Laos Travel

Archive for the ‘Laos Travel’ Category

Witness the Untouched Beauty of Khone Phapeng Falls in Southern Laos

Mar 12th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Khone Phapeng Falls is one of Laos’ greatest natural attractions. It is located on the Mekong River in Champasak Province, Southern Laos. The waterfall is one example as to why it is impossible to navigate up into China on the Mekong River from Southern Laos.

In the late 19th century, the French made numerous efforts to navigate the river into China, but were not successful. The solution they came up with was to build a railway between the two islands on the falls, thus avoiding the steep rapids.

Khone Phapeng Falls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls in terms of volume. It is 21 meters high and is formed from three emerging cataracts merging into one powerful torrent. The waterfall and its nearby pool feature numerous islets, rocky outcrops and bedrocks popping out of the water’s depths. This allows local fishermen to employ their fishing technique by using bamboo ladders to place fishing traps.

Khone Phapeng Falls is home to an unusually large sized catfish species called the plabuck or Mekong giant catfish. Measuring more than 3 meters and weighing over 300 kilograms, it is world’s largest freshwater fish. The species however is critically endangered mainly because of overfishing and development. Because of this, it is banned to fish for this species.

The Khone Phapeng Falls is also a great place to relax and unwind in the Laos wilderness. The best view is from the viewpoint pavilion, located above the waterfall. There are also nearby lakes where visitors can swim in, which leads to the pool and cataract. Having a picnic is another popular activity for both local and foreign tourists, with nearby food stalls providing the meals. In addition, handicraft artisans have set up shops around the area, promoting traditional Lao products to the masses.

The falls at Khone Phapeng is a wonderful site and a great example of Laos’ beautiful wilderness. It is highly recommended to visit this site as well as Wat Phou, which you can do on our Wat Phou Cruise tour. This way, you can get the best of Champasak and experience the province’s best cultural and natural sites, along with other interesting visits in the area. We also recommend A Blend of Calm in Southern Laos tour if you would like to explore the area further. On this trip, you will be escorted to the scenic Boloven Plateau and enjoy an elephant ride through the forests. A stop at Siphandon is also in the itinerary, all cumulating into one peaceful trip. You may also contact us if you have any questions or would like us tailor a tour to suit your needs.

laos-south-phapheng-falls

Filed under: Laos Travel, nature

Explore Northern Laos and the Untouched Nam Ha Wildlife

Feb 26th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Northern Laos is a great place for outdoor adventure. Many make a stop at Luang Namtha before heading off for their outdoor adventures at places like Nam Ha Protected Area or to the surrounding hilltribe villages.

Luang Namtha is a compact and pleasant town. It is distinctly divided into two sections: the old part of town near the airport and the new town where all the guesthouses and trek companies are located. Luang Namtha is small enough that both sections can be easily explored by foot. There are also bicycles and small scooters for rent if you would prefer to discover Luang Namtha on two wheels.

One of the most popular destinations for a memorable Laos adventure is at nearby Nam Ha, Laos’ largest protected area and an ASEAN Heritage Site. It is over 220,000 hectares and home to unspoiled nature ranging from flat low-lying plains to over 2,000 meter tall highlands. The flora includes ever-green and semi-green forests, upland broadleaf woodlands, montane forests as well as clear rivers and streams. The fauna is just as diverse with 37 species of mammals and 288 bird species.

A boat ride from Luang Namtha is a very interesting way to get to Nam Ha. The trip allows you to see many bird and reptile species in the surrounding jungle. There are endless possibilities to what you can do once at the protected site. Along with trekking, you can cool off in small waterfalls, or go wildlife spotting. Guides, many of whom are from the villages, are wildlife experts and will show how to collect and prepare herbs and vegetables for dinner. A homestay at one of the villages is another interesting experience as you can interact with the hilltribes and learn about their culture with traditional song and dance performances.

