Man carrying sticks across a bridge in Vang Vienne Laos
Man carrying sticks across a bridge in Vang Vienne Laos Laos, a landlocked country bordered by Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Burma and China, is fast becoming a popular destination for independent travelers. As other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam become more Westernized and crowded, Laos remains relaxed, traditional and spiritual. Laos is not only cheaper and less-visited than Vietnam and Thailand but also their money is less a priority for the friendly and accommodating Lao people. Luang Prabang became the first capital of Laos in the 14th century when King Fa Ngum returned from Cambodia where he and his father were exiled by the previous king, Fa Ngum's grandfather. Fa Ngum had the support of the Kingdom in Siem Reap and brought with him thousands of soldiers and so established his kingsom. Luang Prabang was previously known as Muang Sawa, but changed name after Cambodia sent the precious gold Buddha the Prabang as a gift. The Prabang is today the symbol of the town and a copy is at display at the museum. The real one was sent off to the Soviet Union in the 1970s to settle debt. Loungphabang was known as Xieng Dong Xieng Thong before it was renamed Loungphabang, after the Buddha image of the same named was sent to Laos. The Phabang was returned to Laos, during the invation of Vientiane by Taksins forces, the Phabang as well as the Pra Keow were taken to Bangkok, the Phabang was returned to Laos, but the Pra Keow was never returned.
Size: 5130px × 3420px
Photo credit: © MOB IMAGES / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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