Tourist Attractions & Monuments Laos

His real name is Wat Maha Visunarath. Built in 1512 by order of King Visunarat, Vat Visoun is only the brick version of the original wooden vat, burnt by the Black Chinese Pavilions in 1887. Moreover, several statues of Buddha that it housed can now be found in the National Museum. It was rebuilt during the reign of Sakkarin Kamsuk at the end of the 19th century. It has a rather sober style to which a high ceiling gives a noble appearance. In the entrance, white marble decorates the floor, while the interior is covered with black marble, polished by time. The windows are similar to those seen in the temples of Angkor in Cambodia. The vat is home to some very beautiful religious works of art. Pi May ceremonies end here, in front of That Phathoum, the great stupa of the vat. Its popular name is That Mak Mo, which means "watermelon stupa", in reference to the shape of its dome. The spectacle of the Phou Nieu Nia Nieu (mythological ancestors of the Laotian people) closes the festivities to the sound of drums. Observe attentively the serene face of the Great Buddha inside the vihan (worship room). According to the legend, no artist had been able to give the right expression to this Buddha's face. Many tried but in vain, none seemed able to reproduce what he thought was beautiful and right. One day, while the craftsmen were taking a nap, a divine act was performed, and when they returned, the Buddha's face bore the expression we now know.

One of the most beautiful viewpoints of Vang Vieng. Take the road towards the Blue Lagoon, after a few kilometers, on the right, a sign will tell you to turn. You will arrive at a hut where young Laotians will make you pay the entrance fee. The ascent is rough and in some places is like climbing. Not to be done if you are afraid of heights or if you are accompanied by children. Once at the top, the reward is great: the view on the rice fields and the surrounding rocky peaks is simply magnificent.

Description of travel to Laos by an climbing fan. Besides the grimpette info, a presentation of the country, photos, and a multitude of addresses that this French has tested…

This park is home to an eight-metre bronze statue of Chao Anouvong, former king of Laos, just in front of the presidential palace. Inaugurated at the beginning of November 2011 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the capital, it represents the former king turned towards his Thai neighbours across the river. He has his right hand outstretched and his left hand resting on his sword. This posture would be, for some, a sign of pride and resistance of the Laotian people against the Thai nation. The last king of Laos fought against neighbouring Siam in the early 19th century.

Vat Aham means "monastery of the blossoming heart". It was built at the beginning of the 19th century (around 1822) by King Mang Tha Tourath, close to the main altar of the city's geniuses: Ho Seua Meuang. Located next to Wat Visounnarath and That Makmo, Wat Aham is today a relatively quiet place. Two tigers watch over the pagoda, and the statues of the guardians Ravana and Hanuman - central temple figures from the Ramayana, the Indian epic, and its Laotian counterpart, the Phalak Phalam - stand at the southern and eastern corners of the front porch. Unlike a number of other pagodas in Luang Prabang, there is no external decoration on the walls of the porch. Also noteworthy: the complex houses various stupas and two bodhi trees (banyan or Bo tree) that house the protector of the royal spirit, the Haw Phi Khon. It was under a similar tree that Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya (India). The interior of the sim is colourful, with red and gold pillars, and the walls are covered with paintings depicting Buddhist precepts and scenes from the city's history.

During the 19th century, and before the Vat Mai succeeded him, the Vat Aham served as the residence of the Sangkhalat, the Supreme Patriarch of Buddhism; and it was considered the centre of the cult of the guardians of Luang Prabang, the Devata Luang spirits: Phou Gneu and Gna gneu, whose masks and dances are always present in ceremonies, particularly on the occasion of the Lao New Year.

The Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre is a center for the exchange and demonstration of handicrafts of the different ethnic minorities of Laos (Akha, H'mong, Khamou, Mien Yao, Lanten, Tai Dam and Tai Lue). The aim is to promote the handicraft by bringing financial aid to the populations to preserve the customs. The visit is not very long, but worth the detour (if only because you participate in the preservation of traditions). The store is located on Sakkarine Road. A guide can be booked on request by e-mail.

The triangle of Tham Sang, about 13 km north of Vang Vieng, consists of 4 easily accessible caves: Tham Sang, Tham Hoi, Tham Loup, and Tham Nam. You will be able to discover this group of caves close to each other during a half-day excursion.

