The Orient - Laos - Country Information

Laos is one of the most laid-back countries in South East Asia and a treat to explore. Landlocked, Laos has had a troubled and turbulent recent history but this has not prevented its people from being one of the warmest and friendliest in Indochina. Culturally, highlights include Luang Prabang, the jewel of Laotian tourism, and Pak Beng, a peaceful village on the banks of the Mekong River and home to many tribal people. In the south of the country it is possible to explore ancient Khmer ruins and in the North-East one can visit the mysterious “Plain of Jars”. A country not to be missed.

Key Facts
Full Country Name	Laos People's Democratic Republic
Area	236,800 sq km
Population	5 million
Capital	Vientiane
Time Difference	GMT +7
Visa	Visa is required. For visa application form click here
Currency	Kip
People	The principal ethnic majority are the Laotians who account for 67% of the population and are related racially to the Thai people. The Laotians are divided into four main groups, the Lao Lum, Lao Theung, Lao Thai and the Lao Soung. Other ethnic minorities include the Vietnamese and Chinese.
Language	Lao
Dialling Code	+856
Electricity	220V

Visas:

Holders of UK Passports will require a visa to visit Laos. These can be obtained on arrival at a cost of US$30.00 per person (subject to change) and two passport photographs are required. If you are travelling on a group departure your visa will be obtained on arrival by your Tour Manager and we will invoice you for the visa cost prior to your departure. For visa application form click here

Health risks:

Hepatitis A & B, Japanese encephalitis, Malaria, Typhoid

When to Go:

The best time to visit Laos is from mid October through to early April.  The rainy season tends to last from May to September and the remainder of the year is dry and sunny. Temperatures are high throughout the year but in Luang Prabang cooler days will occur.