Explore the hidden gems of Laos, a country that may be small and less developed compared to its neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, yet still holds an abundance of authentic treasures. Indochina Charm Travel offers you a guide for a one-week visit to Laos, including tips on activities and weather to make the most of your trip without being affected by mass tourism.
Is Laos worth the detour for a one-week circuit?
Undoubtedly, Laos is the least developed country in Southeast Asia, which results in poor roads and tourist infrastructure, making it quite challenging to arrange transportation. However, for travelers seeking ethereal nature far from the masses, it’s a magnificent country to explore.
Laos also offers the opportunity to encounter numerous ethnic groups and discover exquisite religious structures, particularly those of Buddhism. The locals always wear a smile, welcoming visitors to a warm experience off the beaten path that will leave unforgettable memories.
When is the best time to spend a week in Laos?
Laos, like other countries in the Indochinese peninsula, is best visited between October and March due to the pleasant temperatures during this period.
However, being a tropical country with no access to the sea, the summer months from April to June can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching 35-37 degrees.
The rainy season starts in June and lasts till September, with sudden and heavy showers, but surprisingly, it doesn’t rain as much as expected. For those seeking a serene and peaceful trip to Laos, a one-week tour during the rainy season can be an ideal time to explore this beautiful country.
What to see and do for one week in Laos?
Laos is a relatively small country, with the northern and central regions being the most noteworthy in terms of minority ethnic groups and stunning landscapes. Even if you have one week to travel in Laos, it’s impossible to see and do everything due to the country’s inefficient transportation system.
This article focuses on recommendations for visiting and activities in the popular tourist circuit of Laos that includes cities such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and possibly Xieng Khuang. Depending on your starting point, certain activities may or may not be feasible.
Tak Bat – Alms Giving Ceremony
When visiting Laos, one experience that simply cannot be missed is the almsgiving ceremony. This daily ritual takes place in the early morning hours in Luang Prabang. Monks dressed in bright saffron yellow attire form a single-file line and walk through the streets, collecting alms from religious followers at various pagodas throughout the city.
This Theravada Buddhist tradition has sparked controversy due to the presence of tourists, which has threatened its peacefulness. As such, travelers are kindly asked to be discreet and respectful of this highly spiritual event, which holds great value to the local Laotian community. Without a doubt, attending Tak Bat should be at the top of any list of must-do experiences in Laos.
Stroll through the old town of Luang Prabang
Explore the charming old town of Luang Prabang during your sojourn in Laos – a must-do on your itinerary. Admire the exquisite temples and antique wooden and bamboo houses reflecting the Laotian architectural style. Visit the Wat Sene, Wat Xiengthong, Wat Ho Pha and over 80 other temples encompassed in this magnificent city!
Experience the national museum, which was previously the Royal Palace, boasting a harmonious blend of French and Laotian art that narrates the history of Laos. Traverse through the Haw Pha Bang pagoda and Mount Phousi to discover the most extensive cultural and religious center in Laos, brimming with a plethora of wonders.
Relish a cold Lao beer on the Mekong riverbanks and cherish the famous sunset after a fantastic day of exploration. Cap off the day by purchasing some traditional and budget-friendly souvenirs at the night market.
See Luang Prabang Tour one week !
Cruise on the Mekong to Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Falls
When discussing the cruise to Pak Ou caves, our minds often focus on the hundreds of statues discovered there. However, for those who enjoy playing with light, this cruise offers even more beauty during the journey along the Mekong River. Along the way, travelers are treated to authentic scenes of daily life and breathtakingly picturesque landscapes that are perfect for photography.
It would be remiss not to mention the Kuang Si waterfalls, situated amidst lush vegetation that perfectly harmonizes with the towering trees and low-lying grass. This oasis of coolness beckons visitors to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water that is impossible to resist.
Cooking class and morning market visit
Laos is a predominantly Buddhist country with a rich heritage of pagodas, some of which have gained worldwide renown. While visiting these landmarks is a must-do activity, it would be a missed opportunity to limit your experience to just that. To add some diversity to your itinerary during your one week stay in Laos, we suggest donning an apron and delving into the kingdom of a million elephants’ gastronomy.
