Laos

The territory covers 237,000 square kilometers (91,500 square miles) between Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and China. The Mekong flows through western provinces and forms natural borders in sections, while mountain ranges in the north reach elevations above 9,200 feet (2,800 meters). Tropical forests cover more than half the land area and shelter elephants, gibbons and rare bird species. Rice terraces define the valleys, and villages spread along river courses and road networks.

The Kingdom of Lan Xang emerged in the 14th century under Fa Ngum and controlled trade routes between China and Southeast Asia. After its fragmentation in the 18th century, regional kingdoms divided the territory before French colonial rule began in 1893. Independence came in 1953, followed by decades of armed conflict during the Indochina War and intensive bombing campaigns in the 1960s. The Lao Revolutionary Front assumed power in 1975 and established a socialist republic, introducing economic reforms since the 1980s.

Theravada Buddhism structures social organization throughout the nation, with monasteries serving as educational centers and religious festivals marking the calendar. Most citizens practice daily rituals and support the monastic community through almsgiving. Ethnic minorities in highland areas maintain animist traditions alongside Buddhist influences, preserving distinct languages and craft techniques. French colonial architecture blends with traditional wooden dwellings in urban centers, while rural communities uphold collective labor practices during rice cultivation and ceremonial gatherings.

Travelers require visas available on arrival at international border crossings or in advance through embassies. The dry season from November to April offers favorable travel conditions with reduced rainfall and accessible roads. Currency exchange occurs at licensed banks and exchange offices, with US dollars and Thai baht widely accepted. Buses and boats connect major towns, while domestic flights reach remote provinces. Health precautions include vaccinations for hepatitis and malaria prophylaxis in rural areas.

The Plain of Jars in Xiengkhouang Province contains more than 2,000 prehistoric stone vessels whose origin and purpose remain unresolved. Some of these megaliths weigh up to 14 tons and date from approximately 500 BCE to 500 CE. Archaeologists suspect connections to burial rituals, with human remains and pottery discovered in surrounding areas. The site still bears traces of bombing campaigns, and clearance efforts continue to create safe visitor zones.

Inception: 1949

Capital city: Vientiane

Part of: Southeast Asia

Shares border with: Myanmar, Cambodia, People's Republic of China, Thailand, Vietnam

Website: https://tourismlaos.org

GPS coordinates: 20.01711,103.37825

Latest update: November 30, 2025 17:41