The Patuxai Monument in Vientiane is one of the central landmarks in the capital of Laos. Built in the 1950s and 1960s, it is meant to resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. But if you look closely, you’ll notice Laotian influences—a unique building that you definitely shouldn’t miss while in Vientiane.
For a few kip (really not much), you can walk up the Patuxai Monument—all the way to the top.
Sightseeing in Vientiane: The Patuxai Monument
As you walk up, you can stop on two floors. Souvenir vendors have set up their stalls there, and you can find all kinds of knickknacks.
One floor reminded me very much of old Russian department stores with high ceilings and their saleswomen behind glass counters. One of the few times in Laos where I felt reminded that I was actually in a communist country.
Once you reach the very top, you’ll come to this romantic spiral staircase—isn’t it pretty? And just look at those ornate window grilles!
Laos is for me one of the most beautiful travel countries in Southeast Asia!
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View of Vientiane
Some of the busiest main roads in Vientiane lead to the traffic circle around Patuxai Monument. One of the most central transport hubs, in other words. And here is already noticeable: Vientiane is so very different from most Southeast Asian capitals: No traffic collapse, no constant honking – everything very quiet.
Patuxai Monument: Best at sunset
It is most beautiful up here at sunset. No more crowds, and the setting sun bathes everything in a very special light. The architecture is really very unusual, everything is decorated in great detail.
How do you get there?
Patuxai Monument is located just outside the city center. From the old town (where most of the accommodations are located), it takes about 20 minutes by bike. Bikes can be rented everywhere in the old town. Or you can just take a tuktuk.
Here you can see even more great spots in Vientiane: The Most Beautiful Attractions in Vientiane
And if you’re in Laos, you definitely shouldn’t miss this city in particular: All articles about Luang Prabang
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