Luang Prabang’s culinary expertise will leave you amazed with its expert blend of aromatic plants, spices, and traditional dishes of ethnic groups living in Laos. We recommend taking a quick trip to a local market in the morning to prepare for this fantastic culinary adventure.
Bike, kayak, tubing and hot air balloon ride in Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is a must-visit location in Laos, situated halfway between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. It offers a valuable break from the typical pagodas and temples that Laos is known for.
Take a bike and explore the idyllic countryside of Vang Vieng. The landscape features rice fields that stretch out to meet the foot of the limestone mountains. You’ll come across a maze of small paths that wind through the Laotian countryside, offering a glimpse into the timeless lives of the locals. Pedal through the rice fields, cross rivers, and visit traditional villages for a change of scenery that is guaranteed to delight.
Are you enticed by the refreshing kayak rides offered by the Nam Song River? Are you feeling too lazy or is the heat too much to handle for rowing? Fret not, indulge in the lazy pleasure of tubing while floating along the current and admiring the beautiful karst landscapes along the river. It’s the perfect moment of relaxation!
If you’re not keen on kayaking or cycling, and the view from below isn’t enough to fully appreciate the rural beauty of Vang Vieng, why not try a hot air balloon ride? Like a bird soaring through the skies, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the rice fields, rivers, and countless limestone mountains without breaking a sweat.
Plain of Jars and Phonsavanh Market
While traveling through Laos for a week, the challenging transportation and road conditions can make it difficult to navigate. However, we highly recommend a magnificent route that will leave you in awe, just as we were. The Plain of Jars, located over 100 meters above sea level, is one of the greatest enigmas in Laos.
For more than 2000 years, numerous stone jars have remained a mystery, as it is still unknown how and why they were placed there. While embarking on this journey, you can also take a glimpse into the villages of ethnic groups like Thai and H’Mong, and explore the central market of Phonsavanh.
That Luang – Iconic monument of Laos
This magnificent stupa, easily identifiable from a distance, represents not only Laos as a whole but also the city of Vientiane in particular. With its origins dating back to the 16th century, That Luang draws in numerous monks from across the country every year for the That Luang festival, where they participate in various Buddhist rituals. A visit to the heart of the Laotian capital is incomplete without seeing this proud monument, and a week spent in Laos Tours would be incomplete without this experience.
Laos Triumphal Arch
The Patuxai-Victory Gate in the capital of Laos is a must-see destination. It was constructed to pay tribute to the freedom fighters who led the country to independence. The gate’s resemblance to our very own national Arc de Triomphe is striking! During your visit, you can climb to the top to witness a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire district, which includes the presidential palace of Laos.
COPE center – Witness to the atrocity of war
Similar to Vietnam, Laos has also suffered greatly as a result of war, making it one of the most affected and devastated countries in Asia. The COPE center, established in 1997, strives to raise global awareness about this tragic event and offer prosthetics and devices to those impacted. Although it may be outside the typical itinerary for a one-week trip to Laos, a visit to this center can provide a comprehensive understanding of the country, which is more widely recognized for its joyous spirit than its sorrowful past.
Buddha Park
Established in 1958, this park boasts a vast collection of sculptures in all shapes and sizes. Take some time to unwind in this picturesque garden as you delve into a unique aspect of Asian culture: religious syncretism! Prepare to be amazed at the sight of Hindu and Buddhist statues coexisting in perfect harmony. This visit offers a thought-provoking experience, perfect for meditation and reflection.
This piece of writing doesn’t exhaustively enumerate all the delightful attractions Laos has to offer. In fact, this marvelous country is replete with myriad options to quench your thirst for a refreshing change of environment and tranquility. We trust that we have left you intrigued and craving for more. For the discerning globetrotters out there, if this one country doesn’t suffice, a fusion itinerary involving other destinations in the vicinity is always an option within reach.
If you choose to embark on a one-week tour in Laos, you’ll be presented with the chance to partake in a journey that also includes exploring adjacent countries of your preference such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
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