Modern-day Laos has its roots in the ancient Lao Kingdom of Lan Xang, established in the 14th Century under King FA NGUM. For three hundred years Lan Xang included large parts of present-day Cambodia and Thailand, as well as all of what is now Laos. After centuries of gradual decline, Laos came under the control of Siam (Thailand) from the late 18th century until the late 19th century when it became part of French Indochina. The Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 defined the current Lao border with Thailand. In 1975, the Communist Pathet Lao took control of the government ending a six-century-old monarchy and instituting a strict socialist regime closely aligned to Vietnam. A gradual return to private enterprise and the liberalization of foreign investment laws began in 1986. Laos became a member of ASEAN in 1997.
Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with wet and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from May to September, and the dry season lasts from October t April. Temperatures and rainfalls vary considerably throughout the year and also by region. The coolest and driest time to visit Laos is between November and February.
Currency
Kip is the currency of Lao. Dollars and Thai baht are widely accepted, especially for the purchase of more expensive goods.
Passport
All visitors entering Laos must possess valid passports. Visitors must have a valid passport of at least 6 months. Please note that many countries will not allow entry if there is less than six months validity left on the passport.
Visas
For most visitors to Laos PRD, visas are obtainable upon arrival at both Vientiane and Luang Prabang International Airports. At land crossing checkpoints with Thailand, Vietnam & Laos, visitors will need to have already obtained their visas prior to their arrival through a Laos Embassy or Consulate overseas.
Visa fee is 30 USD (transit visa valid for 7 days visit), 1 month visa cost 45 USD.
