Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours, landlocked Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rustic charm and an incredibly laidback and friendly culture. Here is our pick of the best things to do in Laos.
The lifeline of this landlocked nation, the Mekong figures in every visit to Laos, supplying the fish for dinner, a stunning array of sunsets and a route to travel along. The world’s 11th-longest river is a vital transport artery for both Laos and Cambodia, while its relatively unpolluted waters are an important source of fish.
A slow boat trip on the Mekong River in Laos is one of the best things to do in Laos, allowing you to experience the country's spectacular natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The trip usually starts in the northern town of Huaysai, close to the Thai border, and ends in the historic city of Luang Prabang, located in central Laos. To better prepare for your upcoming trip to Laos, read the Laos travel tips we've collected.
The journey usually kicks off in Huay Xai, just across the river from Chiang Khong in Thailand. Most people cross the border there, then hop on a shared tuk-tuk or minivan to the pier.
Boats leave late morning—typically around 11:30—and tickets can be picked up through local agencies or bought right at the pier. The trip to Luang Prabang takes two full days, with an overnight stay in Pakbeng.
November to February is the sweet spot for this trip—cooler weather and steady water levels make for a smoother ride. March and April can still be a good time to go, especially if you want to see more of the exposed sandbars and riverbanks. The rainy season, from May to October, brings higher water and stronger currents, which sometimes disrupt the route or make the ride less predictable.
Mekong river, Luang Prabang port in Laos © i viewfinder/Shutterstock
The Plain of Jars is the star attraction of Xieng Khuang—and one of the best places to visit in Laos if you’re into ancient mysteries with a side of eerie beauty. Scattered across the windswept plateau around Phonsavan, these massive stone jars — some weighing several tons — have baffled archaeologists for decades.
The most accessible sites have been cleared of UXO (unexploded ordnance), but it’s still smart to stick to marked paths. Site 1, or Thong Hai Hin, just 15km southwest of Phonsavan, has the largest cluster — over 250 jars — and the biggest of them all, said to be the victory cup of King Khun Jeuam, a local legend who supposedly freed the region from tyranny.
You’ll want to head to Phonsavan, which is the main base for visiting the jar sites. There are domestic flights from Vientiane and Luang Prabang, or you can take a VIP bus—just be prepared for a long, twisty 8–10 hour ride.
Once in town, it’s easy to arrange transport through your guesthouse or a small tour agency. Site 1 (Thong Hai Hin) is the most straightforward to reach—only about 9 miles (15 km) southwest of town.
November through April is the dry season and generally the best time to go. December and January tend to have cooler weather and clear skies. Try to avoid the rainy season (May–October), since the unpaved roads leading to some of the sites can get muddy and tough to manage.
Plain of Jars, Laos © Shutterstock
The lush Bolaven Plateau is known for its temperate climate and Mon-Khmer minority peoples. Indeed, the name Bolaven means “place of the Laven”, once the predominant ethnic group in the region. Other attractions include waterfalls, boat cruises, and, for those so inclined, visits to the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
Hotels and travel agencies in Pakse offer a variety of guided tours to the region, ranging from day trips to three- to four-day itineraries. A good starting point for an exploration of the region is the Taat Lo (Lo Waterfall), 94km (58 miles) northeast of Pakse. The road is paved throughout, and the journey time is no more than two hours. The falls drop only a few meters but are wide and surrounded by lush vegetation.
Start in Pakse, the main town in southern Laos. From there, you can catch a local bus or minivan to Taat Lo waterfall—it’s kind of the jumping-off point for exploring the plateau. That leg of the trip takes about two hours on a paved road.
If you want more flexibility, renting a motorbike is common and lets you take on the full Bolaven loop at your own pace, stopping off at waterfalls and coffee farms along the way.
