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A hidden gem of Southeast Asia, Laos has witnessed the maximum number of wars and bombings in the history of the world. This not only made the country unsafe for travel for a long time but also deprived worldwide travellers of its beauty. Fortunately, today, the country is safe to travel and holds the potential to enchant people with its picturesque nature, adventurous cave explorations, and warm culture.
In this blog, learn about the top ten experiences that Laos has to offer. From the spiritual sanctuary of Pak Ou's Cave and the natural wonder of Kuang Si Waterfall to the World Peace Gong in Patuxai, this serene landlocked nation offers a plethora of attractions that promise unforgettable memories.
Take a Refreshing Dip at the Kuang Si Waterfall
Located near Luang Prabang, the Kuang Si Waterfall is arguably Laos's most breathtaking natural wonder. The waterfall flows through a verdant jungle into stunning turquoise pools over limestone tiers. If you ascend to the top, you will be graced by the panoramic views of the surroundings. To make the most of your visit, arriving as early as possible is best because it gets crowded with the day passing. Moreover, after taking a refreshing dip and taking tons of pictures, you can even visit the nearby Sun Bear Sanctuary, which is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating Asiatic black bears.
Visit the Spiritual Sanctuary of Pak Ou Caves
A limestone cave filled with thousands of Buddha images left by pilgrims over centuries, the Pak Ou Caves is a pilgrimage site located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers. As per legend, the caves were first discovered by King Setthathirath in the 16th century, and since then, they have served as a significant pilgrimage site. Pilgrims visiting the cave place a Buddha statue there, an act that is believed to bring merit to the devotee. Interestingly, over time, this has resulted in an organic accumulation of religious art, with images ranging from wooden to gold. Along with the beautiful guided cave visit, the boat rides over the river add a soothing charm.
Delve into the Mystery of the Plain of Jars
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Asia's most mysterious sites, the Plain of Jars is sprawled across the Xieng Khouang Plateau of Laos. The site has thousands of giant stone jars, whose origin and purpose remain largely unknown. Moreover, the fact that the site lies in an area heavily bombed during the Indochina wars makes visiting the Plains of Jars all the more interesting. In fact, visitors are advised to stick to the cleared paths for fear of unexploded ordnance. Thus, the best way to unravel such a mystery is with the help of a local guide. Let your guide navigate you across and enlighten you with local legends and stories that prevail about their origin and purpose.
Witness the Tale of Resilience at the Spoon Village (Ban Napia)
A country is made great by the heart and will of the people who reside in it, and well, the people of Laos really set a great example! Since Laos was the centre of the Indo-China wars and the most heavily bombed country, locals have been transforming the remnants of war into everyday tools. From spoons to storage containers, this age-old craft supports the local economy and stands as a symbol of resilience and rebirth. A personal interaction on your visit to the village will be a great way to add a unique experience to your trip.
Stroll through the Ban Thong Night Market
Situated in the heart of Vientiane, the Ban Thong Night Market is a true sensory delight. As dusk settles, the market opens with vibrant stalls of local food, handicrafts, textiles, and other Laotian products. The night market is a perfect way to immerse in Laos's local life. You must try the spicy meat dish of Larb (also called the national dish of Laos) and the staple food- the sticky rice, served with local sauces. In terms of souvenirs, there's a lot to choose from; however, for the coffee lovers out there- the coffee of the southern Bolaven Plateau region is a must-buy!
Marvel at the Sight of Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park)
The Buddha Park is a fascinating open-air gallery with a collection of over 200 religious statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities located near Vientiane. Legend has it that the existence of this park is credited to a monk-shaman (Bunleua Sulilat), who envisioned a place where the teachings of both popular religions could harmoniously coexist. Interestingly, each statue in the park has a story behind it, which you can best unfold on your visit with a local.
Hike the Tranquil Trails of Mount Phousi
Located in the heart of Luang Prabang and rising over 100 meters above the town, the hike to Mount Phousi offers a beautiful spiritual escape amidst nature. Along the 300-step path, you will see gilded stupas, Buddha statues, and many small tranquil shrines, and once you make it to the top, magnificent panoramic views will greet you. Undoubtedly, the best time to begin the hike is early morning to see the sun rise over the scenery of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, cradling the town.
Embark on a Thrilling Journey to the Konglor Caves
When in Laos, take advantage of embarking on a marvellous journey through the 7 km long limestone cavern that reveals vast chambers with shimmering stalactites, giving a peek into the beautiful underground world. Imagine navigating dark spots where only the guide's headlamp shines the light, and the silence is so peaked that even dripping water can be heard! Moreover, beyond its geological allure, the caves are often associated with the tale of a gargantuan serpent that once called these caverns home.
Pray at the Sacred Heart Cathedral
Diverting from the all-around scattered Buddhist temples, the Sacred Heart Cathedral in the capital city stands as an example of the presence of diverse religious communities. Moreover, the cathedral also stands as an architectural marvel, known for its perfect blend of Western elements of towering spires and neo-Gothic architecture mixed with local Laotian elements. To have an immersive experience, be guided by a local on a Sunday when the Church witnesses community practices and rituals.
See the World Peace Gong in Patuxai
The World Peace Gong stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to global harmony. This gong is gifted by Indonesia as part of its global initiative, symbolising a universal call for peace and brotherhood. The monument is a beautiful, vibrant surface adorned with colourful flags of all the world's nations. Moreover, you will be equally enchanted by the beauty of Patuxai (also called the Victory Gate), which looks like Paris’ Arc de Triomphe but with Laotian motifs.
Exploring Laos is truly a journey of its kind, where each turn will greet you with beautiful nature, heritage buildings, symbols of resilience and warm locals. From the stunning wonders of Pak Ou and Konglor Caves to the vibrant night market and the unbreakable spirit of the residents of Spoon Village, there's so much to learn and live in this underrated nation. So wait, not. For your next vacation, choose a country that opens up new pathways of discovery!