Chanthabuly
Chanthabuly District is an urban district of Vientiane Prefecture, the capital administrative region of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. It is in the central part of Vientiane Prefecture, the district had a population of 70,656 in 2025 and is divided into 30 administrative villages.
Chanthabuly District is the central urban core of Vientiane Prefecture, serving as the political, cultural, and historical heart of the capital. The district is compact, walkable, and home to many of Vientiane Prefecture’s most iconic and representative landmarks.
Presidential Palace (Golden Palace)
In 1974, the Lao coalition government decided to build the Golden Palace as a royal residence for the King of Luang Prabang during his visits to Vientiane to attend to state affairs and conduct inspections. The building was originally conceived in a French architectural style, but before construction was completed, Laos underwent major political change. On December 2, 1975, the Lao People's Democratic Republic was officially established. Work resumed in 1976, and the Golden Palace was fully completed in 1986. It has since served as the Presidential Palace, hosting major state ceremonies and receiving foreign dignitaries and other high-level guests.
Office of the Prime Minister
The Office of the Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic is the country's highest administrative body.
The Office of the Prime Minister is located in central Vientiane, near Patuxay.
Patuxay
Patuxay, formerly known as the Anousavari Monument, is one of Laos's most iconic landmarks and a national symbol, located in the heart of Vientiane. Construction began in 1957 and was completed in 1968. It was built in memory of Laotian heroes who gave their lives in the struggle to end French colonial rule and win national independence. The structure's overall form is inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe, while its exterior and interior ornamentation incorporate distinctive traditional Lan Xang artistic motifs.