May through October is when the waterfalls are at their fullest, thanks to the rains. September and October usually have the heaviest flow. The plateau sits higher up, so it’s generally cooler than the lowlands—expect temperatures around 5–10°F (2–5°C) lower. If you’re more into hiking or prefer dry trails, the dry season from November to April is easier to navigate, but the waterfalls might be more subdued.
Tad Paxuam waterfall, Bolaven plateau, Laos © worawut charoen/Shutterstock
The royal capital, Luang Prabang (Louangphabang), is one of the most intriguing, magical, and romantic cities in Asia. It is a treasure trove of fine old temples and boasts quiet streets lined with handsome colonial buildings
In the center of the city, between Mount Phu Si and the Mekong, is the Royal Palace Museum, which offers an insight into the history of the region. To the southwest of the Royal Palace is Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham. Dating from the early 19th century, this temple was once the residence of the Sangkhalat, the supreme patriarch of Buddhism in Laos. This is easily one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang.
You can fly straight into Luang Prabang from several cities like Bangkok, Singapore, or Hanoi. If you’d rather arrive slowly, the two-day Mekong boat ride from Huay Xai is a scenic choice.
There are also VIP overnight buses from Vientiane, which take around 8–10 hours. Roads have improved a lot recently, so travel times are shorter than they used to be. Once you’re in town, everything in the heritage district is walkable, which makes getting around easy.
November through February brings cooler, dry weather—around 68–77°F (20–25°C)—which is good for walking, visiting temples, and catching the morning almsgiving.
April is lively with Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, which fills the city with water fights and traditional rituals. Early mornings are always nice here, with mist hanging low over the river and monks walking silently through the streets. From March to May, though, burning season can make the air quite smoky, so it’s something to be aware of.
Luang Prabang monk © gg-foto/Shutterstock
Spared wars, fires, and overzealous restorations, the jewel of temple-rich Luang Prabang is as elegant as it is historic. Close to the tip of the peninsula, on the banks of the Mekong, is Luang Prabang’s most renowned temple, Wat Xieng Thong. This temple, with its low sweeping roofsepitomising is built in the classic Luang Prabang style.
Inside the sim, the eight thick supporting pillars, richly stencilled in gold, guide the eye to the serene golden Buddha images at the rear, and upwards to the roof, which is covered in dharma wheels. On the outside of the sim, at the back, is an elaborate mosaic of the Tree of Life set against a deep red background. Throughout, the combination of splendid gold and deep red gives this temple a captivatingly regal atmosphere.
Wat Xieng Thong sits at the tip of Luang Prabang’s old town peninsula, right where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. If you’re staying anywhere near the UNESCO heritage area, it’s an easy 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace Museum. You can also rent a bike and take your time cycling through the quiet lanes or catch a tuk-tuk if you’re coming from further out.
Try to go early—between 7 and am—if you want a quieter experience before the tour groups show up. If you happen to be in town during Buddhist holidays like Boun Ok Phansa (usually October or November), the temple hosts candlelit processions and ceremonies that are worth seeing.
Late afternoon is a good time too—the light hits the Tree of Life mosaic just right. The temple is open every day, and you’ll often see monks during their morning and evening prayers.
Wat Xieng Thong, a Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, Laos© Shutterstock
One of the top things to do in Laos is to embark on a half-day or day excursion to explore the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls located in the vicinity of Luang Prabang. About 30km (20 miles) south of the town are the multi-tiered Kuang Si Waterfalls, replete with beguiling limestone formations and crystal-clear pools.
Food vendors keep most of the local visitors at the lower level of the falls, which can be very crowded during holidays. Up a trail to the left of the lower cascade is a second fall with a pool which makes for good swimming and is generally quieter. The trail continues to the top of the falls, though after rain it can be dangerously slippery.
Kuang Si Falls is about 19 miles (30km) south of Luang Prabang. Shared minivans or tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get there—ask at your guesthouse or check the morning market for drivers.
