Overview
Nestled in a setting of lush mountains, at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan River,
Luang Prabang, classified as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city of enchanting beauty. At the heart of this ancient city, the former capital of Laos, temples and monasteries stand with their 33 golden wats, witnessing a still vibrant Buddhist fervor. Monks, dressed in their saffron robes, animate the streets with their silent and meditative presence.
Since the 1990s, Luang Prabang has experienced a renaissance. The once dilapidated French villas have been tastefully restored and transformed into charming hotels and hostels, offering visitors accommodation that is both authentic and comfortable.
Miraculously spared by the American bombings that ravaged northern Laos during the wars, Luang Prabang has preserved its intact architectural heritage. Its cobbled streets, carved wooden houses, and colonial buildings bear witness to a past rich in history and culture.
Top Attractions
The former Royal Palace, now transformed into a museum - Mr Linh's Adventures Team
Experience the Magic of Luang Prabang
Vat Haw Kham (Temple of the Golden City) - Mr Linh's AdventuresThe Royal Palace and Vat Haw Kham (Temple of the Golden City)
Explore the former Royal Palace, a window into the kingdom's past, and witness the shimmering beauty of the golden Buddha at Vat Haw Kham.
Temple of the Royal City, probably the most beautiful temple of Luang Prabang - Mr Linh's AdventuresVat Xieng Thong (Temple of the Royal City)
Be captivated by the elegance of Vat Xieng Thong, a temple that stands as a testament to Lao artistry.
Panoramic view from the Mount Souphi - Mr Linh's AdventuresMount Phousi
Journey to the summit of Mount Phousi, offering stunning vistas over the charming old city and royal grounds.
Spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls - Mr Linh's AdventuresKuang Si Falls
And lose yourself in the breathtaking turquoise tiers of Kuang Si Falls, a natural masterpiece just outside Luang Prabang.
See & Do
Unveiling the Treasures of Luang Prabang
Reaching the summit of Mount Phousi - Mr Linh's Adventures
Mount Phu Si
Phu Si Hill is a must-visit in the city. Two routes lead to its summit, each offering a unique experience.
The northern route will take you through Wat Pa Huak, where you can admire magnificent murals dating back to the 1800s, depicting key moments in Laos' history.
The southern route, on the other hand, will reveal Wat Siphoutthabat Thippharam and Wat Thammothayalan to you, two temples surrounded by golden Buddha statues. You will also discover the Buddha's footprint, a local curiosity that will surely surprise you with its size.
If you choose the southern route, you will have the opportunity to visit these three iconic sites at no additional cost, provided you do not continue your ascent to the hill's summit.
Stupa That Chomsi, Mount Phousi - Mr Linh's Adventures
Once you reach the top of Phu Si Hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Luang Prabang and its surroundings. The fresh air will invigorate you, while the temple complex will create a pleasant wind tunnel effect.
At the center of this exceptional panorama, the stupa That Chomsi, 24 meters high and covered in gold leaf, will catch your eye. But it is the sunset spectacle over Luang Prabang that justifies the climb. The fiery colors of the sky reflect on the temple roofs and the waters of the Mekong, offering a magical and unforgettable sight.
Before leaving this enchanting place, you may have the opportunity to participate in a local tradition: releasing small birds. While the morality of this practice may be debated, it remains an interesting cultural experience.
Now the National Museum, the Royal Palace is a true Must-See in Luang Prabang - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Royal Palace of Luang Prabang
This architectural gem, offering a glimpse into the lives of the kings of Laos, houses a multitude of tastefully decorated rooms, some of which have been preserved in their original state before the monarchy's fall.
As you stroll through the different chambers, you will discover period furniture, precious artworks, and mementos of the royal family. The history of Laos will be narrated through portraits of former kings and accounts of their reigns.