To get there, follow the road for about 15 minutes and watch for the sign on the left. Follow a dirt track for a little less than a kilometre to the bridge and cross over to the other bank. Leave your bike or scooter in the parking lot before crossing. In the rainy season, the crossing is done by pirogue.

Tham Sang is on the right, inside the temple of a centenary village. It is high, but shallow (40 m) and above all sacred. Inside, one can distinguish a stalactite in the shape of an elephant's head, which gives the cave its name, and another in the shape of its body, a "footprint" of the Buddha, a dragon's head, and so on. Statues of Buddha are scattered there.

From Tham Sang, you can walk to two caves located in the red sandstone cliffs; which can be seen behind the rice fields (about 15 minutes walk). The first one, located at ground level, is Tham Hoi. The holiest of the caves welcomes you with a Buddha's head at the entrance. It is dark and very deep (several kilometers), so you will need a flashlight, provided on site, to visit it. As the lamps are not always very powerful, it is recommended to bring your own, or to use the light of your mobile phone. Allow a good hour's walk. Quite impressive. Just above, is at the top of a very difficult path (you have to climb in some places) in the heart of tropical vegetation, the Tham Loup. This second open-air cave is famous for its stalactites.

Tham Nam. South of Tham Hoi, to find your way, follow the music! Indeed, the place is very busy, especially by groups on organized tours who take their lunch break there. It is also the arrival point of a large zip line circuit. It is usually visited after visiting Tham Sang, Tham Loup and Tham Noi. This concludes the excursion. It is 500 m long and can be explored on foot during the dry season; during the rainy season, you will explore it on board an inner tube (remember to bring a headlamp, although you will normally be provided with one at the entrance). You will visit the cave holding a rope...

This 18-metre golden stupa, rebuilt after its destruction during the Vietnam War, is the city's holiest religious site. It is located at the top of the stairs overlooking the city. About thirty monks and novices live in the adjacent monastery. You will also see a 15-metre high Buddha statue built in 2010. The view of Oudomxay is really superb as the sun sets. To get there from the main street, take the stairs up the hill. It takes about 10 minutes to walk up the hill.

Local people used to go to this area to collect food and firewood for their daily consumption. During the Indochina war the cave was used as a shelter from bombing. People who took shelter in the cave prayed for protection that would deflect the bombs. Even today, when visiting the cave, you can ask for protection or any other wish.

Located 25 km west of Vang Vieng, on the other side of the Nam Song River, Pha Puak Cave is surrounded by the Pha Daeng Mountains, large karst formations. Its access is somewhat difficult because the cave is high up. This small cave, 20 meters long, is supposed to have sheltered a hermit talking with the spirits. It is possible to go there by scooter or bicycle for the brave ones. If Tham Pha Puak is nothing special, the walk to reach it is pleasant, it is a good place to picnic and to swim.

The Nam Xay Top View is the most famous viewpoint of Vang Vieng, and therefore the most frequented. The ascent, which takes about half an hour, is relatively easy, except for the last few meters which require some climbing. At the top, platforms have been installed to enjoy the spectacular view. What makes the place so popular is the installation of a big motorcycle on each side allowing to make absolutely amazing souvenir pictures! If you have time to visit only one viewpoint, this is it!

Not far from the Blue Lagoon 1, the Blue Lagoon number 2 is a large pool in the middle of vast green spaces, with tables and benches, suitable for picnics. A diving board located at a height of about 5-6 meters allows visitors to have a little thrill. There are some basic food stands at the entrance to the park. Blue Lagoon 4, 5 and 6 are more remote than the others, have fewer structures, and are open seasonally. You will have to cross dirt roads to get there.

The building is built in the pure local style: single-covering roof, carved and gilded wooden pediment, round and white pillars and gilded frescoes on a black background. It was built in 1758 during the reign of Sotikakuman. It has not been renovated, its pagoda is in a rather faded state, but it is nonetheless devoid of charm. One will notice the ceiling with traditional stencils, as well as the representations of Buddha present in the vihan. This temple is particularly animated in the afternoon: the young people of the district come to play there in company of the monks.

The entrance to the vat is located on the northeast side of Mount Phousi, opposite the former Royal Palace. The "bamboo forest" monastery was founded in 1861 by Phagna Si Mahan Nam, during the reign of Chantharath. Its wall paintings of the XIXth illustrate the miracle of Jamboupati, a prince too full of his person in front of which Buddha appeared like a king in all his majesty in order to give him a lesson of humility. If this small temple seems neglected, even abandoned - it has not been renovated -, it comes back to life during the festival season.

