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Vientiane · Laos
Chao Anouvong Park
Gaze into history, feel the pulse of Vientiane by the Mekong.
Discover the heart of Vientiane — the King's statue facing the Mekong, riverside promenades, and stunning sunset views.
📍 Vientiane landmark🌅 Best sunset viewpoint🏛️ 450th-anniversary monument🆓 Free entry
🎧 Audio tour in production
View on Google Maps 17.9616°N, 102.6073°E · Vientiane Center Vientiane attractions Chao Anouvong Park
★ 4.2 6,909 Google
Vientiane attractions
Chao Anouvong Park
Chao Anouvong Park
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Soft sunset
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Times are estimates for the park's location
Golden hour17:35 – 18:05
Sunset18:25
Blue hour18:45 – 19:15
CrowdsQuietest in the morning
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About the park
An urban oasis by the Mekong
Located in the center of Vientiane, Chao Anouvong Park stretches along the Mekong River and is one of the city's most popular public spaces.
The park is named after King Anouvong, a famous figure in Lao history. His bronze statue stands tall, holding a sword in one hand and pointing towards Thailand across the Mekong with the other, symbolizing the independence and dignity of the Lao people.
During the day, it is a lush green promenade; in the evening, as the Mekong sunset turns the sky golden, the park transforms into a vibrant night market and a hub for citizen recreation.
“Here you can see the most authentic street life of Vientiane and the most beautiful sunset.”
2010
Completed
14 ha
Area
24 hours
Open
👑
King Anouvong Statue
The majestic bronze statue of King Anouvong is one of Vientiane's iconic landmarks.
🌅
Mekong Sunset
Stroll along the riverside path and watch the sunset glow over the wide Mekong River.
🎪
Vientiane Night Market
As night falls, the red-roofed tents next to the park connect into the largest night market in Vientiane.
Editor's tip
Arrive around 17:30 to watch the sunset, then explore the night market for street food.
See full guide →Visitor Guide
Visit Tips
Straightforward, useful advice for a relaxed evening at Chao Anouvong Park.
Practical details below (hours, night-market times, fees and transport fares) are typical local values verified in October 2026. Opening times and prices may change, so please confirm on site before your visit.
⏰ Hours
Open 24 hours
- Best time17:30 - 18:30
- Night market18:00 - 22:00
🎟️ Fees
Free Entry
- AdmissionCompletely free public space
Public restrooms cost around 2,000-3,000 Kip
🚲 Transport
Getting there
- Walking10-15 mins walk from city center
- Tuk-tukTell the driver to go to the Mekong night market
- BicycleCycling along the river is very pleasant
- ✈️ Airport to the park (Wattay Intl. VTE)Wattay International Airport is about 3–5 km away, roughly 15–25 min by car. Step-by-step:
- After baggage claim, exit the arrivals hall and look for the bright-yellow LOCA / InDrive taxi point outside the terminal, or connect to airport Wi-Fi and book via the app.
- In the app, or tell the driver the destination: Chao Anouvong Park (riverside, Mekong).
- Alternatively, buy a fixed-fare ticket at the taxi counter in the arrivals hall — about 150,000 Kip, assigned to a licensed taxi.
- The car goes via Route 13 or the city centre to Fa Ngum Road; get off at the park entrance and walk straight to the statue and riverside promenade.
- Fare guide: app ride about 60,000–120,000 Kip; avoid unmetered tuk-tuks to prevent overcharging. After 17:30 the riverside gets congested, so allow extra time.
Photography & Viewpoints
Two easy vantage points for postcard shots of the park and the Mekong.
Best light windows
Golden hour · 17:30–18:00
Warm, low-angle light rakes across the statue.
Sunset · ~18:25
The king is rimmed with gold and the river glows.
Blue hour · 18:45–19:15
Both banks light up — ideal for long exposures.
Best photo spots
Spot 1 · 45° front of the statue
Shoot into the low sun for the king's silhouette with a golden rim.