In the southeast part of the park, be sure not to miss Wat Ho Pha Bang, a temple housing the Pha Bang, an 8-meter-high golden alloy Buddha statue. This sacred relic, which gave its name to the city ("Luang" meaning "royal" and "Prabang" for Pha Bang), is revered by the Laotians.
For automobile enthusiasts, the palace also houses a collection of cars that belonged to the king. These five classic cars, in perfect condition, testify to the refined taste of the royal family.
UXO Information Center, a poignant memorial site - Internet
The UXO Center
To grasp the extent of the destruction caused by the Indochina wars, a visit to the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Information Center in Laos is a must. This poignant memorial site reveals the efforts made to locate and disarm UXO throughout the country, as well as the suffering endured by the local population. If you miss this center, you will find another in Phonsavan.
Do not miss out a boat trip on the Laos Mekong River - Mr Linh's Adventures
Mekong River Excursion
A short boat ride on the Mekong River offers magnificent panoramas of the river and the city of Luang Prabang. Boats depart irregularly from the rear of the royal palace.
Your first stop will be Wat Xieng Maen, which briefly housed the famous Pha Bang for seven days in 1867, upon its return after 40 years in Thailand.
Continuing along the river, you will discover Wat Chomphet. Located atop a small hill, this temple offers a stunning view of the Mekong. You will need to climb 123 steps to reach the top, but the view is worth it!
Although the temple itself is now just an empty shell and not particularly spectacular, the small hill probably offers the best view of the Mekong in Luang Prabang, apart from Mount Phu Si.
Your final stop on this river excursion will be Wat Longkhun, which once served as a refuge for kings about to be crowned. Although no longer used for this purpose, it houses superb murals depicting giant fish attacking sailors and fishermen. You can also explore Tham Sakkalin, a 100-meter-long limestone cave.
With its dozens of zip lines, Green Jungle Flight Park is a must for adrenaline-holic - Mr Linh's Adventures
Green Jungle Flight Park
Beyond the city itself, a multitude of activities and hikes await you. The Luang Prabang region is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers seeking thrills.
One of the most popular experiences, the Green Jungle Flight Park, has become a must-visit. With its dozens of zip lines that allow you to fly through the canopy, this park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the tropical forest.
But that's not all! The region is full of hiking trails that will lead you to stunning landscapes, refreshing waterfalls, and authentic villages.
You can also indulge in other activities such as mountain biking, kayaking on the Mekong, or climbing.
Go Green
Mr. Linh's Adventure offers unique and authentic tours in the Luang Prabang region, designed for travelers seeking discovery and sharing. Our tours will take you off the beaten path, to meet local populations, discoverHidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Heritage
Temple of the Golden City is one of the most important of Lao monasteries - Mr Linh's Adventures
Luang Prabang is especially famous for its impressive number of temples and monasteries, and the city does not disappoint in this regard.
Temples and Monasteries
Near the Royal Palace, you will discover Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, an architectural gem that miraculously escaped destruction in 1887. The plunderers of the time found its wooden ordination hall, with its five-tiered roof, simply too beautiful to desecrate.
Wat Mai is the largest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang - Mr Linh's Adventures
A little further, 3 km away by bike, Wat Pa Phon Phao will offer you a serene meditation spot, nestled in the heart of the forest. Far from the bustle of the city, this peaceful temple invites contemplation and reflection.
On the other side of Phu Si Hill, Wat Wisunarat offers a unique experience. This temple, which serves as an "orphanage" for Buddha statues and ordination stones salvaged from various ruined temples, bears witness to the region's tumultuous history.
Not far away, Wat Manorom, the oldest temple in Luang Prabang, houses a 6-meter-high Buddha statue, a wonder not to be missed. Nearby, you will also discover the former cremation site of the Laotian royalty, a place steeped in history and traditions.
Wat That Luang, on the other hand, surprises with its atypical architecture. Founded by Ashokan monks in the 2nd century AD, this temple more closely resembles an ancient Greek religious complex than a sanctuary in Southeast Asia.
