Where Is the Capital of Laos? — Discover Vientiane
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, lies on the left bank of the Mekong River, directly across from Thailand’s Nong Khai province.
Despite being the country’s political and economic hub, it remains one of the most laid-back capitals in Asia.
A Brief History of Vientiane
- 9th century – Founded as a small settlement along the Mekong
- 1560 – Declared the capital of the Kingdom of Lan Xang by King Setthathirat
- 19th century – Came under French colonial rule as part of French Indochina
- Modern era – Saw steady growth in the 2000s while preserving its peaceful charm
Over the centuries, Vientiane has endured Siamese invasions, colonial occupation, and post-war rebuilding.
Events like the ASEAN Summit (2004), Southeast Asian Games (2009), and 450th anniversary celebrations (2010) brought modern infrastructure, hotels, and a tourism boost — without losing the city’s riverside serenity.
Top Things to See and Do in Vientiane
- Patuxai Victory Monument
- Built: 1960s
- Fee: ₭3,000 (~€0.15) to climb
- Why visit: Often called the Arc de Triomphe of Laos, this monument honors those who fought for independence. Climb to the top for panoramic city views.
- Pha That Luang
- Built: 1566
- Why visit: Laos’s most sacred Buddhist monument, covered in gold and believed to house a relic of the Buddha.
- Best time: November during the That Luang Festival.
- Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
- Distance: 25 km from city center
- Highlight: Over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, including a massive reclining Buddha.
- Story: Built in 1958 by a mystic blending Hindu and Buddhist art.
- Nam Ngum Lake
- Why visit: Peaceful waters, islands, and fishing villages.
- Activities: Boat cruises, seafood tasting, and countryside exploration.
- Lao National Museum
- Location: Former French colonial building
- What’s inside: Artifacts from prehistoric Laos to the revolutionary period.
- Vientiane Night Market & Talat Sao Morning Market
- Night Market: Opens at 6 PM along the Mekong — perfect for souvenirs.
- Morning Market: Opens at 7 AM — better variety and local atmosphere.
- Taste Lao Cuisine
Must-try dishes:
- Laap – Minced meat salad with herbs & lime
- Mok Pa – Steamed fish in banana leaves
- Tam Mak Hoong – Spicy papaya salad
- Or Lam – Hearty beef stew
💡 Tip: Join a Lao cooking class — most include a guided market visit.
- Join Local Festivals
- Lao New Year (Pimai) – April 13–16, with nationwide water fights
- That Luang Festival – November pilgrimage and cultural celebration
Best Time to Visit Vientiane
| Season | Months | Weather & Travel Notes |
| Cool & Dry | Oct–Mar | Sunny, ~30°C, best time |
| Hot Season | Apr | ~35°C+, Lao New Year |
| Rainy Season | May–Aug | Heavy rains, lush scenery, fewer tourists |
How to Get to Vientiane
- By Air: Wattay International Airport connects to Bangkok, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, and other regional hubs.
- By Land: International buses from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
- By Train: Train to Nong Khai (Thailand), then cross the First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge.
Where to Stay in Vientiane
Luxury: Crowne Plaza Vientiane, Settha Palace Hotel
Boutique: Salana Boutique Hotel, Dhavara Boutique Hotel, Green Park Boutique Hotel
Budget: Barn Laos Hostel, Vientiane Boutique Villa
Pairing Vientiane in a Multi-Country Trip
Vientiane works well in an Indochina itinerary:
- Laos: Peaceful temples & Mekong sunsets
- Cambodia: Angkor Wat & Khmer heritage
- Vietnam: Bustling cities & dramatic landscapes
Final Thoughts
Vientiane may be one of Asia’s most relaxed capitals, but its mix of spiritual heritage, colonial architecture, and riverside charm makes it worth more than just a quick stop. Whether you come for a few days or as part of a regional trip, this city offers a gentle yet deeply cultural travel experience.
