About Laos (Vientiane)
Our Laos Tour Packages reflect the diversity of this peaceful Southeast Asian country - the major cities and areas in Laos include Vientiane (capital), Luang Prabang (ancient royal city), Vang Vieng ( picturesque river and karst mountains ), Pakse and the southern riverside/ plateau areas and rural-natural areas in the north.
We provide tours that are as short as 3-5 days away and as long as 3-4 weeks of exploration. Our Laos holiday packages are available to you whether you are on a short break or the full cultural experience.
These tours suit various types of travellers such as families seeking a relaxing holiday, couples seeking a romantic holiday, a traveler seeking adventure and friends travelling as a group.
Indian based Laos tour packages begin as low as about 50,000 rupees per individual (in the low end) and extend to about 250,000-350,000 or more in the high end based on selections and time of year.
Each package comes with flights (within India), accommodations (in comfortable hotels or guest-houses or resorts, luxury plans are inclusive of resorts), guided tours with English-speaking local guides, transportation within the country, and select meals, such that you get to see the country without the hassle of putting together a trip itinerary (5-day, 7-day, 14-day itineraries).
About Laos
Laos is a landlocked gem in Southeast Asia with fertile hills, meandering rivers (more so the mighty Mekong River), green jungles, peaceful temples, and a laid-back, music-soulful spirit.
Our Laos tours range over 30 different Laos sightseeing plans, including the inexpensive escapes, over the top recreational travel plans, and the classic Laos places, off-the-beaten-path areas, adventure travel-related journeys, culture, heritage-oriented travel plans, and honeymooner, family, and individual traveler itineraries.
We do it all: visa services (Indian travellers), domestic flights, hotel, an local transport (domestic flights, buses, vans), tours with professional local guides, and even additional services such as adventure trips, river cruises, and cultural performances.
On our tours you get to: see almsgiving at sunrise in Luang Prabang, walk along silent temples, take a cruise on the Mekong, hike through jungles, karst-mountain Karst mountain landscape in Vang Vieng, and unwind in calm southern Laos along the Mekong or tropical plateaus.
We are frequent fliers of Laos trip packages across India with departure of cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and we also offer special itineraries of departure of the southern states (such as specially arranged Laos tour packages in Kerala).
Which Type of Tour is the best one?
City Tours (when you are a first-time visitor) Explore the city of Vientiane and Luang Prabang, perhaps Vang Vieng; perfect destination when you need a mini holiday with temples, markets, monuments and local life.
Culture & Heritage (when history lovers visit) — Explore Buddhist temples, colonial architecture, old royal palaces, ancient sites, and ancient Lao culture.
Special Season Tours (unusual experiences) - based on festivals, seasonal river-cruises, green after-monsoon foliage or dry-season explorations.
Family Tours (kids and family) — Unchallenging travel, secure lodging, combination of nature, light sightseeing and cultural revelation.
Adventure Tours (nature lovers) Trekking, jungle hikes, river-rafting, exploring caves, natural scenery and rural exploration of Laos.
Luxury Tours (premium experience) -Five-star hotels/resorts, and private transfers, high-end services, guide, and curated experiences (comfort seeking travellers).
Quick Facts About Laos
Capital city: Vientiane
Formal name: Lao people democratic Republic (Lao P.D.R.)
Language spoken: Lao is the official language; different ethnic minority languages are also spoken; French may arise occasionally owing to the historical influence.
Time zone: UTC+7, Indochina Time (ICT).
Best time to visit: November- April (dry season).
Weather by season:
Nov-Feb: cool and dry, pleasant, idyllic weather to explore the area and outdoor activities.
March-April: Hot, dry, inland, and river regions warm, but are still bearable.
May -Oct: Green, wet and lush (monsoon) - fewer tourists, green scenery, waterfalls and nature at its best.
Well known food: Sticky rice, local grilled meats, Lao-style noodle soups, local grilled meats, river-fish, local fresh tropical fruits, Lao coffee.
Best attractions: Vientiane (capital city), Luang Prabang (temples + heritage), Vang Vieng (karst mountains + river), Pakse and southern Laos, Mekong River and rural Laos, jungles and highlands, ancient plateau and temples, natural park and forests.
