Things To Do of COPE Visitor Centre

The COPE Visitor Centre is one of the most meaningful and educational attractions in Vientiane, offering visitors a powerful insight into the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the country's efforts to support survivors. COPE, which stands for Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise, is a Lao organization dedicated to providing rehabilitation services, prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices, wheelchairs, and mobility assistance to people with disabilities, including many affected by unexploded bombs left from past conflicts.

Located within the grounds of the Centre for Medical Rehabilitation in central Vientiane, the visitor center was established to raise awareness about the humanitarian challenges caused by UXO contamination and to showcase the work being done to improve the lives of survivors throughout Laos.

Laos is recognized as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. During the Indochina conflict between 1964 and 1973, millions of tons of ordnance were dropped across the country, leaving behind unexploded cluster munitions and bombs that continue to pose risks today. The COPE Visitor Centre presents this complex history through thoughtfully designed exhibits, educational displays, documentary films, interactive installations, photographs, and personal stories from survivors.

One of the center's most striking features is its collection of prosthetic limbs and mobility devices displayed alongside stories of resilience and recovery. Visitors can learn how rehabilitation services help individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. The exhibits emphasize not only the historical context of UXO contamination but also the strength and determination of the people affected.

The visitor center includes several multimedia rooms where short documentaries provide firsthand accounts from survivors, medical professionals, and humanitarian workers. These films offer a deeper understanding of the social, economic, and human impacts of UXO in Laos and the importance of ongoing clearance and rehabilitation programs.

Beyond its educational mission, the center serves as a platform for promoting awareness, advocacy, and support for disability services in Laos. A small gift shop offers handicrafts, books, and souvenirs, with proceeds helping support COPE's programs and activities.

The COPE Visitor Centre is widely regarded as one of the most important places to visit in Vientiane for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of modern Lao history, social issues, and community resilience. The experience is informative, moving, and highly recommended for visitors interested in culture, history, and humanitarian work.

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 08:30 AM – 04:00 PM
Closed on Sundays and certain public holidays.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours.

Highlights

Learn about the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos.
Interactive exhibits and educational displays.
Powerful documentary films and survivor stories.
Insight into prosthetic and rehabilitation services.
One of the most informative cultural attractions in Vientiane.
Free admission (donations are welcomed).
Gift shop supporting rehabilitation programs.
Excellent educational experience for all ages.

Visitor Tips

Allow sufficient time to watch the documentary films.
Photography is generally permitted in public exhibit areas.
Consider making a donation to support rehabilitation services.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions in central Vientiane.
Suitable for students, families, researchers, and history enthusiasts.

Things To Do in Vientiane

Pha That Luang Stupa

Pha That Luang, meaning “The Great Sacred Stupa,” is the most important religious monument in Laos and the country's most iconic national symbol. Located in the capital city of Vientiane, this magnificent gold-covered Buddhist stupa represents Lao Buddhism, national identity, and centuries of cultural heritage. Its image appears on the national emblem, banknotes, official documents, and countless tourism materials throughout Laos.

According to legend, the site originally housed a relic of the Buddha, believed to be a breastbone, brought to Laos by Buddhist missionaries as early as the 3rd century BC. The present structure was commissioned in 1566 by King Setthathirath after he moved the capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. Over the centuries, the stupa suffered damage from invasions and wars, particularly during the Siamese attacks, and was later restored several times, including major reconstruction during the French colonial period in the 1930s.

Standing approximately 45 meters high, the dazzling golden stupa is surrounded by a large walled complex containing beautiful cloisters, Buddhist statues, temples, gardens, and religious monuments. Its architecture symbolizes Buddhist cosmology through three distinct levels representing the earthly world, the world of forms, and the spiritual realm of enlightenment. The entire structure is covered in gold, creating a breathtaking sight, especially during sunrise and sunset when the monument glows brilliantly against the sky.

Within the grounds, visitors can explore ancient Buddhist sculptures, Khmer and Lao artifacts, peaceful courtyards, bell towers, reclining Buddha statues, and the nearby temples of Wat That Luang Neua and Wat That Luang Tai. The monument remains an active religious center where monks and pilgrims gather daily for worship and ceremonies.

Pha That Luang is also the center of the annual Boun That Luang Festival, the largest and most important Buddhist celebration in Laos. Held during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually November), the festival attracts thousands of monks, pilgrims, and visitors from across the country. Religious ceremonies, candlelight processions, traditional performances, fairs, and cultural events transform the area into one of Laos' most vibrant celebrations.

Today, Pha That Luang is considered a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Vientiane. Its spiritual importance, rich history, striking architecture, and cultural significance make it one of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable Buddhist monuments.