The capital and hub city of Lao on Mekong river bordering Thailand. We came here to get back to India as major international flights are from this city. We spent an evening and morning before flight to go around. Prominent places to visit in Vientiane include Patuxai monument, Pha That Luang complex, banks of river Mekong, Buddha Park
Pha That Luang
The iconic stupa appearing in Lao tourism brochures
There is a temple beside with colorful pictures on the walls depicting life of Buddha
Wat Si Muang
A nice temple close to Mekong river. You can walk to Wat Si Saket, Presidential Palace and night market from here
Patuxay monument
The icon of Vientiane modelled after Arc de Triomphe, but with Lao touch and architecture. It was colorfully lit with night lights, fountains and music for New Year. The atmosphere was lively
Buddha park
An hour away from the city built by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat. There is another similar park across the river in Nong Khai in Thailand called Sala Keoku. We booked taxi transfers through or hotel for 500k Kip ($23) round trip and an hour of waiting at the park
The park is home to many large concrete statues. The gigantic pumpkin at the entrance has 3 layers depicting hell, earth and heaven. It was closed when we visited. We were amused by the efforts that has gone into making these sculptures
There is a small flower garden and park beside the statues with view of Mekong river
