In this article, I highlight the 16 best things to do in Luang Prabang, including a day trip to the Kuang Si Falls. Discover the Haw Phra Bang temple, dive into history at the Royal Palace and National Museum and witness the sacred Almsgiving ceremony. Shop at the bustling morning and night markets, and enjoy a picturesque sunset cruise on the Mekong River.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, I’ve also compiled practical travel tips on the best time to visit, where to eat and drink, and where to stay.
Luang Prabang is a rather small city. The French colonial town centre sits like a thumb between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. And that’s the part of the city where you find pretty much everything you need.
Because the city is very walkable, it’s easy to explore the below list of things to do in Luang Prabang on foot.
1. Phousi Hill
Where to start a list of things to do in Luang Prabang other than at Phousi Hill. This Luang Prabang landmark is a popular place to visit during sunrise and sunset and you certainly cannot miss it either.
It takes you over 300 steps to get to the top, which shouldn’t be too hard of an undertaking for most people. Keep in mind though that it’s usually very hot, so carry water and prepare to sweat a lot! But the reward is amazing views of the mighty Mekong River, the Nam Khan River and the surrounding mountains.
The steps next to the Wat Choum Si stupa at the very top of the hill form the perfect place to take a seat and watch the sunset. These sunset views are breathtaking, but be prepared to share the moment with all the other visitors to Luang Prabang.
2. Haw Phra Bang temple
At the foot of Phousi Hill you’ll find the Royal Palace grounds, home to another Luang Prabang landmark, the Haw Phra Bang temple. For excellent views of the temple head to the balcony on the other side of the street at the base of Phousi Hill.
Inside the temple you’ll see the Phra Bang Buddha statue after which the city is named. While legend has it that the statue was created some 2,000 years ago in Sri Lanka, research suggests the 14th century is more accurate. Regardless of when it was made though it’s certainly a Buddha statue worth seeing.
Enter the temple via the grounds of the Royal Palace National Museum.
3. Royal Palace & National Museum
The Haw Phra Bang temple is situated on the Royal Palace grounds, but apart from the temple you can also visit the National Museum here. And the royal car collection that’s housed inside the annex.
The Royal Palace was built in 1904 during the French colonial era and served as the residence of the Lao royal family until 1975. Inside the museum you can get a glimpse into Laos’ royal history and culture.
The museum’s collection includes religious artifacts and gifts from foreign dignitaries. The throne room and the royal family’s living quarters are the highlights of your visit.
To enter the Haw Phra Bang temple and the National Museum you’ll need to pay an entrance fee. Opening times are a bit limited between 8:00 – 11:30 and 13:30 – 16:00, so time your visit right.
4. Almsgiving Ceremony
Rise early to experience, or partake in the Almsgiving Ceremony, which is also known as Tak Bat. This daily ritual takes place at dawn all around Luang Prabang. The easiest place to experience the ceremony is along Sakkaline Road.
Hundreds of saffron-robed monks walk silently through the streets to collect alms (usually rice) from locals. The almsgiving tradition dates back to the 14th century and is a cultural experience that showcases the Buddhist practices of the Lao people.
If you want to partake in the almsgiving then you can buy some premade rice packs in town and hand it to the monks as they collect. If you’re not giving any food, then keep a respectful distance and watch from the other side of the road.
5. Morning Market
Next up on this list of things to do in Luang Prabang is the perfect activity for after the almsgiving ceremony: a visit to the morning market. The market is a colourful feast for the eyes and a great place to experience local life.
You can see all sorts of fresh food here from fruit and vegetables to fish and poultry. Sample exotic fruits and buy some traditional Lao snacks such as a Lao baguette or coconut rice cakes. You can visit the morning market everyday from 5am – 10am.
6. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham
Between the morning market and the Royal Palace you can visit Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham. The temple is more commonly known as Wat Mai and is one of Luang Prabang’s largest and most richly decorated temples.
The temple was built in the late 18th century and is known for its five-tiered roof. But even more for the detailed golden reliefs out on the front verandah, that depict Lao village life.
7. Heuan Chan Heritage House
Built in the early 20th century, Heuan Chan Heritage House is a traditional wooden Lao house. Careful restoration transformed it into a cultural center, offering insights into traditional Lao architecture, lifestyle, and customs.
You can explore the house, enjoy the beautiful garden, and participate in various cultural activities and workshops. These workshops include a cooking class, learning how to form offerings, or how to create your own dreamcatcher.
8. Wat Xieng Thong
Another must-see temple on this list of things to do is Wat Xieng Thong. It’s often also called the ‘Temple of the Golden City’, was built in 1560 and is one of the most important and beautiful temples in Laos.
Inside this temple complex you can find several shrines, pavilions, and a royal funerary carriage house. All of this combined makes visiting this temple complex a must-visit site in Luang Prabang.
9. Wat Wisunarat
Make sure to also visit Wat Wisunarat while you’re in Luang Prabang. Wat Wisunarat is the oldest temple in Luang Prabang, dating back to 1513 and is famous for its distinctive That Makmo, which is also referred to as the Watermelon Stupa. You can recognise it because of its unusual rounded shape.
