🇱🇦Laos
About Laos
Laos, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia known for its mountainous terrain, rich cultural heritage, and Buddhist traditions.
Located between Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and Myanmar, Laos features the Mekong River along its western border, rugged highlands, plateaus, and dense tropical forests.
Laotian culture is heavily influenced by Theravada Buddhism, with vibrant festivals such as Pi Mai (Lunar New Year), traditional music, dance, and weaving of silk textiles.
From the ancient Kingdom of Lan Xang (14th‑18th centuries) to French colonial rule and the establishment of a communist state in 1975, Laos has a complex history marked by resilience and cultural continuity.
Key Facts
- Capital: Vientiane
- Population: ~7.5 million (2023 est.)
- Official language: Lao
- Currency: Lao kip (LAK)
- Area: 237,955 km²
- Time zone: Indochina Time (UTC+7)
- UN member since 1955
Country Details
Capital
Vientiane
Region / Subregion
Asia / South-Eastern Asia
Native Name
ສປປລາວ
Nationality
Lao, Laotian
Currency
Lao kip (LAK - ₭)
Phone Code
856
Top-Level Domain
.la
ISO Codes
ISO2: LA / ISO3: LAO
Coordinates
Lat: 18, Lng: 105
Provinces in Laos
Prefectures in Laos
Laos: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Laos?
The capital of Laos is Vientiane.
What currency is used in Laos?
Laos uses the Lao kip (LAK), with the symbol ₭.
Where is Laos located?
Laos is located in South-Eastern Asia, Asia.
What is the native name of Laos?
The native name of Laos is ສປປລາວ.
What are people from Laos called?
People from Laos are referred to as Lao, Laotian.
What is the phone calling code for Laos?
The international dialing code for Laos is +856.