An Idyllic Town on the Mekong

Luang Prabang is one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Laos. With an old city built on a peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Luang Prabang boasts charming heritage French colonial architecture, over 30 gorgeous Buddhist temples, stunning river views, good shopping, and a diverse display of local cultures.

The city is so quiet that, sometimes, it can feel eery - like a ghost town. There were many times I’d walk down a street full of shops and restaurants but see no one else walking or driving down the street. At points, it was tranquil; at others it was haunting. But at all points, it is gorgeous.

Enjoy the River Views

Both the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers are gorgeous around Luang Prabang. Just stroll along the riverside streets and prepare to be blown away by the views.

Walk Through the Historic Quarter

The Old Town of Luang Prabang is small and very charming - with preserved French colonial architecture and over 30 temples. Take an afternoon and just walk aimlessly around. There’s both a morning market and a night market that sprawl throughout, so you can also find good shopping most of of the day.

Visit Wat Xiang Thong

The most famous temple in Luang Prabang is Wat Xiang Thong. Known for its intricate carvings and gorgeous mosaics, it’s worth visiting.

Take in Panoramic Views

In the center of Old Town, you can climb 490 feet up stairs to get to the top of Mount Phou Si to get panoramic views of the city and the rivers. There is also a small but charming temple at the top.

Other Things to Do

I think two days in Luang Prabang is enough - but it’s a really peaceful place to spend time so many tourists opt to stay longer. Here are some of the other common things to do:

Temple Hop: With over 30 temples, you can easily spend a few days visiting them. Some of the other most famous are Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham (known for its gilded facade) and Wat Visounnarath (known for its large stupa).
Watch the s-Giving Ceremony: Each morning, hundreds of monks walk the streets to collect food offerings from locals. You can find a spot to watch (or hire a local tour guide to show you).
Enjoy the Nearby Nature: Within an hour of the city, you can go swim in Khuang Si Waterfalls, hike the nearby forest, or go to the Bear Rescue Center (which houses rescued Asiatic black bears).
Learn About the Regional Culture: You can head the Royal Palace to see the treasures of the former Kingdom, go to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about local tribal culture, or go to Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center to learn about (and buy) local traditional crafts.
Take a River Boat: If you’re planning to head north or to Thailand, you can travel via slow boat up the Mekong.

Luang Prabang is a lovely place to relax and just enjoy. Don’t overpack your days - and just spend time soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Enjoy Tranquility in Luang Prabang