Vientiane, also known as Viang Chan, is the capital and largest city of Laos. It is located on the banks of the Mekong River in central Laos and has a population of around 800,000 people. Vientiane is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.
The area where Vientiane is currently situated has been inhabited since at least 1000 BC by different ethnic groups such as the Khmu and Mon-Khmer tribes. However, it was not until the late 9th century that Vientiane became an important settlement when it was conquered by King Jayavarman II of the Khmer Empire. In the 14th century, Vientiane was part of the Lan Xang kingdom, which would eventually become modern-day Laos. The city flourished under the rule of King Setthathirat in the 16th century and became an important centre for Buddhism.
In the late 19th century, Vientiane came under French colonial rule and became the capital of French Indochina until their withdrawal in 1954. During this time, many buildings were constructed in a blend of Lao and French architecture, giving Vientiane a unique charm. Some notable examples include Patuxai (a Lao version of the Arc de Triomphe) and Wat Pha That Luang (a Buddhist stupa influenced by French design).
Vientiane has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. The city is filled with temples, traditional markets, and colonial buildings that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Some must-see attractions include:
Wat Sisaket: One of the oldest temples in Vientiane, known for its impressive collection of over 6,800 Buddha statues.
That Dam (Black Stupa): A mysterious ancient stupa believed to be guarded by a seven-headed serpent.
COPE Visitor Centre: An informative museum dedicated to educating visitors about the impact of unexploded bombs from the Vietnam War on Laos.
Talat Sao (Morning Market): A bustling market where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to delicious street food.
Dragon Boat Racing Festival in August. In 2024 dragon boast race on the Mekong River at Vientiane on 20 August 2024.
I filmed this dragon boat racing festival at Sri Chiangmai on the south bank of the Mekong River from Vientiane in the background. 20 August 2024 is the date of the Dragon Boat Racing Festival, one of the best tourist attractions in Vientiane.
Food
No visit to Vientiane is complete without trying the local cuisine. Lao food is influenced by its neighbouring countries, Thailand and Vietnam, but has its own unique flavors and dishes. Some popular dishes include:
Laap: A spicy minced meat salad made with fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
Tam Mak Houng: A refreshing green papaya salad with a tangy chilli-lime dressing.
Khao Poon: A hearty rice noodle soup served with various meats, vegetables, and herbs.
Sticky Rice: The staple food of Laos, typically eaten by hand with other dishes.
With a growing expat community, Vientiane also offers a variety of international cuisines such as French, Italian, and Japanese.
One of my favourte food/travel videos ever. I videoed it at the Vientiane Morning Food markets near the main Vientiane bus station.
Vientiane may be a small city, but it has so much to offer. From its fascinating history to its vibrant culture and delicious food, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of Southeast Asia. So why not plan a trip to Vientiane and experience the charm and beauty of Laos yourself? We guarantee you won't be disappointed! Remember to try some sticky rice while you're there - it's simply irresistible. Happy travels!
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