Continuing towards the peninsula, in the Xieng Mouane region, Wat Pa Phai will reveal a detailed fresco depicting the daily life of Laotians in the 1800s. A true testimony of the past!
Wat Choumkhong, with its garden of red trees, offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, conducive to meditation.
Finally, Wat Xieng Mouane, with its ceiling covered in golden nagas, served as a school for the monks of Luang Prabang to learn the necessary skills for the restoration and maintenance of the city's temples.
The best is saved for last! Wat Xieng Thong, arguably the most famous of all, is an architectural masterpiece that will surely amaze you. Admire its tree of life mosaic, a symbol of the connection between the earthly world and the celestial universe, adorning its west wall. The three neighboring chapels house magnificent Buddha statues, including the Hor Dai, which houses a standing Buddha, and the Hor Dai Pha Sai-nyaat, nicknamed the red chapel by the French, which houses a rare reclining Buddha.
Across the road, near the customs office, now the UNESCO office, Wat Pak Khan, with its archaic charm, will transport you back in time.
A little further, Wat Souvannakhili, with its architecture more reminiscent of a colonial mansion than a monastery, will surprise you with its originality.
Wat Sensoukaram's rich ruby-red walls make it's one of the most eye-catching in all of Luang Prabang - Mr Linh's Adventures
Lastly, Wat Sensoukaram, with its ruby red walls covered in intricate gold overlays, is arguably the most spectacular of Luang Prabang's temples. It is no wonder that its construction required a considerable sum for the time (100,000K in 1718).
The Tak Bat ritual
Tak Bat, a procession of food-gathering imbued with spirituality - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Tak Bat, an ancient Buddhist ritual, transcends mere custom to embody a sacred practice imbued with spirituality. Deeply rooted in the precepts of Buddhism, this age-old tradition reflects the ideal of material detachment, fostering an intimate connection with nature, heightened devotion to prayer and meditation, and ultimately, the path to nirvana. Thus, Buddhist monks observe an existence voluntarily stripped of all superfluity, possessing only the essentials: their robes, a razor, a needle and the alms bowl, called “patta”. In keeping with this philosophy of renunciation, and devoid of monetary resources, they perform the daily Tak Bat, a procession of food-gathering from the faithful. Too often perceived by visitors as a folkloric attraction, it is imperative to approach this rite with the reverence it deserves, observing elementary rules of respect: participation in almsgiving is reserved for Buddhists, modest dress covering shoulders, legs and torso is de rigueur, photos must be taken discreetly, from a respectful distance and without the use of flash, and any physical contact with the monks is proscribed, particularly for women.
Bun Pi Mai, a celebration of renewal and water
Bun Pi Mai, or Lao New Year, is the most important event in Luang Prabang. Also known as the "Water Festival" or, more rarely, as "Songkran," it spans three days in April and attracts many visitors who come to participate in the festivities.
The main event is a joyful and refreshing water battle where everyone is a potential target. People of all ages rush into the streets armed with water guns and brimming buckets, dousing everyone, including tourists.
During the festival, it is important to take certain precautions. Protect your electronic devices from water and remember to rinse your eyes with bottled water at regular intervals, as the water used for the battles may be drawn directly from the Mekong.
Bun Pi Mai is a joyous and friendly celebration, a unique opportunity to discover Laotian culture and share a moment of fun and refreshment with the locals.
NEARBY
Excursion to the Pak Ou Caves
Incredible Pak Ou Caves - Mr Linh's Adventures
If you haven't had your fill of temples and Buddhas yet, be sure to take a boat or kayak excursion to the Pak Ou Caves.
Nestled in the limestone cliffs along the Mekong, at the confluence of the Ou and Mekong Rivers, these two caves house thousands of Buddha statues. Some are tiny, barely a few centimeters, while others are gigantic, reaching up to 6 meters in height.
These sacred caves are an important pilgrimage site for Laotian Buddhists, but also a popular tourist attraction for their natural beauty and cultural richness.
