Top Laos Architecture Tours

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore Vientiane’s Avenue Lane Xang, known as the ”Avenue of a Million Elephants,” named for the powerful Lane Xang Dynasty that once ruled this region. From ancient Buddhist temples to modern monuments commemorating independence, you’ll get to know the landmarks and stories that shape the national Lao identity. You’ll visit Ho Phra Keo, once home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and explore Wat Sisaket, a temple with hundreds of Buddha images housed in wall niches. As you walk the grand Avenue Lane Xang, you’ll hear about the ancient kings who unified the three kingdoms of Luang Prabang, Champasak, and Vientiane, creating centuries of stability and prosperity. You’ll encounter the mysterious black That Dam stupa, said to house a mythological seven-headed naga guardian, and visit the Talat Sao Morning Market where local sellers offer everything from electronics to traditional handicrafts.

There are different versions of this tour. The other version includes a Mekong River cruise in the morning and a visit to the waterfalls in the afternoon. The mornings in Luang Prabang are often cloudy and rainy in the rainy season, and winters are cold, so the alternative version may be better for swimming at the waterfalls. However, the morning boat trip is likely to be cloudy and the view of the Mekong River in the afternoon is better.