Activities: Temple trips, river boating (Mekong), jungle hiking, mountain climbing, cave hunting, heritage site tours, village tours, cultural entertainment, markets and food tours, boat and waterfall trips.
Food to try: Sticky rice, Lao noodle soup (khao soi / noodles), grilled river fish, fresh tropical fruits, local coffee, traditional Laotian fresh salads.
What to purchase: Traditional Lao textiles and silk, handicrafts, wooden carvings, local coffee or tea, ethnic-handicraft jewelry, souvenirs, local artwork, handmade bamboo products, traditional clothes/ scarf, local spices.
Interesting Facts of Lao
Land of a Million elephants- Traditionally, Laos was referred to by this title which was a symbolic representation of the large number of elephants in the country and the rough landscapes.
No Coastline Laos is the sole landlocked nation in Southeast Asia however it is abundant in rivers, jungles and mountainous terrain.
Majority mountains and forests: It is a very wild country with a predominant percentage of 70% of its territory being in mountains, highlands and thick forests giving it a very natural feel.
Lifeline Mekong River - The Mekong River is a major part of western border, as well as Lao transportation, agriculture, and culture.
Buddhist lineage everywhere - ancient temples, monasteries and spiritual traditions are all integrated into everyday life; monks, alms-giving and religious practice are also integrated into the life of Laos people.
French Colonial Influence- Starting with colonial era buildings and a certain level of use of French in schools and trade, the French history had an evident trace in architecture and culture.
Friendly and Humble Individuals- Lao people have been described as warm, hospitable, respectful to tradition, relaxed slow lifestyle- ideal place to travel in peace.
Appeal to the Side Paths - Due to its comparative lack of populace compared to most other Southeast Asian tourist destinations, Laos is a destination that can provide serene, genuine experiences of nature and culture, without the tourist stampede.
Why is Laos Popular Right Now?
Natural beauty / seasons - Laos is a beautiful country with rich green jungles and misty mountains, snaking rivers, and seasonal waterfalls all year round.
New attractions and easier access - With the rise of tourism, infrastructure (flights, accommodations) is becoming even better, so Laos is becoming even more reachable in India and other parts of the world.
Good deals — Laos is a low cost destination in comparison with most other international destinations, although there are budget tours, middle-range and luxury tours that are all available at affordable prices.
Food/ culture - There is some of the most genuine Lao food, quaint towns along the rivers, Buddhist heritage and old temples provide a distinct cultural experience.
Convenient domestic transportation in the country: Domestic flights, buses, boats and the guided tours make travelling between the cities, cross rivers or mountains, in spite of the mountainous terrain, easy.
Best Places to Visit in Laos
Vientiane
What makes it a famous Capital city - a combination of modernity, temples, colonial architecture, and tranquillity by the banks.
Visiting time: November to February (dry and pleasant).
Setting: Western Laos, by the Mekong River.
Best sightseeing places: Government buildings, colonial architecture, riverside promenades, local markets, temples.
What is unique about it: Provides a soft entry point into Laos - a comfortable blend of urban lifestyle and culture.
Luang Prabang
Why it is so popular: Ancient royal city, heritage zone, temples, rivers, colonial and traditional buildings.
When it should be visited: November- February.
Geographical position: Northern-central Laos, between the rivers Mekong and Nam Khan.
Best places of interest: Ancient temples, ancient royal palace, old town by the river, morning alms ritual, old colonial streets.
What is unique about it: idyllic and ancient - a mixture of history, spiritualism, river-town tranquility, and jungle hills.
Vang Vieng
Why it is popular: karst mountains of limestone, rivers/lagoon-scapes, outdoor adventure, scenic beauty.
Best time to travel: November-April (or most preferably after rains to see greenery).
Location: central Laos, between Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
Best attractions: Karst hills, valleys along the rivers, caves, lagoons, scenic walks.
What is special: Ideal with nature-lovers and adventure seeking- there are dramatic sceneries, vegetation and easy accessibility.
Pakse & Southern Laos
Why it is well known According to the Southern rivers, tropical landscapes, plateaus, coffee plantations, falls, country charm.
Best season to visit: November-April (dry); post-monsoon when it is lush.
