Holidays to Laos

Laos and its fascinating history and rich culture has developed over thousands of years. The country was once home to several ancient civilisations, including the Khmer Empire, which left behind magnificent temples and architectural wonders. Some are still standing today, such as the UNESCO-listed Vat Phu in Champasak. 

In the 14th century, the Lan Xang Kingdom was founded, which became one of the most prosperous kingdoms in Southeast Asia. Laos came under French colonial rule in the late 19th century before gaining independence from France in 1953. 

The Vietnam War had a big impact on Laos, due to its proximity to Vietnam and its role as a major supply route on what is known as the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Laos also underwent a devastating civil war for a period post-independence. Each of these periods has left its mark in the architecture visible in the country today.  

Buddhism is the prominent religion in Laos, and the country is well known for its stunning temples. Laos is home to over 100 ethnic minority groups, all contributing to the rich tapestry of Lao culture. The country is well known for its silks, handicrafts and artefacts, and festivals, music and dance form part of Laos’ rich and diverse culture.  

Laos has a tropical monsoon climate, with wet and dry seasons. The dry season, also the cool season, typically runs from November to April with milder temperatures ranging from around 20 to 30°C (68–86°F). The wet season, or rainy season, typically lasts from May to October, and during this period Laos experiences heavy rainfall. While the weather remains warm, it can feel very hot due to the high humidity. 

The weather also varies across different regions of the country due to its varying topography and elevation. The north generally experiences cooler temperatures, the central region is more moderate and it’s warmer in the south. Laos is sometimes affected by typhoons in the Pacific Ocean, but since it’s a landlocked country it tends to be less badly affected than its coastal neighbours.  

The best time to visit Laos is generally in the dry season, from November to April, since the weather is more comfortable for exploring and sightseeing. Roads and transport are also generally better in the dry season, making it easier to travel about. Some important traditional festivals also take place in the dry season, such as Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year), which is an excellent way to experience local customs and traditions. 

While the wet season brings lush scenery, it may stop you from engaging in some of the water-based activities Laos has to offer, like boat trips and kayaking, since the water level may be too high. If you want to avoid the crowds of the dry season, however, the shoulder months of November and April can be a good option as they are at the beginning and end of the dry season.