Luang Prabang, the ancient capital city of Laos, is a dream destination filled with fascinating historical landmarks, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Located in the north central part of the country, the town showcases a breathtaking blend of traditional Laotian wooden houses with colonial-era architecture, and is known for its serene temples, vibrant night markets, and scenic riverside views. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking to explore a new culture, Luang Prabang has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll take a look at the best attractions and things to do in Luang Prabang to help you make the most out of your trip.
The 4 Best Day Trips in Luang Prabang
- Luang Prabang World Heritage City Tour and Kuangsi Falls
- Guided Exploring Luang Prabang Full Day Tour
- Full Day Tour to Pak Ou Cave Traditional Village and Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Full Day Luang Prabang Highlights Tour Including Kuangsi Waterfall
The 4 Best Day Trips in Luang Prabang
1. Luang Prabang World Heritage City Tour and Kuangsi Falls
Explore all of Luang Prabang’s top attractions during this full-day World Heritage City tour that includes a visit to Kuang Si Falls. With hotel pickup or pick up at Laos Group Tours Office in Night Market in Luang Prabang, this guided tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang on foot and by air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll visit the Royal Palace Museum and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, along with Kuang Si Falls, a beautiful 3-layer waterfall with turquoise waters. National Park fees, bottled water, lunch, and gratuities are included for a hassle-free day. This tour is ideal for visitors with limited time who want to see the best of Luang Prabang in one day.
2. Guided Exploring Luang Prabang Full Day Tour
Explore the culture and history of Luang Prabang on a fully guided tour of the city’s top attractions, including ancient wats and gilded palaces. Your friendly, English-speaking guide will share insights into the traditions and customs of the indigenous hill tribes, giving you a deeper understanding of this incredible destination. This full-day tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off by tuk tuk, a delicious lunch, and refreshing drinks. Perfect for families and first-time visitors, this tour offers a great overview and orientation of the city. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the hidden secrets of Luang Prabang!
3. Full Day Tour to Pak Ou Cave Traditional Village and Kuang Si Waterfalls
Combine two of Luang Prabang’s most beautiful attractions, Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Falls, on a full-day tour that includes a traditional Lao lunch and wine tasting. Embark on a slow boat riding along the Mekong River, offering amazing views of the countryside. Indulge yourself in Lao flavors during lunch and at a wine-making village. Enjoy free time at Kuang Si Falls, where you can take a refreshing swim or hike in the jungle-fringed pools. The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off at Luang Prabang hotels. The package covers national park fees, lunch, wine tasting, and gratuities. You can directly proceed to the meeting point or request for a pickup. Hotel pickups start from 8:10 AM to 8:40 AM.
4. Full Day Luang Prabang Highlights Tour Including Kuangsi Waterfall
The Full Day Luang Prabang Highlights Tour is the perfect way to explore the city’s top attractions with a knowledgeable local guide. Begin the tour at Wat Xiengthong, one of the most iconic temples in Luang Prabang. From there, visit Ban Phanom for a glimpse of traditional architecture and handicrafts. The tour also includes stops at the Royal Palace Museum and Mount Phousi for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the highlight of the tour – a visit to the stunning Kuangsi Waterfall, known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a typical lunch included in the tour before heading back to the hotel. Hotel pick up and drop off, an English-speaking guide, and a water bottle are also included. Please note that personal expenses and tips are not included. The tour is not available from April 13th-16th due to Lao New Year celebrations. Book your Full Day Luang Prabang Highlights Tour now for an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Tourist Questions About Luang Prabang
If you are planning on visiting the Northern part of Laos, Luang Prabang should be at the top of your list. A UNSECO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is a charming town that is located at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Luang Prabang is a popular tourist destination, and as such, tourist frequently have a lot of questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked tourist questions about Luang Prabang.1. How Do I Get to Luang Prabang?
By Plane: The easiest and most convenient way to get to Luang Prabang is by plane. The city has an international airport that is well connected to several major cities in Asia. There are several airlines that fly into Luang Prabang, including Bangkok Airways, Vietnam Airlines, and Lao Airlines.By Bus: Another way to get to Luang Prabang is by bus. There are several buses that operate from Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, to Luang Prabang. The journey takes approximately 12 hours, and the road can be quite bumpy.2. What is the Best Time to Visit Luang Prabang?
The best time to visit Luang Prabang is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to explore the city. However, this is also peak tourist season, and the city can get quite crowded.If you are looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Luang Prabang during the shoulder season, which runs from April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.3. What are the Must-See Attractions in Luang Prabang?