Use a telephoto to compress and avoid the crowds.
Spot 2 · riverside steps
Frame Nong Khai's afterglow and its reflection on the water.
Get low to the water for a clean mirror reflection.
Camera / phone settings
Silhouette (statue)
Spot-meter the sky, underexpose ~1 stop.
Enable HDR; tap the sky to focus and drag exposure down.
Blue-hour night
Tripod + f/8 + 2s exposure.
Pro mode ISO 100 long exposure, or Night mode.
Quick tips
- Arrive 30 minutes early to claim a spot.
- A small travel tripod helps with blue-hour long exposures.
- Respect the statue — never climb the railing for a shot.
🌫️ Haze Season
Late dry season (Feb to April) may have agricultural burning haze, affecting sunset views.
FAQ
Is there an entrance fee? +
The park is a fully open public green space with no ticket — free and open 24 hours a day.
How long should I plan to visit? +
Allow 1.5–3 hours: ~30 min at the statue and riverside walk, ~30 min watching the Mekong sunset from the steps, and 1–2 hours at the night market for food and crafts.
Are there toilets or luggage storage? +
Public toilets are available in the park and around the night market, costing about 2,000–3,000 Lao kip (bring small change and tissues). There is no luggage storage inside the park — leave large bags at your hotel or use a nearby café's service.
How do I get to the park? +
It sits on the Mekong in central Vientiane. Walk 10–15 min from the city centre; use the LOCA or InDrive apps (set destination to Chao Anouvong Park); or take a tuk-tuk and show the driver 'Night Market' / 'Chao Anouvong Statue'.
Can I drive and park nearby? +
After 17:30 the riverside Fa Ngum Road gets very congested — four-wheel parking is not advised. Bikes/motorbikes can use marked roadside bays (a small fee of about 5,000 kip may apply).
What payment is accepted at the night market? +
Most stalls are cash only. Carry Lao kip (LAK); some accept Thai baht (THB) or US dollars but change is given in kip at a loss. Local apps like BCEL One work at a few shops, but cards are rarely usable at stalls.
Is the street food safe? +
The night market is generally clean. If you have a sensitive stomach: choose hot, freshly grilled or boiled items; be cautious with raw seafood or cut fruit; ask for 'no ice' in drinks.
How should I behave at the statue? +
The king is a sacred national hero. Dress modestly (no beachwear), never climb the base or railing, and avoid playful or disrespectful gestures. You may lay marigold or champa garlands at the offering altar.
Can I fly a drone? +
Not recommended without permission. The park borders the Mekong international boundary (Thailand opposite) and lies near government and diplomatic areas — an unauthorised drone risks confiscation or a heavy fine.
Is the park safe at night? +
Very safe. Vientiane is peaceful and the park is well lit, with many local families around. Still, watch your bag, phone and wallet in crowds.
What about the haze season? +
From Feb to Apr (late dry season) agricultural burning can raise the AQI and haze the sky, so sunsets may glow red rather than golden. Consider a mask if you are sensitive.
What are the opening hours of Chao Anouvong Park? +
The park is an open riverside green space with no gates, so it is accessible 24 hours a day, every day. The night market along Fa Ngum Road usually runs from about 18:00 to 22:30.
What time does the Vientiane night market open? +
Stalls begin setting up around 17:30–18:00 and wind down by roughly 22:30, every evening. Food, clothes and souvenirs line the promenade beside the park.
What is the Chao Anouvong statue? +
A bronze monument of King Anouvong (r. 1805–1828), about 8 metres tall (about 14 metres including its base), unveiled in 2010, facing across the Mekong toward Thailand. It honours the last king of Vientiane and is the park's centrepiece.
What is near Chao Anouvong Park? +
It sits on Vientiane's central riverfront. A short walk away: the night market, the Fa Ngum promenade, Patuxai (Victory Monument) and Wat Si Saket.
