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Discover Luang Prabang's Wonders

Luang Prabang is the ancient capital of the Province of the same name. The city is located in the northern part of Laos where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers merge. Luang Prabang is probably best known for its many temples, some dating back as far as the 16th century. Visitors find themselves swept up in the spirtuality that permeates every corner of the city. The smell of Gallic cuisine overwhelms the senses as you take in the majesty of one of the oldest cities in Southeast Asia.

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Description

Luang Prabang is a true cornucopia of treasures, full of beautifully well-preserved French architecture lined up alongside old wooden structures that blend together in a charming combination of styles, interjected with golden Buddhist temples, and topped off with plenty of things to experience. Distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the 'royal Buddha image city' (the meaning of its name) and former royal capital of Laos, will awaken your senses and offer a chance to temporarily dive into the past, where life seemingly runs slower and in full contact with nature. Today, despite its popularity among travellers, the picturesque city of Luang Prabang continues to retain much of its pristine beauty and unspoiled charm.

Useful information

Population:

56,000

Currency:

Laotian Kip (LAK, ₭ or ₭N) 10,000 kip = approximately 50 US cents. United States Dollars and Thai Baht are widely accepted, too.

Emergency Info:

Ambulance: 195
Fire: 190
Police: 191
Tourist Police: 192

Opening Hours:

Most restaurants and banks are open Monday to Friday 8:30am–4:30pm. Lao Development Bank and BCEL have a 24-hour ATM. The latter offers a currency exchange service.

Do & See

Cruises in Luang Prabang

Another way to discover the city's wonders is cruising along the Mekong River – the main aquatic thoroughfare navigable all year round. During your cruise, you'll be able to stop at local villages and see how local people live, visit the two caves (Pak Ou Caves), crammed with countless Buddha statues, all the while comfortably enjoying the lavish buffet on board. The most famous route is a 2-day trip from Huay Xai (on the Thailand border) to Luang Prabang. Book your tour on the majestic Mekong River and get a new perspective of Luang Prabang that will make your journey unforgettable. Here are some cruise companies to book your tour with: - Mekong Cruises 50/4 Sakkarine Road, Ban Vat Sene, Luang Prabang - Mekong River Cruises 16/2 Sakkarine Rd., Luang Prabang

Kayaking at Nam Khan River

Paddling down the scenic Nam Khan River is a must-do experience while in Luang Prabang. Book an organised tour, either a day or half a day, with one of the many travel agencies and enjoy the picturesque landscapes around you. Many tours include an English-speaking guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, rental gear, all transfers, lunch, and drinking water. Here's a shortlist of reputable travel agencies in Luang Prabang: - Tiger Trail Outdoor - Laos Group Tours

Kuang Si Waterfalls

Perhaps Luang Prabang's most famous attraction, the three levelled waterfall is a favourite spot for both tourists and locals. Engulfed by lush tropical jungle, the mesmerising turquoise waters of the natural pools make for a relaxing and invigorating swim. About 23 km (18 mi) south of Luang Prabang, the easiest and fastest ways to get to this jaw-dropping sight are by tuk-tuk and minivan. Don't miss out on the moon bear sanctuary and the small market at the entrance to the falls, selling original handicrafts and delectable food. Please note that not all the swimming pools are open to the public. Some of them are considered sacred. Therefore, please swim only where permitted.

Nahm Dong Park

Nahm Dong Park is a self-sustaining park teeming with wildlife, located only 10km from Luang Prabang. Different outdoor activities can be pursued here: from zip lining to hiking and trekking, to swimming in the emerald waters of the waterfalls. If you're looking to get fully immersed into nature, take a relaxing stroll and discover the pure natural beauty of the park or have a picnic in a bamboo hut. There are also a viewpoint café and a restaurant offering traditional Lao food. You can get here by tuk-tuk, motorbike, bike, or book the Nahm Dong shuttle.

Phou Si Mountain

Nestled in the peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Phou Si Mountain (at 100 metres) shows off exactly why it is rightfully referred to as the heart of this charming city. The jewel in the crown of the summit is surely the 24m gilded stupa called That Chomsi, built in 1804 and famous with sunset junkies that accept the alluring challenge of climbing the 355 steps to enjoy the view of the beautiful city lying below their feet.