The Vat Phra Bat Tai, or "Buddha's footprint monastery", was built in the 15th century. Its recent vihan (room of worship) is undoubtedly of Thai inspiration (Lanna style, the former royal capital, today Chiang Mai). In 1960, its restoration was entrusted to the Sino-Vietnamese community. The Chinese-style entrance portico dates from 1970. To the right of it, the prasat is in Khmer style. The southern footprint of Buddha's foot is worthy of special veneration.

On the road to Paksane, turn right at the line of km 25. This hps salty lake une clarity. All around, tanks heated by fires from the ground, are sheltered under thatched roofs. Water evaporates slowly, leaving only salt in tanks. The process is archaic and this spectacle of another age gives instead a kind of magic. The salt is stored in small barns. Each family of workers has its own and compensation is determined according to the weight of its harvest.

This private tourist company has a network of agencies located in different strategic points in Laos (supported by an NGO involved in school development). Location north of the village. A priori effective organization. Hiking or various nautical activities (canoeing). An affordable individual fare is achieved for groups of up to four people.

Count US $ 15 (per day per person) for a group of seven or more, against US $ 33 for a single person! Daily rates are decreasing in reverse of the number of days of excursion.

28 km from Oudom Xai, near the village of Muang La on the Phongsaly road. To access the hot springs, it is a two-minute walk south along a trail along the river. The water reaches temperatures around 45°C. The villagers bathe there mainly in winter, so as not to have to heat water and thus save money.

This site will be able to be the object of a one day walk in the surroundings of Oudomxay. Several small waterfalls are scattered along the route, with rivers to cross with the help of various suspension bridges to finally reach the platform in front of Tad Nam Kat. The visit of the waterfalls is organized in partnership with the Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort (inquire on the spot or on the website). Many other activities are proposed in this beautiful forest: zip line, treks, camping and many other sports activities.

The road leading to it crosses beautiful landscapes of rice fields and karst structures. This cave seems slightly larger than others in the area and there are fewer facilities. It is high-ceilinged and very long; it houses a gilded bronze Buddha in a reclining position. The locals gather here for the Lao New Year. A swim in the cool Blue Lagoon 1 is recommended before a snack under the shade of the trees.

This cave can be reached by going through a Hmong village. About 2 km deep, this dark cave looks like a long tunnel strewn with stalactites and stalagmites, a flashlight is necessary. A basin formed by an underground river is about 800 meters from the entrance. It is best to visit it at the end of the rainy season when the level is ideal for swimming. Keep in mind that you will often have water up to your waist as you walk through the cave. It is advisable to be accompanied by a guide, as it is easy to get lost.

These 2 caves are located 4 km from the city, on the road to Tham Phou Kham. Tham Ang Ngeun is a narrow cave where you sometimes have to crawl. Bring a lamp. At 20 minutes from the entrance of the cave, there is a small lake full of catfish. To reach nearby Tham Jinally, you have to climb about 20 m to reach this cave, which is quite high but shallow. The rocks are shaped like animals: pythons, elephant heads... Bats have taken up residence there.

If you make a stopover in Luang Namtha for several days, it is probably to make a trek in the Nam Ha National Park, declared a national protected area in 1993 by the government, covering an area of 2,210 km2. It is one of the largest reserves in the country. Mainly covered by the jungle, three rivers cross it: Nam Tha, Nam Fa and Nam Long. There are more than 288 species of birds and 33 species of mammals. However, it has been many years since tigers and elephants have been seen here, as these species are primarily a threat to crops and the safety of local people. The Nam Ha protected area is home to many villages of more than 40 different ethnicities. Numerous ecotourism projects involving local people are set up to preserve this exceptional fauna and flora, allowing them to earn an income while becoming aware of the need to protect the environment.

Chang, a wildlife drama, a silent black and white documentary film made in 1927 by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack (directors who collaborated on King Kong's film). It follows the life of Kru, a peasant farmer living in the middle of the jungle of Nam Ha and having to fight every day, between tigers and elephants, for the survival of his family. The film was made without faking, in a natural environment, and the close-ups of the animals are exceptional. To be seen.