If you’re up for a challenge, you can rent a motorbike or even a mountain bike, but be prepared for some hilly terrain. The drive takes around 45–60 minutes and passes through rice paddies and quiet rural villages.
If you want to see the falls at their most powerful, go during the rainy season (May to October), when the water is really moving. For swimming, it’s better between November and February—cooler air, clearer water
Turquoise water of Kuang Si waterfall, Luang Prabang, Laos © Ana Flasker/Shutterstock
Lao cuisine may be seen as the cooking tradition and style of the entire Lao ethnic group and is based on the consumption of sticky rice as a staple. Other essential ingredients include kha, or galangal (a ginger-like rhizome with a peppery flavor), and nam paa (fish sauce). Lao cuisine has numerous regional variations, but that of Vientiane, the capital, is generally considered the most sophisticated. If you’re exploring local food culture, one of the best Laos travel tips is to try dishes region by region —you’ll taste just how diverse Lao cooking really is.
Popular Lao dishes include tam som – the equivalent of Thai som tam – a spicy salad made of sliced green papaya mixed with chilli peppers, garlic, tomatoes, ground peanuts, crab, lime juice and fish sauce. Another standby is laap, a spicy dish of minced meat, poultry or fish mixed with lime juice, garlic, chilli pepper, onion and mint.
Start at the morning market—this is where locals go for the day’s ingredients, and it’s a great place to get familiar with the basics. Many towns have cooking classes where you can try your hand at traditional dishes like laap or tam som. Street food near markets or bus stations is a reliable way to try the best food in Laos.
What you eat depends on when you visit. From November to February, you’ll see wild mushrooms in dishes, thanks to the cooler forest harvests.
April’s Lao New Year brings sweets like khao tom (sticky rice in banana leaves). During Buddhist Lent (July to October), many places serve vegetarian meals influenced by temple traditions. For the freshest finds, hit the markets early—6 to 8am is peak time for produce coming in from the countryside.
Prawn Amok © sakadaphoto/Shutterstock
Located close to the midway point between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, the tiny settlement of Vang Vieng is a convenient place to break the journey between these two towns in either direction. Set by the banks of the Nam Song, amidst a startlingly beautiful natural terrain of limestone karsts, Vang Vieng originally developed as a backpacker stopover.
It quickly developed a reputation as an anything-goes party town—complete with raucous full-moon parties, as though a Thai beach resort had been transported to landlocked Laos. Today the main attraction is the surrounding countryside, and the town has become an attractive, relaxed base for rock climbing, cycle tours, kayaking, and other outdoor activities, with some excellent boutique accommodations and decent places to eat. See our guide to the best things to do in Vang Vieng.
Vang Vieng sits roughly halfway between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and there are plenty of minivans and VIP buses running from both cities.
From Vientiane, the drive takes about 3–4 hours along a smooth road with dramatic mountain views. Most shared rides leave in the morning from the main bus terminals. If you want to explore on your own terms, renting a motorbike is a good way to check out nearby caves and limestone hills.
November to March is the dry season, which is best if you're planning to hike, kayak, or climb. December and January are cooler—good for longer treks.
If you're going for river activities, water levels are at their highest around August and September, which makes tubing and kayaking more exciting. Weekdays are much calmer than weekends, when Vientiane locals often make the trip for a quick getaway.
Vang Vieng © Iwanami Photos/Shutterstock
Tham Phu Kam, to the west of Vang Vieng, is sacred to local Buddhists and thoroughly atmospheric. The main attractions here are Tham Phu Kam Cave and the Blue Lagoon. The cave is located on a limestone cliff and can be reached by a steep path. In the cave, visitors can explore its chambers, and there is also a natural pool suitable for swimming. When planning a visit, it is recommended to hire a guide for safer exploration.
If you're looking for things to do in Laos, be sure to visit the breathtaking Blue Lagoon. This stunning natural pool, nestled in the heart of the jungle, boasts crystal-clear water that is simply spectacular to behold. Visitors can swim in the pool or chill out on the surrounding beach. There are also swings and a zip line for the more daring ones.