Location: Southern Laos, along Mekong and inland plateaus.
Sightseeing: Southern rivers, Bolaven Plateau, villages, natural landscape, falls.
What makes it special: Not-so-tourists off-beat area - rustic, natural and culturally pure Laos.
Bolaven Plateau / Highlands & Forested North.
What makes it famous: Thick forests, hills, villages of tribes, plantations of coffee and tea, natural biodiversity.
When to go: Dry season (Nov 4) or immediately after rains in case of lush forests.
Location: Central-southern highlands and mountainous areas.
Best of attractions: Forest treks, plantations, cultural villages, nature trails.
What makes it special: Fantastic among off grid nature consumers, jungle hiking, rural experience.
Mekong River and Riverside Towns/ Rural Laos.
Why it is famous: The Mekong is an artery of Laos - villages on the banks of the rivers, rides on the boats, easy life, and river landscape.
Best time to visit: Dry season when it is dry to go on boat rides; post-monsoon when the riversides are green.
Location: Borders western border; encompasses numerous areas such as Vientiane, Pakse as well as the rural villages.
Sights of interest: River cruise, village touring, Mekong scenery, the traditional life, sunset boat tour.
What is special about it: It provides a tranquil, leisurely travelling experience that links the culture, nature and the charm of rural Laos.
Do Indians Require the Visa to Laos?
Yes - Indian travellers require a visa into Laos.
Details:
There is a tourist e- Visa (or visa-on-arrival) option.
Visa validity: The tourist visa/e Visa generally gives 30 days of stay although it can be extended.
Processing: In eVisa case, it will be applied online, typically approved within 2-4 days. Like a visa on arrival - arrive at the airport.
Documents: 2 blank passport pages, passport-size photos, valid passport (6+ months validity), return/onward ticket, reservation or booking confirmation at the hotel, and in some cases, proof of funds.
Types: There are tourist visas (30 days, with an option of extension), e- visa, visa-on-arrival, other visa types (business, longer-stay), are possible provided.
How to Get to Laos
Flights to Laos by major connecting airports in Thailand or Bangkok (common transit), or flights by airlines with flights to Southeast Asia are available in India. There could be offerings of direct flight connectivity between major Indian cities that depend on the season and the airlines.
Laos has major international airports where one can arrive:
Vientiane Wattay International Airport.
Luang Prabang international airport.
Pakse Airport (southern Laos)
Common duration of flight (India, including a connecting hub) is 4-6 hours (not including transit), depending on the city of departure.
Bangkok -Vietnamese, Kuala Lumpur-Laos, on a connecting flight; and, when you begin at major Indian centres (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata), chances are that you will be passing through Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.
In Laos, domestic flights, buses or vans would then take you to Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Pakse or any other place.
Laos Must-Visit Attractions.
Patuxai (Gate of Victory) -Vientiane
One of the most beautiful city views with amazing landmark arches celebrating independence of Laos.
Go there to take picturesque shots, experience the proud culture of the capital.
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) Vientiane.
Mount Phou Si – Luang Prabang
A scenic view of a hill top with magnificent sunrise and sun sets.
Excellent in visiting temples, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Old town and ancient temples- Luang Prabang.
An attractive heritage district of monasteries, palaces, river front streets and markets.
Should go on cultural strolls, photography and religious trips.
Karst Hills/ River Landscapes- Vang Vieng.
Theatrical mountain ranges of limestone, caves, hiking paths, and natural swimming pools.
Another adventure, sightseeing and scenic leisure destination.
Southern Laos & Pakse Region
Famous with highland vegetation, coffee fields and lovely falls.
Proposes primitive serene and pressure-to-nature exploring.
Nature Trails and Forests -Bolaven Plateau.
Mekong River Boat Voyages
Carefree cruises along the river towns, farms and beautiful banks.
Best is good when you want to travel peacefully and visit country culture.
Village Cultural Experiences
Best Activities in Laos
Temple and Heritage Tours: Discover ancient temples, monks and monasteries, architectural buildings of the colonial era, heritage streets and historic buildings in such cities as Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
Mekong or Nam Khan River Cruises: Ease down through the picturesque rivers or sunset or sunrise boat rides, the quiet and scenic means of observing the rural and river-side Laos.
