luang prabang trip

• The Perfect 2 Days in Luang Prabang Itinerary for First Timers

Luang Prabang is one of the most cherished cities in Laos that captivates all who visit. Life glides to a gentle halt in this languid riverside town where the pace is slow and the ambiance is warm.

Dotted among the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Old Town you will find 34 temples to explore where saffron-robed monks are always willing to take some time to practice their English and welcome guests. 

To help you make the most of your time in this lovely city, I have curated the perfect Luang Prabang itinerary. This tells you how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, and, naturally, some of the best things to do in Luang Prabang in 2 days. Let’s get into it!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your Luang Prabang Itinerary

Breakdown of your 2 days in luang prabang.

• Alms Giving Ceremony
• Luang Prabang Old Town
• Wat Xieng Thong
• Wat Sensoukaram
• Wat Pa Phai

Wat May Souvannapoumaram

Mekong sunset river cruise.

• Kuang Si Waterfall,
• Kuang Si Butterfly Sanctuary
• Lao Cooking Course
• Botanical Gardens
• Royal Palace

Mount Phu Si

Night market , map for your luang prabang itinerary.

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Luang Prabang itinerary.

I marked your 2 days in Luang Prabang with different colors – I used blue for the first day and green for the second day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1 of Your 2 Day Luang Prabang Itinerary

Alms giving ceremony .

Alms giving is a ritual that takes place every morning at dawn in Luang Prabang. Local monks form a peaceful procession along Sakkaline Road during which they are handed offerings of rice balls by the residents of Luang Prabang.

It is free to watch alms giving and it coincides with sunrise. However, it’s really important that you keep your distance from the monks. In the past, tourists have caused issues by getting in the way when trying to take photos of the monks.

It is best to watch from afar down one of the side streets. You will also need to dress conservatively with your knees and shoulders covered. 

Witnessing alms giving is one of the most interesting things to do in Luang Prabang in 2 days and you really will not regret that early morning wake-up call.

Explore the Old Town 

The historic heart of Luang Prabang is situated on a peninsula that is surrounded by the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the small area is teeming with heritage buildings that fuse traditional Lao with colonial French architecture.

Take the opportunity on the first morning of your Luang Prabang itinerary to weave your way through the streets and watch daily life spring into action. You can choose to explore Old Town on foot or rent a bicycle. 

The Luang Prabang Morning Market runs daily from 5 am to 10 am and is a great spot to pick up fresh tropical fruits and the typical Lao breakfast of Khao jee (grilled sticky rice served on banana leaf).

If you would prefer then you can grab some of the best French-style pastries outside of France at one of the authentic bakeries in town. Alternatively, stop by Two Little Birds Cafe for a healthy breakfast and good coffee! Their smoothie bowls and avocado toasts are really delicious.

You can also visit the rickety Bamboo Bridge which connects the tip of the peninsula with a small settlement on the Mekong. It costs 10,000 LAK ($1 US) for the novel experience of crossing the bridge. The bridge is only open during the dry season as during the rainy season the water washes the bridge away.

Temple hop in Luang Prabang

Now is the perfect time to tackle the myriad of temples that dot the streets of Luang Prabang. There are so many to see so you can wander at will or head straight to the following to sample a selection. 

Wat Xieng Thong 

As the largest and most sacred temple in town you really can’t miss the chance to visit Wat Xieng Thong, or, the ‘monastery of the golden city’.

Erected in the 16th century in a typical Lao architectural style with its wide sweeping roof, the temple is one of the oldest temples in the country. The complex features a funerary hall and an intricate mural of the tree of life. 

Wat Xieng Thong is open daily, 8 am – 6 pm, and the admission fee is 20,000 LAK ($1 US).

Wat Sensoukaram 

The meaning behind the name of this alluring temple is ambiguous. ‘Sensoukaram’ means ‘10,000 treasures’ and some local fables say that was because it was constructed using 10,000 stones from the Mekong.

However, there are many other explanations so feel free to make some inquiries during your 2 days in Luang Prabang and see how many legends you can collect.

Wat Sensoukaram is open daily, 8 am – 3 pm, and there is no admission fee. It is a 5-minute walk from Wat Xieng Thong.

Wat Pa Phai 

This small yet exquisite gilded temple features a remarkable gold leaf facade that depicts seated Buddhas.

Its precise origins are unclear due to renovations but the interiors depict scenes from 19th-century life in Laos. Its lush setting earned Wat Pa Phai the affectionate nickname of ‘monastery of the bamboo forest.’

Wat Pa Phai is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and there is no admission charge. It is a 10-minute walk from Wat Xieng Thong.

More commonly referred to as simply Wat May, this temple was built in the early 18th century and is one of the largest complexes in town besides Wat Xieng Thong. Upon construction it was used by the royal family and to this day it houses an extensive collection of Buddha statues. 

Wat May is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and the admission cost is 20,000 LAK ($1 US). It is a 10-minute walk from Wat Pa Phai.

Unless you started your 2 days in Luang Prabang by riding the slow boat from Thailand, taking a scenic cruise along the Mekong really shouldn’t be missed.

Flowing through six countries, this mighty river is one of the longest in Asia, and hopping aboard a boat gives you the perfect opportunity to lap up the rural scenery and snap some incredible photos.

As many of the river tours take an entire day, I suggest joining this 4.5-hour Mekong Sunset Cruise and Hot Pot Dinner . It’s the perfect way to wind down after a full day spent on your feet exploring the Old Town. This boat cruise departs daily at 4.30 pm (subject to the weather conditions). 

Although you can find countless amazing restaurants in the Old Town of Luang Prabang, my personal recommendation is to have dinner at Yuni Yupoun .

Constantly rated as the number one restaurant in all of Luang Prabang, this charming restaurant prides itself on serving delicious bites from all over the world. In fact, the name means ‘here and there’ and each corner inside the restaurant represents a different culture.

We loved this restaurant so much that we decided to eat here on both evenings of our 2 days in Luang Prabang and let me tell you, we didn’t regret it. The hospitality is amazing and the food is just out of this world.

Day 2 of Your 2 Day Luang Prabang Itinerary

Kuang si waterfall .

For the second day of your 2 day Luang Prabang itinerary you will need to set your alarm clock again but this time you will also need to grab your swimmers. Your first stop today is the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfall.

The azure water of the Kuang Si Waterfall cascades through the jungle from a height of 50 meters (164 feet). It’s perfectly safe to swim so do bring your towel and wear sturdy shoes as well so you can scramble up through the jungle to appreciate varying views of the natural attraction. 

The waterfall is open to tourists daily, 8 am – 5 pm. Because it gets so busy I recommend that you get here as soon as the falls open for business.

You will need to pay an entrance fee of 25,000 LAK ($1.25 US) to visit and swim in the falls. It takes 45-60 minutes to reach the Kuang Si Waterfall from downtown and it’s best to hire a tuk tuk driver to take you unless you’re a competent motorbike driver.

Kuang Si Butterfly Park

Once you’ve frolicked in the pools you can dry off with a wander around this lovely butterfly sanctuary which is brimming with colorful creatures and flowers. There is also a large fish pond and a fish spa if you’re brave enough to let fish nibble your feet. 

It takes around 20 minutes to walk to the sanctuary from the waterfall but you might be best striking a deal with your tuk tuk driver to wait for you and return you to town via the sanctuary. Alternatively, you will find shared tuk tuks milling around the entrance. 

The sanctuary is open 11 am – 4 pm (on Thursdays it’s closed). Admission is 100,000 LAK ($5 US) or 204,000 LAK ($10 US) if you want to add lunch. 

Lao Cooking Class 

Now for your afternoon, you have a decision to make. You can either enroll in a Lao cooking class or visit the beautiful Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens (it is closed to the public until October 2024). 

There are several places in town where you can take a course and you will see adverts in town. Tamarind provides some of the most immersive and informative Lao cooking classes in town.

Their evening classes run from 4 pm to 8.30 pm and cost 612,000 LAK ($30 US). During the course, you will master how to create four scrumptious Lao dishes.

However, if you want to do this then you’ll need to jiggle this Luang Prabang itinerary and either skip last night’s sunset river cruise or reschedule your sunset hike from this day to a sunrise climb.

Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden (it is closed to the public until October 2024)

Option B, you can take a stroll through the very first botanical garden that opened in Laos. Pha Tad Ke is an oasis of fragrant orchids and colorful tropical plant life interspersed with bamboo forest.

You can book a skip the line ticket that includes access to the gardens by boat (return boat trip included). This also permits access to a herbal tea tasting and whatever craft activities and other events happen to be scheduled on the day of your visit. 

Royal Palace 

Situated right by the river at the foot of Mount Phu Si (the next item on your Luang Prabang itinerary), the former royal residence of King Sisavang Vong has since been converted into a museum.

Often referred to as Haw Kham or the Golden Hall, the palace was constructed in 1904. As with much of the architecture in Luang Prabang, it is a mix of Lao and French elements.

Inside the museum, you can explore apartments that are presented as time capsules from the time the palace was a royal residence as well as Buddhist relics and artifacts.

The museum is open daily, from 8 am to 11.30 am and from 1.30 pm until 4 pm. Admission is 30,000 LAK ($1.50 US).

Mount Phu Si (Mount Phousi) is a 100-meter (328 feet) high hill right in the center of town. It’s the tallest point in the city and provides a wonderful panorama across the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and surroundings.

There are two staircases, each featuring just over 300 steps. Climbing the peak is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Luang Prabang in 2 days and is best experienced at sunset. 

You can climb up using the Sisavongvang Road entrance (near the Royal Palace) and return via the route that starts on Thanon Phousi. The former has slightly fewer steps.

Once you reach the summit you will spot the golden stupa of Wat Chom Si where locals and monks place daily offerings.

Hiking up Mount Phu Si is permitted between 6 am and sunset each day. There is a small fee of 20,000 LAK ($1 US) to pay soon after you start the hike.

You can also buy some flowers to make an offering if you wish. Because Mount Phu Si is a holy site you will need to cover up modestly once at the top.

There’s nothing like hiking up 300 steps to work up an appetite so for the final stop on your Luang Prabang 2 day itinerary you can feast on Lao delicacies at the Night Market.

This is situated on Phothisalath Road and it runs every night from 5 pm – 11 pm. In addition to numerous food stalls, there are also dozens of stalls where you can purchase authentic Lao handicrafts and souvenirs.

Whatever you do, make sure to try some coconut pancakes – they are super delicious!

Useful Info for Spending 2 Days in Luang Prabang 

Where to stay in luang prabang.

The historic heart of Luang Prabang sits right at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

It is best to stay as centrally as possible so that you can make the most of the attractions in town and plan some early starts during your 2 days in Luang Prabang. Besides, this way you can save some cash by exploring on foot.

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Luang Prabang for different budgets.

• Luxury | Pullman Luang Prabang
• Mid-range | The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel
• Budget | Villa Mahasok Hotel

How to get to Luang Prabang 

Luang Prabang is one of only two cities in Laos (the other being the capital, Vientiane) to have its own international airport which means that it is one of the easiest cities to travel to from overseas. 

Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) is located 4 km (2.5 miles) northeast of the city. Direct flights connect Luang Prabang to a limited number of major Southeast Asian airports.

Hanoi and Bangkok are the best places to start your search for connections. If you are traveling from Europe, the US, or elsewhere, then you should expect to transfer at either of these airports.  

Alternatively, you can travel to Luang Prabang from Northern Thailand via van or boat. Slow boats depart from Chiang Khong (near Chiang Mai) in Thailand and cruise along the Mekong River. This journey typically takes two days to complete whereas the van journey takes approximately 11 hours. 

In case you ’re planning to visit more destinations in the country during your Laos itinerary , you can travel to Luang Prabang from other destinations by train, minivan, or public bus within Laos.

Best time to visit Luang Prabang 

Laos is defined by two seasons, wet season and dry. The wet season runs from May to September while the dry season spans from October until April. Temperatures reach their highest between March and July and it can get as hot as 35°C (95°F). 

The most rainfall is between July and September and this can cause nearby flooding. Sometimes this makes it trickier to access sites outside of town so do bear that in mind if you are planning to include a waterfall trip in your Luang Prabang itinerary.

On the other hand, it is when you will find the least crowds and cheaper accommodation deals. The busiest period is October to February. 

How to get around Luang Prabang 

Luang Prabang is very small and the historic center is walkable. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle which will save some time and make this Luang Prabang 2 day itinerary even more fun!

Hotels often provide bicycles but if not there are rentals all over the town and costs are usually 15,000-30,000 LAK ($0.75-1.50 US) per day. 

For seeing the sights further afield you can rent a motorbike if you feel comfortable driving on challenging roads and have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Rental fees are higher than in neighboring countries and rates vary from 95,000-145,000 LAK ($4.65-7.20 US) per day.

The other option for traveling to nearby sites during your 2 days in Luang Prabang is to enlist the services of the many tuk tuk drivers. These are available for private hire or on a shared basis if you want to save some money.

Short journeys around town will cost you around 20,000 LAK ($1 US) per trip and further afield you are looking upwards of 50,000 LAK ($2.45 US) based on the distance.

Planning a trip to Laos?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Laos. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Perfect One Week in Laos Itinerary
• Top 10 Best Things to Do in Vang Vieng, Laos
• Hotel Review: Riverside Boutique Resort Vang Vieng

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Luang Prabang Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Luang Prabang is a small but vibrant town in the heart of mountainous Northern Laos . Luang Prabang is located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and is one of the most popular destinations in Laos as most travelers use it as the first or last stop in the country before traveling to/from Thailand .

It’s one of the main stops on the backpacking trail in Laos so you’ll see a lot of backpackers and budget travelers here.

For a small town (around 56,000 people live here), there’s a lot to see and do. With dozens of temples, streets filled with French colonial architecture, a bustling night market, river tours, and waterfalls, it’s an easy place to get “stuck.” I came here for three days and spent a week here (and probably could have spent another week just hanging out).

You can spend your days relaxing by the river, in cafes, or at the nearby Kuang Si waterfalls (which are worth multiple visits). Or, take a cooking class and perfect the art of laap , meet the monks, and visit the Buddha Caves. The days pass by quickly here and you’ll be hard-pressed to get bored no matter how long you visit for. I meant to come for three days and ended up here for a week!

This travel guide to Luang Prabang will help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Luang Prabang

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Luang Prabang

1. Explore the Buddha Caves

The Buddha Caves (Pak Ou Caves) hold over 6,000 Buddha statues that the locals still use for worship. There are standing Buddhas, sitting Buddhas, reclining Buddhas — you name it! To get there you’ll take a scenic 25-kilometer (16-mile) boat trip up the Mekong River or you can take a songthaew (a truck converted into a shared taxi). From there, you’re able to explore the two main caves on foot. It’s about 20,000 LAK to enter the caves, and a shared boat costs 65,000 LAK round-trip (the boat takes two hours there and one hour to get back). If you’d prefer to book a guided tour, Get Your Guide runs tours that include Kuang Si waterfalls, admission to the caves, and lunch for 746,000 LAK.

2. Visit the Royal Palace

While the Royal Palace (Haw Kham) is no longer a royal residence, it’s a wonderful museum that houses many items of historical and cultural importance. The current palace was built for King Sisavang Vong in 1904, in French and Lao architectural styles. When the communists took over the country, the palace became a museum. Entry to the museum is 30,000 LAK. Make sure to dress conservatively and note that no photography is allowed.

3. Climb Mount Phousi

Mount Phousi is Luang Prabang’s highest hill. Climb up its 300 stairs for stunning views over the countryside and the Mekong River. There’s a golden Buddhist shrine named Wat Chomsi at the top that dates back to 1804, and a small concession stand for snacks and drinks. It’s an incredible spot to watch the sunset.

