Vientiane Attractions

Vang Xang

The ruins of this Mon temple, are by the road from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, some 66 kilometres from Vientiane. Vang Xang was built in the 11th century when Buddhist Mon and Hindu Khmer ruled Southeast Asia. Five Buddha statues remain. Allegedly, they stood on a former elephant cemetery.

Nam Ngum Dam

The dam and its turbines, about 90 kilometres from Vientiane, direction Luang Prabang, generate electricity for much of the country. The area is very picturesque. Hundreds of islets are scattered all over the lake. In some places enormous tree trunks jut out of the water. Boat tours on the lake are a favourite pastime.