Luang Prabang - Discovering Laos

Travelling to Luang Prabang

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Luang Prabang, a pretty good destination in Laos (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Luang Prabang and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Luang Prabang, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Laos, here's everything to know about Luang Prabang for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a small city in northern Laos, located on the banks of the Mekong River. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, golden-roofed Buddhist temples, and stunning natural surroundings. The city is renowned for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In addition, Luang Prabang offers a host of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, including trekking, cycling, kayaking, cooking classes, and traditional performances.

What to visit in Luang Prabang

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Luang Prabang: 1. Kuang Si Waterfalls - This stunning waterfall is located in a lush jungle setting and features multiple tiers of crystal clear turquoise water. Visitors can swim in the pools and hike to the top for spectacular views.
2. Mount Phousi - A sacred hill located in the city center with a small temple and a stairway leading to the top. Once there, you can get panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the surrounding mountains.
3. Night Market - A popular spot for tourists to shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market is open every night and also offers a variety of street food.
4. Royal Palace Museum - This gorgeous museum offers a look into the history and culture of Laos and the royal family. Visitors can see the palace's ornate architecture and stroll through well-manicured gardens.
5. Pak Ou Caves - Located across the Mekong River, these caves contain thousands of Buddhist statues and images left by pilgrims over the centuries. Boat trips are available to visit the caves.
6. Wat Xieng Thong - A stunning temple complex with beautiful carvings and mosaics. The temple is one of the oldest in Luang Prabang, dating back to the 16th century.
7. Alms Giving Ceremony - A popular morning ritual where Buddhist monks walk through the streets to collect offerings of food from local residents. Visitors can participate in the ceremony by offering food to the monks.
These are just a few of the main tourist attractions in Luang Prabang, but there are many more things to see and do in this beautiful city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Laos, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Luang Prabang.

When to go on holiday to Luang Prabang

The best time to visit Luang Prabang is from November to February, during the region's dry season. This time of year offers comfortable temperatures with little to no rain, making it perfect for exploring the city's historic temples and taking part in outdoor activities like trekking and cycling. March to May is the hot season with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in April. June to October is the rainy season, with heavy downpours and occasional flooding, which can hamper outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Luang Prabang

There are several ways to get to Luang Prabang, Laos: 1. By air: Luang Prabang International Airport is served by several airlines, including Lao Airlines, Bangkok Airways, and Vietnam Airlines. From Bangkok, Thailand, flights to Luang Prabang take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
2. By bus: Buses from Vientiane, the capital of Laos, take approximately 10-12 hours to reach Luang Prabang. There are also bus services from other cities, such as Chiang Mai in Thailand and Hanoi in Vietnam.
3. By boat: Another popular way to reach Luang Prabang is by boat along the Mekong River. Boats depart from Huay Xai on the border with Thailand, as well as from other river ports in northern Laos. The journey can take anywhere from 1-3 days, depending on the type of boat and the river conditions.
4. By private car or taxi: It is possible to hire a private car or taxi to take you from other cities in Laos or neighboring countries to Luang Prabang. This option may be more expensive but offers more flexibility and comfort.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Luang Prabang, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Luang Prabang

Certainly! Here are some typical foods you might encounter in Luang Prabang, Laos: 1. Laap (also known as larb) - Laap is a salad made with minced meat (usually pork or chicken), mixed with chopped herbs, lime juice, and fish sauce. It’s often served with sticky rice and can be quite spicy.
2. Khao soy - This is a soup with egg noodles in a coconut curry broth. It’s usually topped with shredded chicken or pork, and served with crispy noodles on top. It’s a popular dish in northern Laos, including in Luang Prabang.
3. Mok pa - This dish is made by wrapping fish (usually catfish or tilapia) in banana leaves with herbs and spices, and then grilling or steaming it. It’s a flavorful and healthy option.
4. Tam mak hoong - This dish is a spicy green papaya salad, made with shredded unripe papaya, herbs, peanuts, chili, and fish sauce. It can be quite spicy, but is a refreshing and tasty option on a hot day.
5. Sai ua - This is a grilled sausage made with minced pork, herbs, spices, and chili paste. It’s usually served with sticky rice and is a popular street food snack.
6. Or lam - This is a thick stew made with vegetables, meat or fish, and herbs and spices. It’s slow-cooked and often served in a clay pot. It’s perfect for cold and rainy days.
7. Baguettes - Although not a traditional Lao food, baguettes are widely available in Luang Prabang and throughout Laos. They’re a legacy of French colonialism, and are filled with pate, cheese, vegetables, or meat and can be a quick and cheap snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Laos here.

Is Luang Prabang an expensive destination for tourists?

It depends on what type of traveler you are and what your budget is. Compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam, Luang Prabang may be considered slightly more expensive. However, it is still relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. The cost of accommodation and activities can vary depending on the quality and type of experience you are looking for. There are many budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels available, and street food is a cheap and tasty option for meals. However, if you are looking for more luxurious accommodations, such as high-end hotels, you may find the costs to be higher.
Overall, with proper budgeting and planning, Luang Prabang can be an affordable and enjoyable destination for travelers with different types of budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a small city and most of the popular tourist attractions are concentrated in the city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, it's best to find accommodation in or near the city center. Some of the popular areas to stay in Luang Prabang are: 1. Old Town: This is the heart of Luang Prabang and the area around the Mekong River. It's home to most of the attractions, including temples, museums, and markets.
2. Night Market: This area is popular for budget-friendly accommodation and is closer to the Night Market.
3. Nam Khan River: This area is more peaceful and serene and offers lovely views of the Nam Khan River.
4. Mount Phousi: This is a beautiful area on the hill overlooking the city, and offers stunning views of Luang Prabang. It's usually quieter and more expensive than other areas. Ultimately, the choice of where to stay depends on your preference, budget and the type of experience you are looking for during your stay in Luang Prabang.
You can check hotel prices at Luang Prabang here:
Booking.com

Is Luang Prabang a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Luang Prabang is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. For example, avoid walking alone late at night in quiet areas, take care with your belongings in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It's also a good idea to follow the advice of your hotel or tour operator regarding safe neighborhoods, tourist scams, and other important safety information. Overall, with sensible precautions, Luang Prabang is a wonderful travel destination that offers a rich cultural experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Laos here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Luang Prabang.

What type of travelers will enjoy Luang Prabang the most?

Luang Prabang is a destination that caters to many types of travelers. Couples will appreciate the atmospheric streets lined with French colonial buildings, the stunning temples, and beautiful sunsets over the Mekong River. For young people looking for fun, there are plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring the surrounding countryside. Families will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to interact with the local people, who are very friendly and welcoming to children. Additionally, there are several family-friendly activities available, such as elephant trekking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring the night market. Overall, Luang Prabang is a destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Luang Prabang

There are several transportation options to move around Luang Prabang in Laos, including tuk-tuks, bicycles, motorbikes, and taxis. Tuk-tuks are the most common mode of transportation and are relatively cheap, although you should negotiate the price before getting in. Bicycles and motorbikes can be rented from various shops in the town center and offer a more independent means of transportation. Taxis are also available and can be convenient for longer journeys or for those with heavy luggage. Walking is also a great way to explore the town, as many of the main attractions are located within walking distance of each other.

What to see around Luang Prabang

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Luang Prabang: 1. Kuang Si Waterfalls 2. Pak Ou Caves 3. Tad Sae Waterfall 4. Ban Xang Hai Village 5. Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden 6. Pak Khan Village 7. Tad Thong Waterfall 8. The Living Land Company 9. Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center 10. Ban Chan Pottery Village.
For every travel information about Laos you can click here.

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