4. See the sunset along the Mekong River

Sitting back and watching the vivid sunsets over the Mekong River is one of the best ways to enjoy your time in Luang Prabang. The many restaurants along the riverfront offer plenty of opportunities to do so (the Riverside Sunset Bar is a particularly laid-back spot). Best of all, you can do this for free!

5. Trek to the Kuang Si Falls

Other things to see and do in luang prabang, 1. visit wat xieng thong monastery.

Wat Xieng Thong Monastery (Temple of the Golden City) is easy to spot in Luang Prabang with its low-swooping roof and richly decorated gold exterior. Dating back to the mid-1500s, it was built by King Setthathilat and is one of the oldest monasteries in the city (it’s one of the few buildings not razed during conflicts over the centuries). There are detailed mosaics, sculptures of rare Buddhist gods, and elaborate wall carvings to admire as you explore. Admission is 20,000 LAK.

2. Witness the alms ceremony

At dawn, the monks come down Sakkaline Road to collect alms of rice from both villagers and tourists. You can easily locate the route for almsgiving by looking for rows of rice baskets and stools waiting for the alms-givers. It’s one of the most popular things to do in the city, and hundreds of people line up for it every morning. Just be mindful of taking photos as this is a religious ceremony and it’s not super respectful to shove cameras in the monks’ faces.

3. Visit Kuang Si Butterfly Park

Located outside of the city, this park contains sprawling landscaped gardens featuring lots of different orchids as well as thousands of butterflies living inside of a netted butterfly garden. Opened in 2014, there is also a natural fish spa and a small European-style bakery here. You can get there by taxi. Entry to the park is 40,000 LAK.

4. Take a Lao cooking class

There are a few different cooking classes available here where you can learn to cook popular dishes like laap (minced meat and salad) or mok pa (steamed fish) with some fun, interactive guidance from your chef. Most start with a visit to the market and include several dishes, ending with everyone feasting on the food they have just cooked. Prices vary but expect to pay between 250,000-400,000 LAK for a class.

5. Check out the night market

Located on Sisavangvong Road, the night market has a seemingly endless line-up of stalls selling souvenirs, food, and handmade goods. It’s one of the biggest night markets in the country and a great place to pick up anything you want. The traders here are generally a bit less pushy than elsewhere, and light haggling is advised (just don’t overdo it; an extra dollar won’t make or break your budget). Note that there are animals and animal products sold here. Avoid buying them (this includes furs, animals in jars/bottles, ivory, talons, etc.).

6. Visit Nong Kiew

The sleepy village of Nong Kiew is located a few hours from the city. The towering limestone cliffs surrounding the village are ideal for experienced climbers, and there are many hiking trails leading to nearby waterfalls and caves. The most popular trek is to the lookout at Phadeng Peak, which takes about two hours as you climb your way up above the clouds for views over the mountains. You can take the bus for 40,000-65,000 LAK. Spend a day or two here to really soak it in.

7. Take a cycling tour

If you want to get active and escape the city, try a cycling day tour. You’ll head to the countryside to learn about rural life as you visit small villages like Ban Nakham and the remote Ban Jannuau. Shop around, but most tours are around 500,000 LAK for a full-day tour.

8. Admire the Tad Sae Waterfalls

While not as big as Kuang Si, these waterfalls are still beautiful and worth seeing up close. Located just 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city, you can bring a bathing suit and swim here. There are also elephant rides nearby but please don’t take part (it’s a cruel and abusive practice). You can get to the falls via boat for around 10,000 LAK each way. Admission is 15,000 LAK per person.

  For more information on other destinations in Laos, check out these guides:

• Vang Vieng Travel Guide
• Vientiane Travel Guide

Luang Prabang Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are a couple of decent hostels in Luang Prabang (and a lot of not-so-good ones, so be mindful when you book). A bed in a dorm room starts around 75,000 LAK per night. Private rooms start at 115,000 LAK. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Only a few hostels have kitchens.

Budget hotel prices – Hotels here are pricey unless you stay at a small locally-owned place, which generally costs 4000,000-900,000 LAK per night (these aren’t really on any online booking sites, however). For a two-star or three-star property, expect to pay over 1,000,000 LAK per night. For that reason, you’ll want to avoid online booking sites and either stick to hostels, use Airbnb, or book something local on arrival.

There are only a few Airbnb properties here. Private rooms start at 180,000 LAK per night (though they average double that if not booked early). Entire homes/apartments start around 425,000 LAK (but average double that). Since there are not a lot of options, book early to secure your spot (and save money).

Food – Most street food and cheap meals of local cuisine cost less than 22,000 LAK, especially in the night market where you can find things like barbecued meats, spicy papaya salad, and noodle soup.

If you want to splash out on a fancy meal, expect to pay around 150,000 LAK for a three-course meal with a drink.

Beer is very cheap here, costing around 14,000 LAK. If you want a latte or cappuccino, expect to pay around 30,000 LAK. Bottled water is around 5,000 LAK.

If you have access to a kitchen, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 250,000-300,000 LAK for basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Luang Prabang Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 300,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat street food for your meals, enjoy the occasional drink, rent a bicycle to get around, and do a few cheap activities (such as visiting the Royal Palace). Add another 20,000-30,000 LAK to your daily budget if you plan on drinking more.

With a mid-range budget of 650,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hotel room, eat out at some nicer restaurants, drink more, rent a motorbike to get around, and do more tours and activities, such as a cooking class and seeing the Kuang Si falls.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,800,000 LAK per day or more, you can stay in a nice hotel, eat at fancy restaurants, drink as much as you want, rent a motorbike and take taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in LAK.

Luang Prabang Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Luang Prabang is very inexpensive for travelers so finding ways to cut down on expenses can be challenging if you’re already eating street food, not drinking a ton, and staying in hostels. That said, here are some ways to save money even more in Luang Prabang:

• Travel during the off-season – Peak season tends to run from October through March. If you can land in Luang Prabang from April through September, you can usually find lower prices, especially when it comes to accommodation. This is the rainy season but the daily rainfall is usually brief.
• Rent a bicycle – While public transportation isn’t too pricey, renting a bike for a couple of days can get you around the city at your own pace. You can find them for 15,000 LAK per day.
• Stick to the local food – Western restaurants tend to be twice as expensive as the ones serving traditional cuisine. If you’re on a budget, eat what the locals eat — it will save you money!
• Enjoy free nature – Hiking and enjoying the sunset over the river is free. Soak up the views and save your budget at the same time.
• Don’t overdo it on drinks – One of the best ways to cut costs is the limit your drinking. A few beers here and there will quickly add up.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Luang Prabang isn’t safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang has lots of affordable accommodation options so you won’t be hard-pressed to find something within budget. My suggested places to stay in Luang Prabang are:

• Y-Not Laos Hoistel
• Indigo House Hotel
• Friendly Backpackers Hostel
• Downtown Backpackers Hostel 2

How to Get Around Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a small town and you can get anywhere on foot. Transportation is only necessary when you’re visiting places outside of town.

Bike rentals – A bicycle is one of the most common ways to get around town. There are plenty of rental shops all over Luang Prabang. Your hostel/hotel may even have some available. Rentals are usually between 15,000-30,000 LAK.

For a motorbike rental, expect to pay around 75,000 LAK per day.

Tuk-Tuk – Short tuk-tuk rides around town start at 20,000 LAK. If you’re going a little further afield, like to the slow boat pier, you’ll pay closer to 50,000 LAK.

When to Go to Luang Prabang

Between November to May is the best time to visit Luang Prabang. This is when the weather is consistently warm and dry, but it’s still cooler compared to the rest of the year. The temperature never drops below 15°C (59°F), and the average daily temperature sits around 25°C (77°F) This is also when Luang Prabang receives the greatest number of visitors, although it’s never really too crowded here (except for in the market and at the waterfalls).

March to May tends to be the hottest time of year, with temperatures as high as 40°C (104°F). The humidity is high during this time too, which can make it very intolerable for some people.

The rainy season is from June to September. Heavy rainfall occurs during these months (especially in August), and although it doesn’t last long, the Mekong River is prone to flooding. Some roads may become impassable due to thick mud, which is a pain if you’re trying to get out into the countryside or the mountains. On the other hand, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and better accommodation prices if you don’t mind the weather.

How to Stay Safe in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a safe place to backpack and travel around. Pickpocketing is your biggest concern, especially in the night market. Keep your valuables close and out of reach at all times. You should always keep your passport (or a copy of it) on you as well, otherwise, you could face a fine.

Do not give money to child peddlers. You’re not helping a child in need by doing so. Often these kids are kept out of school so they can earn money in the streets. The minute you give one child money, you’re likely to be surrounded by many more. Politely decline and move on.

When people get into trouble here, it’s mostly because they’re involved with drugs or the sex industry. Laos is strict about punishment for these things so don’t do them. Don’t contribute to the negative side of tourism.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city. They can provide specific tips.

Be wary of people planting drugs on you. The scam involves someone planting drugs on you and then a police officer arresting you unless you can pay a bribe. For more information on scams, read this post about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 to contact the police.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Luang Prabang Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Luang Prabang Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Laos travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

The Secret Pool of Kuang Si Waterfall

The Cost of Traveling Laos

Vang Vieng: A Hedonistic Backpacker Town Reborn

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How to Plan a Luang Prabang Trip

Reasons to visit, best time to go, currency and budget, consider a private driver for regional travel, getting around luang prabang, accommodation, how long to stay and where to visit, know before you go.

Luang Prabang now reopens to travelers. From January 1st, 2022, travelers from US, UK, Germany, France, Canada, Australia, etc. can enter Laos without quarantine .

If you choose Luang Prabang (Laos) as the destination for your next holiday, you'll need to make some special travel plans before you go. The following guide may give you some inspiration and help you develop your plans.

With 33 villages and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Luang Prabang is an undiscovered gem, perceived as the soul of Laotian culture. Although it costs more compared to trips in Thailand and Vietnam, the unique scenery and experience is worth the price.

The ideal season to visit is from November to February . Located in north central Laos, Luang Prabang is subject to a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons, dry, hot, and wet. This may have a significant impact on your travel experience.

Dry Season (November-February)

This is the best all-round time to visit, with moderate temperatures and almost no rain. It's a great time for town tours, and also suitable for exploring the waterways of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, with ideal river-cruising conditions. Book accommodation in advance, for this is the peak tourist season.

We promise you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Hot Season (March-April)

Temperatures rise to the highest of the year and river levels drop to their annual lows. Travel during this season can be rather uncomfortable in the high temperatures. If you visit around mid-April, however, you're likely to experience the celebrations of Lao New Year, which include the traditional water-pouring.

Wet Season (May-October)

This is also known as the rainy season, with precipitation reaching its peak in August. Don't worry about the rain, as it mostly means afternoon downpours, with showers and blue skies the rest of time. Temperatures vary between 20℃and 30℉.

As it gets wetter, landscapes become emerald green and river levels gradually rise. This is a good time to see the dramatically cascading waterfalls of Kuang Si Falls and Tad Sae Falls; or to take a trip along the Mekong River to explore the Pak Ou Caves.

Stunning natural scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, fewer tourists and cheaper accommodation, actually make it a surprisingly good time to visit.

Continue to read Best Time to Visit Laos and Laos Monthly Weather .

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Most transactions are conducted in cash: Kip, US dollars or Thai baht. Although kip is the official currency of Laos, most of the population prefers foreigners to use US dollars or Thai baht. One should keep a supply of kip for making small purchases, as prices for small items are usually quoted in kip. Also reserve some US dollars for larger deals, such as accommodation and transportation.

Major credit cards are accepted: mostly in high-end hotels and restaurants with a service charge.

Most ATMs are reliable, with a limit on withdrawal and accessible in the town.

Money-changing is possible at most foreign exchange banks and offices in town. One US dollar is roughly equivalent to eight thousand kip . Use up your supply of kip or change it into US dollars at the Luang Prabang airport before departure, as it's not convertible outside.

Banking hours: 08:30-16:00 from Monday to Friday

Laos is way different from its neighbors, as its tourist facilities are still under development. A fixed travel budget consists of flight, hotel and day-trip costs. Mid-range costs are around US$200-C250 per day.

There are direct flights from Siem Reap, Hanoi, Bangkok and Chiang Mai into Luang Prabang at around $150-C200 per person. A 3-/4-star boutique hotel costs over $100 per room per night. A day trip with a private guide and driver costs about $100 per person. A basic Lao set menu costs about $10 per person.

The easiest way to reach Luang Prabang is by air . Overland travel is less comfortable and takes a lot of time. Travel by boat is also possible, for river-trip enthusiasts.

Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) is 4 kilometers north of the town, and you could take flights to/from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pakse, Hanoi, Siem Reap, Vientiane, Singapore, and several Chinese cities. Scoot offers flights from Singapore since 2019.

Most visitors reach Luang Prabang by direct flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Siem Reap or Hanoi, as there are no long-distance international flights . It's recommended to confirm your flight departure time before going to the airport, in case the flight is cancelled or delayed.

Laos Airlines is the national carrier and provides direct flights from the cities above.

Bangkok Airways provides direct flights from Bangkok.

Thai AirAsia provides seasonal cheap direct flights from Bangkok.

Vietnam Airlines provides direct flights from Hanoi.

The Luang Prabang International Airport has scheduled flights and offers a visa-on-arrival service . The journey from the airport into town is a painless drive by taxi or tuk-tuk, taking less than twenty minutes.

There are several international border checkpoints into Laos from neighboring countries and you can obtain your visa upon arrival at most border crossings.

It takes a long time, however, usually more than a day to drive into Laos and then head into Luang Prabang. Also, the road conditions are not so good and it can be quite bumpy.

The most popular river trip is at the border-crossing area between Laos and northeast Thailand. If you travel by cruise or slow boat, it takes two days starting from Huay Xai and stopping at Pakbeng for the night. Travel by speed boat is much faster; the whole trip takes about six hours.

Most tourists want to travel to Luang Prabang from regional destinations such as Vang Vieng that are reachable by road travel, and most ride a bus. We'd like to suggest that you try Asia Highlights for a private driver to travel regionally since it is safer, more comfortable, faster, and more convenient. You could visit places you want to go to that you can't go to on these regional buses.

The roads in the region tend to be bumpy and wind a lot, so a lot of people in cramped buses get hot and feel sick. Also, the buses make only infrequent rest stops. So going in a private car is much more comfortable and healthier too. It is also faster.

From Vang Vieng, Laos: The popular northern Laos destination is far from the nearest airport. In the best case scenario, a trip to/from Luang Prabang using a public bus takes 6 to 7 hours. The cost for an air-con bus ticket starts around 150,000 kip (18.00 USD). It is best to not make the trip on a full stomach because of the winding road. The bus station in Luang Prabang is about 4 kilometers away from the center, and a tuk tuk ride would cost more than 20,000 kip (2.40 USD). However, a private driver such as ours can take you there directly in less than 3 hours unless you want to make stops along the way.

From Vientiane: This is a winding uncomfortable ride that takes about 13 hours (200,000 kip, 24.00 USD) including an hour meal break. There is only one additional rest stop along the way, and there are no toilets on the seats-only buses. Once you get to your destination, you'll have to take local transport to where you want to go. Unless you are an experienced traveler in the area, that might be a trying experience, and there is a potential for scamming or crime issues. Going with us, we can get you there directly in about 5 hours. Or you can go wherever you'd like along the way, and we could take you to excellent, authentic local restaurants you'll enjoy. You'll avoid the food at the low-quality eating places at the stops.

