Laos

When you consider the neighboring countries of Laos in Southeast Asia, they each have their own ways to promote their tourism industry. Thailand is its very own tropical island paradise; Vietnam is a bustling country which is rich in history; Cambodia has awe-inspiring Khmer temples; and Myanmar has a unique culture all of its own.

But what about the relatively unspoilt and undiscovered lands of Laos? Formerly known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Laos is a mountainous country which shares borders with Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and China.

As far as exotic tourist destinations go, Laos is a virtually forgotten setting which takes a backseat to its more popular neighbors. But this does not necessarily mean that the country has nothing to offer first-time and return visitors.

Laos as an Eco-Tourist Destination

Perhaps the distinctive edge that Laos can have over its other neighboring Southeast Asian countries is that it can be marketed as an eco-tourist destination. If you are looking for a hassle-free, no-fuss travel to a truly exotic Asian destination, then Laos is the place to be. Here is a relatively unspoiled country where you can indulge in outdoor activities like trekking, mountain climbing, caving and kayaking.

Another thing which sets Laos apart from all the other countries in the world is that it is one of the few remaining Communist countries. Although tourists were not allowed to roam the beautiful countryside up to 1988, the restrictions have been lifted and you can now safely travel to all parts of the country.

As an eco-tourist destination, some of the highlights of the places that you will get to discover in Laos are its capital city of Vientiane which boasts of a slow-paced way of life. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a must-travel, along with a detour of the mysterious Plain of Jars. If you wish to venture a bit farther out into the country, you will discover plenty of well-preserved landscapes, beautiful sceneries and picturesque sleepy towns which reflect a culture that is all Laos’ own.

The Most Notable Sightseeing Opportunities in Laos

Just like the Taj Majal is a symbolic structure in India, so is the Pha That Luang in Laos. Located in its capital Vientiane, Pha That Luang is the national symbol of Laos. Its home is the sleepy capital of Vientiane which is located on the banks of the Mekong River.

The UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang is where you can bask in the sights of numerous temples, colonial era architecture and its vibrant night market where you can shop to your heart’s content.

If you would like to go trekking, venture out into Luang Namtha which is the capital of Northern Laos. Another UNESCO World Heritage site is Champasak where there are Angkor-style Khmer temples. The Iron Age cemetery sites near Phonsavan called the Plain of Jars is another must-see, so are Si Phan Don, Viang Vieng, Vieng Xai and the Tham Nong Pava Café.

The Mekong River, which runs through the Thailand boundary site of Laos, is considered as the country’s lifeline. As you visit these top destinations, you will have a glimpse of such rawness and laid-back beauty that will take your breath away, making traveling to Laos a truly unique experience that you are not bound to forget anytime soon.