Lao National Museum, National museum in central Vientiane, Laos
The Lao National Museum is housed in a colonial building with multiple levels displaying materials about prehistoric times, traditional ways of life, and modern national development. The rooms contain archaeological finds, artworks, and documents spanning many centuries.
The building was originally constructed in 1925 as the French colonial governor's residence and converted into a museum after 1975. The collections have grown to document the major phases of Laotian history and change over time.
The museum displays objects that shaped how Laotian people understand their own history and identity. Visitors encounter ancient sculptures, traditional instruments, and photographs that show how communities lived and expressed themselves across different periods.
Visitors should store bags in lockers at the entrance and must remove shoes before entering the exhibition spaces. Conservative clothing is expected out of respect for the place's standards.
The upper floor features extensive documentation about the impact of unexploded ordnance that remains in Laos after past military operations. This collection shows how these remnants continue to affect the land and people today.
GPS coordinates: 17.96694,102.60722
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43
Laos features a mix of Buddhist temples, waterfalls, and caves that shape the country's character. Temple complexes such as Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang and Vat Phou in Champasak display religious art and architecture spanning different periods. Natural areas showcase powerful waterfalls like Kuang Si, cave systems like Tham Kong Lo, and mountain ranges offering views over the Mekong River. From Mount Phousi to the Plain of Jars near Phonsavan, Laos combines spiritual sites with natural landscapes that reveal the country's history and environment. Visitors can explore caves where communities once sheltered, temples decorated with intricate details, and rivers flowing through limestone formations.
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Patuxai
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New Laos National Stadium
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Haw Phra Kaew
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Wat Si Saket
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Wat Si Muang
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That Dam
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Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan
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Talat Sao
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Presidential Palace
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Wat Hai Sok
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Don Chan Palace
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Sacred Heart Cathedral, Vientiane
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Wat Chom Mani
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Wat Inpeng
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Vientiane Jamia Mosque
311 m
Wat Mi Chai Thung
16.3 km
Vientiane Art Museum
8.3 km
Wat That Luang Neua
3.2 km
Wat Mixay
282 m
King Sayasetthathirath Statue
3.2 km
Wat Haysoke
279 m
Wat That Luang Tai
3.2 km
Wat Xien Ngeun
427 m
Hor Thammasapha
3.2 km
Wat Chan in Vientiane
534 m
Lao National Culture Hall
98 m
Patuxay Monument
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