Tat Sae Waterfalls

Dive deep into the emerald waters of Tat Sae waterfalls only 18 km southeast of Luang Prabang. Unlike Kuang Si waterfalls, the spot is less famous among tourists, which makes it less crowded and a favourite with locals. Note that locals bathe fully clothed, sometimes even in jeans. To avoid getting stares and blend in better, women are recommended to bring a sarong and men a shirt to cover up, as going around in a bikini is not culturally accepted. Tat Sae waterfalls offer outdoor activities such as zip-lining and kayaking. The waterfalls are at their best during the rainy season (June to September).

Trekking & Hiking in Luang Prabang

Whether it's a high climb or an incredible stroll across the magical landscapes of Luang Prabang, it's the only way to admire the countryside close-up, to discover its secret hideaways and to immerse yourself in a bucolic atmosphere. One of the most famous tours is the Longhut trail which includes a homestay at the Khum village and ends with a 1.5- to 2-hour trek through the rice fields and forest until the final destination, Tad Sae waterfalls. Tours include all transfers, an English-speaking guide, picnic lunch and drink, boat transfers, plus more. Check out the website below for one local provider.

Restaurants

Atsalin

Since 2000, Atsalin Restaurant has been serving authentic Thai cuisine at affordable prices. Known for hearty portions and popular dishes like Pad Thai and Khao Soy, it’s a favourite for both locals and adventurous tourists seeking genuine flavours. Meals start at just 1 USD.

Bamboo Garden

Bamboo Garden in Luang Prabang is a family-run eatery offering a blend of Lao and Thai cuisine. Popular dishes include stir-fried chicken with basil, Pad Thai, and freshly prepared Lao specials. Enjoy the authentic flavours and homely atmosphere, complemented by a variety of vegetarian-friendly options.

Bouang Asian Eatery

The main thoroughfare is home to the modest Bouang eatery, a vegetarian-friendly restaurant that beautifully reinterprets the Lao cuisine with a modern twist. Though a newcomer in the dining scene of LP, Bouang is earning itself a great reputation for its amazing burgers. In addition to that, the combination of colourful chairs, funky light fixtures and mural-covered walls is so visually appealing that it draws in crowds of locals and tourists.

Dyen Sabai

Dyen Sabai Restaurant offers a quiet escape, accessible by a quaint bamboo bridge. Specialising in Lao fondue and offering dishes like Lao barbeque, guests can enjoy meals on cushioned wooden terraces or in private bamboo huts with splendid Mekong river views.

Manda de Laos

Surrounded by three enchanting lily ponds, Manda de Laos not only offers the best setting for a magical night but also the best home cooked-style Laotian food in the neighbourhood. The chef recommends 'khoua sin kwai' (wok fried buffalo and flambé with Lao alcohol) or the 'ping pa' (grilled famous Pa Nin fish with lemongrass and Lao herbs, served with homemade tomato maklen) to pair with one of their signature drinks, such as 'Laos parinha' (champa kao with cucumber and lime rimmed with local ground rice).

Tangor Restaurant Bar & Lounge

Tangor Restaurant Bar & Lounge offers the best fusion of western gastronomy — ranging from French to other international cuisines — and Lao culture. Try their signature ceviche and pair it with a glass of fine wine to enjoy it to the fullest. The venue also stands out for its complimentary cocktails and the breezy outdoor patio.

Yuni Yupoun

Yuni Yupoun, which translates to 'here or there', offers an assorted menu inspired by the entire world. From Greek to Indian to Peruvian — you name it, and it's likely on the eclectic menu.

Cafes

DaDa Cafe

DaDa Café offers a delightful riverside coffee experience beside the Mekong. Choose from cosy outdoor tables with views, or relax inside while savouring expertly roasted beans. Known for its medium roast Americano and tempting range of cakes and pastries, it’s a prime spot for a leisurely break.

Indigo Café

100% Lao Arabica coffee is served in the charming setting of Indigo Café. Aside from the strong coffee, the cafeteria features awesome vegan and non-vegan options, scrumptious cakes and pastries, but the real cherry on top is the breezy terrace that makes the atmosphere even more pleasant; the view goes out onto the Night Market.

Joma Bakery Café

Joma Bakery Café—with four outlets in Southeast Asia—is a small jewel in the heart of Luang Prabang. At this coffeehouse you'll find an in-house bakery, comfortable indoor and outdoor seats, free Wi-Fi, tempting healthy salads, and many other options. Everything can be paired with organic Laotian coffee grown on the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. The best part: you get as many free refills as you'd like.