Another option for you is to stay at The Boat Landing Guest House in Luang Namtha. This eco-lodge provides a positive experience that benefits you and the locals. The bungalows are constructed in traditional Lao style and made of natural materials while professionally trained employees are hired from nearby villages. Modern amenities are also provided, ensuring a comfortable stay in Northern Laos.

Explore the best of community-based travel in Laos with the Akha Experience tour, an authentic ecotourism trek jointly developed by Exotissimo and eight Akha villages in the Muang Sing area in Northern Laos. This three day Laos package is designed for culturally curious travelers with a deep interest in sustainable tourism.

If you are looking for adventure in the serene Northern Laos countryside, why not try Exotissimo’s Splendors of North Laos Biking Tour? The region is home to a flawless combination of biking trail, natural terrain, hilltribe villages and cultural sites. Another recommendation is our Authentic Laos Soft Adventure tour. You will trek deep into the highlands while experiencing ethnic hilltribe culture amidst lush flora and scenic waterfalls.

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Filed under: Eco & Community-Based Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Laos Travel, trekking

Call in the Spirits and Bring Harmony with a Baci Ceremony in Laos

Feb 18th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Despite the prevalence of Buddhism in Laos, animist beliefs are still widespread amongst the people of the country. The belief in phi (spirits) is blended into Buddhism. Some monks are respected to have the ability to exorcise spirits from a sick person or drive them away from one’s home. Many Lao people believe that they are protected by kwan (similar to the concept of a soul). A baci ceremony is meant to ‘call’ the kwan in celebration of certain events or to protect one during illness.

Before getting into the baci ceremony it is important to understand the concept of kwan. Some westerners have described kwan as vital forces giving harmony and balance to the body. It is an ancient belief in the country that human beings consist of a collection of 32 organs and that one kwan is assigned to protect one particular organ. It is imperative that a person keeps as many in the body as possible. It is also believed that a person gets ill when one or more kwan leaves the body. So, the baci ceremony is meant to re-call the kwan and secure them in the body, thus re-establishing balance. For other purposes, the baci ceremony is meant to re-call the kwan for good luck and fortune.

The baci ceremony (otherwise known as su kwan which means calling of the soul) is the center-piece of many celebrations and rituals. Some of the people who are given bacis include a mother who is recovering from birth, newlyweds for happiness and prosperity, novice monks before entering a temple and as mentioned before the sick to speed up recovery. The ceremony can take place at any time of the year and at anytime of the day, but noon or before sunset is preferred.

Before the ritual, the younger people present would pay their respects to the elders. There will also be a pha kwan, which is an arrangement consisting of a silver bowl containing a banana-made cone sprouting from the top, some flowers and white silk threads. Around the base is the food for the kwan which usually includes eggs, fruits, sweets, a bottle of rice whisky and whole boiled chicken. The pha kwan is placed on a white cloth in the center of the room and everyone touches it before the start of the ritual.

The ceremony is performed by a respected elder who is an ex-monk. He calls the kwan in a loud song-like chant asking it to bring well-being and happiness and to share in the feast that will follow. When the chanting is finished, the elder puts the food (usually the egg as it symbolizes fertility) onto the recipient’s hand. He then takes the white silk thread and ties it around the main receiver’s wrist, and then to everyone else at the ceremony. The thread must be left on the wrist for three days (or until it falls off by itself), and can be broken or untied but never cut.

The baci ceremony is a very important ritual in Laos and although it is not necessarily a tourist attraction, you can contact us if you would like to be a part of this special ceremony in any of our Laos tours. In the meantime, you can enjoy a thorough Southeast Asian experience with our Colorful Capitals tour where you will visit each city’s main attractions and rarely seen sites as well as partaking in a baci ceremony in Vientiane.

Filed under: Events & Festivals, Laos Travel, Southeast Asia travel

Enjoy the Unique, Chewy and Sticky Rice of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam

Feb 8th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Isan (the Northeast region of Thailand) and Laos share many similarities. The language and culture of the two are so alike that many confuse one with the other. Another similar aspect between the two is the food, and in particular the main staple – sticky rice, which is also known as glutinous rice. Although it is synonymous with Northeast Thailand and Laos, sticky rice is also widely cultivated and consumed in Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines and in East Asia.