Take a look at the many ancient Buddha images and religious artifacts inside. These artifacts make this temple an important centre of worship for locals. Actually, Wat Wisunarat is my favourite temple in town. It’s a little bit off the main tourist trail, but its fairytale setting makes it worth the small detour.
10. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
If you enjoyed your visit to the Heuan Chan Heritage House, then you will certainly also be interested in visiting the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre (TAEC). TAEC is a museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the diverse ethnic cultures of Laos.
The exhibits feature traditional clothing, textiles, household items, and religious artifacts from various ethnic groups. TAEC also offers educational programs, workshops, and a fair-trade shop where you can purchase handmade crafts.
11. UXO Lao Visitor Center
If you’re interested in finding out why Laos is the most bombed country in the world, then certainly pay a visit to the UXO Lao Visitor Centre. The center gives you an eye-opening look at the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos, which is a legacy of the Vietnam War.
Just like the COPE Center in Vientiane, this center also educates visitors about the ongoing efforts to clear these dangerous remnants and supports victims through rehabilitation programs. Exhibits include informative displays, videos, and recovered ordnance.
12. Wat Sensoukharam
Right in the centre of Luang Prabang you can visit another temple complex: Wat Sensoukharam. The temple, which is often also referred to as Wat Sene, was built in 1718 and stand out with its vibrant red and gold colour, like most temples to be honest.
Check out the beautiful main hall that is adorned with beautiful carvings and murals with scenes from the life of Buddha. The temple’s well-maintained grounds and stunning architecture make it a must-visit site in Luang Prabang.
13. Sunset Mekong River Cruise on the Khopfa
If you’re like me and didn’t like the crowds on Phousi Hill to watch the sunset, then certainly book a sunset river cruise on the Khopfa. This new boat is equipped with two elevated decks, where you can relax in lounge chairs and beanbags.
The vibe here is simply fantastic. Super chilled music, great service, and amazing views of the sunset. The 2-hour cruise costs 20 USD and lasts about 2 hours.
14. Night Market
The Night Market in Luang Prabang is held daily from around 5pm to 10pm along Sisavangvong Road. It’s a great place to finish the day and where you can shop for textiles, art and other souvenirs. There’s authentic stuff, but there’s plenty of cheap Chinese stuff as well.
At the end of the night market (or the start if you will), you’ll find plenty of food stalls that offer a tasty late night Lao snack.
15. Day Trip to Kuang Si Falls
Rent a motorbike, or join a tour to visit the Kuang Si Falls on a day trip from Luang Prabang. If you decide to rent a motorbike (through your accommodation) then it takes about 45 minutes to reach the parking lot of the waterfalls. From there you pay an entrance fee at the ticket booth from where you are transported in golf carts close to the waterfalls.
Kuang Si Falls is a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall located about 29 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. The falls are known for their milky turquoise pools, perfect for swimming. The area also features a bear rescue center and several walking trails.
For a bit of a challenge climb to the top of the waterfalls for more natural pools to swim at. The climb up (in flip-flops) is quite challenging on the slippery and muddy path, but the reward is worth it!
Visiting the Kuang Si Falls on a day trip is really one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang and cannot be missed. If you’re on your motorbike make a stop at Banna Cafe on your way back for a delicious mango smoothie with a view.
16. Cruise to the Pak Ou Caves
If you have enough time in Luang Prabang then go on a tour and cruise north on the Mekong to visit the Pak Ou Caves. These limestone caves house thousands of Buddha statues. After visiting the lower caves there’s another cave up some stairs deep into the rock face.
Along the way to Pak Ou or on your way back you can make a few more stop in local villages where you can see traditional crafts such as whiskey making and weaving. The tour takes half a day and you can book it right here.
Luang Prabang | Map
To help navigate your way through all of the things to do in Luang Prabang I’ve created a map on wanderlog. It helps to get a sense of the size of the town (it’s small), what to see, where to have your coffee and where to sleep.
Where To Stay in Luang Prabang
If there is one town in Laos where it’s always a good idea to stay an extra night or two, then it’s in Luang Prabang. I’ve listed my favourite hotels for you in this Luang Prabang travel guide below.
- Sofitel | If only the best is good enough, then stay at the luxurious Sofitel which is an oasis close to the centre of Luang Prabang.
- Villa Chitchareune 2 | A lovely villa on the edge of Luang Prabang’s city centre. You’ll feel welcome from the moment you set foot on the premises.
- Belle Rive Boutique Hotel | If you want a hotel overlooking the Mekong River, yet close to the centre of Luang Prabang, then stay at the stylish rooms of the Belle Rive.
- Barn Hostel | Right in the best part of town you can find this budget option for backpackers. Clean and spacious with all attractions at your doorstep.
Where To Eat & Drink in Luang Prabang
Restaurants
After seeing all of the things to do in Luang Prabang it’s great to know that you also have fantastic dining options in town. So, continue your Luang Prabang experience by taking your tastebuds on a wonderful journey through the Lao kitchen.
