A trip to Laos without visiting the Plain of Jars would
miss one of the most intriguing megalithic sites in the world. Stay in
Phonsavan, the capital of Xieng Khouang province, and book a tour of the nearby
Plain of Jars sites. Improbable and mysterious, these are vast stone jars and
other ancient stone structures scattered over many areas of the landscape.
Experts who have studied the jars believe that they are related to ancient
burial practices, but local legend has it that giants created the jars to hold
rice wine.
Moving from ancient times to the Middle Ages, another wonder
of Laos is the Wat Phou Khmer temple complex in Champasak
province. Originally built in the fifth century, the ruins and structures seen
today were replacement buildings added from the 11th to the 13th century.
It is still a site of Buddhist worship and an annual festival. It is a world
heritage site.
The capital of Vientiane is a smallish city
with distinct French influences in architecture, coupled with a laid-back rural
feel. French buildings and baguettes stand side by side with Buddhist temples
and Indian curry. It is a lovely city to walk around and the lack of frenetic
traffic makes it easy to do so. Sample one of the organized tours of the city
itself, near-by agricultural villages, or an eco-trip on the Nam Ngum River.
You can also choose to customize a trip suited to your own personal interests.
Do be sure to take the time for a trip to Buddha
Park. The park contains hundreds of statues not only of Buddha but of Hindu
gods, animals and mythic figures. A monk who had studied both Buddhism and
Hinduism built the statues in 1958. The park is a window into the religious
influences that dominate this country.
Finally, go swim with an elephant! The Elephant
Village Sanctuary offers elephant rides that include a dip into the
river on the backs of these magnificent animals. The objectives of the
sanctuary are to save elephants and preserve nature, as well as to build
community support for protecting the elephant population. Many of the animals
cared for here have been injured or disabled. Activities for kids and adults
abound and this trip is well worth a full day.
Enjoy a leisurely vacation in Laos!
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