Sticky rice (known as Khao Niao in Thai and Lao and as Gao Nep in Vietnamese) has been cultivated for more than a millennium in the Southeast Asia region and over 2000 years in China. An estimated 85% of Lao rice production is of this type. Even when improved non-glutinous rice varieties were introduced through the Green Revolution in Asia in the mid-20th century, farmers still preferred their traditional sticky rice.

What makes sticky rice different from other types of rice is its texture. Although the grains remain whole after being cooked, it is stickier than regular rice while also being dry, rather than wet and gummy like non-glutinous varieties. Regular rice is boiled while sticky rice is steamed. Many people enjoy eating glutinous rice with their hands as it is easier to pull off a bite-size chunk and roll it into a ball. The rice ball is then dipped in a spicy sauce and/or consumed with accompanying meats or vegetables.

Sticky rice, when sweetened with coconut milk, can also be consumed as a dessert. This type of sticky rice is especially popular with mangoes and durians and is readily available throughout Thailand.

Sticky rice is cooked using a cone-shaped woven bamboo basket that almost looks like a conical hat. The bottom of the basket fits into a tall pot and a lid covers the top of the basket while the rice is being cooked over a burner. Added water produces steam that cooks the rice. The steam also helps keep the rice dry. The cooked sticky rice is then served in small round baskets with lids called Kra Tip or in small plastic bags, both intended to keep the rice warm by having some of the warm vapor circulating around the rice.

Sticky rice in Vietnam is typically served as a dessert or as a side dish. However, there are some dishes where the sticky rice is served in the main meal. Certain Banh dishes (Vietnamese cakes, buns, pastries or sandwiches) are made from glutinous rice. Xoi (sweet Vietnamese dish usually eaten as a dessert) and Che (sweet soup or pudding) also contain sticky rice.

When eating Isaan or Lao food, it is highly recommended to enjoy sticky rice with grilled chicken, larbs (spicy meat salad), Isaan sausages and spicy chili sauce made from fermented shrimp or fish. Vegetables and herbs that usually accompany Lao and Isaan meals can help ease the food’s spiciness.

Thailand, Laos and Vietnam are wonderful regions to visit if you are planning to come to Southeast Asia. The people are friendly, each country is filled with memorable sites and the food is just marvelous! Our Isaan Insight tour will take you on a unforgettable tour to this still relatively untouched region of Thailand. Discover the area’s unique culture and visit beautiful temples and serene national parks. You will, of course have many opportunities to savor the distinct taste of Isaan food. Exotissimo’s Overland Laos tour is a road trip to the country’s main attractions such as centuries old temples and imposing waterfalls. If you are in Vietnam and would like to learn how to prepare Vietnamese food, then our Cooking Class- Hanoi day tour is just for you. You can also see our suggested Thailand tours as well as our Laos tours and Vietnam tours for other memorable journeys into these wonderful and diverse countries.

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Filed under: Asian Gourmet, Laos Travel, Thailand Travel, Vietnam Travel

Take Part with over 80,000 People at the Elephant Festival in Sayaboury, Laos

Feb 4th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

The Elephant Festival is an event organized by ElefantAsia to promote the conservation of these animals in Laos. The first festival was a huge success and has now become an annual event in February, with this year’s festivities taking place on February 20th-21st. Elephants, their trainers (called mahouts) as well as people from all over Laos gather in Sayaboury Province for this popular event with all kinds of activities and shows on display at the festival.

The Asian Elephant is the largest living land animal in Asia. The elephants can grow to about 2-3.6 meters tall and weigh 3,000-5,000 kilograms. Its habitat includes South Asia and Southeast Asia. This species of elephant is considered endangered, with less than 50,000 left in the wild and only 700 of those in the Laotian wilderness. In addition, there are only 560 domesticated elephants in the country. Throughout history, the animals have been tamed and trained for a number of reasons such as logging, milling, ceremonial purposes and as a military animal during warfare.

