9 Must-visit Places in Vientiane are among the best out of the best. Not so many people put Laos as their top destination to visit while traveling to South East Asia. However, Vientiane is just a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. It conserves some of the most sophisticated sites. Check it out!
1. Pha That Luang: 9 Must-visit Places in Vientiane
This is the number one site that you mustvisit because it is the Laos’ national symbol. It is a Buddhist stupa with real gold covering some parts of the pinnacle. You can easily find this shimmering stupa in the center of the city since it is around 44 meters tall. Moreover, It is open from 8 AM – 4 PM.
2. Patuxai Monument: 9 Places to visit in Vientiane
The name Patuxai means The Victory Gate in English. It has a very sophisticated architecture with a touch of French influence. The monument stands to commemorate those who fought for independence. However, The funds to complete this building were meant to be used for public infrastructure donated by the U.S. It is open from 8 AM – 4.30 PM on weekdays.
3. Wat Si Muang
This is a Khmer temple that you should visit while you are in Vientiane. Legend says ‘Wat si Muang’ is a name of a girl who sacrificed herself to appease the evil spirits. Try to come from October to November where they held unique festivals. It is open from 6 AM – 7 PM.
4. Palais Présidentiel
The presidential palace, just like the name is a place where the official governments of Laos reside. Even though you won’t be able to get inside, you can still admire the sophisticated architecture from the front gate. The palace also has a well-maintained garden and a water fountain.
5. Vientiane Night Market
Not so far from the Palais Présidentiel, you can visit the Vientiane Night Market. Here you can find cheap clothes, accessories, even fake designer bags. Even if the stalls can make the price higher than any other market, you can still make a good bargain here. It is open from 6 AM – 10 PM every night.
6. Chao Anouvong Park
People often refer to this place as the ‘green park’. It is a beautiful riverside recreation area. Here you can find the Chao Anouvang Statue, which is 6 Meters Tall from afar. Fortunately, the park opens 24 Hours a day with no admission fee. Tourists usually come here to rest and enjoy a glass of Laos Beer.
7. Si Saket Temple
Sisaket Temple is definitely a must-visit while you are in Vientiane. It is the oldest temple in Vientiane because it is around 200 years old. Importantly, the temple is a house for 10,000 Buddha Statues. Unfortunately, you can’t take any pictures while you are inside the temple. It is open daily from 8 AM – 4 PM.
8. Phou Phanang National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area
If you are looking for a less touristy and hectic place to visit, you can try hiking in Phou Phanang Conservation Area. However, you need to keep in mind that this hiking trail is not very tourist-friendly. Sometimes there are wild animals like snakes around the trails.
9. Ong Teu Mahawihan Temple
Thi temple is famous stores the largest Buddha in Vientiane. Just like its name, Ong Teu Mahawiwan means A Heavy Buddha. The temple was built in the 16th century. However, it was destroyed and rebuilt again. It is open from 8 AM – 5 PM daily.
Rad more: 9 Places to visit in Palawan
Salsabila Nasution