Luang Prabang is a sleepy yet remarkable city located north of Laos and its former royal capital. It sits comfortably between Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and takes pride in its well-preserved towns, 33 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But more than its awe-inspiring Buddhist temples and adorable French colonial buildings, there are plenty of things to do in Luang Prabang that will awaken any visitor’s inner adventurer.
Nestled at the center of Luang Prabang is Phousi Hill or Mount Phousi. It's both a tourist attraction and a religious site, that is why climbing it is one of the top things to do in Luang Prabang. With just 300+ steps, visitors will be able to reach the peak of the hill and be rewarded with a gorgeous view of the nearby towns and Mekong River. You can schedule your climb at dawn to catch the sunrise during your visit and have the Wat Chom Si temple all to yourself.
One of the most famous attractions in Luang Prabang is Wat Xieng Thong. The religious complex, built between 1559 to 1560, is considered one of the most important Lao monasteries. Its most prominent feature is its large ordination hall with its eye-catching gold color. Onlookers will be amazed by its intricate details, including the mosaic called Tree of Life. There are also several small chapels in the area that are worth admiring. One of which contains a standing Buddha structure, and another a rare reclining Buddha.
The Royal Palace is the former residence of King Sisavang Vong and his family, built in 1904. Its last occupant is the family of Crown Prince Savang Vatthana before they were overthrown in 1975. It is now a museum where guests can see exhibitions detailing the daily life of Laotians throughout history. Some of the must-see displays here include the gold Buddha statue, Phra Bang, and the Royal Palace’s car collection! Do note that photography inside is not allowed, and visitors will be required to leave bags in a locker room, so plan your visit accordingly.
Close to the Royal Palace is another must-visit attraction in Luang Prabang called the Wat May Suwannaphumaham. Fondly called Wat May by locals, the exquisite temple was built in 1780 and is the largest in the city. Many art and architecture lovers will be in awe of the temple’s veranda filled with incredible details. Scenes of the Ramayana, Buddha’s birth, and even the local life are depicted in its walls. Wat May is also the home of the Sangharat, the head of the Lao Buddhist faith, since 1894.
Nature and animal lovers will find Elephant Village Sanctuary & Resort one of the most fun things to do in Luang Prabang. The refuge was established in 2001 and has become a tourist favorite. Elephants here are often rescued from harsh working conditions and are being rehabilitated and looked after by veterinarians and local trainers. Visitors, on the other hand, will have an up-close encounter with the gentle giants. Guests can join various activities, including elephant bathing, feeding, and more!
A visit to Luang Prabang wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city’s famed Night Market. Around 5:00pm, the Sisavangvong Road will be closed to vehicles, and hundreds of vendors will take over the area selling various products. Here you can find quirky souvenirs, delicious street food items, fresh fruits, and incredible handicrafts made by the locals. Some of the unique finds here include goodies made from Hmong fabric, colorful coconut bowls, and Lao Whisky. The market is open until late at night, but you’ll never run out of things to see here during your visit.
If you're interested in Laotian history and culture, seeing the Haw Pha Bang is one of the top things to do in Luang Prabang. The 83cm-high statue is called by many names, including Pra Bang, Prabang, Phabang, and Pha Bang. It's also where the royal city of Luang Prabang was named after. The sacred image first arrived in the Lao Kingdom of Lan Xang during the 14th century and was passed from one royal family to another. Today, it is currently at the Royal Palace, available for public viewing.
The alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang has been a time-honored tradition in the city since the 14th century. The Laos Buddhist community wakes up early in the morning and quietly waits for the Monks from nearby temples to provide them with food and other items. Many travelers enjoy the sacred spectacle, but reports of disrespectful tourists are increasing over the years. Although not actively discouraged, do think twice if you want to join this spiritual event. Spectators are allowed, but remember to be respectful at all times.
One of Luang Prabang’s most iconic attractions is Wat Wisunarat. The temple was built in 1513 and named after King King Wisunarat (Visoun), who ruled Laos from 1501-1520. It is the oldest Buddhist temple in the city and is still beloved due to its cultural importance and watermelon-shaped stupa. Inside, guests will find several significant artifacts and other valuable items related to Buddhism. Wearing of clothes covering the shoulders and legs and required while on the premises.
Get to know the ethnic groups that makeup Laos when you visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. The museum is located inside a French colonial building, impressing any visitors even before they enter. Inside, there are three rooms you can explore to learn about the various minorities around the city and be amazed by the displays showcasing the history, culture, and craftsmanship of these groups. You can also find a cozy cafe and a shop selling crafts made by local artisans at TAEC.
Luang Prabang may be a quaint city, but it is packed with natural and historical treasures that will entice any traveler. It is probably best recognized for its UNESCO-recognized towns, a plethora of well-preserved Buddhist temples, and incredible natural attractions. The city is also rich in history as it is the former royal capital of Laos.
Luang Prabang enjoys a tropical climate all year round, and tourists can visit anytime. However, the best time to visit is between November and April, when the city is warm and relatively dry. If you’re planning to witness some of Luang Prabang’s most anticipated events, visit during April to celebrate the Lao New Year, or during October or November and see the Boats of Light festival.
The best place to stay in Luang Prabang is the city’s Old Town. Here, tourists can easily access the UNESCO World Heritage zone and explore the nearby mansions, historic buildings, and other attractions. Those who are planning to save a few bucks might also find the area of the Mekong Riverfront a good option. Guesthouses and other cheap accommodations are abundant in this area.