Le Banneton Café & French Bakery

Le Banneton Café & French Bakery offers a slice of France with its exquisite pastries and robust coffee roasts. Located in a charming colonial building, this spot is ideal for a relaxing breakfast or lunch while exploring nearby temples. Enjoy favourites like fresh baguettes and flaky croissants in this picturesque setting.

LuLaLao Coffee

LuLaLao Coffee, tucked away at the far end of Luang Prabang's old city, stands out with its minimalist decor and commitment to quality. This open-air café not only roasts its own beans sourced from Laos' southern and central regions but also offers a detailed insight into Lao coffee culture. From espresso to cold brew, each drink is served with a card detailing its origin and flavour notes. Enjoy top-notch Laotian coffee and unique treats like earl grey cheesecake, each served with insightful tasting notes.

Ock Pop Tok Silk Road Café

Ock Pop Tok Silk Road Café offers a delightful ‘East Meets West’ dining experience with splendid views over the Mekong. Enjoy a farm-to-table menu featuring both Lao home recipes and dishes inspired by Silk Road cuisines, all in the setting of a vibrant crafts centre. Enhance your visit by joining one of their expert-led textile workshops.

Saffron Coffee

With an open-air terrace overlooking the meandering Mekong River, Saffron is more than a simple coffee shop to the people of Luang Prabang — it is a profit-for-purpose company assisting smallholder farmers by reinvesting profits. The cafeteria features 100% Arabica coffee beans along with scrumptious delights to go along.

Bars & Nightlife

Dao Fah

Packed with young Laotians dancing the night away, Dao Fah is located only steps away from the southern bus terminal. Live bands playing Lao and Thai music and DJs spinning international genres make it a great place to catch live music and enjoy the atmosphere, even after midnight.

Icon Klub

Slap bang in the heart of the old town, Icon Klub serves up some of the best cocktails in the city, including classics such as Bloody Mary, mojito, and Martini. Born as the project of an art buff, the establishment hosts live music, poetry slams, and dancing nights. Since 2017, the 2nd floor of Icon Klub has been home to an art gallery where poetry and reading workshops take place twice a week led by the owner himself.

LPMC

LPMC, opposite the Vat Sene temple, is the perfect setting to get a kick out of Luang Prabang's nightlife. Dine under a canopy of stars or relax with one of their complimentary cocktails on LPMC's spacious outdoor patio.

Maolin Tavern

Maolin Tavern combines Lao snacks with Western favourites like steak and mussels. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, daily specials, and a selection of classic Belgian beers in this expat-favoured spot.

Shopping

Garden of Eden

In Ban Phan Louang village, Garden of Eden is a teeny–tiny wonder on the other side of a bamboo bridge. Here, not only can you purchase one-of-a-kind jewellery, but even create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings of your own by following instructions from local artisans. The balcony overlooking the river is as dazzling as the jewellery displayed.

Ma Té Sai

Ma Té Sai, which translates to 'where is it from?', is famed for selling gifts, textiles, and homeware hand made by people from villages across Laos. Shopping at this modest shop means bringing back home a piece of Lao history and culture while supporting local artisans.

Night Market

Sandwiched between Settathilat and Sisavangvong Roads in the town centre, the Night Market is a beautiful frame to the intricately decorated temples and monasteries and the jungle-covered terrain. From 5 pm onwards, vendors load their stalls with handicrafts and other goods, from clothing to jewellery, to lamps and ceramics. Food stalls are concentrated at the end of the street. Flocks of tourists from all over the world come here to get a taste of local life and gain insight into Lao offerings.

Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre

Set serenely on the banks of the Mekong River, Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre provides insight into the centenary textile tradition. Here, you will have the chance to meet the people that still create textile on traditional looms, and join an array of different classes, from weaving to dyeing and batik drawing. Pay a visit to the adjacent shop for unique souvenirs to bring back home.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Planning your trip to the 'city of the Golden Buddha Phra Bang' from November to March means that you'll have the chance to experience the city with relatively dry and chill weather. However, these months are known as the peak season, meaning that the area will be overcrowded and accommodation rates doubled. This is also the period to hit several important festivals and events: Pimay (the Lao New Year) and Boun That Luang held respectively in April and October are among the most fascinating ones. An alternative to this would be visiting Luang Prabang during the rainy season (May to September), when the main chunk of tourists leaves and the weather is still pleasant enough to enjoy the city, despite the afternoon showers.

