Laos is a country with many peculiarities. A perfect destination for those looking for a different kind of travel. This Southeast Asian country has one of the rare socialist regimes in the world. Called the land of million elephants, Laos also has the pain of being the most bombed country in the world. Learn more about Laos who eat a lot of rice and drink their coffee in a plastic bag.
The land of million elephants
The Lan Sung dynasty ruled Laos from 1345 to 1707. The name of this dynasty means land of million elephants. Herds of wildebeests were a common sight in Laos, where there was more forest and less people. Therefore, centuries ago, elephants were one of the main means of travel of the royal family. Elephants also played an important role in wars. The Land of Million Elephants is the most appropriate name for Laos, which still holds sacred status for elephants.
Land surrounded by land
Laos is a landlocked landlocked country. Although there is no beach, Laos is a country with plenty of forests, trees and rivers. More than 80 percent of the people here are engaged in agriculture or related occupations. Paddy is the main crop. Coffee is also famous. Laos’ neighbors are Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, China and Myanmar.
Communist Laos
While many have heard of the Soviet Union, China, and even Poland being associated with communism, many people may not be aware of Laos’ communist connections. Laos is one of the five most important communist regimes in the world. Laos is also in the group of China, Vietnam, Cuba and North Korea. The official name of Laos is Lao People’s Democratic Republic. A red flag with a hammer and sickle is readily available anywhere in Laos.
Laos’ love of rice
Laotians are also the biggest consumers of locally produced rice called kao nio. On average, each Laotian consumes 156 kilograms of cao nio per year. They describe themselves as the children of Sticky Rice. This rice has a history of almost four millennia.
Coffee in a plastic bag
Coffees such as Arabica and Robusta are grown in abundance in Laos. This small country produces 20,000 tons of coffee annually. While Arabica is mainly used locally, Robusta is exported to countries like Thailand. Traditional Lao ice coffee is served in a plastic bag. Don’t go arguing with Laotians about plastic and pollution. Because even today it is the country that received the most bombs in the world. Today, Laos is trying to make a comeback with the help of tourism.
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Capital: Vientiane
Currency: Kip (LAK)
Season: October – April
Visa: Indians do not need a visa to visit Laos. Visa on arrival allows you to stay in Laos without a visa for up to 30 days. Indian passport with 6 months validity should be carried.
English Summary: Laos Travel Guide