Laos

Southeast Asia

Laos is a country in Southeast Asia, home to 7.8 million people, with an area of 236,800 km². Its capital is Vientiane.

Capital: Vientiane
Population: 7.8 million
Area: 236,800 km²
Region: Southeast Asia
Density: 32.9 / km²
Status: Sovereign state

Laos · Southeast Asia · map loads on click

Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.

What Laos is known for

Laos is best known for Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls and Vang Vieng.

Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Laos is a mountainous country with dense forests and scenic rivers, and is known for its unique blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Buddhist temples.

Laos at a glance

Language: Lao is the official language, but English and French are also spoken in tourist areas
Currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
Religion: Theravada Buddhism is the predominant religion in Laos, with a significant number of animists as well
National dish: Laap (a spicy salad made with minced meat or fish, herbs, and spices)
Climate: Laos has a tropical climate with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April
Main industries: Agriculture, including rice and coffee production; hydropower; mining; and tourism
GDP: $18.3 billion (nominal, 2021 estimate)
Development: Laos is considered a developing country, with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 142 out of 189 countries (2020)

Things to do in Laos

Some of the main tourist attractions in Laos include:

Luang Prabang a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and Buddhist temples.
Kuang Si Falls a beautiful waterfall located near Luang Prabang with stunning turquoise pools.
Vang Vieng a scenic town known for its karst landscape and outdoor activities such as kayaking and rock climbing.
Wat Phu a ruined Khmer Hindu temple complex in southern Laos that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Plain of Jars a mysterious archaeological site in central Laos where thousands of stone jars are scattered across the landscape.
The Mekong River the longest river in Southeast Asia that flows through Laos and is a popular spot for river cruises.
Pha That Luang a golden stupa in Vientiane that is a national symbol of Laos.
Bolaven Plateau a highland region in southern Laos known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
Thakhek Loop a popular motorbike route that takes travelers through scenic countryside and charming towns.
Nam Ou River a scenic river in northern Laos that is known for its beautiful karst landscape and traditional villages.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Laos has to offer. The country is also known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly people, and delicious cuisine.

Laos in pictures

Laos on video

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Laos compared with its neighbours

How it sits against the other countries of Southeast Asia.

Country	Population	Area	Capital
Laos	7.8 million	236,800 km²	Vientiane
Singapore	6 million	728 km²	Singapore
Timor-Leste	1.4 million	14,874 km²	Dili
Brunei	460,000	5,765 km²	Bandar Seri Begawan