Set up in Laos since 1996, Gilles Maurer and Sébastien Duffillot decided to set up a non-profit association in 2001 to safeguard the last elephants in Laos: Kindness. In 2002, they organised a 1300-km-long caravan with elephants across Laos to raise public awareness about the threat of extinction hanging over the pachyderms. Desiring to share this unique experience with elephants, the founders of kindness create, in partnership with Lao Travel Agency Green Discovery Laos, "Elephant Adventures": circuits for lovers of nature and adventure who want to discover the "mount of kings" in the heart of the most secret Asian. Elephant Adventures has been specialising in elephant solidaires since 2007 and offers 2 to 5 day tours in northern Laos. These treks lead you through the region of Hongsa (between Luang Prabang and the Thai border), the original land of the elephants and their end in the province of Sayaboury. These hikes ensure an authentic encounter with the elephant through the learning of "cornaquage": preparation, conduct, pansage and bath of the elephant. The natural surroundings crossed are varied, preserved and exclusively operated by Elephant Adventures. No chance of crossing other travellers on routes! Elephant Adventures releases its turnover to the veterinary programme conducted by kindness (www.elefantasia.org) and tries, through a responsible approach, to promote the development of local tourism by perpetuating the tradition of "cornaquage" in its original area.

The Tad Fane Waterfall, is located within the Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area (NBCA). It is probably the highest in Laos; it is made up of two arms plunging more than 120m. Please be aware that swimming is not permitted on the site. A sporty trek on a very steep and slippery dirt road - to be avoided during the rainy season! - will take you to the top of this waterfall: splendid view! It is possible to cross the site in the air using a zip line (about 40 US$). People prone to vertigo should refrain!

The impressive Kong Lor cave is located in the protected forest of Hin Boun, 170 km north of Thakhek. It stretches over 7 km in this central region of Laos and is one of the geological wonders of Southeast Asia. Stalactites, limestone formations, and high ceilings (from 10 to 90 m high) make this flooded cave a site not to be missed. The best time to go there is during the dry season between November and April.

Indeed, the Nam Hin Boun river flows through the cave, making it accessible only by boat (pirogue). Inside it is dark (and cool), most of the trip will be in near darkness and only the boatman's lamp will light up the immensity of the cave. A few minutes after departure, you will be taken off the boat. You will walk for a short while in a well-lit part of the cave where you can admire the abstract forms of stalactites and stalagmites. Outside the cave, you will sail through a landscape of mountains, forests, clear sand beaches and rocks.

Bring a headlamp; clothing that is not afraid of water (and possibly a k-way or sweatshirt as it is cool in the cave); waterproof footwear. Namely, the surrounding scenery is beautiful, but don't forget that the Khammouane area was bombed; there are still UXOs buried in the ground today.

Located a few kilometers west of Mahaxai, Xieng Liap Cave takes its name from the novice Xieng and the tragic romance of the legendary Nang Samounta. The cave, which is about 200m long, has impressive limestone formations on the ceiling and is said to contain many historical drawings. During the dry season, you can walk for 10 minutes to the river that exits the cave and cross it with a village guide. During the rainy season, you can take a boat trip through the cave.

One of the most visited caves of the circuit and also the largest. The largest room reaches 30 m high! The site is perfectly (too much?) arranged with stairs, restaurants, shops, but also toilets. Colourful lighting spoils the natural aspect of the cave. It is possible to hire the services of a guide for a boat tour of the cave. Some parts of the route are very dark, a flashlight is essential. At weekends, many locals come to picnic here.

Or "cave of the Elephant" (Tham Kitsch). This cave houses a large statue of golden Buddha. She is famous for her elephant head who formed in the stalagmites (behind the golden buddha) in 1956. It is a place of worship for the villagers. Provide a torch lamp.

The "Buddha Cave" was discovered in April 2004 by a villager named Boun Nong, who had observed bats entering the cave. Nestled in the hollow of a cliff, it is located in Ban Na Khan Sarng, and takes its name from Lake Nong Pa Fa, "the lake of soft-shelled turtles". There are two caves one above the other. The upper cave houses 229 bronze Buddha statues whose age is yet to be determined, but they are believed to be over 300 years old. These statues measure from 15 cm to 1 m high. Historians agree that some date from the Sikhottabong and Lane Xang periods, while others are of Khmer and Vietnamese origin. It also contains manuscripts on palm leaves. These manuscripts are religious texts. Today it is a true sanctuary where the faithful come to deposit offerings. It is accessed by a large concrete staircase. It is unfortunately forbidden to take pictures... It is a sacred place, so ladies it is necessary to cover oneself (possibility to rent sarongs at the entrance). Inside the lower cave which extends over 500 m there is the Nong Pa Fa lake which you can cross by dugout canoe to observe stalactites and stalagmites. Please bring a headlamp. At the entrance of the cave there are stalls selling snacks, fruits, drinks and also incense from the village of Na Khang Xang. Namely: the tourist office of Thakhek organizes a day trip to these caves (with swimming).

