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Laos Location Map: Where is Laos on World Map
Laos is a small, landlocked country tucked away in the heart of Southeast Asia. On the world map, you’ll find it in the eastern hemisphere, part of the Indochinese Peninsula.
In this Laos location map, you’ll find that Laos doesn’t touch the sea, but it’s surrounded by some of the region’s most popular travel destinations: Thailand to the west, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Myanmar (Burma) to the northwest, and China to the north.
Despite being less visited than its neighbors, Laos offers peaceful landscapes, rich culture, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. When you travel around in Southeast Asia, arrange 3-5 days to this lee-known region!
Laos Map with Cities
Once you set foot in Laos, you may be curious and confused about where to go and what to see. Let our Laos map with Cities show you the way.
Laos may not have mega-cities, but it has a handful of charming towns and small cities that are perfect for travelers. This three cities you’ll likely visit include Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Vang Vieng. Let’s see where are they located on the Laos Map.
Luang Prabang – nestled between the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers in northern Laos. a UNESCO World Heritage town full of golden temples, French-colonial charm, and the famous Kuang Si Waterfalls. The Laos–China Railway connects it conveniently to both China and other Lao cities.
Vientiane – sits along the Mekong River in central Laos, right on the border with Thailand. It’s the relaxed capital city with iconic sights like That Luang Stupa and Patuxai Monument. It’s the ending point for Laos–China Railway.
Vang Vieng – located in central Laos, about halfway between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. It’s surrounded by dramatic karst mountains, caves, and the Nam Song River, it’s great for adventure and nature lovers.
Or, if you have more time, pay a visit to these charming small towns.
Pakse – the largest city in southern Laos, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Xe Don Rivers. Also the gateway to southern Laos and nearby attractions like the Bolaven Plateau and Wat Phou.
Savannakhet – lies in south-central Laos, also along the Mekong River, right across from Mukdahan, Thailand. a quiet riverside town with colonial buildings and temples.
Phonsavan – located in northeastern Laos. the base for exploring the Plain of Jars.
Laos Attractions Map
We’ll show you the top three destinations with their highlights on the Laos Attractions Maps.
Luang Prabang Maps - Culture, Temples & Waterfalls
This UNESCO-listed town is undoubtedly the No.1 destination in Laos. Let’s see what to see in this region.
Luang Prabang is a charming city nestled in a peninsula formed by two rivers in northern Laos. On the map, you'll see it beautifully positioned at the meeting point of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan River, which embrace the city from two sides like protective arms.
Kuang Si Waterfalls – Must-see in Laos. Stunning turquoise waterfalls with swimming spots and a bear rescue center.
Alms Giving Ceremony – A peaceful early-morning ritual where monks collect alms from locals and tourists.
Mount Phousi – A short hike to panoramic views of the city and Mekong River.
Royal Palace Museum – Former royal residence turned museum showcasing Lao history.
Wat Xieng Thong – The most beautiful temple in town, known for its golden mosaic work.
Morning & Night Markets – Great for souvenirs, street food, and local crafts.
Vientiane Maps - Laid-back Capital with Spiritual & Historical Sights
The capital is chill, with a riverfront vibe and scattered landmarks worth a stroll.
Pha That Luang – The most sacred monument in Laos, a golden stupa symbolizing Buddhism and national identity.
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) – A surreal outdoor sculpture park with hundreds of bizarre Buddhist and Hindu statues, about 30 minutes outside the city.
Wat Si Muang – A lively local temple believed to bring luck and protection, especially popular among locals making offerings.
That Dam (Black Stupa) – A weathered, mysterious stupa right in the city center, linked to legends of a protective dragon.
Laos National Museum – A simple but informative museum covering Laos' history from ancient kingdoms to the colonial and revolutionary periods.
Patuxai Monument – Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, offering city views from the top.
Wat Sisaket – A temple housing thousands of Buddha images and beautiful architecture.
COPE Visitor Centre – Eye-opening center focused on UXO (unexploded ordnance) awareness and rehabilitation efforts.
Mekong Riverside Night Market – Relaxing place for evening walks, snacks, and sunset views over Thailand across the river.
Vang Vieng Maps - Adventure, Caves & Limestone Landscapes
If you’re a backpacker and outdoor lovers, do not miss Vang Vieng.
