5 Must See Attractions in Vientiane

Located just 25kms from Vientiane city centre the Buddha Park locally known as Xien Khuan is home to over 200 religion oriented stone carvings; taking centre stage is the 40 metre tall reclining image of Buddha. The park was built way back in 1958 by a monk who was a scholar in both Buddhism and Hinduism; this fact is reflected in the rather exotic mix of religious artefacts located throughout the park. The park is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm and promises to be quite a thrill for all culture buffs.

That Luang is the Vientiane Great Stupa; it is an iconic attraction and one of the country's most stunning creations that dates back to the 16th century. That Luang is a golden temple that is much larger in size than the general stupas found in the country. Complete with a set of impressive turrets the compound looks more like a fortress than a temple. Standing at a height of 148 feet is a stupa right in the middle of the complex. The temple is only 4kms from the city centre and is accessible via a fun and short tuk tuk ride; in fact you may want to consider the immense convenience of booking central Vientiane service apartments. The newest rage in modern accommodation an apartment stay offers all the comforts of home and conveniences of a conventional hotel. Within the Vientiane city centre close to the Somerset Vientiane you can rent bicycles; these are excellent options for relishing the fine weather and some invigorating exercise as you peddle the 4km short distance to That Luang.

The Patuxai Victory Monument is a grand structure that is established as an iconic landmark in Vientiane. Reflecting the same stylings of the Arc de Triumph of Paris this huge arc is marked with images of Hindu Gods. It is completed with five towers that reflect traditional Laotian designs. The huge monument is located within the centre of beautiful Patuxai Park which is a favoured environ for spending an evening of rest and relaxation amidst natural beauty. Access to the top of the tower is available by climbing the stairs or taking the elevator, either way the views promise to be quite stunning.

This huge market is located along the Vientiane River Front. A stroll at night along this area will take you to the market which cannot be missed for its iconic red roofs and throngs of busy tourist – enjoying some very satisfying retail therapy. Stall owners start setting up their goods as the sun starts to set and you can purchase just about anything from electronics to paintings to clothes and accessories. Make an evening of it and head out to the promenade in time to catch the stunning sunset while the foodie in you will be well serviced at the many eateries of the area.

This gorgeous Buddhist temple located in the middle of the city dates all the way back to 1565. Wat Ho is most famous as being home to Thailand's famous Emerald Buddha – after the Laotian King stole it from the Thai's. The statue of course was re-taken and sits within the Wat Phra Kaew of Bangkok. Although, Wat Ho is still referred to as the 'Temple of the Emerald Buddha' and is well worth a visit for its stunning surroundings and design.