The Patuxai is one of the most remarkable symbols of Vientiane, the capital of Laos. This victory gate somehow resembles the Arc de Triomph in Paris, en was built as a monument for those who died in their fight for independence of France. Ironically, the monument was built in 1969 with construction material donated by the United States of America, intended to rebuild the airport. That's why the locals also call the monument 'the vertical runway'. From a distance, the building may resemble the French Arc de Triomph a little bit, up closer you will clearly recognise the Lao style, with the bas-reliefs on its walls, and the typical Lao-style ornaments on the top of the building.

Climbing the Patuxai will be rewarded with a nice view on the city and the Mekong. You will be asked to pay a small entrance fee. Patuxai is opened from 8:00 until 16:30.

On the Interactive map of Vientiane you can see the location of the Patuxai.