Beyond the scope of a sporting event, this is also a journey to explore the culture and nature of the ancient capital of the Land of a Million Elephants. Below are the special highlights, promising to bring the athletes of Viettel Marathon 2024 unforgettable experiences.
Starting at the Royal Palace Museum - The Perfect Starting Point
The race starts at the Royal Palace Museum on Sisavangvong Road - also known for its bustling night markets in the ancient capital of Luang Prabang. With its unique architecture, the Royal Palace Museum is not only one of the most important cultural sites in Luang Prabang, but also houses many valuable artifacts reflecting the history and culture of Laos.
Royal Palace Museum - Sisavangvong, Luang Prabang
Running along Sisavangvong Road, athletes can also admire traditional Lao houses with typical wooden architecture. These houses are not only beautiful but also carry stories about local culture and history. Their sloping tiled roofs and bright colors create a vivid picture, attracting all eyes. Along this route, athletes will have the opportunity to clearly feel the combination of traditional beauty and modern life of Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang’s architecture is heavily influenced by 19th and 20th century French architecture, with buildings featuring balconies, tall windows and elaborate carvings. Villa designs blend Western and traditional Lao styles to create a rich and varied architectural landscape.
Sisavangvong Road - Discover traditional Lao architecture
Watching sunrise on the Mekong River
Continuing the journey, the athletes will reach Khem Khong Road, where they will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the Mekong River. The sunlight reflecting on the water creates wonderful sparkling images, bringing a sense of peace and relaxation to the soul.
Sunrise on the Mekong River
Old French Bridge - Icon of French Architecture
One of the landmarks on the Viettel Marathon route in the ancient capital of Luang Prabang is the Old French Bridge. With its bold French architecture, the hundred-year-old bridge connecting the two banks of the Nam Khan River will make athletes feel the ancient beauty of Luang Prabang.
Old French Bridge Walkway
During the 42km journey, athletes also had the opportunity to admire many famous works of Luang Prabang such as:
- Wat Xieng Thong: One of the most beautiful temples in Laos with sophisticated architecture.
- Mount Phousi: The ideal place to see the whole city from above.
- Haw Phra Bang Temple: Where the sacred Buddha statue is kept.
- Wat May Souvannapoumara Temple: One of the largest and oldest temples.
This is a great opportunity for athletes to not only participate in their favorite sport and improve their health, but also explore the ancient capital of Luang Prabang - one of the most beautiful destinations in the world in Laos.
Viettel Marathon 2024 is part of a series of activities towards the 20th anniversary of Viettel mobile service business organized by the Military Industry-Telecoms Group in coordination with the Athletics Federations of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos under the consultation and supervision of the Asian Athletics Federation. After the Luang Prabang stage on November 3, 2024, Viettel Marathon will take place in Hanoi on December 1, 2024 and at Angkor Wat - Cambodia on December 22, 2024./.