History & Legends
The Gaze of King Chao Anouvong
The park's name and its central statue carry the Lao people's deep memory of independence and dignity.
1767
Birth of a king
Chao Anouvong is born in the Kingdom of Vientiane — the last crown prince who would later become its final king.
1826–1828
The uprising against Siam
He leads a revolt to reclaim Lao independence. Vientiane is devastated in the war, yet his defiance turns him into a national hero.
2010
Park & bronze statue unveiled
Completed for the 450th anniversary of Vientiane's founding: a bronze statue of the king — about 14 metres tall including its base — rises on the Mekong shore.
Today
Heart of the riverside city
A symbol of Vientiane and the living centre of riverside civic life — where history and daily life meet.
The park by day
The night-market buzz
Drag the slider to compare the calm of day with the bustle of the night market
History & the Hero's Legend
The hero-king who gazes at the great river
At the centre of the park stands the bronze statue of King Chao Anouvong, about 8 metres tall (about 14 metres including its base). In armour, his right hand grips a sword while his left hand points firmly across the Mekong toward Thailand. Chao Anouvong (1767–1829) was the last ruler of the Vientiane Kingdom and a symbol of Lao independence and dignity.
The final echo of 1826
In the early 19th century, Laos was under Siamese (Thai) control. In 1826, King Chao Anouvong launched a struggle for national independence. Though the uprising failed against overwhelming odds and the old city of Vientiane was destroyed, his spirit of defending his homeland's honour made him an eternal hero in the Lao people's hearts.
The naga and the guardian of the river
In Lao belief, the Mekong is not only a life-giving mother river but also the home of the Phaya Naga — a mythical dragon. Local legend holds that the king's statue stands guard on the bank alongside the naga, blessing Vientiane with peace and prosperity. On traditional festivals such as Boun Lai Heua Fai (the end-of-lent river festival), tens of thousands of citizens gather along the park's riverfront to float thousands of flower lanterns, carrying reverence for history and wishes for the future.
The king's gaze and gesture
One hand rests a sword at his side; the other reaches toward the opposite bank (Nong Khai, Thailand). In local lore this gesture is both a declaration of Laos's former territory and dignity, and a blessing upon those who come after.
The Mekong dragon (Phaya Naga)
Lao folklore is intertwined with the naga of the Mekong. Locals believe a dragon dwells at the riverbed beneath the park, protecting the land. Each year during Boun Lai Heua Fai, citizens float lanterns and hold boat races by the river to honour the river spirit and the naga.
The Champa flower (Dok Champa)
Beyond the frangipani in the garden, the Dok Champa — Laos's national flower — symbolises purity, devotion and the gentle hospitality of the Lao people. Offerings of marigold or champa garlands at the statue's base are a quiet way to pay respect.
Memory of a national hero
In Lao historical narrative, Chao Anouvong is synonymous with courage. Locals often lay flowers and incense before the statue to express respect and remembrance.
Did you know?
This is one of the largest bronze statues in Laos. On special occasions the base is surrounded by flowers during grand commemorations.
Modern landscape, historic depth
The park's design balances modern urban planning with historical commemoration. Open plazas, tidy paths and the stately statue together give Vientiane's centre a rare sense of openness.
Life by the river
For Vientiane residents, the Mekong is both a natural border and the centre of life. Evening river breezes carry away the day's heat as people gather, continuing a riverside way of life passed down through generations.
A note on respect
Near the king's statue, please keep an appropriate reverence — no disrespectful gestures or climbing the base.
A conversation across one river
Standing in the park, across the broad Mekong lies Thailand's Nong Khai province. At night, the lights of both banks mirror each other, telling of the ancient civilisation nurtured by this great river.
Riverbank & nature
Feel the breath of the Mekong
“A mother river flowing endlessly — witnessing the city's sunsets and dawns.”
Built along the Mekong River, Chao Anouvong Park is not only the city's flood embankment, but also a green space for citizens to get close to nature. The morning breeze and evening coolness make it an ideal place to escape the tropical heat.
