LAOS- CENTRAL PROVINCES VIENTIANE CAPITAL

VIENTIANE CAPITAL

CAPITAL: VIENTIANE

TOTAL AREA: 3920 SQUARE KILOMETRES 

POPULATION: 768743

Located on a curve of the Mekong River, Vientiane has a recorded history that stretches back to around 1000AD. The area was originally settled because of the fertility of the surrounding alluvial plain and Vientiane became the capital city of Laos around the mid 16^th century.

Vientiance is home to the most significant national monument in Laos-Pha That Luang (Great Stupa), which is the symbol of Lao sovereignty and an icon of Buddhism in Laos.Of the many beautiful vats in Vientiane, a visit to Vat Si Saket is a must; built in 1818, this is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. 

Other Buddhist holy place worth visiting are Vat Ong Teu Mahavihan, known for its 16^th century bronze Buddha sheltered by a carved wooden masterpiece, and Vat Si Muang, site of the Lak  Meuang or pillar stone of Vientiane.Vat Si Muang is home to the guardian spirit of the city. Hor pha Kaew, across the street from Vat Si Saket houses a beautiful collection of Buddha statues, including some in the “calling for rain” and “ offering protection” poses that are outstanding examples of traditional Lao style and craftsmanship. 

Spend a morning in the Lao National Musuem, which displays an interesting mixture of revolutionary and contemporary exhibitions. The main sights in Vientiane are only a short walk or bicycle ride from most hotels.Vat xieng Khuan, better known as the Buddha Park should not be missed;take a tuk tuk to this unique park that includes Buddhist and Hindu influence sculptures.

Shopping for handicrafts is easy in Vientiane; visit the talat  sao ( morning market) for a wide range of colourful textiles including silks, wall-hangings and other decorative pieces. For very fine handicarfts, try one of the many upscale galleries in town. Keep your eyes open for traditional wood carvings, mulberry paper ad a variety of basketry made from bamboo and rattan.

When you get hungry try the nation’signature dish, tam maak hung( spicy green papaya salad), or laap ( spicy minced meat salad, or laap (spicy minced meat salad) and ping kai( fried chicken) . For its size Vientiane is surprisingly multicultural and has excellent French,Indian ,Thai,Chinese and Vietnamese with a restaurants that serve both Lao and specialty dishes. Quench your thirst with a refreshing Beer Lao or fresh fruit shake from one of the many small restaurants found along almost every street in town At dusk, find a spot along the Mekong promenade to enjoy an amazing view of the sunset over the river.

The largest fair, Boun Pha That Luang , is held in Vientiane around mid November  each year. Celebrations begin at Vat Si Muang followed by a procession to That Luang. Festivities last a full week, ending in fireworks on the last night, which coincides with the full moon. In mid October, the riverbank overflows with spectators watching the annual boat races. Van Ork Pansa Lao people prepare small banana leaf boats called heua fai and set them a float on the Mekong illuminated by candles and insense in a charming ceremony meant to bring good luck and prosperity.