The combination of habitat loss, expansion of agriculture, and hunting has left this beloved animal endangered. Estimates have the Asian Elephant to be totally extinct in Laos in 50 years if conditions do not improve. Laos, formerly known as Lang Xang, (the Land of a Million Elephants), enjoys a long history and culture with these animals. It would be a shame if the land of a million elephants has no more of these animals left in the wild.

ElefantAsia is a non-profit organization dedicated towards the protection of the Asian elephant. ElefantAsia is attempting to reverse this unfavorable trend towards the elephants by concentrating conservation efforts in three main areas: veterinary, educational and economical support. A lot of logging elephants get injured or are overstressed and do not receive adequate healthcare. In response, ElefantAsia is trying to find alternative employment for the elephants, such as ecotourism that can benefit the animal, the handler and the environment. However, logging still persists, so the organization offers mobile veterinary units to travel to the rural areas and offer free health care to the animals.

The Elephant Festival was first held in 2007 as a reminder of the delicate situation Laos and these giant animals face. It was a huge success and has now become an annual event. Elephants and mahouts come from all over the country to Sayaboury to attend this festival. Last year’s event coincidentally took place on February 14th, with a lot of the activities having Valentine’s Day themes.

There will be an elephant baci ceremony and monk blessing at this year’s festival. This moment further underlines the importance of the elephants to the people because baci ceremonies are usually reserved for auspicious Laotian occasions.

The festivities include a logging demonstration displaying the strength and agility display of these animals. They will obey a series of sophisticated commands from their mahout, again showing the intimate bond and communication man and elephant can share.

The elephants will also casually march their way through the crowded streets of Sayaboury, so all can catch a glimpse of these gentle giants. Others will shower themselves by the river and even go as far as diving into the water to cool off even with the mahout on its back.

The Elephant Festival is more than just an elephant-themed event. Last year, the event generated $2.8 million, according to the provincial finance department, and about $1.5 million was injected back into the Sayaboury community. Money from food, guesthouses, handicraft and marketplace sales all contribute much-needed income into one of Laos’ poorest districts. Slowly, this charming community is garnering a reputation as a must visit for visitors to Laos.

The Elephant Festival in Sayaboury is an anticipated event where Laotians from across the country as well as tourists gather to see these mammoth animals. Last year’s festival had over 80,000 attendees. If you are interested in the festival, you may contact us and have us include it in your itinerary. If you have the time, we would like to introduce a day tour where you can get up close and personal with an elephant. Our Elephant Adventure – Luang Prabang day trip will take you to the Elephant Park Project, not too far from Luang Prabang. You will climb aboard the back of an elephant and rumble through the beautiful scenery on a one hour ride. You will also visit the Elephant Asia Show, an outdoor museum focused on elephant preservation. The day trip is a great extension to our Luang Prabang Discovery tour.

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Filed under: Events & Festivals, Laos Travel

Hop on a Songthaew with the Locals in Thailand and Laos

Jan 29th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

The streets of Thailand and Laos offer visitors a wealth of commuting options. Tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, buses and rickshaws are available and in the bigger cities, taxis. In addition to these alternatives, a strange looking vehicle roams around as well.

The songthaew is an adapted pickup or small truck used as a share taxi. There are two sets of benches on either side of the rear for passengers to sit on, thus garnering the name songthaew (translated into two rows). A roof covering the two rows of seats is usually attached, with plastic sheets or curtains covering the sides, protecting passengers from the rain. During rush hour, it is a common sight to these vehicles crowded with people, with some hanging on by the edges.

