Vientiane

Vientiane was once known as the most provincial capital in the world. But the bridge to Thailand has opened the way for investment and crowds. Now there are actually traffic jams. There are people who skip Vientiane. But a capital is always the heart of a country. Visit the National Museum for a look at the past and the communism of the generation that emerged around 1975. And just before sunset, admire the Pha That Luang, the golden symbol of the country. And visit Wat Si Saket with its more than 5,000 Buddha images. Another gem is Wat Ho Phra Keo, the temple that once housed the jade Buddha that was captured from the Thai. The Thai recaptured the statue and it is now on display in Bangkok. And don't forget Wat Si Muang, a living temple, with a flow of devout pilgrims and a spiritual atmosphere. And especially walk along the Mekong, where vegetables are even grown along the banks nowadays. Going south along the Mekong there are numerous small Wats without any tourists. Go by moped if you visit Xiang Khane.

Wat Xieng Khuan

This Buddha park was started in 1958 by Luang Pu Bunleia Sulilat. This was a priest shaman who integrated Hinduism and Buddhism. The images represent gods, animals and demons and are sometimes somewhat bizarre in design. You will find Buddha, Vishnu, Shiva, Avolokitesvara, but also elephants, turtles and other animals. If you have traveled through this part of Asia for a while, you have actually encountered many similar images, although they are just a bit more original and stimulating here.