Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It is called the Land of a Million Elephants. Laos has thick jungles, mountains, and the mighty Mekong River. It is one of the most peaceful and unspoiled places in the region.

Land and People

About 7.5 million people live in Laos. The capital is Vientiane. Mountains and forests cover most of the country. The Mekong River forms much of the border with Thailand. Laos has many waterfalls and caves.

Culture and Fun Facts

Most people in Laos are Buddhist, and monks in orange robes walk through towns every morning to collect food. Sticky rice is the main food and people eat it with their hands. The Lao New Year, called Pi Mai, is a big water festival. Laos is very peaceful and laid-back.

Fun Facts

• Laos is called the Land of a Million Elephants.
• Sticky rice is the main food in Laos and people eat more sticky rice than anywhere else.
• The Mekong River runs along much of the border of Laos.

Did You Know?

Every morning in Luang Prabang, Laos, hundreds of Buddhist monks walk through the streets in a long line at sunrise. Local people kneel and place food in their bowls. This tradition has been going on for centuries and is a beautiful sight.