From Hanoi, Vietnam: There is a tiring, uncomfortable 24-hour trip by direct bus for about 450,000 kip or 54.00 USD. A flight would take about 2 hours, not including waiting and boarding etc. There are extra visa requirements we can arrange for you. If you go by road with us, we'll take you on a two-day road tour to beautiful places you'll like along the way on a delightful trip going to places few tourists go to. A direct drive takes about 13 hours.

From Don Det, Laos (the Khong Phapheng Waterfall area): If you are taking a bus between Don Det and Luang Prabang, it takes 48 hours! Don Det is not close to the huge waterfall. We can turn this otherwise tiring and long trip into a safe two or three-day scenic road tour with stops at highlights along the way, delightful local cuisine experiences, and restful accommodations. Having a personal driver and expert tour guide is a great benefit.

The town and nearby villages are easy to get around, by road or by boat. Other destinations within Laos can be reached by domestic flights.

It's easy to get around simply by foot, bicycle, tuk-tuk or car. Walking around is a good way to experience the old-town charm. Bicycles are available for rent at many shops around the town.

Tuk-tuks are suitable for short-distance sightseeing and are widely used in daily transportation. Visiting by car is much more convenient when exploring the villages around and transferring from one hotel to another. Although, however, the road system has improved a lot in recent years, some roads are still in poor condition.

Luang Prabang has navigable waterways on the Mekong River and its tributaries. We organize a boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfall for a swim, after finishing with the Elephant Village experience. Alternatively, a two-hour journey drifting along the scenic Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, to see Pak Ou Caves and Whisky Village, makes a good day out. The above constitute two different day-tours.

Meanwhile, there are cruise companies which offer long-distance river trips between the Golden Triangle area, Luang Prabang and Vientiane. The common route is: Golden Triangle-Huay Xay-Pakbeng-Pak Ou-Luang Prabang-Kuang Si-Vientiane.

Lao Airlines offers flights between domestic destinations. If you want to extend your trip to other Lao cities such as Vientiane, it's a good idea to book in advance and check your reservation around the time of departure.

Luang Prabang has the best selection of hotels in Laos, with distinctive residences, boutiques and villas. The price of tourism during the high season from November to February is much higher than during the low season, with more hotels booked-out. A standard room in a 3-/4-star boutique hotel costs about $100-$150 per room per night, while a 5-star hotel costs more than $200 per room per night. These are high-season prices.

Our handpicked hotels are in great locations with a nice view, and only a 5-minute walk from nearby attractions. The hotels are exquisitely decorated, with basic facilities and good service. The hotel we recommend most is the Belle Rive Boutique Hotel, the Travelers' Choice 2016 on TripAdvisor.

For a first-time visit to Luang Prabang, a 3-day tour will suffice to see the main attractions downtown and in nearby villages . A day tour with a private guide and a driver normally costs $100 per person per day. The guides are well-trained and provide professional service.

The first day begins with a relaxing walk in the downtown area to see the morning almsgiving ceremony and the markets, before exploring three well-known local sites. The second day will include an excursion to the villages, to discover their natural beauty. We organize a close encounter with elephants, before a boat trip to the waterfall. The third day is free time for you to stroll around before departure.

Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Asia Highlights does everything possible to provide a delightful and safe trip. However, travel inevitably involves some risks. Please ensure your insurance covers all activities planned on your trip, as some policies specifically exclude activities such as motorcycling and trekking.

Knowing that Laos has relatively poor sanitation with limited medical facilities and services will help you weigh up any possible impact on your own health. Take a full supply of prescribed medicine if you have any medical condition or allergy. Consult your doctor for suggestions on vaccinations and medical care before travel.

Etiquette should be observed : dress properly and keep your shoulders and knees covered when visiting temples; never point your finger at anyone or touch anyone's head, as doing so is perceived as offensive; remove your shoes and hat before entering a temple or house. There are some other local courtesies which your guide will explain to you when necessary.

Entry requirement: People of most nationalities require a visa to enter Laos .

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15 AWESOME Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos (2024)

• Last Updated: December 19, 2023

The ultimate guide on the absolute best things to do in Luang Prabang, Laos for every kind of traveller!

The city of Luang Prabang in Laos is a destination no visitor should ever want to skip.

It’s a mesmerising city filled with over 33 temples, vibrant nightlife, stunning nature, and so much more, which is why it’s the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Table of Contents

Relax at Kuang Si Waterfall

Experience the majestic temples, enjoy the famous night markets, watch the alms giving ceremony, hike up to mount phou si, explore the city and its spirituality, learn history at the royal palace museum, learn how to cultivate rice, cruise along the mekong, see the buddha statues over at pak ou caves, sample traditional whiskey at the whiskey village, take cooking classes, opt for an authentic lao massage, learn about laos’ devastating past at uxo luang prabang center, go on an adventure in green jungle park, don’t miss the top things to do in luang prabang.

There are a lot of top things to do in Luang Prabang, and each one is more memorable than the last.

Luang Prabang is also the ancient royal capital of Laos, so there is a lot of history in this region too.

It’s nestled between two of the largest rivers in the region, the Mekong and Nam Khan, and it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Laos.

Laos may be a landlocked country, but it sure has some of the finest waterfalls in the region.

Although the waterfalls themselves aren’t in the city, they’re definitely worth the trip to get there.

It’s not easy to describe how falls look like, because they’re a gorgeous mix of azure and turquoise, and they cascade in an entirely beautiful way.

At times, they feel as if they’re the sky in liquid form, especially when they’re crashing down on the rocks.

You can also hike to the top of the waterfalls, and even stand inside the waterfall itself.

Proper footwear is absolutely required if you plan on making any excursions to the top, but there is nothing to worry about because there’s a fence about a meter away from the lip of the falls.

• Location: 23 km from Luang Prabang
• Opening hours: every day from 8 AM – 5:30 PM
• Price: 20,000 kip

READ MORE: Check out our full detailed guide on everything you need to know about visiting  Kuang Si Falls .

There are plenty of attractions in Luang Prabang but most of them pale in comparison to the stunning golden temples.

There are 34 active temples in the city, and all of them are beautifully gilded which gives Luang Prabang a deep spiritual feel.

They’re known as Wats, and they’re known to have a very relaxing and soothing atmosphere, especially when you’re walking through its gold and burgundy grounds.

The most famous temple is called Wat Xieng Thong , which was built in the 1500s, and it’s one of the finest places to visit in Luang Prabang.

Wat Xieng Thong is a well-known spot where you can rest and meditate, and search for Nirvana, but even if you’re just visiting you won’t regret seeing its beauty in person.

However, if you’re intent on visiting the temples, make sure to know the customs and proper etiquette.

They’re still active institutions, and sometimes it’s possible for locals and monks to be offended if you’re not following some guidelines.

Dressing properly is one of the most important guidelines for the temples, which generally means to have arms and legs covered.

Some temples might have a couple of extra rules, so be sure to ask before visiting.

Book yourself a guided tour to make the most of all the sites.

• Location : Khem Khong
• Opening hours : every day from 8 AM – 5 PM
• Price : 20,000 kip

One of the things that South East Asia is most known for is its markets, and Luang Prabang has one of the best in the entire region.

They’re located in the centre of the town, and they’re very vibrant, colourful, and lovely.

Here is where you’ll easily find the spirit of Laos concentrated in one spot because it’s filled with people from several different regions around Luang Prabang.

Many of the goods that are for sale on the stalls are handcrafted.

There are plenty of different items on sale depending on the season, ranging from simple wood carvings to ornate jewellery and trinkets.

This spot tends to be quite crowded, and even though Luang Prabang already feels lively, the crowds give the city an extra sense of life.

Even if you don’t have any intentions of shopping, simply taking photographs of the place can feel amazing.

Another thing that no traveller should skip out on is grabbing a bite to eat.

Just off the main road of the market you can find the buffet street, which is a laneway filled with really good authentic food.

The buffet street even has communal seating, so it’s very easy to meet another like-minded traveller, and to make new friends.

If you love your food, check out this night foodie tour by scooter .

• Location: Sisavangvong Road
• Opening hours : 5 PM – 11 PM every night
• Price : Free

Spirituality and religion play a deep role in the country of Laos, and there are plenty of old traditions that are still being practised to this very day.

Starting from the 14 th century, local monks leave their respective temples at sunrise in order to collect alms for them to be able to help feed the poor.

This is a ceremony that actively encourages visitors to participate, which is why it’s one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang.

The ceremony itself starts from the main street of the city, then it moves on to many of the side streets of Luang Prabang.

Since the ceremony starts at sunrise, it’s best to be there before the monks arrive because it’s considered rude and disrespectful to take part in the tradition after it has begun.

Clothing and general appearance are also important – having your chest, legs, and shoulders covered is a sign of respect.

Offerings generally include food, such as rice, fresh fruit, or traditional sweets, and they are to be presented respectfully with a bow.

It’s a lovely tradition, one that perfectly showcases just what Lao culture is all about, and it has an unforgettable serene atmosphere about it.

• Location: Main Street
• Opening hours: Sunrise until early morning
• Price: Free

There are but a few things that can compare to the beautiful views from the top of Mount Phou Si.

Phou Si itself means sacred hill, as this is not an actual mountain but rather a hill that’s tall – about 100 meters.

Luang Prabang has a gorgeous skyline, and Mount Phou Si is definitely the best place to experience it.

It’s located in the centre of the old town, which makes it very easily accessible, but it does take a bit of a hike to get to the top.

There are over 300 stairs to reach to the top, but once you’re there, you’ll be glad you’ve put in the effort.

While the views are consistently amazing throughout the entire day, sunset is when the hill truly feels a magical spot.

You’ll be surrounded by golden pagodas, and just as the sun starts to set and the lights of the city flicker to life, you’ll get to experience something truly unforgettable.

Make sure to get to the top before the sun is about to set because the spot is very popular and there will definitely be crowds around.

If you want to explore the mountain on a guided tour, this one is the best on the market .

• Location: Center of the old town
• Open hours: 5:30 AM – 6 PM

Wandering through old, historic neighbourhoods in the city is one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang.

When you’re stuck on what to see in Luang Prabang you can always set out to explore the pleasant French-laneways.

France had a significant presence in the past, which is why a lot of the architecture and general aesthetics have such a strong French undertone.

If walking for hours on end isn’t something you prefer, you can always rent a bike and just explore the place with it.

There’s plenty to see in the city, so you might want to spend a lot of time throughout the day doing nothing but sightseeing.

There are a few hills right on the outskirts of the town that are amazing to visit, especially on a bike, and they’re pretty easy to reach.

Although it’s generally considered safe to bike everywhere in Luang Prabang, make sure to wear your helmet and definitely get travel insurance .

If you feel you’re done with wandering and exploring, you can always sit down for a nice and relaxing spot of yoga.

Yoga is one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang as there is a cooperative of many independent yoga teachers with whom you can practice in the city’s most beautiful spots.

• Price: 15,000 – 40,000 kip for bikes, 40,000 kip for yoga

This museum was originally constructed as a residential palace for King Sisavang Vong in 1904.

It’s constructed with a blend of traditional Lao and French architecture, which is why it has such a unique aesthetic.

After the king’s death, the crown prince, Savang Vatthana, and his family occupied the palace.

They were the last to hold residence until the revolution of 1975.

When Laos no longer had a royal dynasty to rule the country, the government occupied the palace complex.

It was then reopened to the public in 1995 as a museum.

Since 1995, the Royal Palace Museum holds a significant number of artefacts and items from the past that each tell their own stories, which are part of the larger story of the country of Laos.

The complex is divided into three parts – the main palace and a few other buildings.

One of the other buildings in the complex is an ornate pavilion, which is known for housing a standing Buddha statue called Prabang, which the city is named after.

There is even a car collection in the compound, though it’s modest in size and it includes American cars from the 1950s to 1970s.

• Location : Across Mount Phou Si
• Opening hours: 8 AM – 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM – 4 PM
• Price: 30,000 kip

One of the things that Laos is known for, in general, is their rice and the sprawling rice fields it comes from.

It’s possible to become a rice farmer for one day over at the Living Land Organic Farm , where you’ll be able to try your hand at every single step of making rice manually.

No modern machinery is used on the farm as everything is done with hard work. You’ll be taught how to cultivate and grow rice the traditional way.

The entire process is far from glamorous, though, as one of the steps requires you to wade through fields of mud.

After you’re done for the day, you’ll come to appreciate just how much effort goes into making rice.

Rice has become a staple of Lao cuisine, and the main type of rice is called sticky rice.

This is just one of several hundred types of rice that grow in the region, and you’ll have an amazing opportunity to learn more about them at the farm.

As it’s such a big part of Laos culture, getting an opportunity to learn more about rice cultivation is perfect to complete your Luang Prabang sightseeing experience.

• Location: 5km outside of the city centre
• Opening hours: No specific hours but starts early in the morning
• Price: 275,000 kip per person

One of the best ways to experience the surroundings of Luang Prabang is to take a river cruise down the stunning Mekong .

It’s one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang, especially considering that you’ll be seeing a lot of the biggest highlights in the region.

What’s great about these tours is that there are plenty of options to choose from – from basic boats all the way to luxury vessels.

Touring the Mekong is best done right before sunset because then you’ll be able to truly enjoy the splendour of the surrounding nature, and you’ll be able to see the locals finishing up their daily routines.

There are three different spots to choose from, and several different companies, each with their own particular flavour.

You can take a short one-hour cruise, or you can even opt for a longer cruise to some of the farther sites like Pak Ou Caves.

• Location: Near the morning market, behind the Royal Palace Museum, near Wat Xieng Thong
• Opening hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 100,000 kip and above

If you’re looking for the ultimate travel adventure, check out our guide on taking the  slow boat to Laos  along the Mekong Delta.

The famous Pak Ou Caves are one of the most important religious spots in the region, and they’re one of the most known prayer sites.

They’re most known for the thousands of different Buddha idols, all in different shapes and sizes, left throughout history by different people.

In the past, when the pilgrims first came and settled in this region, they visited the cave and left a Buddha statue, which prompted other pilgrims to start leaving Buddha idols of their own.

Today, both upper and lower caves are filled with these idols, and even though they appear as souvenirs, they’re actually very important religious idols.

The lower cave is well-lit and everything is clearly marked, so there will be no confusion as to where to go.

The upper cave is the one that’s slightly more difficult to reach, but only because you’ll need a torch to climb the many steep steps.

Once you’re at the top, you’ll get to experience the caves the way they were mean to be experienced, which is without a lot of tourists, and as a place for serenity and relaxation.

They’re quite easy to reach by boat.

• Location: 25 km upriver
• Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
• Price: 20,000 kip per person

The Whiskey Village is one of the most popular Luang Prabang tourist attractions, and it’s often a stop when visiting the Pak Ou Caves by boat.

The whiskey itself is quite different from whiskey in the west, in that it’s made from rice with a very traditional method, but the end result is still a very potent alcoholic beverage.

Whiskey is called Lao-Lao, which is, in fact, two different words – the first means alcohol, and the second is the country.

Lao whiskey is almost entirely incorporated into the culture, as it’s used in a lot of traditions, so expect to be treated with samples generously.

If you do take a liking to the drink, there are bottles of this liquor on sale as well.

You can even observe how to make and prepare the whiskey, although it’s not encouraged to take part of the process and try to make it yourself.

Visiting here will not take a lot of your time, as you’ll most likely be heading to the Pak Ou Caves relatively shortly after arriving.

