Islands near Vientiane

Answer: The symbol of the Lao capital is the golden stupa Pha Thatluang, built in the XVI century on the site of an ancient Khmer temple. The Wat Siem Buddhist complex with its gilded bas-reliefs and 84-meter stupa demonstrates a mixture of Lao and Thai styles. On the Mekong waterfront stands the Patusai Arc de Triomphe, created in the 1960s from the concrete left over from the construction of the airport.

Answer: Wat Si Saket is the only temple that survived the Siamese invasion of 1828, with a unique gallery of 6840 niches with Buddhist figurines. The Royal temple of Ho Phra Keo XVI century keeps the legendary Emerald Buddha, now located in Bangkok. The architectural ensemble of the Presidential Palace combines French colonial style with traditional Lao elements.

Answer: In the Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) children will see more than 200 giant concrete sculptures of deities and mythical creatures created in the 1950s. The National Museum of Laos History offers interactive exhibitions about the ancient kingdoms of Lansang and Champasac. In the evening, families gather at the fountains in Nam Fu Square with lights and street performances.

Answer: The view of the sunset over the Mekong from the terrace of Wat Chan Temple is a favorite angle of photographers. The gilded gates of the That Dam Stupa of the XV century create a spectacular contrast with the dark foundation stone. The colorful streets of Ban Anou have preserved the charm of French colonial architecture with carved wooden balconies.

Answer: According to legend, under the stupa of Tat Dam lives a seven-headed naga, guarding the city from troubles. Legend has it that the construction of Pha Thatluang began after a monk saw a shining pillar of light here. The temple of Wat Ong Teu Mahavihan houses an 8-meter bronze statue of Buddha, cast by order of King Sethathirat in 1560.

Answer: The COPE Exhibition Gallery explores the aftermath of the Secret War through art objects made of unexploded ordnance. The private museum Lao Textiles presents rare examples of weaving of the XIX century with traditional patterns. The abandoned temple of Wat Issar in the jungle preserved frescoes with images of Buddhist jataks.