Weather & the river
Cool evenings
The river breeze after sunset is perfect for walking or jogging.
Wide riverbanks
In the dry season, large sandbars emerge; in the wet season, the river is full.
Shaded by trees
The park is planted with tropical trees, providing shade during the day.
Plants in the park
Frangipani (Plumeria)
The national flower of Laos (Dok Champa), seen everywhere in the park.
- White and yellow — Exuding a light, elegant fragrance
Tropical palms & lawns
Well-maintained green spaces, perfect for family picnics.
- Shade trees — Providing shelter for visitors under the hot sun
What you might see
- Birds returning to their nests in the evening
- Children playing on the lawns
- Locals doing aerobics
- Travelers enjoying the river breeze
Leave No Trace
Help keep the park clean and respect the local community's way of life.
Check off as you go — small actions keep the city park beautiful
Highlights by time
Scenery at different times of the day
Stunning sunset
🗓 17:30-18:30
Visible on clear days
Morning exercise
🗓 Around 06:00
Full of local life
Bustling night market
🗓 After 18:00
Every evening
Food & Drink
Night market & street food
As the sun sets, the famous Vientiane Night Market next to the park and countless food stalls begin to awaken.
🍹
Fresh juice & smoothies ~ 15,000 LAK
Fresh mango and dragon fruit smoothies, perfect for cooling down.
🍡
Lao BBQ skewers ~ 10,000 LAK
Charcoal-grilled meat skewers, full of aroma.
🥗
Papaya salad ~ 20,000 LAK
The classic Lao appetizer, spicy and refreshing.
🥞
Banana pancake ~ 15,000 LAK
Sweet pancakes drizzled with condensed milk, loved by tourists.
Note: local prices may shift slightly with the Lao kip (LAK) exchange rate. The prices above are about 0.5–1.0 USD and are for reference only.
“After walking the night market, buying a snack and sitting on the riverbank steps to enjoy the breeze—this is the Vientiane night.”
Gallery
Moments in the park
A day in the park — from morning tranquility to a brilliant sunset.
Images are illustrative of the park's atmosphere and vary with time and weather.
Images for reference and non-commercial use.
Reviews
What visitors say
A glance at recent visitor impressions (from public travel reviews).
★★★★☆ 4.2 Based on public reviews · not an official endorsement
Reviews compiled from independent travel platforms, for reference only
Sources
Our references
This non-commercial guide compiles public info to help visitors plan responsibly.
Facts & figures
Ratings, hours, and coords compiled from public sources and subject to change — verify locally before visiting.
Spotted an error?
We are a small non-commercial team. If you see any errors or outdated info, let us know and we'll fix it.
Email us© 2026 Chao Anouvong Park guide · non-commercial visitor resource
Getting there
How to Get to Chao Anouvong Park
The park sits on the Mekong in central Vientiane. Here are the practical ways in, from the airport to your own two feet.
✈️
From Wattay Airport (VTE)
Wattay International is about 3–5 km west, roughly 15–25 minutes by road.
- › After baggage claim, use the airport Wi-Fi and book a licensed taxi or ride via the LOCA / InDrive apps, or buy a fixed-fare ticket at the arrivals taxi counter (around 100,000–150,000 LAK).
- › Set the destination to Chao Anouvong Park (riverside, Mekong); the car runs via Route 13 and Fa Ngum Road to the park entrance.
- › After ~17:30 the riverside gets congested, so allow extra time and meet your driver at the agreed pickup point.
🚌
Public transit & city bus
Vientiane's city buses and shared songthaews run along the avenues near the riverfront.
- › Find a bus or songthaew heading toward the riverfront / city centre and alight near Fa Ngum Road.
- › From the stop it is a short walk to the statue and the promenade.
- › Keep small change ready; fares are low but conductors may not give change for large notes.
🚕
Taxi & ride-hailing
Metered taxis and app rides (LOCA, InDrive) are the easiest door-to-door option.
