#vientiane

[thaguche]

[dailystreetsnapshots]

Vientiane, Laos

[shiroganejpg]

something experimental. words from my journal + travel photos

[southeastasianists]

Not a lot of historic landmarks in Vientiane remain in their original forms, having been numerous wars and invasions—particularly the Siamese onslaught of 1827 and the Indochina Wars that lasted for 55 years. A few exceptions are Wat Si Saket, a Buddhist temple built in 1818, and That Dam, an ancient stupa steeped in legend.

Standing in the center of a roundabout near the Talat Sao morning market, the stupa is believed to be around 500 years old, though the exact date of construction remains uncertain. The name That Dam (not that dam) means “black tower” in Lao, based on its current status. However, it was not always darkened and overrun with weeds; local legends claim that it was once gilded over and that the gold was all stripped away by the Siamese invaders.

Generally, stupas are built to enshrine Buddhist relics, most often the ashes of monks and nuns, sometimes of kings. In the case of That Dam, it is unknown what is buried inside, but locals whisper of an intriguing legend. According to them, lying dormant underneath the stupa is the Naga, a seven-headed serpent that will awaken whenever Vientiane faces a crisis. Many of them believe that it has protected the city from the 1827 invasion, as well as on other historical occasions.

The stupa has fallen into disrepair since the Naga last showed itself, weather-worn and all but neglected, but there are still believers in the powerful serpent. In fact, some locals seem to continue to visit the ancient monument to dedicate flowers to the forgotten guardian of Vientiane, in hopes that its peaceful slumber will never again be disturbed.

[thepanvelite]

A Memorable Journey to Laos: A Casual Traveler’s Guide

Laos: Serene landscapes, rich culture, vibrant cuisine, warm hospitality, ancient temples.

Laos, a hidden gem nestled in Southeast Asia, awaits the curious traveler with its serene landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cuisine. Let’s embark on an adventure to this land of ancient temples, lush jungles, and warm-hearted locals. Getting There Laos is well-connected to neighboring countries. You can fly into Wattay International Airport in Vientiane from Bombay, Bangkok, Hanoi,…

[postcard-from-the-past]

Ruins of a pagoda in Vientiane, capital city of Laos

French vintage postcard

[killingshorttermmemory]

🏮🏮🏮🏮🏮 … … … #Chinatown #hipstamatic #hema #vientiane #dubai #uae #middleeast #dubaimall #🏮 #lantern #lanterns (at Downtown Dubai) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqTYREDolEh/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[kodachrome-net]

Friends, Vientiane, Laos, May 1991

[optikes]

Haw Phra Kaew  ຫໍພຣະແກ້ວ ,Vientiane, Laos

first construction 1565 CE

© optikestrav    

(2015)

[cheekyblunders]

Laos 2009

Found some old pictures that were miraculously saved on a defunct website.

[thevagabondsbride-blog]

We found something cool yesterday!

I would definitely recommend a visit.

They offer a nice choice of juices, coffee, teas, sodas and some desserts.

And of course, cats!

[alenasbdesign]

Happy National Day, Laos!

[travelauthenticasia1]

Luang Prabang Railway Station 🥰

There are countless ways to explore the world, but taking the train offers a unique journey like no other. 🚆✨ Luang Prabang'railway station is quickly becoming one of the must-see attractions in Laos. Ready to discover how this modern marvel connects travelers to the heart of Laos' natural beauty and rich culture?

😄 Don’t miss out—read more at: Luang Prabang Railway Station

[topsportsasia]

Miss Universe Laos 2024 crowned in Vientiane

The Miss Universe Laos 2024 coronation ceremony was held at the Saint Phila Convention Hall in Vientiane, Laos on June 8, 2024. It is the sixth edition of the national beauty pageant that selects Laos’s Miss Universe candidate. A total of 18 women competed for the Miss Universe Laos 2024 crown. Here are the results: PLACEMENTCANDIDATEMiss Universe Laos 20241st runner-up2nd runner-up3rd…

[southeastasianists]

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is home to many Buddhist temples and monasteries. With its foundation dating back to 1563 during the Lan Xang period, Wat Si Muang is one of the oldest and best-known temples here, most popular among locals.

In the past, Wat Si Muang was once associated with royal rituals, sometimes hosting coronation ceremonies. The popular myth claims that it was named after a local pregnant woman, Si, who sacrificed her own life to call upon an ancient guardian spirit to protect the city from an oncoming flood.

Another version of the story, perhaps resulting from mistranslation, has it that multiple pregnant women were sacrificed to prevent evil spirits from causing a disaster. Either way, the mythical Si Muang continues to be remembered and honored as a hero.

The temple itself houses a copy of the Emerald Buddha statue and a sacred stone pillar called the Lák Méuang, an ancient monument believed to enshrine the guardian spirit of the city, as well as several mini-shrines throughout the premises, some gorgeously kitsch. Right outside the temple also stands an imposing statue of King Sisavangvong, the first ruler of the Kingdom of Laos.

[conandaily2022]

Miss Universe Laos 2024 results: Phaimany Lathsabanthao crowns successor in Vientiane

Laos currently has one Miss Universe placement. Representing the Asian country, Payengxa Lor finished in the Top 16 at Miss Universe 2022 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States on January 14, 2023. beauty pageant: Missedition: date: June 2024venue: international membership: broadcasters: candidates:national director: hosts: performers: judges: MISS…