Luang Prabang

Popular Sights in Luang Prabang

Things to do during your Luang Prabang vacation

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city located in northern Laos. Nestled between mountains and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang is known for its well-preserved architecture, Buddhist temples, and natural beauty. It offers a unique blend of traditional Lao culture and colonial influences.

• Royal Palace Museum: Explore the former royal residence turned museum to learn about the history and culture of Laos.
• Kuang Si Waterfalls: Visit the stunning turquoise-colored waterfalls and swim in the pools amidst lush surroundings.
• Mount Phousi: Climb up the hill for panoramic views of the city and enjoy the sunset.
• Morning Alms Giving: Witness the daily tradition of locals offering food to Buddhist monks during their morning alms round.
• Night Market: Stroll through the bustling night market to shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
• Wat Xieng Thong: Marvel at one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Luang Prabang, known for its intricate architecture.
• Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center: Discover the diverse ethnic cultures of Laos through exhibitions and interactive displays.
• Mekong River Cruise: Embark on a scenic boat ride along the Mekong River, enjoying the picturesque landscapes.
• Tad Sae Waterfall: Take a boat trip to this beautiful waterfall with cascading tiers and enjoy swimming and elephant rides.
• Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre: Learn about traditional Lao textile weaving and dyeing techniques through workshops and demonstrations.
• Traditional Lao Cooking Class: Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Lao dishes using local ingredients and techniques.

Why you should visit Luang Prabang

A guide To your first day of Luang Prabang vacation

morning

• Visit the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls: Start your day by exploring the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, located just outside of Luang Prabang. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise pools or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
• Discover the Royal Palace Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Laos by visiting the Royal Palace Museum. Explore the beautiful building and learn about the royal family that once resided here.

afternoon

• Take a boat ride along the Mekong River: Experience the tranquility of the Mekong River by taking a leisurely boat ride. Enjoy the scenic views of the river and its surrounding landscapes.
• Explore the Night Market: Wander through the vibrant Night Market and discover a range of locally made crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Don't forget to bargain for the best prices!

evening

• Attend the Alms Giving Ceremony: Witness the traditional Alms Giving Ceremony, where locals offer food to the Buddhist monks. Join in respectfully and learn about this meaningful cultural practice.
• Enjoy a traditional Lao dinner: Indulge in the flavors of Laos by trying traditional Lao dishes at a local restaurant. Don't miss out on specialties like sticky rice, Laap, and Mok Pa.

night

• Experience the vibrant Luang Prabang Nightlife: Explore the lively bars and pubs of Luang Prabang and enjoy a night of live music and drinks. Don't forget to try the local Beerlao!
• Take a sunset cruise along the Nam Khan River: Unwind and enjoy the picturesque sunset views from a cruise along the Nam Khan River. Relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

How to get to Luang Prabang

By Plane

Luang Prabang is primarily served by Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ), offering both domestic and limited international flights. The airport is conveniently located just 4 kilometers from the city center, making it a quick and hassle-free transfer for travelers. Be sure to check for flights connecting through major hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, or Hanoi, which offer a wider range of international connections.

• Check direct connections to LPQ Airport

By other means

Reaching Luang Prabang by public transport is a great way to explore the region. The city is well-connected to other parts of Laos via bus services, with regular departures from Vientiane and other major cities. Additionally, there are overnight buses that connect Luang Prabang to neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. For a unique experience, consider taking the scenic slow boat journey along the Mekong River from places like Huay Xai or Pakbeng.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Travelers seeking a peaceful escape with rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

How long to stay in Luang Prabang?

3-4 days are enough to experience the town's highlights and enjoy its serene ambiance. However, visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and nature might want to stay a week or more.