You will be amazed by the diversity of the Buddha statues, representing different postures, expressions, and eras. Some are made of wood, others of stone or bronze, and all showcase the Laotians' craftsmanship.
Kuang Si Falls
Tat Kuang Si, an absolute must-see in Laos - Mr Linh's Adventures
Considered by many as the most beautiful sight in Laos, if not all of Southeast Asia, Tat Kuang Si Falls are a must-see during a visit to Luang Prabang.
Water cascades down multiple levels, forming serene turquoise pools where you can swim. If you're up for a slightly challenging climb or wish to avoid the crowds, you can hike to the top where you'll find less frequented pools.
In addition to the falls themselves, you can also visit the Kuang Si Rescue Centre, a bear sanctuary where you can observe rescued Asiatic black bears. Watching these adorable creatures play and lounge in their open enclosures is an experience as enriching as the falls themselves.
Tat Sae Falls
Tat Kuang Si Falls are undoubtedly a Luang Prabang must-see, but the region also holds other natural treasures worth a visit.
Tat Kuang Si Falls are accessible by tuk-tuk or motorbike. 300 meters from the entrance, you'll find the Kuang Si Butterfly Park, a butterfly park where you can observe many different species.
While it may not have the same dimensions and giant pools as Tat Kuang Si, Tat Sae waterfall is also a spectacle to behold. More importantly, you can "fly" above the falls on ziplines. Thrills guaranteed!
It is important to note that, unlike Tat Kuang Si, this waterfall dries up between December and August. It is best to visit during the rainy season to fully enjoy its beauty.
If you have the time, don't hesitate to explore the surroundings of Luang Prabang and discover the other waterfalls, caves, and natural landscapes that the region has to offer.
Food & Drinks
Lao cuisine is often described as having a balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory tastes - Mr Linh's Adventures
Immerse yourself in local cuisine at the night market
For an authentic taste of Laotian cuisine, head to Luang Prabang's night market. Located in a narrow alley not far from Mount Phu Si, this bustling market is a true paradise for food lovers.
You'll find a wide variety of Laotian dishes, all prepared with care and love. Many stalls offer buffets where you can choose the meats and vegetables that appeal to you.
Be sure to try the grilled duck, particularly tasty and fragrant.
Basic local dishes such as Orlam, a stew made of meat, mushrooms, eggplants, and spicy and bitter wood shavings, as well as Kai Baan, or Mekong algae, are also must-tries.
Luang Prabang, often considered the capital of French cuisine outside of France, offers a unique culinary experience. You'll find many trendy French cafes and restaurants serving typical French dishes and pastries.
Night Market, the authentic flavours of Laos - Mr Linh's Adventures
However, for an authentic culinary experience, head to the riverfront barbecues. Popular with locals, these establishments offer sin daat, a traditional Lao barbecue. You choose an assortment of raw meats and vegetables to grill yourself on a Lao-style grill, all while admiring the peaceful waters of the Mekong.
This convivial and flavorful experience will allow you to discover local flavors and share a relaxing moment by the river.
Directions
Location
Luang Prabang is located in northern Laos, at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers
How to get there
Getting to this serene town is indeed straightforward. Flying from Vientiane offers a quick hop, showcasing the stunning Laotian landscape from above. Coming from Hanoi, the flight traces a path over the Annamite Range, offering glimpses of Vietnam's rugged beauty before descending into the tranquil valley of Luang Prabang. Keep an eye on those ticket prices, as they can dance around depending on when you're planning your adventure and which airline catches your eye. Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is always a savvy move.
Best time to visit
From November to February, Luang Prabang truly shines. The air is crisp and the humidity takes a welcome dip, making exploring the gilded temples and wandering the charming streets a pure delight.
Luang Prabang offers a captivating escape, where a deeply spiritual atmosphere intertwines with stunning natural beauty and a unique cultural heritage, all experienced at a refreshingly unhurried pace.