Jungle and Forest Treks: Hiking across highlands, mountains and thick forests, biodiversity, tribal villages and inhaling of fresh air.
Mountain and Karst Hikes: This is especially common in places such as Vang Vieng and highlands of the north - which are the best among adventure seekers and lovers of natural beauty.
Village & Rural Immersion: Explore rural villages on Mekong or highlands, meet the people, discover their lifestyle, community, arts, and culture.
Food and Street-Food discovers: Taste local Lao food and cuisine — sticky rice, river-fish dishes, Lao soups, fresh fruit, local coffee and others.
Boat & Village-to-Village Travel: Inter-town transportation on boats is the most unusual and leisurely experience of seeing Laos by water.
Photography and Scenic Tours: Mountains, rivers, jungles, colonial era streets and riverside villages - are all great to take pictures.
Cultural & Spiritual Immersion: Participate in early-morning alms ritual, explore monasteries, understand the local Buddhism, see how people live.
What’s New in Laos
Enhanced Infrastructure and Travel: Reduced distance among major cities, increased domestic flights and traveling comfort as compared to earlier times, made Laos more accessible to India.
Increasing Eco-Tourism in Highlands and Forest Regions: New environmentally friendly accommodation, homestays and nature trails being opened in country/highlands by those seeking to experience a true and environmentally friendly travel experience.
New Hotels and Resorts to the couples / honeymooners: More luxury resorts and peaceful accommodation - the perfect honeymoon tours or romantic resorts under laos honeymoon packages in India.
New Adventure & Trekking Routes: New trekking paths, cave visitations and guided nature walks underway in remote/northern areas - better adventure-seekers.
Expanding Food & Cultural Tourism: Revitalization of Local food culture, traditional village experiences, handicraft markets and cultural tours, are providing tourists with more local experience.
Activities Adventure in Laos.
Jungle Trekking in Highlands: Discover thick forest trails, hills and villages -the best during dry season (Nov2Feb).
Hiking Karst Hills of Vang Vieng: Picturesque limestone mountains, cave tours and valley hiking - apt. between Nov -Apr.
Mountain and Plateau Walks (Bolaven Plateau etc.): Ride through x highlands, coffee plantations, hill villages - the best place to visit with nature lovers and photographers.
Mekong or Nam Khan River Boat Trips: Boat rides, sunset/sunrise rides, village tours, etc. - all year round (better in dry season).
Village and Rural Life Discovery: Located in the distant villages and communities of the locals, understand the local culture, traditions and customs - cultural adventure.
Water-Based Excursions ( Rivers, Waterfalls): In the southern Laos or forested regions- swimming, relaxing by the waterfalls, and rivers, and particularly after monsoon.
Eco-Tourism and Wildlife Watching: In national parks or forest reserves under protection - an opportunity to see rare plants/animals, birdwatching, jungles.
Best Places to Eat and Street Food
Restaurants & Dining
Local restaurants that serve the Lao style of grilled fish, sticky rice meals, noodle soups and the traditional Lao food- mostly cheap and delicious.
Cafes in towns such as Luang Prabang or on Mekong that sell coffee, fresh fruit juices and snacks - fantastic to take a rest and have a bite after sightseeing.
Guest-houses or boutique hotels serving a characteristic dinner of Lao cuisine - good when travellers want to have a simple and homely meal.
Offer mixed vegetarian/non-vegetarian meals - in case of Indian travellers requiring less spicy meals or vegetarian ones.
Small street vendors or market based restaurants - It is here that you will find local street food or snacks as you explore the towns/villages.
Street Food & Local Eats
Sticky Rice (Khao Niew): The Lao staple food - the sticky rice is commonly served with grilled meat or fish; it is a must needed experience in Lao food.
Lao Noodle Soup: Cozy, warm noodle soups -perfect breakfast or even rainy day- gives flavor of local food.
Grilled Fish / River Fish: Fresh water fish served in rivers such as Mekong- grilled or cooked in a traditional way, local and tasty.
Fresh Tropical Fruits and Juices: Due to the hot/humid climate of Laos, it has fresh tropical fruits, which are excellent in serving snacks or refreshing fruits.