Sign up for a guided tour here and explore not just the Whiskey Village but also Pak Ou Caves and the Kuang Si Falls.

• Location : 1.5 hours upriver
• Price: There is no entry fee and samples are free

A lot of visitors to this part of Laos are surprised that one of the best things to see in Luang Prabang is actually the inside of a kitchen.

Tamarind’s cooking school is located just outside the city, but you’ll be picked up from the Tamarind restaurant in the city with a tuk-tuk and brought to the school.

Lao cuisine is absolutely exquisite and unique, and one of the first lessons is picking and choosing your ingredients at the market.

The school claims that only by knowing how each ingredient feels like, you’ll know how to properly prepare Lao dishes.

There are only a few other students in any given class, so you’ll receive more than enough attention and guidance on how to cook traditional meals.

It’s a worthwhile experience that will absolutely strengthen your journey in Laos.

• Location: Just outside Luang Prabang
• Opening hours: 9 AM – 3 PM
• Price: 285,000kip

It’s true that Laos’ neighbours are the ones that are much more famous for their massages, but Lao massages are an entirely different experience.

If you’re looking for a typical relaxing massage in Luang Prabang, then don’t look for an authentic Lao massage, but rather ask for an oil massage.

An authentic massage is not as relaxing as other types of massages, but rather it’s meant to be a therapeutic experience that releases tension by focusing on key pressure points.

These massages are done while wearing sarongs or loose clothes.

It is important to note, however, that you might feel pain or discomfort at first.

There are several spas in Luang Prabang, but be wary of some of the cheaper ones, because you usually get what you pay for.

Some locals might not pay as much heed to hygiene as much as they should, so make sure to find a place that appears reputable and clean.

• Location: All around town
• Price: 60,000 kip and above

The history of Laos is not the most peaceful as the country had often been plagued with wars and revolutions.

During the ’60s and ’70s, before the revolution, Laos was continuously bombarded by ordnance and explosives.

Over the course of 9 years, there were more than 270 million bombs dropped on the country’s territory.

Laos is the world’s most bombed country per capita, and unexploded ordnance is still a live threat to this very day in most of the districts in the country.

This museum is dedicated to shedding light and raising awareness of the issue.

Even after extensive relief support, however, the issue still persists.

The museum is a chilling experience and is considered a Luang Prabang must see.

• Location: Behind Chao Anouvong Monument
• Opening Hours: 8 AM – 12 PM, 1 PM – 4 PM

Before Green Jungle Park was formed as a spot for adventures, it used to be a rubbish dump, which has been fully reclaimed today.

The park is surrounded by a forest and a gorgeous cascade, where you’ll find a lot of zip lines, monkey bridges, and even rope courses.

It might not be that near to the city, but you’ll be able to get there by catching a boat from Luang Prabang behind the Royal Palace.

After you disembark from a 30-minute ride, you’ll be taxied for the rest of the way.

This is a great place to go if you’re not sure what to see in Laos as it’s located in one of the region’s lushest areas.

There’s a unique sense of adventure and you’re never that far away from civilisation.

• Location: 32km outside of Luang Prabang
• Opening hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 20,000 kip, excluding extra costs for more activities

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Alesha and Jarryd

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thanks for the superb information

Your post is so detailed! I’m going to Luang Prabang soon, so thank you for sharing all this information! 😀

That is amazing. Have a wonderful time. Luang Prabang is a lovely destination. Don’t miss the waterfall and the food street market.:)

I have lived in Luang Prabang for the past 6 years and your advice is spot on. I can add a few more things that will be an adventure as well. Eat at Khaiphan Restaurant and help Friends without borders to teach their staff to be top chefs, waiters and mangers. Most of these kids are street kids who had no future, but now after 4 years of training they are all snapped up by he big hotels in Thailand. Food you will not experience any where in Laos created by a Canadian chef who blends Lao and western food. EXCELENT Big Brother Mouse is a place where tourist can help Lao kids with their English. The kids will love to hear about you and your country. Most schools only have 1 hour of English per week and because this is a tourist town English is a great skill for them to have. Buffalo Dairy on the way to Kuang Si Waterfalls is the only Buffalo dairy in S.E. Asia and you can see many farm animals as well as feed the baby buffalos with their special bottles. The restaurant there serves buffalo products such as cheese cake donuts coffee, all made with buffalo milk. If you plan your trip for the last full moon in October you will see one of the best Lantern parades in the world all hand made by paper and lit with candles and spirit Lamps. I can also recommend Apple Guest House in town to stay very friendly people nothing is too much trouble and they speak good English and it’s a great location.

Thank you so much Robyn for the extra tips. This is so helpful to many. I will put a note in the article. Thanks you again. Take care

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LUANG PRABANG PLAN YOUR TRIP

Unveiling the enchantment of laos: plan your unforgettable trip.

Laos, the country still widely unknown, beckons with its verdant landscapes, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in this Southeast Asian gem by planning your trip with these key steps:

Choose Your Travel Dates: • Dry Season (November - May): Ideal for outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures at the turn of the year, heat starts from April • Wet Season (June – October ): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but some roads and areas may be inaccessible.

Plan Your Itinerary: • Allocate enough time for each destination: Consider travel time and activities you want to do. • Book accommodation in advance: Popular destinations like Luang Prabang can fill up quickly. • Research transportation options: Train, buses, domestic flights, and slowboats offer various travel experiences.

Essential Logistics: • Visa: Apply for your visa online or upon arrival. • Currency: The Lao Kip (LAK) is the local currency. ATMs are available in major towns. • Language: Lao is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas. • Health: Pack essential medications and check vaccination requirements.

Embrace the Local Culture: • Learn basic Lao phrases: "Sa bai dee" (hello) and "khob jai" (thank you) go a long way. • Dress modestly: Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees. • Support local businesses: Shop at local markets and try street food for an authentic experience.

Be Responsible Travelers: • Pack eco-friendly essentials: Reduce plastic waste by carrying reusable bags and water bottles. • Respect the environment: Avoid littering and minimize your impact on natural landscapes. • Support sustainable tourism: Choose responsible tour operators and businesses that respect the environment and local communities

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Laos: • Be respectful of the local culture and customs. • Bargain when shopping: Bargaining is expected at markets and shops. • Drink bottled water: Tap water is not safe to drink in Laos. • Be patient and don't expect things to happen quickly.

Plan your Laotian adventure and prepare to be captivated by its natural beauty, cultural treasures, and warm hospitality.

Let Laos weave its magic on you!

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Nestling in a slim valley shaped by lofty, green mountains and cut by the swift Mekong and Khan rivers, LUANG PRABANG exudes tranquillity and casual grandeur. A tiny mountain kingdom for more than a thousand years and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Luang Prabang is endowed with a legacy of ancient red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture, not to mention some of the country’s most refined cuisine, its richest culture and its most sacred Buddha image, the Pha Bang. For those familiar with Southeast Asia, the very name Luang Prabang conjures up the classic image of Laos – streets of ochre colonial houses and swaying palms, lines of saffron-robed monks gliding through the morning mist, the sonorous thump of the temple drums before dawn, and, of course, longtail boats racing down the Mekong before the river slips out of view through a seam in the mountains.

Some history

• Luang Prabang's Old City
• Outside Luang Prabang's Old City

Smoke gets in your eyes

Accommodation in luang prabang, eating in luang prabang, luang prabang film festival, shopping in luang prabang.

It is this heritage of Theravada Buddhist temples, French–Indochinese shophouses and royal mystique that lends Luang Prabang a pull unmatched by any other city in Laos. This is not only where the first proto-Lao nation took root, it’s also the birthplace of countless Lao rituals and the origin of a line of rulers, including the rulers of Vientiane, Champasak and Lane Xang. Luang Prabang people are tremendously proud of their pivotal role in Lao history. Indeed, they’re somewhat known for their cultured ways in the rest of the country; in Lao soap operas, the doctor or the intellectual invariably speaks with a Luang Prabang accent.

Luang Prabang’s strict building code, drawn up by UNESCO, keeps it from becoming another modern architectural nightmare without turning it into a museum. Inevitably, the city has lost some of its sleepy charm and dreamy serenity as a result of the growing influx of tourists, but exploring the side streets and dusty lanes, its not hard to feel as though you’ve stepped into the city of yesteryear. Parts of the city do already feel over touristy – indeed, on stretches of Sisavangvong Road, were it not for the unmistakable architecture, you could be anywhere else on the well-trodden Southeast Asian tourist trail – especially when you’ve come from other parts of the country where tourism is still a novelty. Though the city remains surprisingly laidback, with none of the hassle associated with other parts of Asia, an airport expansion is due in 2013, which will allow larger planes to fly in and out of Luang Prabang, meaning the small-town charms of this beautiful city could be encroached on further.

Most travellers spend only a few days here on a whistle-stop tour of Laos, part of a wider Mekong trip, though the city really demands longer – this is a destination best savoured at a leisurely pace. If time is limited, top priority should go to the old city, dubbed by the UNESCO World Heritage team as a “historic preservation zone”. In a day, you can easily tour the sights, beginning with the sunrise view from Mount Phousi and a wander around the lively morning market, before heading to the elegant Royal Palace Museum in the former Royal Palace, en route to Luang Prabang’s most impressive temple, Wat Xieng Thong . If you’re here for a second day, enjoy some of the sights around Luang Prabang by taking a boat up the Mekong River and contemplating the hundreds of Buddhas within the holy Pak Ou Caves, or travelling south through the surrounding hills to one of the area’s two major waterfalls, Kouang Si and Tad Se. But whatever you do, be sure to soak up Luang Prabang’s languid atmosphere by wandering the streets at dawn, when the town’s legion of monks receives alms and life and the city seems to have little changed from a century ago, or at dusk, when the air fills with otherworldly chants wafting from the temples.

Luang Prabang’s air of serenity is disturbed only at festival time. The most famous festivals last for days and inspire a carnival atmosphere that makes it easy to forget that these complex rituals held the very structure of the kingdom in place for centuries. Lao New Year in April is perhaps the town’s biggest festival, but near the end of the monsoon, two holidays – the boat races and the Festival of Lights – also bring Luang Prabang to a festive standstill. A visit coinciding with one of these festivals would certainly enhance your stay, though the most popular time to visit remains the cooler months of December and January, when the weather is clear and dry.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Laos, created by local experts

22 days  / from 4799 USD

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Grand Tour

Explore the highlights of four countries in a bit over 3 weeks: Halong Bay & the Mekong Delta in Vietnam combined with the cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Proceed to Cambodia with Angkor Wat before watching the monks in Luang Prabang/Laos. Your trip ends in Thailand with elephants and Bangkok.

6 days  / from 1550 USD

Historical Laos

One of Southeast Asia’s lesser-known countries, Laos is definitely off the beaten track, but it has retained its culture, charm and traditional village life, wild jungle and stunning countryside. Come here for tradition and mystery and a unique adventure.

21 days  / from 4545 USD

Impressions of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Start and end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City and visit highlights such as the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh with the Killing Fields, Angkor Wat, the historic city of Luang Prabang in Laos before heading back to Vietnam - Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An await.

Knowledge of Luang Prabang’s early history is sketchy, at best. The earliest Lao settlers made their way down the Nam Ou Valley sometime after the tenth century, absorbing the territory on which the city lies. At the time, the area was known as Muang Sawa, a settlement thought to have been peopled by the Austroasiatic ancestors of the Lao Theung. According to folklore, this migration of the Lao to Luang Prabang was led by Khoun Lo, who claimed the area for his people and called the settlement Xieng Dong Xieng Thong. By the end of the thirteenth century, Xieng Dong Xieng Thong had emerged as one of the chief centres of Lao life in the Upper Mekong region, a principality significant enough to be a vassal state of the great Siamese kingdom of Sukhothai.

However, it wasn’t until the legendary Lao warrior Fa Ngum swept down the Nam Ou with a Khmer army in 1353 and captured Xieng Dong Xieng Thong that the town emerged as the heart of a thriving, independent kingdom in its own right. Claiming the throne of his grandfather, Fa Ngum founded the kingdom of Lane Xang Hom Khao – the Land of a Million Elephants and the White Parasol – and established the line of kings that was to rule Laos for six centuries.

With Fa Ngum came monks, artisans and learned men from the Khmer court and, according to histories written a century and a half later, a legal code and Theravada Buddhism. Yet Fa Ngum was still very much the fourteenth-century warrior. After his ministers grew weary of his military campaigns and his rather uncivilized habit of taking his subject’s wives and daughters as concubines, he was exiled and replaced on the throne by his son, Oun Heuan, during whose peaceful reign the city flourished.

The sacking of the city in 1478 by the Vietnamese proved a catalyst for the ushering in of the city’s golden age: striking temples, including the sim of Wat Xieng Thong, were built, epic poems composed and sacred texts were copied. In 1512, King Visoun brought the Pha Bang, a sacred Buddha image, to Xieng Dong Xieng Thong, a distinguishing event for the identity of the Lao people and the city itself, and a sign that Theravada Buddhism was flourishing.

Wary of encroaching Burmese, King Setthathilat, Visoun’s grandson, moved the capital to Vientiane in 1563, leaving the Pha Bang behind and renaming the city after the revered image. The Pha Bang may have been known for its protective properties, but they were no match for the might of the Burmese, and Luang Prabang was engulfed by the chaos of successive Burmese invasions.

From then on, the city had a roller-coaster ride. With the disintegration of Lane Xang at the turn of the eighteenth century, Kingkitsalat became the first king of an independent Luang Prabang. When French explorers Doudart de Lagrée and Francis Garnier arrived in 1867, they found a busy market and port town of wooden homes, a town that Garnier called “the most eminent Laotian centre in Indochina”. With Luang Prabang firmly in Siam’s orbit, the explorers’ suggestion that the kingdom would be better off French was scoffed at by King Oun Kham, but the explorers were proved right two decades later when the Siamese left the town virtually undefended and the city was set ablaze by a group of marauding Haw. During the siege, French vice-consul Auguste Pavie plucked the ageing Lao king from his burning palace and brought him downriver to safety. From that moment, the king offered tribute to France.

Almost everything was lost during the sacking of the city, but the event provided Pavie with the ammunition he needed to “conquer the hearts” of the Lao and usher in Luang Prabang’s French period. The town was quickly rebuilt, with the French counting ten thousand people and more than a thousand homes a year after the town’s destruction. Within time, the French hired Vietnamese workers to build the homes that lend the city its classic French–Indochinese character, a trend quickly followed by Lao nobility. The city remained remote however: even in 1930 it took longer to travel by river from Saigon to Luang Prabang than it did to travel from Saigon to France.

During the two Indochina wars, Luang Prabang fared better than most towns in Laos, though while the city itself remained intact during the fighting that consumed the country over the next two decades, the Second Indochina War ultimately took its toll on Luang Prabang’s ceremonial life, which lost its regal heart when the Pathet Lao ended the royal line by forcing King Sisavang Vatthana to abdicate in 1975. Two years later, Luang Prabang and Laos lost the king himself, as the new communist government, fearful that he might become a rallying point for a rebellion, allegedly exiled him to a Hoa Phan cave, a journey from which he and his family never returned.

In 1995, the city was designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site, in recognition of it’s unique mix of traditional Lao architecture and old colonial buildings.

Luang Prabang's Old City

The old city is concentrated on a long finger of land, approximately 1km long by 300m wide. The thicker southern end of the peninsula is dominated by a steep, forested hill, Phousi, crowned by a Buddhist stupa that can be seen for miles around. As the city grew it expanded outwards from the peninsula to the south and east, and continues to do so to this day.

