Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng ວັງວຽງ
City
Vang Vieng viewed from a hot air balloon
Vang Vieng Location in Laos
Coordinates: 18°55′36″N 102°26′58″E / 18.92667°N 102.44944°E / 18.92667; 102.44944
Country	Laos
Province	Vientiane Province
Population
• Total	25,000
• Religions	Buddhism
Time zone	UTC+7 (ICT)

Vang Vieng (Lao: ວັງວຽງ, pronounced [wáŋ wíaŋ]) is a town in Vientiane Province, northern Laos. Situated along the Nam Song River and surrounded by karst limestone formations, it lies approximately 130 kilometers (81 mi) north of the national capital, Vientiane. Originally a agricultural settlement, Vang Vieng gained international prominence in the late 20th century as a hub for backpackers drawn to its adventure sports, including river tubing, caving, and rock climbing.

While once notorious for its party-centric tourism, recent efforts to promote sustainable ecotourism have shifted its focus toward nature-based activities and cultural experiences. As of 2023, Vang Vieng’s population is estimated at 25,000, with tourism forming a central pillar of its economy.