Blue Lagoons – Clear, refreshing swimming spots perfect for cooling off (Blue Lagoon 1, 2, and 3).
Tham Chang & Tham Phu Kham Caves – Impressive caves with stalactites, Buddha images, and viewpoints.
Hot Air Balloon Rides – For sunrise or sunset views over the mountains and rice fields.
Kayaking & Tubing on the Nam Song River – Classic Vang Vieng experience with beautiful river scenery.
Pha Ngern Viewpoint – A short but steep hike with one of the best views in Laos.
Laos-China Railway Map: How to Travel between China and Laos by Train
The Laos–China Railway is a game changer for traveling between the two countries. This high-speed railway runs from Kunming (Yunnan Province, China) all the way to Vientiane (the capital of Laos), covering over 1,000 kilometers in just about 10 hours.
Major stops in Laos include:
- Boten – the border town and entry point from China
- Luang Namtha – known for trekking and ethnic villages
- Muang Xay (Oudomxay) – a regional transport hub
- Luang Prabang – the cultural heart of Laos
- Vang Vieng – adventure hotspot
- Vientiane – the southern end of the line
From China, you can start your journey in Kunming and hop on a fast train south. The border crossing is smooth with immigration handled at Boten/Mohan station. It’s a scenic, efficient, and comfortable way to get into Laos.
Laos Airports Map: How to Get to Laos by Air
Laos has several international airports, making it easy to fly in from neighboring countries and beyond. The three main airports for international travelers are:
Wattay International Airport (VTE)
- Location: Vientiane (Central Laos)
- International: Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Kunming, Phnom Penh
- Domestic: Luang Prabang, Pakse, Xieng Khouang (Phonsavan), Oudomxay
Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)
- Location: Luang Prabang (Northern Laos)
- International: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Siem Reap, Seoul (seasonal)
- Domestic: Vientiane, Pakse, Phonsavan
Pakse International Airport (PKZ)
- Location: Pakse (Southern Laos)
- International: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City (limited), Siem Reap
- Domestic: Vientiane, Luang Prabang
Laos Travel Map: Map of Laos with Popular Itineraries
It’s time to plan your visit to this amazing country! Asia Odyssey Travel offers two popular routes: one focuses solely on Laos, while the other combines Laos with other Southeast Asian countries.
Itinerary #1: Laos Classic Tours (5 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane
You’ll arrive in Vientiane, where we’ll pick you up and take you to your hotel for check-in. If you have time and feel up to it, you can visit the Patuxai Monument, the city’s version of the Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2: Vientiane City Tour
Today you’ll explore the highlights of the capital. Start at the peaceful Buddha Park, then visit the golden Pha That Luang, Laos’ most sacred stupa. After that, learn about the country’s past at the COPE Visitor Centre, and end the day visiting two beautiful temples: Wat Si Muang and Wat Sisaket.
Day 3: Vientiane to Luang Prabang by Train
In the morning, take a comfortable train ride to Luang Prabang. After arrival, discover the charm of this UNESCO-listed town. You’ll visit the Royal Palace Museum and climb Mount Phousi to catch a lovely sunset over the city.
Day 4: Luang Prabang Tour
Start early to witness the peaceful alms-giving ceremony, followed by a visit to the local morning market. Then, head out to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls for a relaxing time in nature. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Wat Xieng Thong and enjoy a relaxing evening by the Mekong River.
Day 5: Departure from Luang Prabang
It’s time to check out and head to the airport. We’ll see you off and wish you a great journey ahead!
Itinerary #2: Southeast Asia Tours with Laos (16 days)
Start your Southeast Asia journey from Bangkok. Spend the first 4 days in Thailand, visiting Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
On the 5th day, fly from Chiang Mai to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Spend 2 days here to visit the world famous Angkor Wat.
On the 7th day, fly from siem reap to Luang Prabang, Laos. Spend 3 days here to explore the unesco towns.
On the 10th day, fly from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, capital of Vietnam. Start your 6-day Vietnam trip from north to south. Enjoy your relaxing vacation in Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Da Nang!
It’s a classic culture tour in these Southeast Asia countries, allowing you immerse in the diverse culture and landscape with local people.
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