Just four parallel streets run the length of the peninsula, but there are enough cross streets, lanes and dead ends to keep things interesting. Amazingly, each area seems to exude its own distinct personality. Although it is possible to knock off all the attractions in the old city in a couple of days, it’s far more enjoyable to explore it a little at a time, and really soak up the atmosphere; the many temples and monasteries are certainly too charming be rushed through.

Alms-giving

The daily dawn procession of monks through the streets of the old city has become one of the quintessential images of Luang Prabang and is one of its biggest tourist “attractions”. As a result, however, it can feel a little zoo-like, as tourists line up to watch the monks pass, cameras madly clicking to get the best shot.

There’s no denying the serene beauty of the alms-giving ceremony (Tak Bat) as kneeled locals place sticky rice into the baskets of the passing saffron-robed monks. However, if you do wish to see it, it’s important to behave properly – in particular, dress appropriately and modestly, don’t make physical contact with the monks, and keep a respectful distance from them. It is possible to join the alms-giving, but locals request that you only do so if it would be meaningful to you. If you do so, buy sticky rice from the morning market beforehand rather than the street vendors that congregate along Sisavangvong Road as the rice can be of dubious quality.

Big Brother Mouse

Set up to promote literacy in Laos, Big Brother Mouse (Phayaluangmeungchan Rd; t071/254937, wwww.bigbrothermouse.com) is an excellent scheme that publishes books in Lao and enables young people to gain new skills in reading, writing and computing. Books are still a rare commodity in Laos, so the work that Big Brother Mouse does is vital in helping young Lao people develop new skills and enhance their prospects.

The organization, which is non-profit and Lao-owned, encourages visitors to buy books to take on treks, rather than giving sweets or pens to village children. In addition, tourists can sponsor a book party ($300–400), help young adults practise their English (Mon–Sat 9am; 2hr) or volunteer in the office and shop (vacancies are regularly posted outside the shop). You are welcome to visit the shop and speak to the staff in more detail about their work and what you can do – look for the big cut-out of a mouse outside.

Phousi (Sacred Hill) is the geographical as well as spiritual centre of the city. Believed to have once harboured a powerful naga who dwelt in its bowels, the hill is also seen as a miniature Mount Meru, the Mount Olympus of Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. Though there is nothing to see on the hill itself, save for an ancient-looking sim at its foot, Phousi is striking from a distance. Indeed, the golden spires of That Chomsi at its summit are the first glimpse of the city that visitors get if they are arriving by boat or plane. Likewise, the peak affords a stunning panorama of the city it crowns, and the shimmering rivers and jungle-clad mountains beyond are mesmerizing. Viewing the setting sun from the summit of Phousi has become a kind of tourist ritual, so don’t expect to enjoy the moment alone – indeed, early morning is a better time to come, when the city and the hill are more peaceful. A quieter spot from which to watch the sunset is Santi Chedi on a hill due east of Phousi, which affords a marvellous view back towards Phousi, without the crowds.

There are three approaches to the summit. The first and most straightforward is via the stairway directly opposite the main gate of the Royal Palace Museum. The second approach, on the other side of the hill, is up a zigzag stairway flanked by whitewashed naga, and can be used for descending to Phousi Road. The third and most rambling approach is via Wat Pha Phoutthabat near Phousi’s northern foot (across from the Saynamkhan Riverview Hotel).

Most people choose the first ascent, which allows you to first stop at the adjacent Wat Pa Houak. This fine little temple, overlooking Sisavangvong Road and the Royal Palace Museum, has a charmingly weathered facade, but is mainly of interest of its interior murals. Though the French art historian Henri Parmentier once describing them as “ridiculous”, they are in fact fascinating, and appear to depict Luang Prabang as a celestial city. Besides Lao characters in classical costumes, there are Chinese, Persians and Europeans in the city, but it is not clear whether they have come as visitors or invaders. After soaking up the murals it’s a steep climb through a tunnel of shady plumeria trees to the peak.

The Royal Palace (Royal Palace Museum)

Occupying a fittingly central location in the old city, between Phousi Hill and the Mekong River, the former Royal Palace is now home to the Royal Palace Museum, preserving the trappings and paraphernalia of Laos’s recently extinguished monarchy. The palace, at the end of a long drive lined with stately palms, was constructed in 1904 by the French and replaced an older, smaller palace of teak and rosewood. The new palace was supposed to be crowned by a European-style steeple, but King Sisavang Vong insisted on modifications, and the graceful stupa-like spire that you see today was substituted, resulting in a tasteful fusion of European and Lao design. Another striking feature is the pediment over the main entrance adorned with a gilt rendition of the symbol of the Lao monarchy: Airavata, the three-headed elephant, being sheltered by the sacred white parasol. This is surrounded by the intertwining bodies of the fifteen guardian naga of Luang Prabang.

The king’s reception room, to the right of the entrance hall, is full of huge Gauguinesque canvases portraying what appears to be “a day in the life of old Luang Prabang”, with scenes of the city as it appeared in the early twentieth century. The paintings, executed by Alex de Fautereau in 1930, are meant to be viewed at different hours of the day when the light from outside is supposed to illuminate the panels depicting the corresponding time of day.

More impressive is the Throne Hall, just beyond the entry hall. Its high walls spangled with mosaics of multicoloured mirrors set in a crimson background, the throne hall dazzles even in the dim light. These mosaics, along with others at Wat Xieng Thong, were created in the mid-Fifties to commemorate the 2500th anniversary of the historic Buddha’s passing into Nirvana. On display in this room are rare articles of royal regalia: swords with hilts and scabbards of hammered silver and gold, an elaborately decorated fly-whisk and even the king’s own howdah (elephant saddle). Also on show is a cache of small crystal, silver and bronze Buddha images taken from the inner chamber of the “Watermelon Stupa” at Wat Visoun. Somehow these treasures escaped the plundering gangs of “Black Flag” Chinese who, led by a White Tai warlord, sacked Luang Prabang in 1887. The stupa was destroyed, rebuilt in 1898, but collapsed in 1914. It was then that the Buddhas were discovered inside.

Leaving the Throne Hall via the door on the right, you come to the royal library, which is almost exclusively made up of official archives of the Ming and Ching dynasties, a gift from China during the Cultural Revolution. The corridors that surround the rooms at the rear are decorated with sixteen pictures that illustrate the legend of Prince Wetsantara, considered an important epic by Lao Buddhists.

King Sisavang Vong’s bedchamber, located at the very back of the palace, is surprisingly modest. The only thing that looks especially regal is the massive hardwood bed, the headboard of which sports the king’s initials and a carved Buddha sheltered by a seven-headed naga. The footboard bears a rendition of the royal emblem of Laos, this time with a two-tiered parasol.

Of the two final rooms, the near room houses diplomatic gifts presented to the people of Laos by a handful of nations, as well as the rather tatty-looking flag of the Kingdom of Laos that was given a symbolic ride up into space and back on one of the Apollo missions. Not long afterwards, the Kingdom of Laos ceased to exist. In the far room hang larger-than-life portraits of King Sisavang Vattana, his wife Queen Kham Phoui and their son Prince Vong Savang. These are the only officially displayed portraits of the last members of the 600-year-old dynasty anywhere in Laos. Had they not been painted by a Soviet artist they almost certainly would not have survived the years following the revolution. The same goes for the bronze sculpture of King Sisavang Vong in the museum grounds near the front gate. This statue may look familiar if you have already passed through Vientiane, where a larger version stands in the park adjacent to Wat Simuang.

Turn left immediately upon exiting the museum to reach the small room that currently houses the Pha Bang, the most sacred Buddha image in Laos. Flanking the Pha Bang are numerous other Buddha images, including ancient Khmer stone images and several pairs of mounted elephant tusks. One pair, deeply incised with rows of Buddhas, was noted by Francis Garnier on the altar of Wat Visoun in the 1860s. Displayed nearby in richly carved wooden frames are silk panels embroidered with gold and silver thread that depict yet more images of the Buddha.

The Pha Bang

Much more than an ancient image of the Buddha, the Pha Bang is the palladium of Laos. The pursuit and enshrining of palladial images has a long history in Southeast Asia, full of intrigue and Byzantine plotting. Like Thailand’s “Phra Kaew” and Burma’s “Mahamuni” Buddha images, the Pha Bang is believed to possess miraculous powers that safeguard the country in which it is enshrined. Formerly, palladial images were thought to legitimize the sovereignty of a king who had one in his possession. Only a pious king with sufficient religious merit could hope to hold onto such an image, and losing it was thought to be proof that a kingdom and its ruler did not deserve to possess it. Thus the histories of certain palladia read like the itinerary of some much coveted sacred sword or holy grail.

According to Lao legend, the Pha Bang image was cast of gold, silver, copper, iron and precious stones. Overseen by the god Indra, who donated gold for its creation, the image was crafted in the heavens above the Himalayas and then delivered to the capital of Sri Lanka. From there the image made its way to Cambodia and then to the city of Xieng Dong Xieng Thong, later renamed Luang Prabang (the Great Pha Bang) in honour of the image. In the early eighteenth century, the Pha Bang was moved to Vientiane, now the capital. Twice the Siamese invaded Vientiane, capturing the image, and twice they returned it to the Lao, believing that the Pha Bang was bad luck for Siam.

Since 1867, the Pha Bang has been kept in Luang Prabang, where to this day it is considered the most sacred Buddha image in Laos and centrepiece of the Lao New Year festival. At least, that’s the official story. Persistent rumours have circulated since the revolution that the authentic Pha Bang was removed from its ornate pedestal and given to the Soviets in return for assistance to the Pathet Lao during the war. The image on display is said to be a copy, while the real Pha Bang is locked away in some vault in Moscow, its powers no longer serving as a talisman for Laos.

Outside Luang Prabang's Old City

The old city may have the highest concentration of monasteries and old buildings, but there is plenty of interest on and beyond Setthathilat Road including an excellent museum, over twenty temples, several markets, and a choice of scenic walks. The most historically important of the temples are Wat Hosian Voravihane, Wat Visoun and Wat Aham, although a trip to the opposite banks of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers will reward you with many other venerable riverside temples, as well as a relaxed rural ambience and good views back over the old city.

Traditional Arts and Ethonology Centre (TAEC)

Tucked up a steep unpaved road off Setthathilat Road, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre provides an excellent introduction to Laos’s ethnic groups. The small exhibition displays beautiful clothing, household objects and religious artefacts to illustrate the history and way of life for the Akha, Hmong and Khmu people, among others. All of the items are attributed to their makers, and the information that runs alongside the displays is insightful and interesting. Particularly fascinating is the short documentary on Taoist ordination ceremonies, complemented by some beautiful ceremonial masks made from tissue-thin mulberry paper, which are worn on the top of the head in order that they can be seen by the gods. A small shop attached to the museum sells reasonably priced handicrafts, and the charming café is a good place to stop for a cup of Lao coffee.

Surrounded by rivers on three sides, Luang Prabang not surprisingly feels almost waterborne, and the ship-like contour of the peninsula enhances this impression. Numerous stairways, flanked with whimsical guardian images, link palaces, monasteries and homes with nearby rivers, and are a statement of the importance of the Mekong and the Nam Khan in the lives of Luang Prabang’s population. The banks along the Mekong side are the more lively, but the Nam Khan side is more evocative of old Luang Prabang, and on either side the show is a never-ending affair.

When the French arrived in Luang Prabang they noted a “floating suburb” anchored in the shallows on the Mekong’s banks. Francis Garnier described how arriving boats and rafts would slowly poke among the houseboats looking for a place to land and discharge their passengers and cargo. With paved roads conveying much of the traffic into Luang Prabang, life along the river is less of a circus now, but sights and sounds of riparian commerce linger, and ferries between both sides of the Mekong usually groan under the weight of produce (and villagers) being taken to and from the city. On the Nam Khan side, groups of residents tend tidy riverside gardens and make their way down to the river to bathe during dusk’s waning light. It is scenes like these, all but vanished and forgotten in more developed countries, that make Luang Prabang such a fascinating place.

From March until the monsoon season, the city becomes markedly smoky – on some days it’s impossible to tell that the sun has risen until a good few hours later. Combined with the intensifying heat, this can be quite an uncomfortable time to visit, so be prepared for stinging eyes and a dry throat during this period. However, it’s impossible to deny the city’s charms, even when seen through a smoke haze.

Luang Prabang has a wide range of accommodation, from simple rooms in inexpensive guesthouses to five-star luxury resorts. Prices here are a lot higher than the rest of the country, so expect to pay out if you want to stay in an atmospheric old building with Mekong views. The high season is December and January (festivals, such as Lao New Year, are also very busy times), but regardless of the season, it’s a good idea to book in advance if you have a particular establishment in mind or if you’ll be arriving in the evening.

For most people, a location within the old city, occupying a finger of land created by the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan, is the first choice. Here you’ll find not only most of the city’s best attractions but also many shops and restaurants; unsurprisingly, there’s not a great deal of cheap accommodation. The streets between the post office and the river are a good place to head to if you’re in search of budget accommodation, as are the little lanes that lead off Phomathat Road, south of Mount Phousi.

Building controls mean that if you want a hotel with a swimming pool, you’ll have to stay outside of the old city – and be prepared to shell out a fair amount. If you’re looking for upmarket accommodation, Luang Prabang has an almost overwhelming choice – but it’s worth noting that a lot of the cheaper, mid-range places can be just as atmospheric (if not more so) than the fancy hotels.

Luang Prabang is a city that prides itself on its food. Some dishes are unique to the royal city, and others are simply done better here than elsewhere – all of which conspires to make this the town in which to dig into Lao food with a sense of mission, despite the wide availability of international cuisine. At the top of your list should be or lam, a bittersweet meat soup made with chilli wood, lemongrass, aubergine and dill. Another local speciality, jaew bong, a condiment of red chillies, shallots, garlic and dried buffalo skin, is an excellent accompaniment for khai paen, a highly nutritious river moss that’s first sundried with sesame seeds, garlic and chilli, then fried in oil.

Phak nam, a type of watercress particular to the area, is a common sight in Luang Prabang’s markets, and is widely used in salads. The most common style appears on menus either as “watercress salad” or “Luang Prabang salad” and is in fact quite similar to a Western salad – a light alternative to the meat salads more commonly served in Lao restaurants. Locals even add a twist to the Lao staple, tam màk hung (papaya salad): the distinctive Luang Prabang flavour of this dish comes from the addition of crab juice.

This exciting new festival, which started in 2010, was set up to celebrate film-making in Southeast Asia, with the hope of encouraging a film industry in Laos. Running over eight days in December, the festival showcases films from all ten ASEAN countries, in outdoor locations such as the handicraft market, and is aimed at both locals and tourists. Following the festival, a smaller programme of films is toured around other major provinces in the country. Both events are supplemented by educational projects throughout the year in order to support film-making (still very much in its infancy) in Laos. For more information and future dates, see wwww.lpfilmfest.org.

As the royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang was traditionally a centre for skilled artisans from around the former kingdom. Weavers, gold- and silversmiths, painters, sculptors of bronze, wood and ivory all held a place of importance in old Luang Prabang, and the most gifted artisans were awarded royal patronage. After the revolution these arts were seen as decadent and officially suppressed, while the artisans associated with the former royalty were shunned. Unable to practise their trade, many drifted to more acceptable occupations or fled the country. These days, with the boom in tourism, the traditional arts have been experiencing a revival, and there is a wide array of different crafts on sale – as well as the usual selection of tourist junk. Silver and textiles, in particular, can be good buys in Luang Prabang, but only if you buy from the right people and haggle.

