The Avenue of a Million Elephants: A Vientiane Self-Guided Tour

Vientiane, Laos
Duration1h 30m - 2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore Vientiane’s Avenue Lane Xang, known as the ”Avenue of a Million Elephants,” named for the powerful Lane Xang Dynasty that once ruled this region. From ancient Buddhist temples to modern monuments commemorating independence, you’ll get to know the landmarks and stories that shape the national Lao identity.

You’ll visit Ho Phra Keo, once home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and explore Wat Sisaket, a temple with hundreds of Buddha images housed in wall niches. As you walk the grand Avenue Lane Xang, you’ll hear about the ancient kings who unified the three kingdoms of Luang Prabang, Champasak, and Vientiane, creating centuries of stability and prosperity.

You’ll encounter the mysterious black That Dam stupa, said to house a mythological seven-headed naga guardian, and visit the Talat Sao Morning Market where local sellers offer everything from electronics to traditional handicrafts.

What's included

  • Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • App for Android and iOS
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
  • Food and drink
  • Transportation

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    You’ll pass by Wat Sisaket, one of the capital’s oldest temples, known for its cloister walls filled with thousands of small Buddha images. Please note that entry to the temple is not included in this tour.
  2. Ho Phrakeo Museum
    Pass by
    You’ll pass by the Ho Phrakeo Museum, a former royal temple turned museum, known for its collection of Buddhist art and artefacts. Please note that entry to the museum is not included in this tour.
  3. Black Stupa (That Dam)
    Pass by
    You’ll pass by the That Dam Stupa, a mysterious blackened stupa steeped in local legend and believed to be protected by a mythical serpent spirit. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
  4. Pass by
    You’ll pass by Patuxai, a monumental arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe, built to honour those who fought for Laos’ independence. Please note that entry to the monument is not included in this tour.
  5. Pass by
    You’ll pass by the Patuxai Fountain, a decorative fountain set within the landscaped park surrounding the Patuxai monument, often hosting evening light displays. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour starts in front of the Presidential Palace. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

The tour ends at Patuxay Park in front of the World Peace Gong.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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$7.99 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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