- › Book in the app or ask your hotel to call a metered taxi; show the driver “Chao Anouvong Park / Night Market”.
- › From most central hotels it is about 5–10 minutes to the riverside.
- › Agree a price first for street taxis without a meter to avoid surprises.
🛺
Tuk-tuk & songthaew
Three-wheel tuk-tuks and shared songthaews are everywhere and happy to negotiate.
- › Tell the driver “Night Market” or “Chao Anouvong Statue” and agree a fare before boarding.
- › They can drop you right at the promenade entrance off Fa Ngum Road.
🚲
Bicycle
Flat, bike-friendly terrain and a riverside path make cycling pleasant, especially at dawn and dusk.
- › Rent a bicycle from a city guesthouse or shop, then follow the riverfront path east to the park.
- › Use the marked roadside bays for parking; a small fee may apply.
🚶
On foot from the city centre
Most riverside landmarks are within a 15–30 minute walk.
- › From Patuxai, Wat Si Saket or the morning market, walk toward the Mekong and follow the river north/south to the statue.
- › It is a flat, shaded walk — a nice way to arrive before sunset.
Set the destination to “Chao Anouvong Park” or “Mekong Night Market” in any map app — both drop you at the riverside.
Services & facilities
Visitor Services & Nearby Facilities
Practical amenities around the park, listed by type so you can plan ahead. We recommend by category only and are not affiliated with any vendor.
🚻
Public restrooms
Public toilets sit near the promenade and the night-market entrance, generally free or for a small upkeep fee. Bring small change and tissues.
🅿️
Parking
Street parking lines the riverside Fa Ngum Road. During the evening peak (after 17:30) it fills fast; paid lots and roadside bays appear nearby, and two-wheelers have marked bays.
🍽️
Dining & cafés
Riverside restaurants, coffee shops and the night-market food stalls ring the park. Choose busy, well-lit stalls for the freshest food.
🛏️
Lodging
Hotels, guesthouses and hostels sit within a short walk or tuk-tuk ride in the city centre — handy if you want the sunrise or late-night market.
🛒
Shops & convenience
Convenience stores, ATMs and small shops cluster in the surrounding blocks for water, snacks and essentials.
⛽
Fuel & EV charging
Petrol stations and EV charging points are found along the main avenues in the city, not inside the park — top up before you arrive by car.
♿
Accessibility
The riverside promenade is flat and paved with ramps and frequent benches; the open plaza around the statue is step-free.
💡
Lighting & safety
The park and riverfront are well lit at night with a steady local presence; keep bags close in crowds.
Facility types available near the park; specific venues change, so confirm on arrival.
Best time to visit
Seasonal Travel Strategy
Vientiane has a tropical climate with a dry season (roughly November–April) and a wet season (May–October). Here is what to expect each quarter so you can pack and time your visit well.
| Quarter | Weather | Crowds | What to pack | Our tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov – Jan · Cool dry | Pleasant 20–30°C, low humidity, clear skies. | Comfortable, steady local use. | Light clothes, a light layer for cool mornings. | Best all-round window — ideal for walking and the sunset. |
| Feb – Apr · Hot dry | Hot 30–38°C, hazy late in the season. | Busy evenings at the night market. | Sun hat, sunscreen, lots of water. | Come at golden hour; watch for late-season haze on sunsets. |
| May – Jul · Early wet | Warming up, afternoon showers begin. | Quieter, greener riverside. | Umbrella or raincoat, quick-dry clothes. | Mornings are often clear — great for photos before noon storms. |
| Aug – Oct · Peak wet | Frequent rain, lush landscape, 25–33°C. | Fewest visitors, coolest evenings. | Rain gear, insect repellent. | Rain clears the heat; check the live forecast and aim for a dry window. |
Based on Vientiane's typical 30-year climate pattern (dry and wet seasons).
Itineraries
Suggested Itineraries
Three ways to enjoy the park depending on who you are travelling with, plus half-day and full-day sketches.
