A Full Day in Laid-Back Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, offers a refreshing respite from the bustling cities of Southeast Asia. Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, exploring a series of awe-inspiring temples and monuments that showcase the country’s unique architectural and artistic traditions. From the centuries-old Wat Sisaket to the majestic Anousavari, each site provides a glimpse into Laos’ vibrant past. But the true highlight of a day in Vientiane may lie in the unexpected – a chance to discover the whimsical sculptures of the Buddha Park, where the divine and the fantastical coexist in perfect harmony.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Vientiane.

Key Points

• Explore Vientiane’s rich Buddhist heritage by visiting the oldest monastery, Wat Sisaket, featuring over 6,840 Buddha images.
• Discover the former royal temple, Wat Ho Phra Keo, showcasing exquisite Buddha sculptures and religious relics.
• Marvel at the Victory Gate, Anousavali, modeled after the French Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of Laotian independence.
• Enjoy the surreal landscape of Buddha Park, a unique collection of Buddhist sculptures and statues.
• Indulge in a traditional Lao cuisine lunch as part of the comprehensive sightseeing tour.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day sightseeing excursion in Vientiane, Laos provides travelers with an immersive exploration of the city’s cultural and historical highlights.

The tour operates on a private basis with an English-speaking guide, allowing for a personalized experience. Visitors will discover the oldest monastery in Vientiane, Wat Sisaket, with its remarkable frescoes and over 6,840 Buddha images.

They’ll also visit the former Royal temple, Wat Ho Phra Keo, now a museum housing exquisite Buddha sculptures. The tour includes a stop at the Anousavali (Victory Gate), modeled after the French Arc de Triomphe, and the unique Buddha Park.

Traditional lunch and round-trip hotel transport are provided, making this a comprehensive introduction to Vientiane.

Key Attractions in Vientiane

At the heart of the Vientiane sightseeing tour lies Wat Sisaket, the oldest monastery in the city, housing an astounding collection of over 6,840 Buddha images and remarkable frescoes that captivate visitors. Nearby, Wat Ho Phra Keo, the former Royal temple, now a museum, showcases exquisite Buddha sculptures, including the celebrated Emerald Buddha until 1778. Visitors can also admire the Anousavali (Victory Gate), modeled after the French Arc de Triomphe, and explore the unique assortment of Buddhist sculptures in the Buddha Park.

Attraction	Highlights
Wat Sisaket	Oldest monastery with over 6,840 Buddha images and remarkable frescoes
Wat Ho Phra Keo	Former Royal temple, now a museum housing exquisite Buddha sculptures
Anousavari (Victory Gate)	Modeled after the French Arc de Triomphe
Buddha Park	Features a unique assortment of Buddhist sculptures
Lunch	Traditional Lao cuisine included in the tour

The Oldest Monastery in Vientiane

Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest monastery, dates back to 1818 and houses an astonishing collection of over 6,840 Buddha images.

The temple’s ornate frescoes and intricate carvings showcase Lao artistic traditions. Visitors can wander through the tranquil cloisters and courtyards, admiring the diverse array of Buddha statues in various poses and styles.

From small reliquary Buddhas to towering figures, the sheer scale of the collection is breathtaking.

Wat Sisaket is a prime example of Lao Buddhist architecture and a must-see for anyone exploring Vientiane’s rich cultural heritage.

Former Royal Temple and Museum

Located adjacent to Wat Sisaket, Wat Ho Phra Keo serves as a former royal temple and now houses a museum showcasing exquisite Buddha sculptures.

Previously the home of the Emerald Buddha until 1778, the museum’s collection includes:

1. Intricate stone carvings
2. Ornate bronze statues
3. Sacred religious relics
4. Ancient Buddhist manuscripts

Visitors can marvel at the temple’s elegant architecture, with its sloping roofs and gilded gables.

The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Laos’ rich cultural and religious heritage, complementing the nearby Wat Sisaket to provide a comprehensive introduction to Vientiane’s most impressive spiritual sites.

Modeled After the French Arc

The Anousavari, or Victory Gate, is modeled after the famous French Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

This iconic landmark stands as a symbol of Laotian independence and was constructed in 1962 to commemorate the country’s liberation from French colonial rule.

Visitors can admire the gate’s impressive size and intricate design, which features sculptures representing Laotian culture and history.

The Anousavari serves as a popular photo spot, offering panoramic views of the surrounding city.

Though not as famous as its Parisian counterpart, this architectural tribute provides visitors with a glimpse into Vientiane’s past and the nation’s hard-fought journey to independence.

A Unique Assortment of Sculptures

Situated just outside Vientiane lies the captivating Buddha Park, where visitors are greeted by a diverse array of Buddhist sculptures.

This unique open-air museum features an eclectic collection, including:

1. Giant serene Buddha statues in meditation poses
2. Peculiar, imaginative depictions of deities and mythical creatures
3. Intricate stone carvings representing the Buddhist cosmology
4. Towering pillar sculptures with multiple heads and limbs

Wandering through this surreal landscape, travelers can enjoy Laotian Buddhist philosophy and artistry.

The park offers a thought-provoking contrast to the more traditional temple architecture found within Vientiane’s city limits, providing a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Tour Logistics and Transportation

The tour begins with a 9:00 AM hotel pickup in air-conditioned vehicles driven by professional drivers. Transportation is provided throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. All entrance fees for the listed attractions are included, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate without issue. However, pickup is not confirmed for private residences or non-registered accommodations.

Logistics	Details
Pickup Time	9:00 AM
Transportation	Air-conditioned vehicles
Driver	Professional
Entrance Fees	Included
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Pickup Locations	Hotels, not private residences

Pricing, Policies, and Customer Reviews

Pricing for the full-day sightseeing tour in Vientiane starts at $124.51, with variations based on group size.

Tourists can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour is highly rated, with an overall score of 4.0 from 5 reviews.

Highlights include:

1. Informative local guides providing cultural insights.
2. Quality of the traditional lunch served.
3. Overall value as an introduction to Vientiane and Laos.
4. Some concerns about tour duration and dietary restrictions not being met.

Confirmation is received upon booking unless the tour is within 7 days of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour operates on a private basis, so the group size can vary. However, the pricing details indicate the tour is priced per person, suggesting it’s suitable for both individual travelers and small groups.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions; it is suitable for travelers of all ages. The private tour allows for flexibility to accommodate families and individuals without restrictions on participant ages.

Can I Request a Guide Who Speaks My Native Language?

Tour participants can request an English-speaking guide, but guides for other languages may not be available. Specific language requests should be made at the time of booking to ensure availability.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can request a longer duration to explore more of Vientiane’s sights and attractions with their knowledgeable, English-speaking guide.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors, but the specific percentages are not provided in the information given. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Recap

A day in Vientiane offers a tranquil escape into Laos’ cultural heritage. Visitors can explore centuries-old temples, marvel at intricate architecture, and enjoy the local flavors. With a mix of historical sites and whimsical sculptures, this laidback capital provides travelers with a serene and enriching experience.