The biggest tourist draw remains the handicraft nightmarket, which sets up nightly on Sisavangvong Road between the post office and the Royal Palace Museum. From embroidered bedspreads and brightly coloured shoulder bags to lào-láo, lanterns and the obligatory Beer Lao t-shirts, you’re bound to find something that appeals. A lot of what is sold is much of a muchness, and a high proportion is actually from Thailand and China, but nonetheless it’s fun to browse and it’s possible to get some good bargains. Be prepared to haggle. During the day, a smaller number of stalls set up on the corner of Sisavangvong and Sethathilat road at the Hmong Market – much of the produce is the same as at the nightmarket, though there’s a little less pressure from sellers.

For a real taste of daily life in Luang Prabang, head to Phosy Market, 2km out of town. This huge, largely covered market, sells almost everything you can think of, including dried buffalo skin, congealed blood (for soups) and highly pungent pa dek, as well as an endless variety of dry goods.

Discover more places in Laos

• Across the Mekong: Xieng Men and around
• Around Luang Prabang
• Wat Xieng Thong

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3 Days in Luang Prabang, a Great Luang Prabang Itinerary

Spending time in Luang Prabang, Laos, and would love to make the most out of every moment? There are so many great things to see and do in Luang Prabang, yet this royal capital is small and compact and you can pack plenty into a three-day itinerary. Read on to discover what to do with 3 days in Luang Prabang and get a feel for this lush, golden town.

Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and the country’s capital until 1975, has long attracted Buddhists, backpackers, and those seeking off the beaten path travels. Lacking the flashiness of Bangkok, the Eat Pray Love vibe of Ubud, or the quaint small-town charm of Hoi An , Luang Prabang rarely makes the list of must-sees in Southeast Asia.

With its French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and exquisite temples, however, Luang Prabang definitely deserves your attention. Its unique monastic life, the shimmering golden temples, and the attractive nearby countryside all vie for your attention in this 3-day itinerary.

My 3 days in Luang Prabang guide is meant for culture lovers, active travelers, and adventure seekers. At the end of this guide, I also recommend a few centrally-located hotels at the end of this post.

You might also like: Things to do in Luang Prabang.

Table of Contents

The Best Time to Travel to Luang Prabang

Luckily for those of us from the land of winter versus summer, Luang Prabang is a beautiful temperature all year long. However, Laos has two seasons – wet and dry. The dry season runs from October to April, and the rainy season is from May to September. 

It’s not an exact science, and Luang Prabang tends to get most of its rain overnight or in the early morning, so as long as you don’t mind the occasional downpour, you can travel to Luang Prabang at any time of year! April, May, and June offer the hottest temperatures in Luang Prabang, with daily highs usually in the 30s. For warm, sunny days, visit Luang Prabang between November and March.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

A Comprehensive 3 Day Luang Prabang Itinerary

3 days in luang prabang: day one, kuang si waterfalls.

Begin your day at one of the region’s most popular attractions. The Kuang Si, or Kuang Xi, the waterfall is located about 29 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. The tiered waterfalls are a favorite with travelers and tend to be crowded on hot sunny days.

Locals charge admission to the falls, which are well-maintained with a walking bridge and a trail to the top of the waterfall where the falls begin, which begins to the left of the falls. The water tumbles into a series of turquoise pools, almost all of which are open for swimming. It’s the perfect place to relax. Because the falls tend to be crowded, they’re a great place to either start or end your day.

Royal Palace Museum

The famed Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang is home to the Prabang Buddha, for which the city is named. This tiny golden statue was gifted to the warrior Fa Ngum on the occasion of his marriage to a Khmer princess in the 14th century and has gone back and forth between Laos and Thailand in a series of disputes. Since 2013, it has lived at the French-colonial Royal Palace in Luang Prabang. The living quarters interior of the 20th-century palace (it was built in 1904-1909!) is quite spartan, though the throne room is elaborately decorated with jewels.

Photos are not allowed inside the museum.

Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham

Nearby 18th century Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham (often just called Wat Mai) is the largest and most richly decorated of the Luang Prabang Buddhist temples. It’s well known for the emerald Buddha that sits inside. The complex five-tiered roof adds to its beauty. This exquisite temple is a must-see.

Wat Xieng Thong Temple

Further along the road, you’ll come to Wat Xieng Thong Temple, a 16th-century temple that is beautifully maintained and restored to protect its history and heritage. Its name roughly translates to Temple of The Golden City, and its gilded interior certainly lives up to that name. Its sloping roof, made from three levels, is impressive, as is the Tree of Life mosaic and the funeral chariot of King Sisavang Vong. 

Wat Sen Souk Haram

Wat Sen Souk Haram, which literally means Temple of One Hundred Thousand Treasures, is yet another must-see temple in Luang Prabang. Its intricate facades and red roofs are among its well-known features, while legend says it was built from 100,000 stones from the Mekong River.

3 Days in Luang Prabang: Day Two

Alms-giving ceremony.

Wake up early to participate or watch one of Luang Prabang’s most unique experiences, the alms-giving ceremony. Each morning, the young monks take to the streets of the old city to receive their alms, often in the form of rice which makes up their daily meal. There’s no reason why you can’t participate in this tradition, though there are strict rules regarding participation and photography so best to ask your host or hotel for instructions. 

Visit the Morning Markets

Luang Prabang’s morning markets are a fascinating glimpse into an Asian morning market, which offers more than your usual fruit and veg on display. You can find everything from fish to grilled insects alongside the typical market fare. The market takes place along the streets near the Royal Palace, and usually concludes by mid-morning so be sure to go early for the best experience.

Pak Ou Caves

Jump on board a ferry boat for the short ride to one of Luang Prabang’s most unique experiences, the Pak Ou Caves. Located 25km north of the city, in cliff-caves overlooking the Mekong River, are two caves that are home to a multitude of Buddha statues.

Thousands of imperfect Buddhas line the caves’ interiors, all imperfect in their own ways – chipped, aged, missing hands or noses, tilted to one side – but all keeping watch over the Mekong and those who come to pray at their feet.

Each Buddha represents something different: meditation, education, or nirvana. Most boats go home via the Lao Lao rice whiskey distillery in Ban Xang Hai, where you can partake in a tasting of this potent homebrew.

Book a day trip to Pak Ou Caves, Whisky Village & Kuang Si Falls

3 Days in Luang Prabang: Day Three

Mekong cruise.

One of the highlights of any Southeast Asian trip is a cruise along the Mekong River. Luang Prabang is located at the confluence of the Mekong and Kahn rivers, making it an important trade and strategic military location as well as the royal capital.

A cruise along the Mekong River will introduce you to some of the rural communities of Laos and give you a chance to see some of the countryside. It can be a multi-day excursion through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, or it can be a day trip during your stay in Luang Prabang. 

Sunset from Mount Phousi

Located in the heart of the old city, Mount Phousi is more a hill than a mountain. Each evening, hundreds of people head up the hill across from the Royal Palace in order to watch the sky turn from day to dusk. This is a great place to get an idea of the size and scenery of Luang Prabang so I highly recommend doing this on your first evening. Give yourself enough time to make the climb at a leisurely pace, perhaps stopping off at Wat Tham Phou Si, a Buddist temple on the way up. 

Night Market

What started as a Christmas market in 2002 hasn’t stopped, and is now the famous Luang Prabang Night Market. It opens at 5 pm and is a great place to purchase local handmade crafts like artwork, scarves, and more. It’s expanded quite a bit since its inception, so you’ll also find wood carvings, prayer mats, and souvenirs. And if you’re hungry, have no worries. Stop by one of the many food vendors for a cheap, delicious meal. Known as the Caterer’s Evening Market, it features favorites like noodle souple, spring rolls, barbecued meats, and more. It is the perfect stop during your market explorations.

Where to Stay In Luang Prabang, Laos

There are plenty of accommodation choices in Luang Prabang, from budget backpackers and guesthouses to stunning five-star retreats and luxury hotels and spas. I was lucky enough to stay at the secluded Villa Santi Hotel and Resort, a five-star boutique resort with hotel rooms and suites alongside bungalows in a verdant tropical landscape.

Villa Santi Resort

The Villa Santi resort is the more luxurious of the two properties. Rooms are spacious and comfortables, with large, sumptuous beds, deep soaking tubs, and expansive views. The suites and villas offer private balconies, separate lounge areas, and more. 

Guests can unwind in the wellness area, which offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax your mind and spirit. The swimming pool has a swim-up bar, perfect for those lazy afternoons after a day of exploring. Villa Santi also offers an on-site restaurant and bar.

Click here for more information and to book your stay.

Villa Santi Hotel

The Villa Santi Hotel is located in a 20th-century royal mansion in the center of the city. All rooms and suites offer comfortable beds and spacious surroundings. Suits also offer separate living space and a dining area for more privacy and comfort.

Guests can dine in the on-site Princess restaurant or enjoy drinks in the lobby bar. The hotel features a plunge pool in the garden as well.

Luang Prabang is a fascinating city. Its rich history and heritage that span the Khmer Empire to the French colonial era and into modern-day have made it a unique and interesting city to explore. My 3 day Luang Prabang itinerary has given you plenty of places to spend your time in this north Laotian city, and I hope you’ll take the time to explore it.

You might also like: A 10 day Vietnam itinerary. 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City 4 days in Hanoi 2 days in Siem Reap 2 days in Phnom Penh 5 days in Cambodia

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Thanks for posting about Luang Prabang, I also planning to visit the same and just googling about it for some tips and information. Thanks for sharing!! Kudos!!

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11 Best Things To Do in Luang Prabang

Welcome to Luang Prabang, arguably the most charming town in South East Asia. Home to stunning golden temples, French influences in its colonial architecture, croissants sold on the corner of the street, and the surreal, turquoise waters of Kuang Si Falls. Spend three days seeing these things and many more things to do in Luang Prabang.

Day 1 – Peaceful Luang Prabang

Start the trip at a slow pace. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO world heritage site and, as a result, all trucks and buses are banned from the city center. Enjoy the peacefulness, and serenity, on day 1!

1. Watch the Monks Almsgiving ceremony

Every morning, at sunrise, hundreds of barefooted Buddhist monks leave their temple. Lined-up, they walk down the streets in their saffron-colored garments, collecting sticky rice donations from the local people. Alms-giving, or Tak Bat, is an important and meaningful part of Laos’ culture and is an essential thing to do, while in Luang Prabang. 

Here are all your hotel options in Luang Prabang.

Observing and participating is allowed, but it is important to act respectfully. Therefore, follow these following guidelines: 

• Dress appropriately- shoulders, chest, and legs should be covered.
• Observe from a distance- don’t walk into the way of the monks, and make sure flash is turned off on your camera.
• Make sure to stay absolutely silent- enjoy the serenity!

Time & Location of almsgiving: Every day around 6 AM at Sakkaline Street. Ask your hotel for the exact timing for that day.

2. The Luang Prabang Morning Market

Directly after almsgiving, make your way to the morning market, located next to the Royal Palace. Here you will find three streets filled with fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and so on.

Must-read:  Complete 10-day Laos Travel Itinerary

In Luang Prabang, the early morning is the prime time of the day for locals, to watch the almsgiving and to shop for fresh produce for the day ahead. Because of this, by visiting the market in the morning, you’ll get a real flavor of the local culture and a relaxed way of living.

Get your visa for Laos easily online here

3. Bakeries!

Next up is finding a delicious breakfast. As a former French colony, it’s not only the architecture that they influenced, the coffee and bakery culture is very much alive in Luang Prabang. Enjoy this surprising element of Laos life by grabbing a delicious croissant and coffee at Novelty or Saffron Espresso.

For similar french influences, explore Hoi An, Vietnam

4. Wat Xieng Thong

Wat Xieng Thong is the oldest temple (Wat) in Luang Prabang. There are over 30 temples spread throughout the city but this is the most popular one.

During the morning, you’ll have the chance to spot the young monks cleaning the streets around their temple and secretly playing around when their teacher isn’t paying attention.

Inside the courtyard, you’ll find stunning architecture, covered in gold and detailed decorations, that shimmer in the sunlight. Look out for the intricate mosaic wall art that covers the temple, and guess what the stories behind the pictures might be.

Any time of day is beautiful to see the temple. However, at sunset, the orange colors illuminate the gold even more. Whether it be in the morning, day, or night, there is always a real sense of serenity and peace here.

The entrance fee to Wat Xieng Thong is 20,000 Kip (2.5 USD) but it’s definitely worth it. It’s only a 15-minute walk from the morning market to the temple.

5. Wat Pa Phai

Wat Pa Phai is a smaller, lesser-known, temple in the center of Luang Prabang. It is a beautifully peaceful place to spend a few moments, due to its quiet location, tucked away down a side street.

Ultimate 3-day Guide to Vang Vieng – 9 Things To do

It isn’t as admired or famous as the other temples in the area, which can be found on the pages of many guidebooks. However, this almost makes it more special, for its secrecy and anonymity. Wander around the temple, admiring the impressively detailed artwork, symmetrical gold decoration and surrounding pink flowers. Even better, there is no entrance fee!

Tip: All of the temples in Luang Prabang, have a very similar feel to those seen in Thailand. Especially those in Bangkok  !

Day 2 – The Nature of Luang Prabang

Time to explore Luang Prabang’s outskirts. Have another delicious breakfast, sort a motorbike for the day, and get ready for some adventures. First-up: waterfalls!

6. Kuang Si Falls – Luang Prabang Waterfalls

There is no doubt that the absolute top thing to do in Luang Prabang, is taking a dip in the turquoise waters of the Kuang Si Falls. The 50-meter high fall has multiple tiers, allowing you to swim in various different creamy blue pools. Therefore, consider the following options:

• Hike up for a swim at the top. The climb takes about 15 minutes. (Advised to wear proper shoes)
• Swim at the rock pools opposite the big waterfall. We would say the top hike wasn’t worth it, but that might have been because we visited in the dry season. 
• Try out the rope swing, located at the pool nearest the entrance.

How to get to Kuang Si Falls

Plan to spend an entire morning at the waterfall. This is because, it’s roughly a 40-minute drive by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or shared van, so it’s good to make the trip worthwhile.

Additionally, it’s a large area, with plenty to do, so you won’t want to rush. The trees shadow the pools, so this natural spa is an incredible place to spend a few hours. 

Tip: The small shops at the entrance sell drinks, such as fresh coconuts, as well as some food.

Bear Rescue Center

At the exit of the waterfalls is the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Center, which helps to rescue bears from the threat of poaching. However , the way they choose to treat, and display, the bears is not something that we support.

One example of this is witnessing employees and tourists shouting at them to make them look into the cameras, or simply to get their attention. We understand a place like this supports the park financially, however, we can’t support it.

Here are 10 tips on how to travel more sustainably

7. Luang Prabang Night Market

After a day of exploring, the Luang Prabang Night Market is a great place to slow down. At sunset, Sisavangvong Road transforms into a charmingly lit, colorful street, filled with tents, selling different items. For example, clothing, wood carvings, jewelry, textiles, and various other knick-knacks. Because of the French influence, there are also numerous stands that sell delicious baked goods, and crepes!

The markets in South East Asia are some of the best in the world and Luang Prabang’s Night Market definitely lives up to these expectations. Additionally, as in every market, bargaining is common practice, which is always a fun thing to have a go at whilst in Asia!

Opening Times:  The market takes place daily in the city center, from 5 PM – 11 PM.

Also see: The best night market of Bangkok, Thailand

8. Street food market

On a side road, leading off from the main night market is an enormous street food market that you cannot miss. Countless stalls set up their seating in the narrow alley, selling coconut pancakes, rice/meat/fish skewers, fresh fruit shakes and so much more.