Pick by who's travelling
👨👩👧
Family with kids
Flat paths, open lawns and the night-market buzz keep all ages happy.
- ✓Stroll the promenade and let kids watch the fountain and river.
- ✓Try street snacks at the night market together.
- ✓Catch the sunset from the steps, then head back before it gets late.
📷
Photography & nature
Golden hour, the Mekong glow and night-market lights are the draw.
- ✓Arrive ~17:00 for soft light on the bronze statue.
- ✓Shoot the sunset and blue-hour reflections from the riverside steps.
- ✓Stay for the lantern-lit market for long exposures.
♿
Low-effort / accessible
Step-free promenade, shade and plenty of benches.
- ✓Roll or walk the flat riverside path at an easy pace.
- ✓Rest often on benches in the shade.
- ✓Enjoy a riverside café and the evening breeze without climbing.
Half-day & full-day plans
🌇
Half-day · afternoon → night
The classic evening visit.
- ›16:30 Arrive and walk the promenade.
- ›17:30 Watch the golden-hour statue and Mekong sunset.
- ›18:30 Explore the night market for food and crafts.
- ›20:00 Riverside wind-down and head back.
🌅
Full-day · morning → night
Pair the park with nearby sights.
- ›09:00 Morning temples (Wat Si Saket, nearby monasteries).
- ›12:00 Lunch at a riverside café.
- ›15:00 Rest at the hotel, avoiding the midday heat.
- ›17:00 Return for the statue, sunset and night market.
- ›20:30 Evening river breeze before returning.
Respect & protect
Science & Visitor Responsibility
A few facts and habits that keep the park, the Mekong and its wildlife healthy for everyone.
The Mekong: a living river
The Mekong is a working, flowing river — not a swimming pool. Currents and boats make swimming unsafe, and the water quality varies with the season and upstream activity. Enjoy it from the promenade and never litter into it.
Wildlife you may meet
- •River birds and egrets feeding at the water's edge at dawn and dusk.
- •The occasional monitor lizard or otter along the banks — watch quietly, never feed.
- •Dok Champa and frangipani filling the gardens with scent.
Leave no trace
- •Use the bins for night-market packaging and bring a reusable bottle.
- •Keep the king's statue and riverfront clean and respectful.
Stay safe & healthy
- •Carry water and use sunscreen in the hot dry season (Feb–Apr).
- •After rain, paths can be slippery — wear sensible shoes.
- •Watch your bag and phone in night-market crowds.
Cultural respect
Chao Anouvong is a revered national hero. Dress modestly near the statue, never climb the base or railing, and you may lay a champa or marigold garland at the offering altar.
Location & Map
Find Chao Anouvong Park
Located in the center of Vientiane, along the Mekong River, it is one of the city's most prominent landmarks.
Rating
4.2 ★
from 6,909 reviews
📍 Vientiane 01600 Laos
🧭 Plus Code XJ64+JW Vientiane
🌐 17.9616°N, 102.6073°E
Open
24 hours
Open all day
Area
City Center
Vientiane, Laos
Explore
Guides & topics
Chao Anouvong Statue | Vientiane Riverside Monument
The bronze King Anouvong statue in Chao Anouvong Park — its height, symbolism, history and how to visit this Vientiane landmark on the Mekong.
→ Read moreChao Anouvong Park Photos | Best Shots & Viewpoints
Photo guide to Chao Anouvong Park — best viewpoints, golden-hour and blue-hour times, and what to capture by the Mekong in Vientiane.
→ Read moreMekong Sunset at Chao Anouvong Park | Best Time & View
When and where to watch the Mekong sunset from Chao Anouvong Park in Vientiane — golden hour times, blue hour and photo tips.
→ Read moreVientiane Night Market by Chao Anouvong Park | Food & Hours
The Vientiane Night Market beside Chao Anouvong Park — opening hours, street food, prices and tips for an evening by the Mekong.
→ Read more