The Blue Lagoon and Tham Phu Kam Cave sit about 4.3 miles (7km) west of Vang Vieng. You can get there by renting a bike or motorbike in town and following the well-marked road that crosses the Nam Song River bridge.
If you'd rather not navigate on your own, tuk-tuks from the center of town will take you there and wait for your return. To reach the cave, you’ll need to hike a short way up some limestone steps—wear shoes with decent grip and bring water, especially if it’s hot out.
If you’re hoping for a quieter swim, go before 10am—most tour groups don’t show up until later in the day. The dry season (November–April) is best for getting to the cave without slipping around, since the path stays drier. The water stays cool year-round, but it feels especially good from March to May when the heat really sets in. Just keep in mind that heavy rains can cloud the water, so give it a day or two after a downpour.
Tham Phu Kham Cave is a Buddhist sanctuary and temple in a natural cave next to the Blue Lagoon, Vang Vieng, Laos © Shutterstock
Rugged mountain forests set the scene for hikers seeking to explore the remote hill villages of the north. The countryside around the Mekong between Kratie and Stung Treng is crisscrossed by an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails, known collectively as the Mekong Discovery Trail. It was originally developed to bring sustainable tourism to rural communities.
There are village homestays available, and organized tours by bike or on foot can easily be arranged in Kratie or Stung Treng.
One of Southeast Asia’s lesser-known countries, Laos is definitely off the beaten track, but it has retained its culture, charm and traditional village life, wild jungle, and stunning countryside.
Northern Laos is a good base for trekking, especially around Luang Namtha, Muang Sing, or Phongsaly. You’ll want to go with a local guide—not just for navigating the trails, but for some cultural context too.
Many treks include overnight stays in village homes, and you’ll need to bring light clothes that dry quickly, sturdy shoes, and maybe a headlamp. If you prefer something easier to follow, the Mekong Discovery Trail near Kratie has gentler terrain and marked paths, good for independent hikers.
The best months are November to February, when the weather’s cool and dry—perfect for walking and getting those long mountain views. March and October are a bit more unpredictable but usually quieter on the trails. The rainy season (June to August) isn’t great for trekking—trails get muddy, leeches come out, and it can be hard to get around.
Trekking through the countryside is one of the best things to do in Laos for enjoying the scenery © Pheerasak Jomnuy/Shutterstock
For many years, boats were a major form of long-haul passenger transport in Laos, not only on the mighty Mekong but also along large tributaries such as the Nam Ou. These days, a vastly improved road network and an increasing number of hydroelectric dams blocking the rivers have reduced the importance of water transport.
The Nam Ou, a major tributary of the Mekong, flows south from the mountains of China’s Yunnan province through the Lao provinces of Phongsali and Luang Prabang before reaching the Mekong upstream from Luang Prabang. It is possible to travel along various sections of the Ou between the new dam projects.
The easiest way to access the Nam Ou River is from Nong Khiaw or Muang Khua—both are connected by bus to Luang Prabang. Once you're there, boat trips can be arranged through your guesthouse or by asking the boat drivers directly. The stretch between Muang Khua and Nong Khiaw is especially scenic. Dam construction has broken up the river a bit, so most longer trips now use a mix of boat and road to get around those sections.
Late fall to mid-winter (November to January) is the best window—temperatures are comfortable, and water levels make boat travel easier. February and March are drier, so the river starts to shrink in places, revealing limestone cliffs, though some routes might be too shallow. From May to October, the rains return and make everything green again, but boat trips can be unpredictable..
Nam Ou Nong Khiaw river, Laos © lkunl/Shutterstock
Straddling the Nam Ou, Nong Khiaw is the perfect place to visit for a few days — relaxing in a hammock or exploring the surrounding area on foot or by kayak. Nong Khiaw is a large village set amid glorious karst scenery, which seems to owe its existence to a bridge that crosses the river here. This place has an increasing array of guesthouse accommodations and makes a wonderfully picturesque base in which to immerse yourself in the backwaters of Laos.
