Travel Guide

Luang Prabang may no longer be Southeast Asia’s undiscovered gem. With sweeping rural scenery, charming Buddhist temples, and attractive French colonial buildings, it’s easy to see why so many travelers continue to be drawn to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike the fast-paced hustle and bustle of neighboring Asian cities, the pace of life in Luang Prabang is slow and hypnotic, reflecting the tranquil landscape that surrounds it.

 

Two days in this town is just enough to discover the rich culture and diverse communities of Laos, as well as some of nearby natural wonders.

 

First of all, wake up early to watch “tak bat” – the morning almsgiving ceremony. Instead of flocking to the main streets, try observing the ceremony on a small side street or head to a neighborhood outside of the center. You will see fewer monks but it will be a peaceful, positive experience.

 

Little Monks Collecting Alms At Tak Bat Ceremony

 

After the monks return to their wat (temple), arrange a driver to take you to Kuang Si Waterfalls. The waterfall complex includes a number of falls and ponds ideal for swimming, so bring your swimsuit. Be sure to try your hand at the rope swing at the blue natural pool near the entrance. As you sit in the pool, overlooking the jungle beyond, you will be thankful that you found your way to this small heavenly enclave.

 

Rope swing at the Kuang Si Waterfalls

 

Near the entrance to falls is an Asiatic Black Bear Sanctuary and Rescue Center. Stop by to observe the marvelous creatures that are sadly a popular target of poachers.

 

An Asiatic Black Bear in the Tat Kuang Si Rescue Centre

 

In the afternoon, set out for a sightseeing tour for exploring the city, which includes stops at important Luang Prabang temples like Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham. The absolute must is Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important, beautiful and architecturally significant temples in all of Laos. Both men and women should be appropriately dressed.

 

Wat Xieng Thong

 

The Luang Prabang night market is a great final stop to any day to buy local handicrafts like hand-woven scarves, jewelries, bags, toys...

 

Luang Prabang night market

 

In the second day, take a boat tour for about 2hours to visit the historical Pak Ou Caves. Overlooks from the easy-to-reach lower cave (Tham Ting) and the slightly more challenging upper cave (Tham Theung) provide breathtaking views of both countryside and river that are perfect for taking photos. The thousands of miniature wooden Buddhist figures that line the ragged shelves of the Pak Ou Caves are what make this unique destination a highlight for travelers in Luang Prabang.

 

Thousand antique Buddha statues at Pak Ou Caves

 

Before we return to the city, you can visit Ban Xang Hai, "Whiskey Village", known for the its Lao Lao – strong whiskey made from rice. Visitors have the option to buy the alcoholic creation, but those who prefer water to whisky can instead watch locals weave Lao silk and purchase locally made fabrics and paper.

 

Whiskey at Ban Xang Hai

 

That said, Luang Prabang is the kind of place that rewards slow travel. If you have some extra time in the region, then plenty of options exist. Mountain biking, kayaking, trekking, and visiting hill tribes are all popular possibilities. The most enjoyable experiences are rarely the highlights mentioned above, but sipping a cup of locally-grown coffee and watching the sunrise over the Mekong, talking with the monks at a temple, renting a bicycle and exploring outside the city center… If you just want to be able to cross Laos off your travel list, then 2 days will do. But if you want to relax and enjoy yourself, you should stay longer.