The country of Laos is a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia.

It is bordered by Myanmar and China to the north and west, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south and Thailand to the west.

Laos has several attractions, read on to learn more.

Luang Prabang

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers a complete town in northern Laos and ranks as one of the most visited attractions in the country. It features buildings once used as royal palaces and over 30 temples. It features lots of French styled architecture among its beautiful buildings but one discerning factor here is the prices charged. It has become a tourist trap and hotels and restaurants are now charging more than you would pay in the capital Vientiane for inferior service.

That Luang

Also known as the Great Stupa, it has become a national symbol of Laos and is the country’s most sacred monument. It looks like a fortress with its high walls surrounding the two temples covered with gold leaf.  The main stupa stands 148 feet high. It was originally built in the 3rd Century although the current structure dates from the 16thCentury. There is an important Buddhist festival held here every November attracting people from all over the country.

Wat Phu

Wat Phu, meaning ‘mountain temple’ in English sits on a hillside overlooking the surrounding countryside of the Mekong Valley. You will be amazed by the quality of workmanship in this ruined Khmer temple complex. It also houses a natural spring that is claimed to emit holy water. This site is older than the more famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia and is considered to be one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos.

The Plain of Jars

This attraction can be found across a large area close to Phonsavan, the main city of Xieng Khouang Province. The area is dotted with stone jars and it remains a mystery why they are there and what they were used for. The jars, believed to be over 2000 years old, were crafted from sandstone and granite and vary in size up to 3.5m high. Stories exist that they were used to store anything from rice wine to somewhere to store the dead. Most jars are located in three sites numbered 1, 2 and 3.  The largest jars can be found in site 1.

Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau in the south of Laos is famed for its scenery, ethnic villages and some areas that are still relatively unknown. It is also home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Laos including Tad Fane and Dong Hua Sao (also known as Taat Fang). The elevation of the plateau varies from 1000 to 1350m above sea level and the milder air here is much more agreeable although it can get cool at night. The area produces some of the country’s best tea and coffee.  In fact, coffee is the biggest agricultural export product from Laos. Trekking is another important part of the local economy through tourism.

Now you’ve got some great ideas for your trip, don’t forget to arrange travel insurance as soon as you’ve made a booking.  Get a quote today or call one of our friendly team on 1300 819 888 to discuss your requirements.