The songthaew in towns and cities have a fixed route, much like a bus. Passengers travelling in the same direction as the vehicle may use the share taxi to get to their destination. After waving their hand, the passenger will tell the driver the destination. The driver will agree to take the passenger there if it is in his route or drop the person off at the nearest possible point. After agreeing to a fee, the passenger rides the songthaew. Inside the vehicle are buttons used to sound a bell or alarm. If commuters want to get off, they will press that button (it helps the driver too because he can’t remember all the stops passengers want to get off at). The person hops off, pays the fare and goes about their day.

There are also songthaews that run between cities and towns. These will usually have a fixed price and are non-negotiable. Prices are a little high, so this is a disadvantage if someone was travelling alone, but if in a group, the fee can be shared between everybody.

Thailand and Laos are two fascinating countries to visit. Each presents unique cultures, sights and experiences that is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. Experience the best of both countries with Exotissimo’s Bangkok to Laos, North to South tour. Start off in the modern city of Bangkok before whisking away to the laid-back lifestyle of Laos. See our suggested Multi-Country tours page for recommended trips into Southeast Asia. You can also contact us if you have any questions or if you would like to include a songthaew ride in your itinerary.

Filed under: Laos Travel, Southeast Asia travel, Thailand Travel

Savannakhet - The City of Paradise in Southern Laos

Jan 26th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Savannakhet is a town in Southern Laos and the capital of the province of the same name. It is situated on the banks of the Mekong River, overlooking Mukdahan Province in Thailand. Savannakhet derives from the province’s original name of Savanh Nakone, which means city of paradise. Savannakhet is also an active center for trade with Thailand as well as other neighboring countries.

The Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, which started construction on March 21st 2004 and opened on January 9th 2007, connects Savannakhet with Mukdahan Province in the Isaan region of Thailand. It is 1600 meters long and 12 meters wide, with two traffic lanes. Traffic on the bridge is on the right side of the road (as in Laos). In Thailand, traffic is on the left side of the road with the changeover done on the Thai side of the bridge. Many visitors to Isaan make the easy journey over the bridge and extend their trip with a stay at Savannakhet.

With a population of over 120,000, Savannakhet is Laos’ second largest city. The town is easily explored by foot. Much of Savannakhet’s architecture consists of French colonial buildings, which adds to the charming nature of the town.

Savannakhet is also home to some interesting temples and stupas. That Ing Hang is one of the most impressive and sacred Buddhist sites in the Laos/Isaan region. The temple was built in the mid 1500’s and is home to many Buddha images.

Another sacred stupa in Savannakhet is That Phone. After 143 years, the construction of the stupa was completed in the year 700. There is an annual celebration by the stupa during the full moon in February to honor the temple’s history when it served as a shrine for offerings to the Hindu god Shiva.

Wat Xayaphoum, built in the middle of the 16th century, is one of the oldest temples in Savannakhet. It is a beautiful temple where visitors can see local villagers craft Buddha images by hand at a workshop. The temple also hosts an annual boat race every October.

There is also a dinosaur museum in Savannakhet. Over at this exhibition, visitors can see collections of fossils excavated in the area from the 1930’s to the present day. Several dinosaurs and an early mammalian estimated to be 200 million years old are on display here. Fragments of a 100 million year old meteorite are also kept at the museum.

With its laid back life-style, beautiful temples and colonial atmosphere, Laos is quickly becoming one of Southeast Asia’s more popular tourist destinations. Exotissimo’s Laos in Depth tour offers you a chance to discover the country in detail as we take you to the country’s must-see sites and beyond. Discover glittering temples, flow on the Mekong, experience the varied landscape and meet friendly locals on this enlightening Laos journey. You can also see our Laos tours page for other memorable trips into this delightful country or contact us if you any questions.

lao-catholic-church-savannakhet

Filed under: Laos Travel, Sightseeing

Pak Ou Caves; The Caverns of Countless Buddha Images in Laos

Jan 22nd, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Pak Ou Caves are an extraordinary set of caverns famous for its impressive array of Buddha sculptures and images assembled over the centuries. There could be as many as 4000 Buddha statues at these caves.

