Vientiane, Administrative capital near Mekong River, Laos.
Vientiane is the administrative capital of Laos, situated along the banks of the Mekong River. The city combines flat alluvial plains with scattered limestone hills and contains several artificial reservoirs nearby.
The city originated as a Khmer center with a Hindu temple in the 11th century, before becoming the capital of French Laos in 1899. This foundation set the course for its role as an administrative and cultural hub ever since.
Buddhist temples shape the cityscape, and That Luang serves as the religious center and national symbol of the country. These temples are places where you can observe the daily spiritual life of residents.
Wattay International Airport connects the city to regional destinations, while tuk-tuks and buses provide transportation in the urban area. Most visitors navigate by foot or public transit for getting around.
The Nam Ngum Reservoir features floating restaurants serving local fish specialties like pa daek and koy paa. These places offer insight into the region's traditional eating habits.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