There is a vegetarian buffet halfway along the street, that only costs 20.000 Kip (2.5 USD) for all you can eat! We were very grateful to be told about this by a Salt in our Hair reader (thanks again), as otherwise, we probably would have missed out on this fantastic thing to do in Luang Prabang!

Day 3 – Rivers and Mountain tops

9. royal palace, luang prabang.

The Royal Palace in the center of town is absolutely beautiful. The open courtyard is free to enter, however, you will have to buy a ticket to enter one of the buildings. If you are interested in learning about Lao history, and culture, then check out the National Museum of Luang Prabang here. 

Also featured within the courtyard, is the impressive Haw Pha Bang Temple. The temple is widely accepted as the most beautiful, and iconic, of all the temples in Luang Prabang.

The courtyard is open daily from 8 AM – 4 PM and a ticket to enter the palace costs 30.000 Kip. (3.5 USD)

10. Bamboo Bridge

Only a few months a year, you are able to cross the bamboo bridge over the Nam Khan river. In the rainy season, the strong current, and high water levels of the river, wash away the bridge. In the dry months, it’s worth seeing to catch a glimpse of the monks crossing the rickety bridge- a scene that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time!

Cross the bamboo bridge, where you’ll find a craft shop named ‘Garden of Eden’ and a lovely restaurant that overlooks the river.

Good to know: A small fee is required to cross, which is used to rebuild the bridge for the next season.

11. Sunset at Mount Phousi 

Close off your time in Luang Prabang, with an incredible sunset on top of Mount Phousi. Mount Phousi is located right in the middle of town, opposite the Royal Palace entrance.

The short 10-min walk to the top is relatively easy and brings you up to the temple. The hike will reward you with a 360-degree view of Luang Prabang and a sunset view of the Mekong River.

At the start of the stairs, you will need to pay a small entrance fee. We advise against buying the birds that are being sold for good luck – this is complete superstition and animal abuse. 

Restaurants in Luang Prabang

Typical Asian classics, blended with French Colonial influence, makes for an awesome fusion of foods in Luang Prabang. Beautiful restaurants line the streets, with mouth-watering street food stalls only a stone’s throw away. Because of this, there are plenty of options for travelers to choose from. These were some of our favorites:

• BOUANG Asian Eatery (Fusion)
• Two Little Birds Cafe (International Breakfast)
• Popolo Restaurant (Italian)
• Saffron Coffee (Delicious coffee & cake)

Where to stay in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang has lots of affordable accommodations throughout the city for any kind of budget.

Hotels in Luang Prabang 😴

Getting to & getting around

Slow Boat – Taking a slow boat from Thailand to Luang Prabang is a great way to see local life and beautiful wildlife from the Mekong river. Travel to Chiang Khong (north Thailand) and cross over the river to Huay Xai on the Laos border. Apply for a visa here, before later boarding the boat. The slow boat is true to its name and will take 2 days of traveling down the Mekong river, with an overnight stop in Pak Beng.

The boat is very basic, and although food is sold onboard it can be expensive. For this reason, it’s best to bring your own food with you. You can arrange travel to the slow boat yourself, but for ease, it’s best to book through a travel agency, who will be able to include transfers to the border.

Note : The Laos e-visa cannot be used here. You will need to bring a passport-sized photo, the correct amount of money in USD (this is dependent on your country of origin), and fill out the visa form at the border.

Flights – Luang Prabang has an international airport just 10 minutes away from the city center. Check for flights here. Once you arrive at the airport, a shared taxi to the city center costs 50.000 Kip (5.5 USD) per stop. This means that if all of you are able to get out of the taxi at the same location, you’ll be able to split the costs. 

Buses – Buses from neighboring countries, like Thailand and Vietnam , are available but will be long and tough rides.

Check for buses here .

Train – The newest option in Laos taking the train between destinations. Find the train timetable and tickets here .

Getting around Luang Prabang

The center of Luang Prabang is very walkable. Buses and trucks are not allowed, which makes the streets quiet and accessible. The only need for transportation, is when travelling outside of town.

Bicycle – Rent a bicycle to get around town. Most hostels offer them but there are many rental shops in town as well. A good bicycle costs around 25.000 Kip (3 USD) per day.

Motorbike – Rent a motorbike if you need to cover more distance. The roads around Luang Prabang and towards Kuang Si Waterfall are safe to drive. Expect to pay 80.000 Kip (9 USD) per day. 

Tuk-Tuk / Taxi – Alternatively, pick a taxi or tuk-tuk if you want to reach areas that are further away.

Best time to visit Luang Prabang

November to March is the best time to visit Luang Prabang. It is dry, and the temperature is cooler (27°C) than the rest of the year. From March to May, there’s no rain, but the humidity is high, and temperatures rise to 40°C.

Between June and September, it can rain a lot, and floodings have been known to occur occasionally.  

Is Luang Prabang Safe?

There is no need to be concerned about your safety, as Luang Prabang is a very safe city. Many backpackers and travelers have visited the city without any problems. Use your common sense, leave valuables at your hotel, keep an eye on your wallet & phone. The biggest scam you might face is paying too much for a tuk-tuk. Ask your hotel what a normal price should be, so you know what to bargain with. 

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Thanks for sharing, I went to most of these places when I went to Luang Prabang in 2019, I had a different experience with the bear sanctuary, as they were mostly asleep, so there was only our group there to photograph them, if I had that experience I would not been as keen to support them. I would have liked more time to take in the quietness of it all, expect we were on a group tour and were a bit rushed :)

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Things to do in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the most well – known destination in Laos . It is an ancient town filled with Buddhist temples, vibrant nightlife and stunning nature.  As the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town itself offers more than what you can imagine. Please find out the awesome things to do in Luang Prabang in this article.

Explore ancient town

Witness alms giving ceremony in early morning, climb phousi mountain for sunset, join cooking class, interact with elephant, take a boat trip to pak ou cave, swimming at khuang si waterfall, visit night markets, kayaking on rivers, learn how to cultivate rice, cycling around luang prabang, walk across the bamboo bridge, learn how to weave at ock pop tok, take part in an orange rope tour..

Luang Prabang town is a mix of distinctly Laos, French and Chinese architecture. Just simply take a stroll around town to enjoy its charm and discover Laos culture. The first thing you should do is hitting a temple . There are over 30 temples of note within walking distance around the city centre, plus many smaller shrines. Two of the most significant temples to visit are: Wat Xieng Thong & Wat Winsunala.

The town also offers multiple attractions: Royal Palace where learn about the country’s rich history, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre Learn which presents the country’s complex ethnic groups and their enduring traditions, or Garavek Theatre where you can listen to traditional music and folk tales. Finally, the walking trip could end by a cup of coffee in one of lovely cafes in town.

Entrance fees: you’ll be required to pay an entrance fee at some key sites Wat Xiengthong: 20,000kip (2,5 USD) Wat Winsunala: 20,000 Kip (2,5 USD) Royal Palace: 30,000 Kip (3.8 USD) Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre: 20,000 Kip (2,5 USD)

The Alms Giving is one of the most significant activities in Laos’ culture. Each day, the monks in bright orange robes walk barefoot to collect daily offerings from the locals. They start their walk before dawn and walk in single file throughout the city.

However, this traditional Buddhist ritual has in recent years succumbed to crowds of tourists hungry for a photo opportunity. So, if you do choose to attend, please follow the government’s guideline

• – Don’t use flash lights and don’t get in the way of monks’ procession
• – Keep distance at least 3 meters away from monks when taking a photo
• – Dress appropriately: shoulders, chests and legs should be covered.

Located at 100 meters above the old town, right on the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the hill offers up 360-degree views of the town. This explains a reason why it becomes very popular spot to watch sunset. Due to this, it will be very crowded before the sun goes down, so be sure to come early to get nice position. Besides, to reach the top, you need to climb over 300 stairs that requires quite lots of effort. You should consider your health condition.  

Opening hours: 5.30AM – 6.00PM Entrance fees: 20,000 kip (2.5 USD)

Although Laos cuisine is overshadowed by its neighbor countries such as Thailand, it is still packed full of flavor and ideal for sharing. A cooking class is the best way to understand which ingredients Laos people use and how they take simple ingredients to create multiple dishes filled with flavor.

There are many courses to choose from, but the best cooking class in the area is at Tamarind restaurant. Here visitors can sample and recreate various traditional dishes with sticky rice which are made with ingredients sourced at local markets and grown in the surrounding hillsides.

Opening hours: 11:00AM – 10.00PM Monday to Saturday   Cost Day time class (8.30AM – 2.00PM): 290,000 kip (33 USD) including market tour. Evening class (4.00PM – 8.30PM): 220,000 kip (25 USD) without a market tour

Interacting with elephants in an ethical manner is one of the top things to do in Luang Prabang. Mandalao Elephant Conservation offers the different experience to visiting a typical elephant camp in Laos or Thailand. Opened its doors in 2016, it is a sanctuary for elephants rescued from the logging industry and riding camps. There are no elephant rides , circus tricks or elephant dances. Visitors will trek through the jungle together with elephants naturally.

The 500-acre property is located about 30 minutes away from the town. Mandalao operates half-day and full-day tours for tourists to interact responsibly with the resident elephants. Return transfer and lunch are provided in the tours. If you love elephants, I highly recommend adding a visit to Mandalao to your list of things to do in Luang Prabang.

Opening hours: 9.00AM – 5.00PM Cost: Half day tour: from 90 USD per person Full day tour: from 130 USD per person

Pak Ou Cave is one of highlights in any trip to Luang Prabang. Lying 25 kilometers upriver from Luang Prabang in a cliff 15 meters above water, Pak Ou Cave complex is filled with thousands of Buddha images in different styles and sizes left by pilgrims.

By river, the trip to Pak Ou Caves take about two hours from Luang Prabang. A cruise upstream on the Mekong River will gives you a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside. On the way, you have a chance to visit village of Ban Xanghai, where the local make the rice wine or Khop Noi art gallery

Entrance Fee: 20,000 kip (2,5 USD) Boat trip: 50 USD (up to 25 passengers)

Khuang Si Waterfall is also one of most popular tourist attractions but it will not make you disappointed. With just one hour drive out of town, you can see the waterfall which boasts a 50-metre cascading drop into three-tiered azure swimming holes.

Hike to the top of the cascades for the best views, bring your swimsuit and jump into serene tiered pools of turquoise. You can bring a picnic and enjoy it with backdrop of trickling streams and vibrant jungle.

Entrance fees:20,000 kip (2,5 USD)

Night market is lively spot to discover the town after dark. The market is hectic and crowded but that makes it interesting. Located at the centre of the town, it’s filled with people from several different regions around Luang Prabang.

There are plenty of different items on sale depending on the season, ranging from simple wood carvings to ornate jewellery and trinkets. It is easy for you to pick up some souvenirs and practice your bargain skill. In case you don’t have any intentions of shopping, simply take photo of this amazing place.

Another thing that travelers should not is to enjoy street buffet which provides full of good authentic food.

Location: Sisavangvong Road Opening hours: 5 PM – 11 PM every night

Price: Free

Luang Prabang is one of the best towns in Laos for kayaking. You can find different travel companies who offer energetic kayaking trips from half day to two days. Some tours include trekking in their itinerary as well.

In typical tours, you will paddle on Nam Ou River in the North or Nam Khan River on the South of Luang Prabang. Tour operators will provide roundtrip transfer between Luang Prabang town and bank of rivers where you start kayaking. You will paddle through spectacular mountains covered with jungle and traditional riverside villages which are inhabited by different ethnic groups as Hmong, Khmu… Picnic lunch will be eaten at river banks.

Water conditions vary widely with the season and water levels. Generally, you can expect approximately 2-3 hours kayaking with numerous sections of rapids.

Cost: from 63 USD per person for one day trip

Trekking is also popular thing to do in Luang Prabang . Luang Prabang town is located at the heart of a mountainous region in Northern Laos, so it is good base for trekking lovers. There are variety of hiking trails to suit all fitness levels. You can choose to pass spectacular waterfalls and indigenous wildlife or gain a fascinating insight into rural folk living in hill tribe villages.  Trekking trips that range from a day up to 3 days.

Cost: from 70 USD per person

If you want to do something different in Luang Prabang, it’s possible to become a rice farmer at the Living Land Farm.  This unique activity introduces you on an in depth and hands-on learning experience where you will be able to try your hand at every single step of making rice manually.

No modern machinery is used on the farm. You’ll be taught how to cultivate and grow rice in the traditional way: how to select the seeds, plant, plough with the help of the farms water buffalo and every other step until the last one… eating!  

Rice is the ultimate foundation of everyday life in Asia including Laos and it is still a mystery for many visitors.

Location: Ban Phong Van, Luang Prabang Town, Luang Prabang Province. It’s about 5 km outside Luang Prabang on the road to the Kuangsi Waterfall.

Cost: 45 USD per person. If you book lunch, extra cost is 8 USD.

Cycling is a great way to experience the beautiful Luang Prabang town and surroundings. There are many day tours to choose from. You can do leisure cycling around the town to visit the city’s major attractions. Adventurous riders might enjoy a more challenging tour on a special off-road route to remote villages, exploring the rural side of Luang Prabang. Most cycling tours in Luang Prabang take at least 4 hours and include an English speaking guide, lunch and cycling equipment. 

There are also options for multi-day trips, which include an overnight homestay and the opportunity to experience rural life in Laos.

Cost: from 50 USD per person for one day trip.

The bamboo bridges are one of the most iconic sites in Luang Prabang. They are built by a local family every year to make the journey from the old quarter of Luang Prabang to the main markets much easier. They are only existed for few months of the year, during the dry season from November to around March. When the rainy season comes (May to October), the bridges are removed and stored in a local forest because the high water levels will cover the bridges.

There are 2 brides: one is at the mouth of Nam Khan river and the other one is about 600m upstream, at the bottom of Mount Phosi.

Costs: 10,000 Kip (1.5 USD) to use the bridge. This money goes to the family that diligently build the bridges to maintain them

Ock Pop Tok is a social enterprise working primarily in the field of textiles, handicrafts and design. The Living Crafts Centre overlooking the Mekong is the heart of Ock Pop Tok. Set in a tropical Mekong garden, it serves as a resource centre for learning about textiles , crafts and culture. If taking a weaving class with Ock Pop Tok, you will can dye on your own and make a stylish souvenir to bring home.

Started in 2000 as a small social enterprise selling fair trade textiles, the sustainable business practices of Ock Pop Tok are part of its success, which has helped it grow to include two cafés, a shop on the main street, and a bevvy of workshops to keep visitors busy.

Cost:  from 50 USD

If you love Buddhism, it is nice experience you should try. You will be guided by former monks and novices who have recently left the temple. They will teach you the valuable knowledge of Buddist culture and meditation experience. Temple tours and meditation each last one hour and provide visitors with an insight into daily life in the temple.

Cost:  from 20 USD per person

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The Top Day Trips to Take From Luang Prabang, Laos

Once you get beyond the glittering UNESCO-recognized cultural infrastructure of Luang Prabang in Laos , you’ll realize it’s actually the exception. The surrounding Lao landscape feels overgrown, wild, and only very occasionally interrupted by Lao ethnic villages.

But the Lao countryside makes Luang Prabang a prime launchpad for day trips exploring Laos’ age-old culture, fantastic trekking trails, and unique biosphere. We’ve picked some excellent adventures that only begin in Luang Prabang, expanding your local experiences with trips that often take you off the beaten path.  

