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Lao National Museum
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Landmark
The Lao National Museum in Vientiane is housed in a grand French colonial building dating back to 1925, which originally served as the residence of the Governor-General. The museum provides a comprehensive narrative of Lao history, spanning from prehistoric times and the early Lan Xang Kingdom to the modern revolutionary era. The ground floor exhibits focus on ancient history, featuring paleontological finds and artifacts from the Plain of Jars. On the upper floor, the displays concentrate on the 20th-century struggle for independence and the eventual establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in 1975. Visitors can see a wide array of historical photographs, flags, and personal effects belonging to revolutionary leaders. The museum aims to preserve and showcase the national heritage and the resilience of the Lao people. It is a key cultural institution for anyone seeking to understand the country’s political journey and social development.
- Location: Laos
- Top sights: Lao National Theatre · Chinatown · Night food market
- Nearby: Nam Ngum Reservoir (15 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 25 | 28 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 13 | 35 | 62 | 168 | 170 | 203 | 246 | 204 | 85 | 16 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Lao National Museum in Vientiane is open to the public and can be visited inside. It houses exhibits on the country's history and culture.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, with Monday being a rest day. Exact opening hours should be checked on the official website beforehand.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in most exhibition halls. Some sensitive exhibits may have restrictions, so watch for signs.
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for a tour of the museum. Those who study the exhibits in depth may need longer.
Combine with
The museum is in central Vientiane, near Patuxai Arch and Wat Si Saket. These sights can easily be combined in one day.
Getting there
The museum is within walking distance from the city center, or reachable by taxi/tuk-tuk. There are also bus lines stopping nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the museum in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Cash is useful as card payment is not always accepted.
Geography
Facts
- The building was constructed in 1925 by the French colonial administration.
- It was formerly known as the Lao Revolutionary Museum until 2000.
- Exhibits include ancient stones and pottery from the Plain of Jars.
- The museum displays 110-million-year-old dinosaur bones found in Laos.
- The second floor is dedicated to the 1975 revolution and independence.
- It is located on Samsenthai Road, a major thoroughfare in Vientiane.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Lao National Museum (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you see at the Lao National Museum?
Exhibits on the history of Laos, from prehistoric times through the colonial era to the present day.
What building houses the museum?
In a former French governor's palace from the colonial era.
What are the opening hours?
Usually daily from 8:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00.
Is photography allowed in the museum?
Photography is not allowed in most galleries; bags often must be checked in.
Where is the museum located?
In the center of Vientiane, near the National Stadium.
Lao National Museum: where is it located?
Lao National Museum is located in Laos.
Lao National Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lao National Theatre, Chinatown, Night food market.
Lao National Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Lao National Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Lao National Museum in Vientiane is housed in a grand French colonial building dating back to 1925, which originally served as the residence of the Governor-General.
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History & landmarks
Chao Anouvong Statue
A prominent bronze monument along the Mekong in Vientiane, dedicated to the last king of the Kingdom of Vientiane.
Wat Si Saket
The oldest surviving Buddhist temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of small Buddha statues in the walls.
Haw Phra Kaew
A former temple in Vientiane that today serves as a museum for religious art and ancient Laotian artifacts.
COPE Visitor Centre
An informative museum in Vientiane documenting the impact of secret bombings on Laos and prosthetic efforts.
Pha That Luang
The most important national monument in Laos, a large gold-covered Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane.
Buddha Park
An unusual sculpture park along the Mekong River that houses over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues.
More places
Mekong Riverside Park
A popular park along the river in Vientiane where locals gather in the evenings for sports, play, and relaxation.
That Dam
A massive weathered stupa in the center of Vientiane, believed by many Laotians to be inhabited by a seven-headed Naga.
Wat Si Saket
The oldest surviving temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of tiny Buddha statues in the gallery walls.
Haw Phra Kaew
A former royal temple in Vientiane that now functions as a museum of religious art and once housed the Emerald Buddha.
Mekong River Valley at Vientiane
The wide alluvial plain surrounding the capital city, Vientiane, formed by the Mekong River.
Vientiane Orchid Farm
A specialized nursery in the capital dedicated to breeding and preserving hundreds of Laotian orchid species.
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Suan Mon Organic Farm
An interactive organic farm that introduces families and children to traditional Laotian agriculture and sustainable practices.
Patuxai
An imposing triumphal arch in Vientiane, dedicated to those who fought for independence from France.