The caves are located about 25 kilometers north of Luang Prabang and are situated on the junction of the Mekong and Ou Rivers. There are two ways to get to Pak Ou. One way is to get there by road. But the more rewarding means of getting there is by boat on the Mekong River. On this trip, visitors will discover what life by the Mekong River is like in Laos. Fishermen casting their nets, children swimming in the waters and villagers passing by on their boats are some of the scenes in and around the river. The journey from Luang Prabang to the caves on the Mekong will take less than two hours.

The Buddha statues at Pak Ou Caves take many different stances including meditation, standing and the reclining positions. Before Buddhism arrived in Laos, the caves were believed to have been a place of worship for the river spirit. After the arrival of Buddhism, locals and pilgrims continue worshipping in the caves by placing their old or damaged Buddha images inside.

There are two caverns at Pak Ou, the lower and smaller one called Tham Ting and the higher and bigger Tham Phun. Tham Ting resembles a shrine, with a spot reserved for kneeling and praying in front of the bigger Buddha images. Pathways lead visitors to the rest of the Buddha images, some of which silhouette beautifully against the river background. A path against the face of the cliff leads up to Tham Phum Cave, where the majority of the Buddha sculptures are housed. The Buddha images in this cave are deep inside and are only visible with torch or flashlight.

Pak Ou Caves are a great place to visit if you want to explore the beauty of Laos’ culture and natural wonders around Luang Prabang. Explore the area’s history and landscape with our Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Falls – Luang Prabang day trip tour. Cruise along the Mekong as you visit the picturesque waterfall, villages and of course the caves. Laos can be discovered in depth with our 10 day Richness & Splendors of Laos tour. Go on a mystical journey of discovery as we take you to the must sees and the rarely seen sites of Laos. You can also see Exotissimo’s Laos tour page for other suggested trips into the Laos, a country full of rich culture and nature that is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

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Filed under: Laos Travel, Sightseeing

Count Them; 4000 Islands in Champasak Province, Laos

Jan 5th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Sipandon (also known as 4000 Islands) is a group of small islands in the Mekong River in Southern Laos. As you cruise down the Mekong, you will see the river splitting off into many channels separated by thousands of islets in different sizes. Some are inhabited by people while others only contain wildlife.

The people in the area depend on fishing for their livelihood. A family can catch as many as 350 kilograms of fish per year. Other sources of income are tourism, rice production and agriculture.

If you are looking for peace and tranquility then the 4,000 Islands is the place to go. It is a great place for nature hikes and relaxation. Even the transportation methods are people powered. The islands are small enough that walking is the best mode of transportation. If you want to reach the far flung islands, a bicycle can be rented at just about anywhere. The Khone Papheng Falls (the biggest waterfall in Southeast Asia) is a mere 45 minute bike ride from 4000 Islands. Siphandon is also an excellent spot if you want to catch a glimpse of the Irrawaddy Dolphin.

The scenery also reflects the laid back nature of the area. There are no paved roads connecting the islands, just dirt tracks and bridges. Palm trees and rice fields fill the area with even more serenity, with an occasional sighting of a waterfall and a Buddhist temple dotting the landscape.

In recent times, the area has slowly been renovated for tourists. The three principal islands that have been developed to cater to visitors are Don Det, Don Khon and Don Khong. Don Det and Don Khon are connected by a bridge built by the French. Recently, electricity poles have been erected to serve the area. For now, the three islands mentioned earlier and a fourth one, Don Som are equipped with electricity. Most of the islands are fairly small, so the majority of the guesthouses are stilted on both land and water.

With Exotissimo’s 4000 Islands tour, you can relax and connect with nature and experience a simple and carefree way of life. A Blend of Calm in Southern Laos tour is a deeper insight into the serene region of Southern Laos. See the area’s beautiful natural scenery and visit Wat Phou, a three-tiered temple nestled in the foothills sitting majestically above the rice fields. You can also see our suggested Laos tours for other recommendations into this laid back and peaceful country.

