4 days in Laos are fine to visit some highlights of the country. In this article, we will provide you with sample itineraries to Luang Prabang, Vientiane and a combination of these two exotic cities.
For 4 days in Laos, travelers can visit one of the country’s main travel destinations such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane or Pakse or they can also combine with some other nearby travel destinations.
- Kuang Si Waterfalls
4 Days in Laos: Explore the capital city Vientiane
Praised as the most laid-back capital city of Southeast Asia, Vientiane is noted for its French colonial architecture and imposing religious buildings. You can enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle in this city even during rush hour! Here is a suggested 4-day itinerary in this peaceful city:
Day 1: Half-day Vientiane City Tour and Night Market
- That Luang
Depending on your arrival time, you can arrange your schedule to visit some most famous places in Vientiane on your first day to the city. That Luang (or the Great Stupa) is a great starting point. From the outside, this place looks like a fortress and features two temples along with the main stupa. Originally established in the 3rd century, That Luang has been undergone many restorations due to foreign invasion. Don’t forget to admire sunset at Patouxay (Arch de Triumph), which was built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past.
- Vientiane Night Market
Vientiane Night Market organized around the riverside area is a cannot-miss place when going to this city. You can find a lot of souvenirs, shirts, and handicrafts here, but remember to use your bargaining skills because the initial prices are always inflated. The only thing you cannot find here is food; however, do not worry since there are lots of restaurants and shops on the other side of the street.
Day 2: Buddha Park and some religious sites in Vientiane
- Buddha Park
24 kilometers from the city, Buddha Park is an interesting outdoor collection of huge concrete sculptures of Buddhist and Hindu deities. The park was started building in 1958 by Luang Pu (Venerable Grandfather) Bunleua Sulilat who was a priest. The most striking sculpture resembles a pumpkin, representing three levels: Hell, Earth, and Heaven.
- Wat Sisaket
In the afternoon, you can visit some popular religious sites in the city. Built in 1820 near the Royal Palace by King Anouvong, the last King of Vientiane, Wat Si Saket houses thousands of tiny Buddha images. Some sophisticated features of this temple are a five-tiered roof, a shady garden, and a lovely veranda. 500 meters from Wat Si Saket, Wat Ho Phra Keo used to house the Emerald Buddha which was taken from Thailand. The Siamese took the statue back in 1779.
Day 3: Nam Ngum Lake
- Nam Ngum Lake
You can escape from the heat of the city with a short cruise trip to Nam Ngum Lake. Nam Ngum is a 354-kilometer long river and one of the tributaries of the Mekong. You will not only have a chance to admire the grandeur of Nam Ngum Reservoir but you can also visit local villages and the ruins of Century Mon-Khmer site. On the way to the lake, you stop at the Hmong village to discover ethnic life and visit a local market. Next, you visit the Archaeological Site of Vang Xang which was constructed during the Hmong-Khmer Empire between the 8th and 11th century.
Day 4: Lao National Museum
- Lao National Museum
Lao National Museum, or Lao National History Museum, is an excellent place to learn about Lao history, culture, and people. This museum was originally a mansion of French Governor, which was built in 1925. You can see many antiques and artifacts which give you a glimpse into the turbulent history of Laos from prehistoric times to the Siamese invasions, the French colony and the introduction of Communist in 1975.
4 Days in Laos: Discover laid-back Luang Prabang
Famous for being a tranquil ancient capital of the country, Luang Prabang is endowed with green mountains, red-roofed temples, and French-Indochinese architecture, not to mention refined cuisines, unique culture, and kind-hearted local people.
Day 1: Visit the former Royal Palace and some important religious sites
- Wat Xieng Thong
It is definite that a visit to Luang Prabang should start with Wat Xieng Thong, this city’s most impressive temple. Built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, this temple represents typical Lao crafts and arts with sophisticated carvings, mosaic items, and especially sweeping two-tiered roofs. Mount Phousi, a sacred mountain in the city, is located on a peninsula surrounded by Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Tourists often climb to the top of the mountain to Wat Chom Si to admire the panoramic view of Luang Prabang.
- Royal Palace – Luang Prabang
Other notable attraction in Luang Prabang is the Royal Palace Museum, which used to be Royal King’s Palace. Originally built in 1904, the palace was taken over by the government in 1975. The exhibits here including weapons, paintings, and religious items will provide you with a glimpse into the lifestyle of the king and his family.
Day 2: Trekking to Kuang Si Waterfall
- Kuang Si Waterfall
Long Lao Village is a starting point for your short trekking to Kuang Si Waterfall. Visiting this village, you can explore the life and culture of Khmu and Hmong people.
32 kilometers from Luang Prabang, Kuangsi Waterfall is an imposing waterfall with a 50-meter drop. This waterfall is absolutely spectacular with turquoise water which is kept in perfectly sculpted limestone tiered pools. You can enjoy sightseeing, swimming, and hiking to the top of the fall. But remember to bring a proper pair of shoes – the road to the top will be muddy!
Day 3: Cruise to Pak Ou Caves
- Pak Ou Caves
Pak Ou Caves are one of the most respected holy sites in Laos, consisting of more than 4000 Buddha icons. These caves have been a place of worship for almost thousands of year. You can visit two caves here, Tham Thing (the lower) and Tham Theung (the upper), housing many Buddhist statues made from wood. The lower cave is well-lit and includes many signs to explain the history of some statues. The upper cave requires a 10-minute trek up some steep steps, but it is worth seeing.
Day 4: Chill out at some local places
On the last day in Luang Prabang, you should wake up early to see the Buddhist Alms Ceremony. This ceremony takes place daily as the sun rises, and it will give you an opportunity to understand a traditional and religious aspect of Laos. Tourists are encouraged to show respect to the monks since they are revered in this country.
- Saffron Coffee – Luang Prabang
Since Luang Prabang is highly influenced by the French colony, you can find many lovely cafes and restaurants in French architecture here. Saffron, Dao Coffee, Le Banneton Café and Joma are some places you should check out.
4 Days in Laos: Combine Vientiane and Luang Prabang
4 days are enough for tourists to explore these famous tourist destinations in Laos. You will have a chance to visit religious buildings along with some natural landscapes.
- Wat Ho Phra Keo
Day 1: Vientiane. You can visit some religious sites such as Wat Sisaket, Wat Ho Phra Keo and That Luang Stupa.
Day 2: Vientiane – Luang Prabang. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Mai, Wat Visoun and the Phousi Temple in Luang Prabang.
Day 3: Kuang Si Waterfall or Pak Ou Caves
Day 4: Royal Palace Museum and depart
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