor Phakeo no longer functions as a place of worship. Today,
Elephant Festival Set to Return to Xayabouly in February
XAYABOULY, LAOS — Xayabouly province is preparing to host its annual Elephant Festival next month, with around 50 elephants expected to take part in the week-long event celebrating Laos’ long-standing relationship with its national animal. The festival will be held in Xayabouly district from February 9 to 16, bringing together elephant handlers, local communities, and
Special Gymnastics Performance to Mark 77th Anniversary of the Lao People’s Army
VIENTIANE — A special gymnastics performance will be staged in Vientiane later this month to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Lao People’s Army, offering residents and visitors a unique cultural and sporting event in the capital. The performance will take place at the National Gymnastics Centre, located in Chanthabouly district. The event is expected
Masked Ghost Festival to Return to Pak Lai in Early 2026
PAK LAI, LAOS — The Phi Ta Khon Festival, also known as the Masked Ghost Festival, is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 2, 2026, in Paklai district, offering residents and visitors a vivid display of local tradition at the start of the year. The festival, held annually in parts of Xayabouly
If You Only Have a Few Days in Laos, Don’t Rush
(And Where to Spend That Time in Vientiane) Many travelers arrive in Laos with limited time and a long list of places they want to see. That is understandable. But if there is one piece of advice that truly matters here, it is this: don’t rush. Laos is not a country that reveals itself through
Things I Wish My Friends Knew Before Visiting Laos
I always love when friends tell me they are coming to Laos. It is a beautiful country, warm in both climate and people, and full of moments that stay with you long after you leave. But Laos is also different from many places people are used to. Knowing a few things in advance can make
Nam Lik Eco Village
A quiet riverside escape and a glimpse of everyday rural life in Laos Nam Lik Eco Village is a peaceful rural destination located along the Nam Lik River, north of Vientiane Capital. Unlike well-known tourist attractions, this village offers something simpler and more personal: time in nature, everyday Lao village life, and space to slow
Ban Keun Hot Spring
A simple, local hot spring experience near Vientiane One of the lesser-known but genuinely interesting natural attractions near Vientiane is Ban Keun Hot Spring. What makes this place special is not luxury or development, but its simplicity. Laos is home to several natural hot springs, and Ban Keun is one of the few where visitors—both
Nam Ngum Lake: A Calm Nature Escape from Vientiane
Nam Ngum Lake is one of the most popular and accessible nature destinations near Vientiane Capital. Known for its wide open water, scattered islands, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a very different rhythm from the city. This is not a place for fast sightseeing. It is a destination for slowing down, enjoying nature, and spending
A Responsible One-Day Itinerary from Vientiane
Wildlife Conservation, Nature, and a Slower Pace This one-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want a meaningful experience close to Vientiane Capital. It combines a visit to the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife with time in nature near the Nam Ngum area. The pace is relaxed, educational, and suitable for families, couples, expats, and