Passport/Visa

Visitors to Laos must obtain a visa from one of the Laotian diplomatic missions or online unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or qualify for a visa on arrival. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months. Citizens of Cambodia, Indonesia, Russia, Singapore, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and South Korea enjoy visa-free access to Laos for a maximum of 30 days; citizens of Japan, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can visit Laos visa-free for a maximum of 15 days; citizens of Brunei and Myanmar can visit Laos visa-free for 14 days. Visitors of other nationalities may obtain a visa on arrival valid for 30 days for a fee at most of the 27 ports of entry to the country, except for Napao-Chalo (Vietnam), Subhun (China), Pakxan-Bueng Kan (Thailand), and Xieng Kok river port (Myanmar). All other citizens must obtain a visa before arrival from a Laotian diplomatic mission.

Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)

Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) lies just about 4 kilometres from the centre of Luang Prabang and is one of the few airports in Laos handling both international and domestic flights. Bangkok Airways, Lao Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines are some of the companies operating here. Note that, unlike at most other airports, security controls are placed before the check-in desks. Fixed-rate taxis and tuk-tuks are available at the arrivals exit, as well as pre-booked hotel shuttles.

Taxi

Getting around Luang Prabang by taxi is inconvenient and unpopular. However, they are one way to move from the airport to the hotel or guesthouse. Taxi stands are just outside arrivals and cost around 7 USD to get to town. Besides taxis, tuk-tuks and pre-arranged minivans are also available.

Bicycle

Cycling is an eco-friendly way to discover Luang Prabang's wonders. Sabaidee LuangPrabang Travel features a wide range of bikes to choose from. Prices vary based on the number of days and bike types. ID, passport, and cash are required to rent a bike or book your bike tour.

Boat

To live Luang Prabang to the fullest, hop on a boat and experience the most scenic and picturesque way to marvel at the city's mind-blowing scenery. The main aquatic thoroughfares are the Mekong River, Nam Ou, Nam Khan, Nam Tha, Nam Ngum and Se Kong. Boats of different sizes navigate jewel-blue streams through lush vegetation. The Mekong River is the most important route and navigable year-around. You can get from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang on the so-called 'slowboat' on a two-day journey. The fare is around 20 USD, and it is the cheapest option. If patience is not your friend, there is also the speedboat which is slightly more expensive but takes you to Luang Prabang in 6 hours. To make it more comfortable for travellers, Mekong Cruises and Mekong River Cruises organise multi-day cruises, providing the best service on board.

Buses

Getting around Luang Prabang might be challenging for newbies, but at the same time it's an adventure. Even a short ride by bus can turn into a 'journey of hope', taking hours to reach the destination. Buses are subdivided into ordinary buses characterised by either torn cushions or a hard plank, and air-conditioned-book-in-advance VIP buses. Tickets can be bought at travel agencies or bus stations. Vans and minibuses are also available. It's best not to rely on the timetable displayed as it's often purely speculative. Ask for advice from the locals.

Electricity

There are five different power plug and socket types, A, B, C, E, and F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. European-style power plugs with two round prongs are most common, but it's a good idea to get a universal power adapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Luang Prabang?

The best time to visit Luang Prabang is from November to March when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

What are the must-see attractions in Luang Prabang?

Must-see attractions in Luang Prabang include the Royal Palace Museum, the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, and the sacred Mount Phousi with its panoramic views.

How many days should I spend in Luang Prabang?

Spending three to four days in Luang Prabang is ideal to explore its temples, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

What local dishes should I try in Luang Prabang?

In Luang Prabang, try local dishes like laap, a minced meat salad, and khao soi, a coconut curry noodle soup, as well as sticky rice with various accompaniments.

What is the best way to get around Luang Prabang?

The best way to get around Luang Prabang is by walking or renting a bicycle. Tuk-tuks are also a convenient option for longer distances within the city.

Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in Luang Prabang?

In Luang Prabang, dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Participate respectfully in the morning alms giving ceremony, and always remove shoes before entering homes or temples.

What are some worthwhile day trips from Luang Prabang?

Worthwhile day trips from Luang Prabang include visiting the Pak Ou Caves, exploring the Tat Sae Waterfalls, and taking a boat trip on the Mekong River.

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