Laos Fast Facts

Laos Information

It's an indispensable boost to know the salient facts about Laos - one of the poorest yet friendliest countries in the world.

Laos Communications

Laos is a little behind the times when it comes to cyber communication and you'll have to register important mail but, on the whole, the country is gradually becoming connected. Read More...

Laos Emergency

Laos is not an inherently dangerous place to travel around in but all the same precautions should be taken. Read More...

The mighty Mekong in the west and the Annamite Mountains in the east offer natural borders with Thailand and Vietnam respectively, while Laos also shares borders with China in the north, Myanmar in the northwest and Cambodia in the south. Read More...

Laos History

The human history of Laos stretches back more than 10,000 years as stone tools and skulls unearthed in Huaphan and Luang Prabang provinces can confirm. The famous giant jars in Xieng Khouang province and stone columns in Huaphan province date from the neolithic period. Over centuries, rural settlements grew slowly to 'muang' (townships) along the Mekong River. Read More...

People & Culture

One of the lowest population densities in Asia, at 19 persons per square km, and an estimated population of only 5.4 million people, belies the fact that Laos is home to 68 different ethnic groups. These fall into three groupings, based upon language, culture and traditions. Read More...

Laos Transportation

New ways of accessing Laos from neighbouring countries are gradually opening up and with the road system improving, happily the whole Laos experience is becoming easier and easier for visitors. Read More...

Area	236,800sqkm
Capital City	Vientiane
Population	5.41 million
Language	Lao (official), French and English
Religion	Buddhism
Climate	Tropical Monsoon, Rainy Season May-November. Dry Season December-April
Local Time	GMT +7
Currency	Laotian kip = 100 cents. Notes of kip 5,000, 2,000, 1000, 500, 100 and 50.
Exchange	Banks, licensed offices, and hotels. Credit cards/traveller's cheques not widely accepted. Cash US dollars and Thai baht universally accepted. Small denominations very useful.
Business Hours	Office hours: 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00, Monday to Friday.
Tipping	Tipping is not customary in Laos. However, small gratuities may be given in appreciation for efficient, friendly service.
Nightlife	Apart from cultural shows presented at some hotels, there is no established nightlife catering to tourists.
Electricity supply	220V, 50 Hz
Photography	Basic supplies are available. Observe normal courtesy when photographing people, especially monks. Avoid taking photographs at airports and military locations.
Tourist Information	National Tourism Authority of Lao PDR, PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Tel (856-21) 212248, 212251, Fax (856-21) 212769 The most reliable information can also be usually be obtained from large travel agency offices.

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