Best Hotels In Vientiane: COPE Visitor Centre And Buddha Park

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure, then Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, is the place to be. Vientiane offers a plethora of tourist destinations that are sure to satisfy all your travel cravings. Among the many attractions, the COPE Visitor Centre and Buddha Park stand out as the best hotels in Vientiane. In this article, we’ll explore why these two destinations are worth visiting.

Tourism Information

Reasons why we should visit

• The COPE Visitor Centre is a great place to learn about the resilience and strength of the Laotian people. The centre showcases the challenges and triumphs of people with disabilities and the impact of unexploded ordnance on local communities.
• Buddha Park is a unique and fascinating attraction that features giant sculptures of Buddhist and Hindu deities, as well as a giant pumpkin that visitors can enter to view a three-story interior filled with images of Buddhist hell.
• Both attractions are affordable and accessible, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
• The attractions are located in different parts of Vientiane, so visitors can explore different areas of the city while seeing some of the best that Vientiane has to offer.

Tourism History

The COPE Visitor Centre was founded in 1997 by an Australian doctor named Susan Hammond, who was moved by the plight of people with disabilities in Laos. The centre aims to provide rehabilitation services to people with disabilities and to raise awareness about the impact of war on Laotian people. Since its founding, the centre has helped thousands of people with disabilities, and it continues to be a beacon of hope for people in Laos.

Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, was built in 1958 by a monk named Bunleua Sulilat. The park features over 200 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, including a giant reclining Buddha and a statue of Indra, the god of thunder. Sulilat’s vision was to create a park that merged Buddhism and Hinduism, and the result is a unique and fascinating attraction that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Fact

• The COPE Visitor Centre is located in downtown Vientiane, making it easy to access on foot or by public transport.
• Buddha Park is located 25 km south of Vientiane, and visitors can reach the park by public transport, taxi, or tuk-tuk.
• The COPE Visitor Centre is free to enter, while Buddha Park charges a small fee of 15,000 Lao Kip (approximately USD 2) per person.
• The COPE Visitor Centre is open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm, while Buddha Park is open from 8 am to 4 pm every day.
• The COPE Visitor Centre and Buddha Park are popular tourist destinations, so it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

FAQ

• Is the COPE Visitor Centre wheelchair accessible?
• Yes, the centre is fully accessible for people with disabilities.
• How long does it take to explore Buddha Park?
• It usually takes around 1-2 hours to explore the park.
• Are there any restaurants or cafes near the attractions?
• Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants near both attractions.
• Is there a dress code for visiting Buddha Park?
• No, there is no dress code, but visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the religious statues.

Pros

Both COPE Visitor Centre and Buddha Park are excellent attractions that offer a unique insight into the history and culture of Laos. The attractions are affordable, accessible, and offer something for everyone, making them perfect for families, solo travelers, and groups. The attractions are also well-maintained and offer excellent facilities, including restrooms, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Tips

Visitors should bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles when visiting both attractions, as the weather can be hot and humid. Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning sculptures and architecture at both attractions.

Summary

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Vientiane, then the COPE Visitor Centre and Buddha Park are must-visit destinations. These attractions offer a unique and fascinating insight into the history and culture of Laos, and are affordable and accessible for all travelers. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, these attractions are sure to leave a lasting impression.