Travel to Laos

Laos, officially the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is a landlocked country in mainland Southeast Asia. Bordered by China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar, it is known for its mountainous terrain, Buddhist heritage, and dependence on the Mekong River. Despite modest size and resources, Laos plays a pivotal role in regional connectivity and hydropower development.

Laos spans about 236,800 square kilometers, over two-thirds of which are mountainous. The Annamite Range forms its eastern spine, while the Mekong River defines much of its western border with Thailand. The climate is tropical monsoon, featuring a wet season (May–October) and dry season (November–April). Forests cover nearly 70 percent of its land, harboring rich biodiversity that includes elephants, gibbons, and rare orchids.

Laos is governed by the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the sole legal political organization. The president serves as head of state and the prime minister as head of government. Power is centralized in the National Assembly, whose members are elected every five years. As of 2026, President Thongloun Sisoulith and Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone lead the administration.