In dry season, from November to April, take 2 hours to reach this island by following the track. Alternatively, you can rent a canoe.

This mountain culminates at 1,625 metres with a stupa at its summit. Before the ascent, you will have to pay the entrance fee at the toll booth located at the picnic area. The climb is quite tough, with hundreds of steps in the shade of tree branches, but you will be rewarded with a superb view! To take pictures, you have to pay a small additional fee. Allow about an hour and a half for the visit. Possibility to go down by another path that will take you 2 km east of the town.

Six kilometers west of Vieng Xai. To get there, take a songtheo and ask the driver to stop you at the bridge. Then walk a good 10 minutes to reach the waterfall, almost a hundred meters high, located in the heart of a site whose biodiversity is perfectly preserved. Possibility to swim in the natural pools at the foot of the falls, when the water level is high enough (after the rainy season). Beware of leeches! Before 3:30 pm, it is possible to take a songtheo to Vieng Xai or Sam Neua.

Nam Oung's hot water source is a nice ride if you have a bike.

14 km from there, on the left, is the waterfall of Phone Xai.

During the war, this cave served as a refuge for the population of a whole village, to escape the incessant bombing. Hot springs are nearby. Water possèderait therapeutic effects. To visit Tham Piou and its surroundings, negotiate with local taxis (package on the basis of US $ 30 to US $ 40).

This lake is located 18 km east of Saravane. It is possible to go to touk touk but the road is quite bad. The place has a reputation for four crocodiles: but, curiously they are hard to see. In any case, it is a good opportunity to transport tourists through finance!

The Khone Phapheng Falls, a few kilometres from Don Khone, are the widest in Southeast Asia. They form a set of rapids, more or less violent, over 13 km and separate the two main Mekong diversion bays. The flow of these falls is one of the most powerful in the world! On site: gargotes, craft shops, and café. It's nice to get there early in the morning and have lunch at The View. Beautiful light on the bubbling waters at the end of the afternoon.

The waterfall is formed by water runoff on the slopes of Phu Luang Mountain, located 15 km from Sanam Xai. This waterfall is part of the Sanam Xai district. The best way to get there is to take a songteo to Ban Mai, 35 km from Attapeu, then a boat. The second option is to go there on a fairly easy trek from Ban Lanyao, a small community of the Oy ethnic group. Don't forget your camera! Not far away, the lake of Nong Lom is a perfect place for a picnic.

48 km from Attapeu is the Samanxai district. A superb guided tour to discover the waterfalls of the region is possible, either by trek or by boat. Departure from Attapeu with a qualified guide. You will make a stopover around the small Nonglom lake before reaching Ban Mai, on the banks of the Xe Pian river. This village is inhabited by the Oy ethnic community. You are in the heart of the protected area of Xe Pian (more easily accessible from the Champassak province) which contains beautiful waterfalls. Indeed, 10 km from Ban Mai, the Huay Samong River forms a waterfall about twenty meters wide that flows into the Xe Pian River on 10 meters high, it is Tad Samongphak. It will be necessary to cross the river (2,000 kips per person, 3,000 kips per motorcycle, but it is preferable to go on foot).

Not far from it, Tad Saepha (6 km from Ban Saepha) is 23 m high and 120 m wide. It is also accessible by boat or on foot from Ban Mai. Tad Phaphong is another waterfall formed by the Xe Xou River. Finally, Tad Saeponglai is another beautiful waterfall located 6 km north of Tad Saepha (by boat count 40 000 kips per person).

The best way to discover these falls is to go on a trek with a local guide. Information and reservations at the tourist office or Attapeu Travel. You can opt for an excursion of 1 to 5 days. Ecotourism is developing in the region and it is possible to stay with local people in a village.

