Presidential Palace, Vientiane
Admire the grandeur of Vientiane's Presidential Palace, a stunning example of French colonial architecture and a symbol of Laos' political history.
The Presidential Palace, located on Lane Xang Avenue in Vientiane, stands as a symbol of political power and a testament to the city's rich history. Construction began in 1973, with the original intention of it being a royal residence. However, the communist Pathet Lao took power in 1975, and the palace eventually became the official residence of the President in 1986. Designed by Laotian architect Khamphoung Phonekeo, the building showcases a flamboyant Beaux-Arts architectural style, drawing inspiration from French neo-classic, Renaissance, and Gothic elements. Although the President of Laos does not reside at the Palace, it remains a crucial venue for government meetings, ceremonies, and events. The Palace is not open to the public, but its exterior can be admired from the front gates on Lane Xang Avenue, near Wat Si Saket, and from Quai Fa Ngum near the Chao Anouvong Statue. The building is particularly striking in the evening when it is illuminated with colorful lights. The Palace is featured on the 50,000 kip banknote, highlighting its significance as a national monument.
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to see the palace illuminated, providing excellent photo opportunities.
- View the palace from both Lane Xang Avenue and Quai Fa Ngum for different perspectives of its architecture.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Wat Si Saket and the Chao Anouvong Statue.
A brief summary to Presidential Palace
- XJ66+X2H, Vientiane, LA
Getting There
-
Walking
The Presidential Palace is located at the intersection of Lane Xang Avenue and Settathirath Road, making it easily accessible on foot from many central Vientiane locations. From the city center, head east towards Lane Xang Avenue. The palace is situated near Wat Si Saket and is visible from the avenue. No costs are involved.
-
Public Transport
Vientiane has a public bus system that can get you relatively close to the Presidential Palace. Several bus routes pass near Lane Xang Avenue. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option. A single bus fare typically costs between 8,000 to 40,000 LAK depending on the route and distance. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Palace.
-
Taxi/Tuk-tuk
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Vientiane. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs around 43,655 LAK base fare, plus 33,315 LAK per km. A 5km ride would cost around 170,230 LAK. Tuk-tuks are generally cheaper but require more bargaining.
Attractions Nearby to Presidential Palace
-
Ho Phrakeo Museum
-
Laos Private Tour Guide & Car Service
-
MIm Yaj Vientiane ມາອາສາຍຢູ່ທີນະຄອນຫຼວງວຽງຈັນ وِيَنچَنْ جَامِعَة مَسْجِد
-
Jamia Masjid Vientiane ມັສຢິດ ຢາມີອາ ນະຄອນຫຼວງວຽງຈັນ وِيَنچَنْ جَامِعَة مَسْجِد
-
Chao Anouvong Park
-
King Anouvong Statue
-
Night Food Market
-
Nam Phou Fountain
-
Vientiane Farmers Market
-
That Dam Stupa
-
Wat Xieng Nyeun
-
Vientiane Night Market
-
Sacred Heart Cathedral - Vientiane - ວັດກາໂທລິກ
-
ເທດສະການອາຫານລາວ
-
Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles
Landmarks nearby to Presidential Palace
-
Presidential Palace
-
Walking Street Roller Skate Park
-
Xaysomboun Boutique Hotel
-
Riverside Hotel
-
Lao National Cultural Hall
-
ຫໍຫຼັກເມືອງ
-
Vientiane City Pillar (Hor Lak Muang)
-
Vilaylac Restaurant
-
Mekong Riverside accomodation
-
Lao Orchid Hotel
-
King Sisavangvong Statue
-
Intouch guesthouse
-
That Khao Primary Secondary
-
Mekong River Commission Secretariat