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Laos

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description Laos Overview

Laos, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia whose western border follows the Mekong River. Its capital is Vientiane, and the former royal capital Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its Buddhist temples and monasteries. A former part of French Indochina that gained independence in 1953, Laos retains colonial-era architecture alongside its Theravada Buddhist heritage. Limestone karst landscapes occur in regions such as Vang Vieng.

help Laos FAQ

Why is Laos called the only landlocked country in mainland Southeast Asia?

Laos has no coastline and is surrounded by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. The Mekong forms much of its western boundary and acts as a major transport and geographic route.

What is the difference between Vientiane and Luang Prabang in Laos?

Vientiane is the modern capital and administrative center, while Luang Prabang was the former royal capital. UNESCO recognizes Luang Prabang for its blend of Lao traditional buildings and later European colonial architecture. [UNESCO](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/479/)

What rivers define Luang Prabang?

Historic Luang Prabang sits on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. That setting places Buddhist temples, colonial-era buildings, and Mount Phousi within a compact historic town.

What currency and main airport should travelers know in Laos?

The national currency is the Lao kip, and Wattay International Airport serves Vientiane. Laos uses UTC+7 year-round and has no seasonal daylight-saving change.