Local Salads and Fresh Vegetable Dishes: Light, healthy (snacks) - good in those who like simpler meals or the vegetarian way of eating.
Shopping in Laos
Shopping Areas
Local Markets in Vientiane: closer to the river front or city centre - good in handicrafts and souvenirs, textile, traditional products.
Old-town Market in Luang Prabang: Small shops and stalls with fabrics, silk, hand-made crafts, local art, souvenirs - best to make souvenirs and memory keepsakes.
Village Craft Markets (Rural / Riverside Villages): Hand weaving, bamboo products, ethnic crafts, classic products - usually less expensive and more authentic.
Stalls along the street by Mekong and Rivers: Small souvenirs, local food, handmade bookmarks, small crafts — suitable to travellers with limited luggage.
Coffee & Tea plantations souvenir shops (Bolaven Plateau etc.): Local coffee, tea leaves, spices - good as a gift or personal consumption.
Local Handicraft and Silk Shops (All over Laos): To buy silk scarves, ethnic-style clothes, handmade jewelry, wooden souvenirs, traditional art objects.
Shopping Tips
Haggle soft skills — lots of markets will take a bargain.
Pay with local currency (Kip) or cash - cards are not always accepted in the small shops.
Shop first thing in a day — the best and fewest people.
Respect local traditions - seek permission before taking photos of locals or craft work.
Remember about luggage restrictions - a lot of stuff such as textiles or crafts can be cumbersome or delicate.
How Much Does a Laos Trip Cost?
Price Ranges
Budget: Approximately 50,000 -80,000 per capita (flights included early in booking, simple lodging, simple food, bare minimalities) - includes flights, lodging in guest-houses, transportation, and simple sightseeing.
Mid-range: 1,000,000 -1,50,000 per capita (moderate hotels/hostels, tours, a small amount of domestic travel, decent meals, moderate activities)
Premium: 2,00,000 to 3,50,000 and above (or higher with longer accommodation, luxury hotels, bulletin services, customized trips)
Cost Breakdown (approx.)
Flights (India to Laos): 20000-50000 (depending on the time you book and route)
Hotels: 1,000 to 3,000 per night (budget/hostel) 4,000 to 10,000 and above (mid to high-range).
Food: 800 to 1,500/day (simple meals), 2,500 to 3,000/day restaurant meals and drinks.
Transport (local buses/minivan/domestic flights): 300-1000/day (depending on the distance of the travelling)
Activities/ sightseeing: 500-2000/day (temple visits, boat ride, entrance fee), higher in case of adventure or luxurious experiences
Money-Saving Tips
Off season (rainy season) Travel - lower costs and reduced crowds.
Use guest-houses or plain hostels, instead of resorts.
Travel by local means / buses instead of domestic flights where feasible.
Dine in the local restaurants / street-food stands, rather than in expensive restaurants.
Book flights early (months ahead) to receive best airfare deals in India.
Group attractions and make effective routes - do not waste time and money in going back and forth.
Top 10 Mistakes to avoid when travelling in Laos
Not following the visa rules - Do not come without valid visa or documents, always verify the passport validity and seek e- Visa or visa-on-arrival beforehand.
Going in high heat without a thought-over plan - March -April very hot; carry water, take early morning/late afternoon trips.
This is the underestimation of the travel time in the mountains/remote places - the distance can appear small but the way can be long with the terrain. Plan accordingly.
Failure to honor local traditions In temples, take off shoes, dress humbly, do not point your feet, do not touch holy things, respect.
Packing large or delicate products — Most of the souvenirs are huge or delicate; it is better to pack lightly and not carelessly.
Using credit/debit cards exclusively - Most of the local stores or markets can only accept cash (Kip); make sure to carry enough cash.
Omitting travel insurance- Adventure treks, remote places or remote river areas - always nice to have some safety insurance.
Failure to learn some simple local nuances / expressions / manners -A little show of respect or greetings (“sabaidee”) goes a long way.
Neglecting weather/climatic conditions of different seasons — Roads may be bad during the rainy season; prepare in advance.
Hurried itinerary- Do not attempt to see and see all too quickly; Laos charm is the slow step, take time to absorb the atmosphere.
