Cities in Laos

  • Vientiane — the still sleepy capital on the banks of the Mekong River
  • Huay Xai — in the north, on the Mekong and the border with Thailand
  • Luang Namtha — capital of the north, known for its trekking
  • Luang Prabang — a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its numerous temples, colonial era architecture, and vibrant night market
  • Muang Xay — also known as Oudomxay, the capital of the multiethnic province of Oudomxay
  • Pakbeng — halfway point on the overnight slow boat between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang
  • Pakse — gateway to the Wat Phu ruins and the "four thousand islands" (Si Phan Don)
  • Savannakhet — in the south on the Mekong, connected by bridge to Mukdahan in Thailand
  • Tha Khaek — a popular base for exploring the Phou Hin Boun National Park including the famous Konglor Cave