December is one of the best months of the year to visit Laos.
With its warm weather and clear skies, many Western travelers come to Laos to spend their Christmas holidays.
Here are some of the recommended places to visit if you are going to Laos in December:
- Visit the Great Pagoda in Vientiane: Pha That Luang
- Buddha Park, Vientiane
- Wat Xieng Thong Monastery, Luang Prabang
- Nong Kiaw Small Town, Luang Prabang
- Luang Prabang Night Market
1. Visit the Great Pagoda in Vientiane: Pha That Luang
The major entry city for Laos, Vientiane, is most famous for its gorgeous Buddhist temples, pagodas, and quaint buildings.
If you are visiting Vientiane for the first time, then the great pagoda: Pha That Luang can't be missed.
Located in the middle of Vientiane, Pha That Luang has more than 2,500 years of history.
The 45-meter-high (150-foot-high) pyramid-like stupa has a main spire standing high and pointing into the sky with 30 smaller pagodas surrounding it.
The gold plate on all the pagodas shines brightly under the sun, which makes it a perfect spot for photographers.
2. Buddha Park, Vientiane
If you are looking for a park to relax in and enjoy some free time, then Buddha Park in Vientiane is a good place.
The sculpture park has more than 200 religious statues scattered around the park.
Among them, the huge 40-meter-high (130-foot-high) reclining Buddha statues is the biggest sculpture.
To take photo of the big buddha sculpture, you can climb up the giant pumpkin-shaped building nearby, which is about 10 meters (30 feet) high.
Beside the buddha sculptures, there is an amazing Hindu sculpture, which shows the king of Hindu gods riding a three-headed elephant and other sacred Hindu deities.
3. Wat Xieng Thong Monastery, Luang Prabang
As one of the must-visit cities of Laos, Luang Prabang is rich in history and culture.
There are many top attractions in this historic city. Well-known Wat Xieng Thong is the one you can't miss.
It is considered to be a masterpiece of traditional Laotian temple architecture.
Located at the northern tip of Luang Prabang, Wat Xieng Thong has become an important cultural landmark in Luang Prabang.
It has numerous pavilions, shrines, gardens of flowers, and ancient residences of past Kings.
You will be amazed by the architecture formed by Laotian carpentry and arts.
4. Nong Kiaw Small Town, Luang Prabang
December is a good time to visit ethnic villages in Luang Prabang. Nong Kiao is a good choice as there are festivals to welcome the New Year there.
It is also a good place to refresh yourself with simple natural sights after you have visited many intricate monasteries or buddha statues in the major cities.
Located about 3 hours north of the city of Luang Prabang, Nong Kiao is well-known for its paddy fields, ethnic villages, limestone mountains, and weaving villagers.
You can experience the Baci ceremony there, which celebrates new year, weddings, special events, and even welcoming guests from different places!
You would probably be welcomed into the community of warm-hearted villagers with a welcoming feast.
5. Luang Prabang Night Market
After a full day's touring activities, wandering around the night market could yet be a highlight of your trip to Laos.
Delicious food, nice souvenirs, and amazing night views make Luang Prabang Night Market a good place to relax and experience the local life.
You can buy numerous traditional handicrafts, clothing, toys, and artifacts in this market. If you are a foodie, then the night market could be your favorite place in Laos.
You can try all kinds of local street food, Western food, desserts, and BBQ meals.
The night market opens from 5pm to 11pm each evening, so you should be able to find a suitable time to visit.