Trek & Swim at Kuang Si Waterfall

Carlo A/Getty Images

Thanks to Laos’ karst topography, Kuang Si Waterfall rises above ordinary waterfalls with multiple tiers of pools that (at least in the dry season) look gorgeous and offer a perfect swimming break for sweaty tourists.

What to do: Join the locals and tourists bathing in the dazzlingly-blue pools or jumping into the water (watch out for hidden rocks). Climb up the trail to get past the pools and up to the main waterfall.

A hiking trail snakes past the cataracts through the jungle and to nearby villages. A popular three-mile (4.75 km) trail begins at the Khmu village of Ban Long and ends right at Kuang Si Falls.

Wildlife lovers will appreciate the Free the Bears Sanctuary, where sun bears are kept after their rescue from farms that harvest their bile (a prized ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine). Come at 2:30 p.m. to see the bears being fed. Entrance costs LAK 20,000 ($2.35); souvenirs sold on site help with costs of running the place.

Getting there: Get a seat on a shared tuk-tuk from Luang Prabang for about LAK 40,000 (about $4.70) per person per way – or hire the whole tuk-tuk for LAK 250,000 (about $30). The 14-mile (23 km) trip takes about 50 minutes to complete. An entrance fee of LAK 20,000 will be charged upon entry. The falls are open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Bike to Ban Phanom for Textiles, a Temple, and a Tomb

When the Kings of Luang Prabang held sway, they sourced their gowns and other garments from the weavers of Ban Phanom . Today, Ban Phanom has hardly lost its touch—the locals are still dab hands at weaving cotton and silk, though their wares now cater to tourists at the Night Market.

What to do: Located some 1.5 miles (2.3 km) by road from the Luang Prabang town center, Ban Phanom is accessible enough for a biking excursion. Ban Phanom is usually included in a biking itinerary that also covers the ruined Phon Phao temple and Henri Mouhot’s tomb.

Visit the Phanom Handicraft Centre, site of a local cooperative where you can watch weavers working on old-fashioned looms (or try working the looms for yourself), and buy the scarves, wall hangings, skirts, and wraps they have for sale. Prices here can be haggled down.

Getting there: Hire a tuk-tuk or a bicycle to go to Ban Phanom; by tuk-tuk, Ban Phanom is a 10-minute ride from the town center. Bikes are available for rent all throughout Luang Prabang for about $2 to $6 a day.

Picnic and Frolic with Locals at Tad Sae Waterfall

Unlike Kuang Si, the gentle stepped waterfalls of Tad Sae dry up during peak tourist season. During the  rainy season  (August to November), though, Tad Sae is gorgeous to behold—multiple levels of waterfalls surrounded by other fun diversions.

What to do: Most visitors go to Tad Sae to swim, and the bigger pools around the waterfall have steps that permit easy access. Out of respect to local visitors , please wear modest clothing when bathing – cover up skimpy swimsuits with a T-shirt or sarong.

You can also check out the elephant paddock, and get to know Laos’ unofficial animal mascot. Or if a view from atop an elephant’s back isn’t high enough for you, strap up for a ride on the zipline that scoots above the waterfall and the surrounding greenery.

Getting there: located some 10 miles (15 km) southeast of Luang Prabang, Tad Sae requires a two-step, 40-minute trip from the city. Take a tuk-tuk to the dock on the banks of the Nam Khan River, then cross over on a rented longtail boat.

Instead of going by yourself, engage one of the tour operators in Luang Prabang for a better deal – expect to spend about LAK 50-70,000 (about $6-8), inclusive of entrance fees and transportation. Elephant rides and ziplines cost extra.  

Meet Thousands of Buddha at Pak Ou Cave

This mysterious cave sits above the waters where the Nam Ou and Mekong rivers meet, some 15 miles (25 km) upriver from Luang Prabang. Judging from the thousands of Buddha images sitting around the cave’s walls, you can tell you’re in one of the country’s holiest sites.

What to do: The approximately 5,000 Buddhas around Pak Ou speak to generations of devout Buddhist practice by locals. The Buddha images are placed there to help their donors store up merit; at the better-lit lower cave (Tham Ting), travelers can climb to view the Buddha images. You’ll need a flashlight to check out the upper cave (Tham Teung), which holds the majority of the Buddha statues.

Many of the Buddha images show signs of damage or wear; it’s likely they were brought there by conscientious devotees who left their images here instead of throwing them away.

Most package tours combine a trip to Pak Ou with a visit to Ban Xang Hai, Luang Prabang’s “Whiskey Village” where locals brew the rice liquor known as “Lao-Lao.” (Read about getting drunk in Southeast Asia. )

Getting there: Pak Ou can be reached in 1.5 hours by slow boat upriver. The slow boat ticketing office along the Mekong charges LAK 65,000 (about $7.60); the boat leaves at 8:30 a.m., inclusive of a stop at Ban Xang Hai.

You can charter your own ride to Pak Ou. Get your own boat and driver for LAK 300,000 ($35.20), or hire a tuk-tuk at Luang Prabang for about LAK 200,000 ($23.50). Tuk-tuks stop at Ban Pak Ou, from which you’ll hire a ferry boat to cross the river (LAK 20,000/$2.35 for a two-way crossing).

Avoid visiting during peak tourist season, as the cramped spaces of the caves become even less pleasant with the tourist crush. During Bun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) , locals will swarm to the caves to wash the Buddha images.

Try Exotic Tipples at Ban Xang Hai (Whiskey Village)

Halfway between Pak Ou Caves and Luang Prabang, the “Whiskey Village” is often packaged as part of a single itinerary to the caves. For generations, the villagers of Ban Xang Hai have brewed Lao rice whiskey for local consumption – visit the village to see how it’s made.

What to do: Get a local guide to explain the rice whiskey brewing process. The Lao have perfected the art of turning sticky rice into a potent rice spirit – it’s about 40% ABV, and it’s particularly prized for traditional ceremonies like baci .

You’ll be cajoled into trying the rice whiskey – plus points if you can drink the whiskey where a dead animal has been left marinating for flavor! Buy a bottle or more to take home, Lao rice whiskey is famously cheap.

Getting there: Ban Xang Hai can be reached in about an hour by slow boat; the slow boat ticketing office along the Mekong stops over at the village between tours of Pak Ou – see the entry on Pak Ou for slow boat rates.  

Trek to Temples through Chomphet District

Make the short crossing across the Mekong from Luang Prabang town center and you’ll find yourself in a barely tamed town – the start of a trail that leads to a series of atmospheric Buddhist temples.

What to do: Chomphet District feels like the flipside of Luang Prabang: rustic instead of refined, overgrown instead of over-built. The ferry boat drops you off at Ban Xieng Mene, a typical Lao village that (like most Lao villages) orients itself around its Buddhist temples.

The hilltop Wat Chomphet offers a wonderful view of the Mekong River, almost opposite that of That Phousi in Luang Prabang Town. But it’s the neighboring Wat Long Khun that flaunts a classier pedigree: the King spent a three-day retreat here prior to his coronation in Luang Prabang.

Ask for the key to enter Tham Sakkalin nearby, a cave that reportedly houses a few relics of the Buddha.

Getting there: the wharf on the Mekong facing the National Museum services ferries crossing over to Ban Xieng Mene, tickets costing LAK 40,000 (about $4.70) per way. Once you’ve crossed, stalls just past the boat landing sell maps and rent out bicycles to tourists.

Chomphet temples charge an admission fee of LAK 20,000 (about $2.30).  

Care for Elephants at the Elephant Conservation Center

The “land of a million elephants” now only have about 800-plus within its borders; the Elephant Conservation Center in Sayaboury cares for a small number of that remnant, rehabilitating elephants after years of abuse in the logging industry.

Visitors to the Conservation Center can help care for these creatures, or stay amidst rustic but comfortable cabins in the Center’s lakeside environment.

What to do: Instead of observing the elephants from a distance, meet the pachyderms on their own turf. The one-day visit to the Conservation Center includes a guided visit with the local veterinarian, and you can also feed a few friendly elephants and visit the “nursery," where a new generation of elephants are being raised in a caring, humane environment.

The length of your stay depends on how much time you’re willing to spend with the elephants: you can stay overnight, or go all-in and volunteer for a week.

Getting there: A dedicated minivan picks up guests outside the Luang Prabang Post Office every morning at 8 a.m., traversing a three-hour ride to Sayaboury and the Center. The same minivan departs Sayaboury at 2pm for Luang Prabang. Visit the Elephant Conservation Center’s official site .

Go Native at Nong Khiaw

The further you drive from Luang Prabang, the closer you get to authentic encounters with Laos’ traditional tribes. That’s why you should head some three hours’ drive north of Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw.

What to do: A sleepy backpacker town on the banks of the Nam Ou River, Nong Khiaw gives you easy access to traditional Tai Lue peoples; mysterious caves with a Vietnam War history; and hiking around the area’s forested, scenic mountains.

Visit the nearby hamlet of Ban Nayang to meet the Tai Lue community here, a deeply traditional people still engaged in making indigo-dyed cotton cloth. Afterward, visit a local collection of caves – Pha Kuang and Pha Thok caves served as hiding places for Communists in the 1970s, enduring heavy bombing from American air assets during the Vietnam War.

Challenge your stamina with a 1.5-hour hike up to Phadeng Peak and be rewarded by the gorgeous view of the cloud-kissed mountains and the Nam Ou River snaking in between.

Getting there: Buses depart Luang Prabang’s southern bus station daily; fares cost LAK 50,000 (about $5.90) per way. The riverside budget stays at Nong Khiaw offer excellent views of the Nam Ou River.

Hit the Trails from Muang Ngoi

With Vang Vieng now seen as more “family friendly”, Muang Ngoi has since moved to the top ranks of Indochina’s last true backpacker spots. From this sleepy riverside town, you can trek to nearby mountains and waterfalls, or go kayaking to see the sights from the middle of the Nam Ou River.

What to do: The mountains surrounding this village set on the Nam Ou River hide bucolic villages, caves, and waterfalls worth a few days’ hiking; local tour guides offer one- to three-day hikes through the barely tamed local landscapes.

A two-day hike from Muang Ngoi to the Khmu village of Ban Kiew Kan, for example, passes by forests and natural features like Tam Gang and Tam Pha Keo caves before stopping at a homestay where guests are welcomed with a traditional baci ceremony. On the way back, you have the option of kayaking downstream to Muang Ngoi, admiring the riverside scenery along the way.

If you prefer to stay in-village, visit the Wat Okad temple to get a blessing from a local monk, or just enjoy the cheap river shrimp and fish at one of the local restaurants.

Getting there: Motorized boat taxis leave the Nong Khiaw pier, taking less than an hour to cruise down the Nam Ou River to Muang Ngoi; the ride costs LAK 25,000 (about $3). Riverside hostels and homestays welcome guests.

From Muang Ngoi, you can reach the Laos-Vietnam border crossing at Pang Hoc, entering Vietnam at Dien Bien Phu.  

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Mekong Cruise Luang Prabang

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• Hoa An Village
• Binh Thanh Island
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• Cu Lao Gieng
• Con Dao Island
• Kampong Cham
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• OBT Chiro Village
• Kampong Tralach
• Tonle River
• Koh Oknha Tey
• Wat Nokor Bachey
• Wat Hanchey
• Luang Prabang
• Kuang Si Falls
• Pak Ou Caves
• Ban Mouang Khai Village
• Ban Houayxay
• Khamo Village
• Ban Park Bor Village
• Xayaburi Dam

Luang Prabang, Laos

A sleepy peninsula at the heart of northern Lao mountains where time stands still, Luang Prabang will slow your pulse and make your holiday unhurried with its easygoing vibe and world-class comfort. If this historic town is on your bucket list, make sure you give it more a couple of days to experience all of its incredible charm, from cultural gems to natural wonders and fun outdoors. Set at the sacred confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan River that almost surround the city, Luang Prabang is the former capital of Laos and becomes world-famous when its ancient town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. The whole townscape is a delight for taking a stroll and traveling back in time to uncover much of the town’s history past. As a visitor, you cannot help but get amazed by the exceptional fusion of Lao traditional urban architecture and 19th century European colonial style buildings, which is all co-existing in a perfect harmony with the verdant greenery and rugged mountains of the sacred Mount Phousi.  Let’s start your cultural trip in Luang Prabang with an early wake up to witness Tak Bat or the Alms Giving Ceremony. Every morning before the sun rises, the monks in saffron robes will walk barefoot with their alms bowls to silently collect almsgiving from the faithful Theravada Buddhists, from the main street of the town spreading out to all the side streets. The tranquil scene is one of the most meaningful experiences in Laos, and tourists are expected to watch the old tradition respectfully from a distance. Continue your journey towards a collection of historical structures in this beautiful town. The most famous site is Wat Xieng Thong, the oldest monastery in the city built in 1560. The temple is noted for its typical roofs in Lao style and a stunning 'tree of life' mosaic on the western exterior wall. Other noteworthy attractions are Royal Palace Museum, Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, Wat Pa Phai, and Wat Mahathat. While in the town, you can also spend time exploring local centers like Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center or Big Brother Mouse to learn more about the culture of Luang Prabang residents and how they try to make the life better. For foodies, participating a cooking class is an excellent option to sample authentic Lao cuisine as well as take home some great recipes. If you get enough discovery on culture and heritage, venture out of town to the nature. You can choose a host of outdoor activities with varied levels of difficulty, such as taking a swim in the spectacular Kuang Si Falls, river cruising to Pak Ou Caves, trekking with elephants through lush jungle, getting off the beaten path along meandering mountain-bike trails, kayaking or rafting along the river of Nam Xuang.

All Mekong Cruises including Luang Prabang

The best Mekong Cruises in Luang Prabang: duration, routes, detailed itineraries, departure dates... with Best Offers + Best Price Guarantee recommended for you

 Being romantic cruise on Mekong River cruise in Laos

 The cruise is the blend of traditional Laotian artwork with French-colonial accents.

 Meeting friends at Café-Bar & Lounge, relaxing on terrace deck with sun loungers and cabanas and experiencing Bodhi Spa on board. 

 Your luxurious room feels like home from the very first moment.

 Preparing the rich and flavourful cuisine of Laos and Southeast Asia with the best and freshest ingredients.

 Interesting activities on board: Local dance & music performances, sandbank barbecue and cocktail events,cooking class, evening cinema, kayaking, traditional welcome ceremony.

Upstream Golden Triangle Traverse

Downstream golden triangle traverse, upstream laotian serendipity.

 Have chance to admire the natural beauty of Laos and Thai Land on luxurious cruise. 

 Enjoy 5 -star services during 11-day cruise with affordable price

 Ideal cruise for visitors who would like to discover the life on Mekong river along Thailand and Laos. 

 Visit to the opium museum in the Golden Triangle

 Have chance to take part in the largest elephant festival in South East Asia, usually in February

 Visit the jungle pools and dramatic Khaung Si waterfall, a butterfly garden and elephant camp

 Explore of the delightful French city in Laos.

 Be the first river expedition since pre war days to cross all Laos.

Chiang Saen to Vientiane

Vientiane to chiang saen.

 Have chance to admire the natural beauty of Laos and Thai Land on luxurious cruise. 

 Enjoy 5 -star services during cruise journey with affordable price

 Ideal cruise for visitors who would like to discover the life on Mekong river along Thailand and Laos. 

 Visit tribal villages and explore into jungle and countryside

 Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang

 Be the first river expedition since pre war days to cross all Laos

 Enjoy traditional Laos dancing on the upper deck late afternoon

 Exploring the unique Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces

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