Are you looking for what to do in Luang Prabang?
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Luang Prabang is a great example of a mix of traditional yet modern Lao architecture and Colonial Era influenced European architecture. Luang Prabang has successfully managed to blend these distinct cultures which makes it so unique and a must for people visiting Laos. Luang Prabang is situated in the northern part of Laos in the mountainous region which encircle the city with its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The town is not very big and most of the attractions are accessible on foot.
Things to do in Luang Prabang:
The Golden City Temple, also known as the Wat Xieng Thong, was built in the 16th century and was the location for the coronation of Lao kings. The temple is well known for its distinct architecture, intricate mosaics and bright coloured wall painting which form a stark contrast to its surroundings making this place a must visit. Head for the hills to visit the highest point in Luang Prabang, Mount Pousi or the ‘Holy Mountain’. Climb up 300 steps to reach the top of the mountain to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city of Laung Prabang. Head out early morning to watch the sun rise, or during the late afternoon to watch the sun set. Visit the roads alongside the Mekong River to enjoy some delicious Laos Food. From local Luang Prabang specialties like sai oua, also known as Luang Prabang sausage to the Luang Prabang salad which is a fusion dish blending Lao and French cuisines to Kaipen, an appetizer made from seasoned and dried river weed from the Mekong river, Luang Prabang’s gastronomy scenes caters to a range of foodies. Running along the Sisavangvong Road, is the Luang Prabang Night Market which starts at 5 in the evening and is open till 11 at night. A perfect place to take home some souvenirs, traditional clothing and handmade craft while enjoying some street food the local way. Try your hand at traditional and organic farming at The Living Land Company which supplies vegetables, herbs, and rice to the restaurants and markets in Luang Prabang. You can enjoy your hand at the traditional Lao style of farming rice while enjoying a beautiful view of the fields around. Wander around the Royal Palace Museum, the former palace, now turned into a museum, houses the Phra Bang, the country’s most sacred Buddha image. Early in the morning, witness the Alms ceremony, where monks collect alms of rice and other food items from locals and tourists.
Things to do around Luang Prabang:
One of the top things to do in Luang Prabang is visiting the Kuang Si Waterfalls. Located at an hour’s drive from the city, these waterfalls have three tiers which form a 50 meter drop in the pool in the most natural settings. Carry a picnic basket along and spend the day here enjoying the magnificence of the waterfalls. Situated a few hundred meter from the Kuang Si waterfalls, is the Kuang Si Butterfly Park. This park was created by two Dutch nationals, with an aim to research, protect and preserve the butterflies of Laos. There is a beautiful pond situated within this park on the banks of which is a café where you can sip some hot coffee while enjoying the beautiful view around you. About 2 hours from Luang Prabang, along the Mekong River are the Pak Ou Caves where you will witness beautiful Buddha Statues. A Buddhist pilgrim destination for thousands of years, the pilgrims who used to visit the caves, used to leave behind a statue of Buddha. Over the years, these statues of several styles and sizes added up, making this a popular place among the visitors. On your way back to the city, enjoy a sunset on the Mekong River Cruise. After a long day of sightseeing, cruising along this beautiful river is a perfect way to end your day. Take a boat across the Mekong River and arrive at a small and quiet village of Chompet. You can spend the day here enjoying various small temples. In case you have given Pak Ou Caves a miss, you can visit the smaller version of the caves here in Chompet. About 20 kilometres south of Luang Prabang towards the capital city of Vientiane, are the Tad Sae Waterfalls. These waterfalls are famous among the locals due its scenic setting where visitors can bathe under the waterfalls. Some of the other activities around the waterfalls include ziplining and elephant riding.
Below we have a list of things to do in Luang Prabang and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.
This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Luang Prabang getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.
Make the most of your trip to Luang Prabang with confidence.
