Vientiane & Northern Laos
One of Asia’s most relaxed and quiet capital cities, Vientiane is nestled in fertile plains on the banks of the Mekong River. Many buildings reflect the country’s past links with Europe, such as the old French colonial houses and the capital’s Victory Monument, which bears a striking, if somewhat rococo, similarity to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. An important national monument is the 16th-century That Luang (Royal Stupa) that symbolises Buddhist and Lao union. Other interesting sights include the Lao Revolutionary Museum; Wat Ho Prakeo, a former royal temple; Wat Sisaket, one of the capital’s oldest temples; Wat Xieng Khouang (Buddha Park), situated 24km (15 miles) south of the city and displaying fascinating Buddhist and Hindu structures.
Xiang Khouang province in the northeast of the country is characterised by lush green mountains and Karst limestone. The capital, Phonsavan, enjoys a favourable climate being at an altitude of 1200m (3937ft). The unusual Plain of Jars is accessible from the city and offers the mysterious sight of hundreds of stone jars, some weighing up to 6 tonnes, scattered over the landscape. The jars are over 2000 years old and legend says that they were used to ferment rice wine in the sixth century in order to celebrate a victory in battle. Some 52km (32 miles) north of Phonsavan, visitors can enjoy bathing in two hot springs: Bo Noi and Bo Yai.
This ancient royal city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Located between the Mekong and Khan River, it is the cultural and religious centre of the country, boasting 32 large temple complexes. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most impressive temples, decorated with coloured glass and gold. Testament to the fact that it had been the royal capital until 1975, the royal palace there contains fine artwork and gifts made for former kings. Nearby, in the town centre, visitors can ascend Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding rivers. Also worth seeing is the Palace Museum (the former royal palace), easily recognisable by its golden-spired stupa, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts from old rulers of the Kingdom of Lane Xang.
Close by is Ban Phanom Village, famous for its weavings, which offers the opportunity to visit a traditional community and to purchase bargain-priced silk and embroideries. Around 25km (16 miles) along the Mekong river lie the fascinating Pak Ou Caves, that can be easily reached by speedboat from Luang Prabang. The two caves, Tham Ting and Tham Phun, are full of Buddha images that have been left there over hundreds of years by worshippers. Further downriver is the small village of Ban Xang Hai, famous for its production of rice whisky. Also worth seeing are the Kuang Si Waterfalls, situated 30km (19 miles) from Luang Prabang. Visitors can swim in the lower pools.
Situated in the far northwest of Laos, Luang Namtha province is a mountainous region, with areas of tropical rainforest and over 39 ethnic minority groups. An ecotourism project for the region has been proposed by UNESCO. Muang Xing is a small town on the river plains which used to be an outpost for an ancient southern Chinese empire. A number of guest houses can offer hiking trips starting from here.
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