After That Xieng Tung, you can continue your walk to the Nam Keo falls, 2 km from the sacred stupa. Located in the forest, the falls are narrow and steep, and form a small basin surrounded by rocks. If it is possible to venture there alone, please bring a map. If not, you can hire a local guide. Treks are organized to visit both sites, with a traditional Akha picnic. Ask around town at the tourist office or at one of the many agencies.

This lake is located 8 km southwest of the city. It can be the object of a day trip outside Sayaboury. Picnicking and canoeing are possible on site. There is also a restaurant on the site, above the dam. It is also possible to stay on site. From there, you can take a boat (10 minutes) to the Elephant Conservation Center. The opportunity to see the elephants bathing and to walk beside them (not on them).

48 km from Oudomxay, in karst mountains, caves extend over 15 km and can reach up to 40 m high. Two passages are possible: one with a river, the other drier. They contain stalactites. You will have to be accompanied by a guide. The nearest village is Ban Chom Ong, an hour's walk away. The best is to schedule the visit from Oudomxay, because there you will certainly have communication problems, as the villagers do not speak English. Bring a flashlight.

A visit to this cave located 35 km south of the city is a good idea for a walk. Take the road to Pak Lai and then turn left at the junction at Ban Houaykeng. Stop for lunch in Ban Nathang and embark on a two-hour walk through rice fields, wooded hills, and rock formations. On the way, visit the cave with its impressive karst formations and, for the more adventurous, follow the stream that runs for several kilometres through the vast cave system.

To reach the Tad Jao Falls, drive one hour to Tha Deua and then turn left just before the new bridge leading to Luang Prabang. These beautiful 20 meters high falls attracted the royalty of Lane Xang and the Thai princess Prathep! Legend has it that bathing or drinking in these waters is supposed to bring good health and counteract bad luck. Steps built for the Thai princess' visit in 1990 lead to a picnic area on the Mekong River and a view of the waterfall.

This cave is located 3 km from Nong Tang, near the Nong Tang Lake. It shelters hundreds of statues of Buddha hidden there at the time of the Chinese invasions, during the second half of the 19th century. At the entrance, a large Buddha is said to be over 1,200 years old. During the Vietnam War, the upper cave was used by the Vietnamese army as a dispensary. The cave is illuminated, so it is possible to take a guide for the visit. A short distance away is the Water Cave, and the Stupa Cave which contains the ruins of an old stupa.

Also called Tham Sa Pha In, it is one of the smallest and least visited caves in the loop. The place exudes calm and serenity, and was once a retreat for hermits. Surrounded by mountains, it is difficult to spot. Inside there is an altar dedicated to Buddha and a vast pond. Its sacred water is said to have healing properties, but unfortunately bathing is forbidden. This cave is conducive to meditation, do not hesitate to stop there for a little introspection!

This national park is a must for nature lovers. It has an incredible biodiversity. Bears, gibbons, leopards... It is also the last place in Laos where tigers can be observed. The Vieng Thong Visitors Centre organises overnight hikes in huts in the middle of nature for an immersive experience. Some stays will take the visitor to meet the Khmu ethnic group to learn more about their way of life.

In the heart of a luxuriant forest, the Yuang waterfalls, also called Tad Gneuang, are less dizzying than those of Tad Fane, but the site is better developed and they are more easily accessible. Shops, restaurants and craft shops are set up after the entrance portico. From there, a staircase leads to the foot of Tad Yuang Falls. A small promontory makes it possible to appreciate its splendour. They are formed by two torrents that flow more than 40 m high. It is possible to swim at the foot of the falls, but be careful with the current!

These waterfalls, also called Tad Faed, are easily accessible from Sekong. They are located just after the Tad Hua Khon Falls. To get there, take road 11 south and turn off at km 14 (a sign indicates the falls: 2 km away). The falls are 5 m high and have their source in the Se Nam Noi River, not far from the Sekong River. It is strongly advised against swimming in the natural pools at the foot of the waterfalls. Small restaurants, open until 5pm, offer drinks and meals.

Close to Wat That Luang, this temple is said to have been founded in 1375 by Samsenthai, the son of Fa Ngum, southwest of the city centre. All that remains of the original sanctuary is the one-armed Buddha, a large bronze statue that must have been about 6 m high and 12 tons in weight, without a base. This statue dates from about 1378. It is probably the oldest statue of Buddha in Laos. It was an important temple, and in fact it housed the Prabang, the emblem of the city, from 1502 to 1513, before it was transported to Wat Wasunalat.