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Exploring Laos during the summer months can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, with some unskippable destinations, a combination of rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.
If you have spent too much of your summer vacation in bustling, luxurious cities, consider visiting a gentle, simple, and pristine country like Laos for a change. Let us help you as we will learn about all the destinations to visit during your summer vacation in Laos to have a smooth trip. Discovering this hidden gem will truly be a memorable journey.
Exploring Laos during the summer months (Cre: Vacations and Travels)
Choosing summer as the time to visit Laos can be a unique and rewarding experience. Although the summer usually coincides with the rainy season in Laos, these showers typically last for a short time, allowing plenty of dry days to enjoy your trip. The rain and sunny weather also result in lush green landscapes and vibrant, blooming flora, especially those on the rice fields, giving off an enchanting site to see.
The first destination we’re heading to is the national symbol of Laos, Pha That Luang in Vientiane. This is Laos' holiest landmark and a must-see destination for travelers. The statue symbolizes both Lao sovereignty and Buddhism. The stupa stands 45 meters tall and is surrounded by 30 smaller stupas, creating a majestic and serene complex that is a focal point of religious activities in Laos. The monument was built about 1556, when the Lan Xang Kingdom declared Vientiane its capital.
Pha That Luang, Laos (Cre: Nations Online Project)
The architecture of Pha That Luang is a blend of traditional Lao and Buddhist styles, symbolizing the path to enlightenment. Pha That Luang is not only a religious site but also a place of national pride. It hosts the annual Boun That Luang festival, a significant Buddhist celebration that attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the country and beyond.
Our next destination is in the South of the country, located in Champasak. It’s the temple of Wat Phou, an ancient Khmer Hindu temple complex, dating back to the 5th century and even predates the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. It is considered by UNESCO to be a World Heritage Site.
Wat Phou, which means "mountain temple," was originally constructed in honor of Shiva, a Hindu divinity. Later on, it was transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary, which it still is today.
Wat Phou, Laos (Cre: Reds.vn)
Lao people regard this temple as having immense spiritual significance, especially during the annual Boun Wat Phou Festival.
You may like: Boun Wat Phou - Largest Buddhist Festival in Laos
Nam Ha National Park is located in Luang Namtha province, northern Laos. This is one of Laos' most important nature reserves, famous for its rich ecosystem, primary tropical forests and ethnic minorities.
Nam Ha National Park (Cre: Discover Laos Today)
The hikes in this area trace paths traditionally used by locals through dense, untouched forests, steep slopes, and rolling hills.
As you trek, you often pass through villages, offering opportunities to interact with locals and buy refreshments from makeshift stalls. This is also an opportunity to meet and learn about some of the local mountain tribes, including the Hmong and Akha.
Another must-see destination in Laos is Si Phan Don, often known as the Four Thousand Islands. The 4000 Islands is a well-known location with three major tourist attractions. Don Island is the largest island, and visitors frequently visit Don Det to enjoy low-cost activities and facilities including strolling, cycling, and swimming.
Si Phan Don, 4,000 islands (Cre: Visit Southeast Asia)
Visiting the spectacular Luang Prabang Night Market is one of the most well-known Laos tourist attractions. You may spend a lovely evening here shopping until your heart's content. At this market, tourists engage with local merchants to purchase goods and learn about Lao culture.
Luang Prabang night market ( Cre: luang prabang-laos.com )
You may also buy anything you wish as a souvenir from Laos. Every evening, thousands gather at the night market, where you can try some of Laos’ finest delicacies. The merchants welcome you with cheerful smiles, giving off a friendly vibe.
Traveling to Laos in the summer will definitely be a memorable experience, but it will require you to prepare carefully. Here are some suggestions for you to have a smooth and enjoyable trip:
Laos is a year-round destination for travelers seeking a blend of rich history, vibrant culture and unspoiled natural beauty. The serene atmosphere, combined with a deep cultural heritage, makes it a worthwhile destination for those looking to experience life in a quieter, less commercialized setting. A visit to Laos promises to leave lasting memories of a country where time seems to stand still.
Read more: Laos Tours 10 days