The aforementioned bridge is an important link in the Chinese-built Route 1, which travels from Luang Nam Tha province in the west to Xieng Khuang province in the east. If you choose not to travel further north on the Ou, it is possible to secure public transport either towards Udomxai in the west or to Sam Neua in the east.
You can reach this laid-back riverside village by bus from Luang Prabang—it’s about a 3-hour ride through the mountains. When river levels are high enough, boats also run from Luang Prabang along the Nam Ou, which is a slower but scenic alternative. The village sits on both sides of the river with a bridge in the middle, and most places to stay are just a short walk from the bus drop-off point.
November through February is dry and clear, good for hiking and getting those mountain views. The mornings can be especially beautiful with mist rising through the karst peaks. In October, the scenery is still green from the rains, and there are fewer people around. If you’re planning to travel by boat, keep in mind that water levels are highest in August and September, and lowest in March and April.
The wonderful landscape of Nong Khiaw in Laos © taboga/Shutterstock
One of the most pleasant surprises awaiting the visitor to Vientiane is the French cultural influence surviving in the city. It is a pleasure to enjoy a breakfast of croissants and café au lait. This agreeable ambience aside, Vientiane’s most notable memorial to the French influence must be its architecture. There are numerous small residences, and not a few mansions, built in the style of the former colonial power.
Many of these may be found in the older part of the town, along the riverside appropriately designated Quai Fa Ngum. Here, as by the shaded boulevards in the vicinity of That Dam and along Lane Xang Avenue, the “Champs Élysées” of Vientiane, may be found fine examples of colonial French architecture, complete with shutters and red-tiled roofs. It's easily one of the best things to do in Vientiane.
Some of the clearest examples of Vientiane’s French colonial past can be seen along Quai Fa Ngum by the Mekong and around That Dam (the Black Stupa).
It’s easy to explore on foot—early morning or late afternoon are best, when the light really brings out the details. A good walking route starts near the Presidential Palace and heads down Lane Xang Avenue, sometimes called the city's “Champs-Élysées.” Along the way, you’ll see old mansions now used as government buildings, small hotels, and cafés.
From November to March, the weather stays mostly dry and comfortable, so it’s good time for walking tours. Go early if you want to avoid the heat. If you’re visiting in October, the riverfront comes to life during the annual Boat Racing Festival.
Old house in colonial style in Laos © Gerardo C.Lerner/Shutterstock
The country’s most important religious building is best seen at sunset when the golden stupa seems to glow in the fading light. That Luang is a striking sight and of great spiritual significance for the Lao people, considered the symbol of Lao independence and sovereignty. It is a strange and exotic structure, combining the features of a Buddhist temple with the mundane requirements of a fortress.
Today the great edifice still retains a very fortress-like appearance. It is surrounded by a high-walled cloister, which is pierced by tiny windows, and access is by way of finely gilded red-lacquer doors, which add to the impression of a medieval keep. Close up, however, the sacred character of the structure is unmistakable because of the abundant religious imagery.
That Luang sits about 2.5 miles (4km) northeast of the center. It’s easy to reach by tuk-tuk, bike, or bus. Many travelers combine it with a visit to the nearby Patuxai monument. Buses running down Lane Xang Avenue get you within walking distance. The wide road leading to the stupa was originally built for ceremonial events, and it still has a formal feel. Make sure to dress respectfully—shoulders and knees should be covered.
The most significant time to visit is during the That Luang Festival, which takes place over three days in November during the full moon. It’s the most important religious event in Laos, with processions, music, and ceremonies. Weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends often see more Lao families paying their respects.
