Temples of Vientiane , Vientiane

Home to a great number of temples, you’ll have the chance to visit the fascinating highlights of the sleepy capital of Vientiane on this full-day city tour with your local guide. Wat Sisaket, the oldest original temple in the city, features remarkable frescoes and over 6,000 Buddha images. Nearby is Haw Phra Kaew, containing some of the finest Buddhist sculptures and artifacts in the country, once housing the famous Emerald Buddha.

Constructed in 1958 and inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Putousay victory gate, also known as Anousavari, is one of the most photographed attractions in the city. Visit another famous Vientiane landmark, the Phra That Luang stupa, built by King Sethtathirat in 1566 and considered to be the national symbol. Take a break from temple hopping with a visit to the Talat Sao Morning Market to try some local coffee and snacks while looking around.

Later, head out of town with your guide to visit a slightly more strange attraction - the Xieng Khuan Buddha Park on the banks of the Mekong River. The site contains an impressive collection of about 200 kinds of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures to wander through and admire, including grand 40-metre high reclining Buddga image. En route, take a look at the impressive Friendship Bridge and the National Cultural Park nearby.