Location
The People's Democratic Republic of Lao is  located in the center of Indo-China, landlocked by the borders of five countries  -

Time
Time in Laos is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean  Time (GMT 7).

Climate
Laos enjoy a tropical climate with two distinct  seasons - the rainy season ( May and September ) and dry season (October to  April).  the yearly temperature is about 28 degrees Centigrade in April and  May. Vientiane's temperature drops to 19 Centigrade in January.  Mountainous  areas reach temperatures of 14 degrees Centigrade during winter months with some  cold nights dropping to freezing point.

Language
Lao is the national language.  Other languages  commonly used are French, English,  Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese.
 

Religion
Buddhism first appeared in Laos during the 8th  century A.D. Lang Fa Ngum (14th century) declared Buddhism as the state religion  based on Theravada Buddhism.  Today 90% of Lao People professes Theravade  Buddhism.
 

People
Laos has a total population of 4.6 million,  comprising a rich ethnic diversity of 47 racial groups.
The Lao Loum (lowlander)  comprise of 70% of thepopulation and live  along the Mekong River.
Theung (highlander) comprise  of 20% of the population and live on the slopes and hills with elevation of less  than 1000 meters.
Soung (hill tribes) constitutes 10% of  the population and live in the mountainous areas.

Travel Formalities &  Regulations

Passport
All visitors entering Laos must posses a valid  passport and visa. Visas may be obtained from the various Lao embassies  or  obtained your visa on arrival. Click here  for Lao Embassies Overseas

Currency
The Kip is the official currency of Laos. The  bank notes are presently in denomination of  100,500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000  units.

All major currencies are exchangeable at banks  in all major towns.
US dollars and Thai Baht are accepted in most  shops in Vientiane city itself.
Traveler's cheques may be cashed at major  banks.Visa or Master credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and  restaurants.