Laos Route: Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang
This interactive route covers three major cities in Laos: Vientiane, the quiet capital; Luang Prabang, known for its temples and natural beauty; and Vang Vieng, an adventure destination. The route connects these distinct urban centers that showcase different aspects of Laotian culture and attractions.
- Distance
- 312.7 km
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Vientiane
- End
- Luang Prabang
- Stops
- 3
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Vientiane — Vientiane is the capital of Laos, where French colonial buildings blend with Buddhist temples. The golden That Luang Temple, built in the 16th century, is considered the country's…
- Vang Vieng — Vang Vieng is a picturesque town in Laos, located on the Nam Song River between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. It is known for its karst mountains, blue lagoons, caves, and outdoor…
- Luang Prabang — Luang Prabang is a historic city in northern Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its unique blend of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture. Situated on a…
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Taxi from Vientiane airport to city center costs 65,000 KIP. Can be called via Maxim app.
- Tip
- Purchase local SIM cards at airport upon arrival; prices are very affordable.
- Tip
- Patuxai (Arc de Triomphe) admission: 30,000 KIP. Viewpoint at top. Open daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Tip
- Phathat Luang temple admission: 30,000 KIP. It is Laos's main national shrine and appears on the national emblem.
- Transport
- Buddha Park is 23 km from Vientiane city center. Taxi costs 216,000 KIP, journey ~40 minutes. Park admission: 60,000 KIP.
- Transport
- Train ticket from Vientiane to Luang Prabang costs 340,000 KIP for ~50 minute journey.
- Tip
- Wat Xieng Thong temple admission: 30,000 KIP. Built in 1560 by Lao king. Considered among the most beautiful temples in Laos.
- Tip
- Phu Si Temple Hill admission: 30,000 KIP. 380 steps to summit. Viewpoint overlooks city and two rivers (Nam Khan and Mekong). Best visited during midday to avoid crowds.
- Tip
- Mekong River boat tours: negotiate price at riverside. Initial offer ~150,000 KIP; can bargain down to 100,000 KIP.
- Food
- Night Market in Luang Prabang offers street food. Sample dinner: fish + grilled chicken skewers 195,000 KIP; coconut 40,000 KIP; beer 35,000 KIP.
- Save money
- Motorbike rental in Luang Prabang: 200,000 KIP per day (more economical than 360,000 KIP taxi for day trips to Kuang Si Falls).
- Tip
- Kuang Si Falls admission: 60,000 KIP (includes golf cart transfer). Water appears bright turquoise due to limestone and calcium carbonate. ~50 min ride from Luang Prabang.