Wat Phra That Luang, Vientiane © Gaid Kornsilapa/Shutterstock
One of the top things to do in Laos is to visit the islands of Si Phan Don, a natural attraction that offers visitors the chance to witness the stunning scenic beauty of the country and gain a glimpse into the life of its more remote rural population. Whether you're interested in cultural immersion or simply seeking breathtaking natural surroundings, Si Phan Don is a must-visit destination that won't disappoint.
The Mekong River is at its widest in Laos here, close to the Cambodian border: during the rainy season it is up to 12km (7.5 miles) across, and when the waters recede many small islands emerge. It is from this phenomenon that the Si Phan Don region takes its name, meaning “Four Thousand Islands”.
To get to the islands, you’ll first head to Nakasang, a small riverside town about 2–3 hours from Pakse by bus. From there, local boats shuttle people to the main islands—Don Khong, Don Det, and Don Khon.
Many guesthouses in Pakse can arrange transport if you’d rather keep things simple. The journey takes you through rice fields and small villages, giving you a look at everyday life in southern Laos. Once on the islands, renting a bicycle is the easiest way to get around.
November through April is the dry season, when the Mekong lowers enough to reveal sandy banks and small islands that disappear during the rains. December to February is a good window if you’re hoping to see Irrawaddy dolphins.
During the wet season (May to October), the river swells, and the waterfalls—especially Khone Phapheng—are at their most powerful. Boat rides at sunset are worth doing any time of year.
Mekong river, Laos © Shutterstock
The most evocative Khmer ruin outside of Cambodia, this rambling mountainside complex dates from the sixth to twelfth centuries. Ancient and magnificent, the complex of Wat Phu—literally “Mountain Temple”—is” located on a site that has been sacred to at least three cultures. What appears to have attracted the attention of all of these civilizations is an unusually shaped mountain behind the temple, Phu Pasak.
As you enter the complex, you can see the remains of palaces built by Champasak royalty towards the end of their dynasty, from which they viewed the annual festivities held on the full moon of the third lunar month. An east-west axial promenade passes between two rectangular baray, or bathing ponds, and leads to the base of the middle level.
Wat Phu is about 6 miles (10km) south of Champasak and can be reached from Pakse by shared van, tuk-tuk, or as part of a tour.
You can also travel by boat—there’s a regular service along the Mekong between Pakse and Champasak that takes around 3–4 hours. Once you get closer, the temple slowly comes into view against a mountain backdrop. Plan for at least half a day so you’re not rushing through the site.
If your timing lines up with the full moon in February, you can catch the annual Wat Phu Festival. It brings traditional performances, Buddhist ceremonies, and even elephant parades to the area. For a quieter experience, early morning between 7–9am is the best time to explore before groups arrive. The dry season (November–April) makes getting around the grounds much easier.
Wat Phu Vat Phou, Laos © Shutterstock
Having a traditional massage at a Lao sauna is one of the best things to do in Laos to wind down and rejuvenate after a long trek. The herbal mixtures in the steam bath (and the tea) are jealously guarded secrets. In addition to the services of major hotels, good massage parlors can be found in major cities around the country. Traditional Lao massage can be quite rigorous, so be prepared to have every part of the body worked.
You’ll find traditional Lao massage in most tourist towns like Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Vang Vieng.
Many places also have herbal saunas next door, which pair well with massage if you want the full experience. In Vientiane, Wat Sok Pa Luang offers massage in a relaxed, temple-style setting. If you prefer a more modern version, some hotels do a higher-end take with oils and spa elements.
After long travel days or treks, a massage is a great way to recover. It’s especially nice during the cooler months (November to February), when herbal saunas don’t feel quite so intense. You can usually get a massage any time of day, but if you’re visiting during peak season, it’s worth booking ahead—especially for morning sessions.
Some practitioners say it’s best to have a massage when the seasons are changing as a way to keep your energy balanced.
Massage session in Laos spa © Tong_stocker/Shutterstock
written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 01.06.2025
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Laos
