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

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

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

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.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
  • Wat Sisaket (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.

    Admission ticket free
  • 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.

    Admission ticket free
  • 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.

    Admission ticket free
  • (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.

    Admission ticket free
  • (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.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Architecture Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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