Presidential Palace, Government palace in Vientiane, Laos.
The Presidential Palace sits near the Mekong River and displays tall colonnades, shaded balconies, and French Beaux-Arts architecture across multiple levels. The structure presents itself as a large, formally designed complex with graceful details and broad facades.
Construction started in 1973 under the royal Laotian government but faced delays due to political shifts. The building was finally inaugurated in 1986 and has since served as a symbol of modern state leadership.
The building merges French architectural styles with traditional Laotian design elements, reflecting the country's cultural blend. Visitors can observe this mixture from the outside when viewing the structure from nearby streets.
The palace interior is closed to visitors, but the exterior and grounds can be viewed from Lane Xang Avenue or Quai Fa Ngum. The best views come from the public streets where you can explore the facade and surroundings from outside.
The structure appears on the 50,000 kip Laotian banknote and lights up at night, making it a striking landmark on the skyline. This visibility on currency demonstrates its importance as a national symbol for the country.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