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Filed under: Laos Travel

Unwind in Asia’s Most Relaxed Capital, Vientiane

Dec 22nd, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Vientiane (pronounced wiang-chan) is Laos’ capital and largest city. There are about 200,000 people living in the city center, with over 730,000 in the Vientiane Prefecture. The city’s relaxing atmosphere contrasts with other Southeast Asian capitals such as Bangkok, Thailand and Hanoi, Vietnam, making Vientiane feel more like a provincial town than a capital city.

There is a legend on the founding of Vientiane. The great Laotian epic Phra Lak Phra Lam tells of a story about two royal brothers. One of them left the great Lao kingdom of Muang Inthapatha Maha Nakhon because he was denied the throne in favor of his younger brother. So, the out of favor brother (named Prince Thattaradtha) founded a city on the west bank of the Mekong River, that is today Udon Thani, Thailand. However, a seven headed naga (a human deity taking a form of a snake) told the prince to cross the river and start a new city, which would eventually be called Vientiane.

Much like the saga, Vientiane is a charming place to visit. The Lao capital is filled with tree lined roads that are dotted with temples and colonial buildings. You can easily explore Laos’ capital by foot or by bicycle and see a city with Lao, Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese and French influences. The backdrop of the Mekong River adds to the already soothing atmosphere of the city.

So, once you are in the capital, what should you do? On Exotissimo’s Vientiane City Tour – Full Day package, we recommend a stop at Wat Sisaket. It is a Buddhist temple built in 1818, designed with Thai architectural style. The temple’s breezy teak covered hallways are filled with thousands of miniature Buddha statues. In the center of the courtyard is an ordination hall which contains more Buddha images and statues as well as beautiful murals of the Buddha’s past lives. Wat Phra Keo is another destination we recommend you to see. This temple used to be the resting place of the sacred Emerald Buddha (which is now housed at the Grand Palace in Bangkok). It is now used primarily as a religious museum, displaying a collection of both Lao and Khmer artwork. There are also other marvelous places to visit on this tour.

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If you have less time, we also have a Vientiane City Tour – Half Day package. But to fully appreciate the country, we recommend the Laos in Depth tour. Not only will you experience Vientiane, you will also enjoy the country’s spiritual capital, Luang Prabang. Stops to Kuang Si Waterfall, Pak Ou Caves and the quiet town of Vang Vieng are also included in the itinerary. You can also see our suggested Laos tour page for other options into this fascinating and enchanting country.

Filed under: Laos Travel, Sightseeing

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Archive for the ‘Laos Travel’ Category

Witness the Untouched Beauty of Khone Phapeng Falls in Southern Laos

Explore Northern Laos and the Untouched Nam Ha Wildlife

Call in the Spirits and Bring Harmony with a Baci Ceremony in Laos

Enjoy the Unique, Chewy and Sticky Rice of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam

Take Part with over 80,000 People at the Elephant Festival in Sayaboury, Laos

Hop on a Songthaew with the Locals in Thailand and Laos

Savannakhet - The City of Paradise in Southern Laos

Pak Ou Caves; The Caverns of Countless Buddha Images in Laos

Count Them; 4000 Islands in Champasak Province, Laos

Unwind in Asia’s Most Relaxed Capital, Vientiane

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Nguyen Tai Nam - Senior MICE Consultant - Exotissimo Travel Vietnam

Mike Garvin

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Home | Why Exo? | Blog

Categories

Recent Articles

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Archive for the ‘Laos Travel’ Category

Why Travel with Exotissimo?

Where to find us

Nguyen Tai Nam - Senior MICE Consultant - Exotissimo Travel Vietnam

Mike Garvin

Rachel

Corporate Information

Travel Partners

Travel Agencies

Other Links

Exotissimo Travel Vietnam

Exotissimo Travel Thailand

Exotissimo Travel Cambodia

Exotissimo TravelLaos

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