What is the capital of Laos?
Laos's capital is Vientiane, located on the banks of the Mekong River at the Thai border. This city of 820,000 inhabitants is the country's political, economic, and cultural center.
Vientiane, administrative and economic capital
Vientiane (Viangchan in Lao) has officially been the capital of Laos since 1975. Located in the Vientiane Plain, it extends along the Mekong River which marks the border with Thailand. The city has approximately 820,000 inhabitants, representing nearly one-tenth of the country's total population.
A capital with provincial charm
Unlike Asian megacities, Vientiane retains a peaceful atmosphere with its wide tree-lined avenues, Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture. The main sites include:
- Pha That Luang: the golden stupa, national symbol
- Patuxay: the Laotian triumphal arch
- Wat Si Saket: the oldest temple in the capital
- Morning market: to discover local craftsmanship
Strategic position
The capital benefits from a privileged geographical position for trade with neighboring Thailand. The Friendship Bridge directly connects Vientiane to Nong Khai in Thailand, facilitating economic flows between the two countries.