Calm Lao capital on the Mekong River. French colonial buildings mix with Buddhist temples. Wat Sisaket and golden Wat Pha That Luang are key sites. Relaxed base for exploring Laos.
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is home to about 840,000 people and sits on the banks of the Mekong River. The city's architecture, cuisine, and daily life reflect both Southeast Asian and French colonial influences. In Vientiane, you can visit the golden stupa of Pha That Luang, climb the Patuxai victory gate for city views, or explore the sculpture-filled Buddha Park.
Exploring Vientiane's Buddhist Temples and Monuments
Vientiane has many Buddhist temples and monuments. Pha That Luang, a golden stupa, is considered the national symbol of Laos. This 16th-century structure stands 45 meters tall and reportedly contains a relic of the Buddha. At Wat Sisaket, the oldest surviving temple in Vientiane, you'll find thousands of Buddha images in its cloister walls. About 25 km southeast of the city center, you can visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), a sculpture park with over 200 concrete statues depicting Buddhist and Hindu figures.
Getting Around Vientiane
Vientiane is a relatively compact city, and you can walk to many attractions in the city center. For longer trips, you can take a tuk-tuk for quick, short-distance travel. Renting a bicycle allows you to explore at your own pace. For day trips outside the city, consider hiring a driver or joining an organized tour.
Mekong Riverside and Night Market
In the evening, head to the Mekong Riverside promenade. You can join group exercise classes, rent a bicycle, or walk along the river. After dark, explore the Night Market along the promenade. Here you'll find souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts. The market is also a good place to try street food and observe local life.
Museums and Cultural Institutions
To learn about Laos's past and present, visit some of Vientiane's museums. The Lao National Museum, in a French colonial building, covers the country's history from prehistoric times to today. At the free COPE Visitor Centre, you can learn about the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam War era and the work being done to assist victims.
French Colonial Architecture
Vientiane's time as part of French Indochina left a mark on the city's architecture. You can see French colonial buildings throughout the city center, particularly along Setthathirat Road. The Presidential Palace, built in the 1920s and now used for government receptions, is an example of this architectural style. The French influence extends to the local food scene, where bakeries and cafes serve croissants and baguettes alongside traditional Lao dishes.
Climate and When to Visit
Vientiane has a tropical monsoon climate. The dry season, from November to March, has cooler temperatures and little rainfall. April and May can be very hot, while the rainy season from June to October brings frequent showers and high humidity. If you visit during the rainy season, plan indoor activities for the afternoons when rain is most likely.
