Luang Prabang - historical city in Laos with numerous temples and colonial era architecture, which is a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Attractions in Luang Prabang
Wat Xieng Thong
Wat Xieng Thong or Temple of the Golden City in Lao is a Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang. This temple is a must-see when visiting the city in Laos because Wat Xieng Thong is the most historically significant and one of the largest temples in Luang Prabang. There are over 20 structures on the grounds of the temple including shrines, pavilions, residences and the magnificent sim (the temple’s congregation hall).
Kuang Si Waterfall
Kuang Si Waterfall is a breathtaking three tiered waterfall, located about 29 km south of Luang Prabang. Kuang Si is one of Luang Prabang’s most popular tourist attractions and it shouldn't be missed when visiting this historical city in Laos.
Phu Si Hill
Phu Si Hill or Mount Phou Si is a 100 meters high hill located in the center of Luang Prabang’s old town. More than 300 steps lead to the top of the hill but climbing up the hill is really worth the effort. You will be rewarded by spectacular 360 degree panoramic views of Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, Nam Khan River and the forested mountains once you reach the top of Phu Si Hill.
Luang Prabang Night Market
Luang Prabang Night Market is the night market that takes place every night right in the center of Luang Prabang. The vendors of the night market set up their stalls on part of Sisavangvong Road which is closed to traffic from about 17:00 until 22:00. If you are looking for some hill-tribe souvenirs, visiting Luang Prabang Night Market is a must as there you can find various clothes, blankets, bed covers, silk scarves, ceramics, lamps and other handicrafts.
Royal Palace Museum
The Royal Palace in Luang Prabang was built as the residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family during the French colonial era. After the monarchy was overthrown by the communists, the palace was converted into a national museum. The Royal Palace Museum exhibits royal religious objects, weapons, statues, screens and paintings.
Mekong River
The Mekong River still has an important role in Luang Prabang's people life. You can take dinner cruise on the river or just use local boat for crossing the river just like locals do.
Wat Sensoukharam
Wat Sensoukharam (Wat Sen) or Temple of 100 000 treasures in Lao is a Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang. This ancient temple was built with 100 000 stones from the Mekong River that gave the name to it.
Wat Sop Sickharam
Wat Sop Sickharam is another beautiful temple in Luang Prabang that boasts its majestic architecture. The temple is located along the main road, next to Wat Sen.
Wat Syrimoungkoun Xaiyaram
Wat Syrimoungkoun Xaiyaram is one more temple in the old town of Luang Prabang. The temple has several interesting structures and sculptures such as two lions guarding the entrance to the main building of the temple.
Wat Souvannakhiri
Wat Souvannakhiri or Temple of Golden Mountain in Lao is one more Buddhist temple located along Sakkarine Road. The small building of the temple that is housing golden Buddha image is nicely decorated in gold.
Luang Prabang Transportation
Flights to Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) receives direct flights from two cities in Thailand. Direct flights from Bangkok to Luang Prabang are offered by low cost carrier Air Asia and full service airlines such as Lao Airlines, Thai Airways, and Bangkok Airways. There is also a direct route from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang which is served by Lao Airlines. Flight deals from Thailand to Luang Prabang can be found here:
Flights from Bangkok to Luang Prabang
Flights from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
Bus to Luang Prabang
From Chiang Mai
Taking a bus from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang is another popular option for getting from Thailand to Laos. Tickets for this bus route can be booked here: Bus from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang.
From Loei
Luang Prabang can also be reached on a direct bus from Loei in Thailand. Tickets for this bus route can be booked here: Bus from Loei to Luang Prabang
Detailed information about taking this bus to the opposite direction (from Luang Prabang to Loei) can be found here: Getting From Luang Prabang in Laos to Loei in Thailand by Bus.
From Vietnam
Luang Prabang can be conveniently reached from Vietnam as you can take a direct bus from Hanoi all the way to Luang Prabang. Bus tickets for this international route can be booked here: Bus from Hanoi to Luang Prabang.
Domestic Travels
The most popular domestic routes in Laos that include Luang Prabang are from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. If you are looking for more transportation options for getting to/from Luang Prabang, use this search form.