There are several attractions in Luang Prabang that you simply cannot miss. Some of the must-see attractions include:- Kuang Si Falls: This stunning waterfall is located about 30km outside of Luang Prabang and is a great spot for a day trip.- Mount Phousi: This hill in the center of Luang Prabang offers panoramic views of the city and is a great place to watch the sunset.- Royal Palace Museum: Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, this museum offers a glimpse into the country’s royal history.- Alms Giving Ceremony: This daily ceremony takes place in the morning and involves monks walking through the city, collecting food offerings from locals and tourists.4. Where Should I Stay in Luang Prabang?
Luang Prabang has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you are looking for a luxurious stay, consider one of the many boutique hotels that are located in the historic center of the city. For budget travelers, there are several hostels and guesthouses located just outside of the city center.5. What Should I Eat in Luang Prabang?
Laotian cuisine is delicious and should not be missed when visiting Luang Prabang. Some of the must-try dishes include:- Laap: A spicy minced meat salad that is a staple in Laotian cuisine.- Khao Soi: A popular noodle soup that is served with chicken, beef, or pork.- Or Lam: A traditional Laotian stew that is made with vegetables, meat, and herbs.- Mekong River Fish: Freshly caught fish from the Mekong River is a local delicacy and is often served grilled or steamed.6. What Should I Pack for My Trip to Luang Prabang?
When traveling to Luang Prabang, it is important to pack for the warm, humid climate. Some items to consider packing include:- Lightweight clothing: Shorts, t-shirts, and dresses are all suitable for the warm weather in Luang Prabang.- Sunscreen: The sun in Luang Prabang can be quite strong, so it is important to protect your skin.- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in Luang Prabang, especially during the rainy season.- Comfortable shoes: There are several temples and attractions in Luang Prabang that require a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.7. Is Luang Prabang Safe?
Luang Prabang is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always important to take precautions to avoid theft or scams. Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage site in Laos, is an enchanting and culturally rich city that offers tourists an authentic experience. It has many things to see and do, from ancient temples to outdoor activities, night markets, and delicious cuisine. If you are planning to visit Luang Prabang as a tourist, here is a list of things to do to make the most out of your vacation:1. Visit the Royal Palace Museum
The Royal Palace Museum, also known as Haw Kham, was once the residence of the Lao royal family until 1975. Today, it is open to the public as a museum showcasing the unique architecture and history of Laos. The palace complex is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and decorated with intricate wooden carvings and murals.Guided Tours:
Guided tours are available in English, and you can also rent an audio guide for a better understanding of the exhibits. The museum opens every day except Tuesday from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm.2. Explore the Ancient Temples
Luang Prabang is home to over 30 ancient temples, and exploring them is a must-do for any tourist. Each temple has its unique architecture and history, dating back to the 16th century. Some of the popular ones are Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Wisunarat, and Wat Mai.Monks’ Alms Giving Ceremony:
Most of the temples offer volunteer monk or novices programs, and you can also witness the Monks’ Alms Giving Ceremony early in the morning if you’re an early riser. Ensure to follow the appropriate dress code and photography rules when visiting the temples.3. Take a Sunset Cruise on Mekong River
Chao Phraya’s eastward journey from Nong Khai to the Mekong Delta, four months after his trial run terminated near Ubon Ratchathani
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Luang Prabang and offers a stunning view of the city at sunset. You can take a slow boat cruise and watch the sunset while sipping some drinks and admiring the serene surroundings.
Boat Tour:
Boat tours are available and can be booked in advance from tour operators or arranged by your hotel. The cruise usually takes around two hours, and you get to see the Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of Buddha statues are stored.4. Visit the Night Market
Luang Prabang’s night market is a bustling hub of activity that offers a great shopping experience for tourists. The market is open daily from 5 pm until 10 pm and spans over several blocks. You can find everything from handicrafts, textiles, clothes, and souvenirs at affordable prices.Food:
The night market also has a wide range of street food to sample, from traditional Lao dishes to international cuisine. Ensure to bargain when shopping and practice good hygiene when eating street food.5. Outdoor Activities
Luang Prabang is surrounded by natural beauty, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Some of the popular ones include trekking, kayaking, and cycling.Trekking:
Trekking to Kuang Si Waterfalls is a popular activity, and it takes around three hours depending on your fitness level. The waterfalls are a breathtaking site, and you can also swim in the turquoise waters.Kayaking:
Kayaking tours can be arranged from tour operators and offer a unique experience of floating downstream while admiring the stunning scenery.Cycling:
You can rent a bicycle for a day and explore the countryside, rice paddies, and local villages. Ensure to stay hydrated and carry appropriate clothing and sunscreen.Book Your Tour Now
Luang Prabang is a city rich in culture, traditions, and natural beauty. By following this guide, you will be able to explore the city’s many treasures and make the most out of your vacation. Ensure to practice responsible tourism by respecting local customs and traditions, preserving natural resources, and supporting local businesses.Table of Contents