- Bamboo Tree Restaurant | Bamboo Tree is my favourite restaurant in town. Book your table on the verandah and indulge in the selection of local dishes. Seaweed from the Mekong, ho mok, or lam and lab? It’s all here and lots more. If you can’t choose, then go for one of the tasting menus that are even served for 1-person.
- Tamarind | Right next to Bamboo Tree you’ll find Tamarind, which is another excellent restaurant you want to check out. If Tamarind is full, then perhaps you can get a table at Bamboo and vice versa.
- Bamboo Garden | I haven’t been able to visit this one, but it was recommended by my guesthouse owner who said it is her favourite restaurant. And if the reviews are anything to go by, then for sure check this restaurant out as well.
- Yuni Yupoun | I loved this place on the main street of town. It’s a great little restaurant to sit down after your visit to Phousi Hill for sunset. Excellent mango smoothies, but also great Lao food tasting menu.
Tip: Tamarind is, just like Bamboo Tree beside a restaurant also a cooking school. Want to join one of their cooking classes? Then you can book a cooking class with Tamarind right here.
Coffee
Luang Prabang is blessed with some excellent coffee shops. Check out the best ones below.
- LuLaLao Coffee | If you love coffee, you’ll love the brew at LuLaLao Coffee. This coffee roaster is located close to the main sights in town, although it should be a destination in its own right. Enjoy their filter coffee either hot or on the rocks.
- Le Banneton | What is a French colonial town if there’s no French Bakery? Look no further than Le Banneton where you can get your croissants and pains au chocolat. The wooden decor adds to the atmosphere and is a perfect place to escape the heat for a bit.
- Formula B | Another coffee gem is Formula B, especially for their iced lattes. My favourite is the Black Noir with activated charcoal and vanilla poured over ice with their delicious espresso.
Nightlife
There isn’t much nightlife in Luang Prabang. And if you just came from Vientiane and Vang Vieng the contrast will be very noticeable. That said, below options should keep you entertained till midnight.
- B82 Bar | Great bar on the main strip in town. Friendly staff, excellent drinks and some bar snacks to boost.
- Viva Pasta | Viva Pasta is one of the only places in Luang Prabang that’s open till late. It’s a little hidden away in an alley just off the main street. Viva Pasta is a place where local entrepreneurs also like to visit after they’ve closed their own bar or restaurant. Maybe some of them will even go bowling with you.
- Luang Prabang Bowling Alley | To go out bowling sounds like the most random of things to do in Luang Prabang. But because there isn’t much nightlife in the city it’s actually a big thing here. So gather some people and take it to the Luang Prabang Bowling Alley just outside of town.
Luang Prabang Practical Information
In this Luang Prabang travel guide section you can find practical information for your visit to Luang Prabang. If you’re visiting more places in the country then also check out my Laos one week itinerary and travel guide.
Best Time to Visit Luang Prabang
Just like the rest of Laos, the best time to travel to Luang Prabang is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Visiting Luang Prabang in the shoulder months of October and April can also be a good choice, as the weather is still relatively dry, and you can avoid the crowds.
The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity, which can make travel more challenging. However, the landscape is lush and green, and you might appreciate the lower number of other visitors.
Visa Application for Laos
Most nationalities can apply for an eVisa to enter Laos on the official Lao eVisa website. The application process is pretty straightforward. After you’ve verified that you are from an eligible country you can create an account and start the application process.
Prepare a .jpg file of a 4x6cm photograph and a .jpg from your passport bio page and you should be good to go. Also determine where you want to enter the country.
You can apply 60 days in advance and once you entered the country your visa is valid for 30 days. It typically takes 3 business days to receive you eVisa in your e-mail. The price for most nationalities is $50 + fees and can be paid with Visa and Mastercard.
Getting There to Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is connected by train and plane. The bus is also an option, but expect the journey to be rough. Check out my recommended options below.
Getting to Luang Prabang by air
Luang Prabang (LPQ) is serviced by a handful of airlines, but a great connection is with Vietnam Airlines to Siem Reap in case you want to continue your Southeast Asian adventure in Cambodia.
Other destinations are Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Hanoi and Vientiane. Not many options, but you can easily get to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.
Take the train from Vang Vieng or Vientiane
Close to Luang Prabang the Chinese built a railway station that is connected to the city with shuttle buses. The high speed train connects Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng and Vientiane. The train is the best option to get to Luang Prabang if you’re already in Laos.
Because the train station is quite far out of town and trains sell out in advance, ask your hotel to buy a ticket for you. Getting a ticket online is also possible, but only through a handler on 12go.asia.
Most popular train tickets:
Slow boat from Thailand to Luang Prabang
If you’re backpacking around Southeast Asia you can also reach Luang Prabang overland from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. The slowboat trip takes 3 days and 2 nights and is a true adventure. You can book it right here.
Getting Around in Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a fantastic city to take it slow and simply walk around. If you want to venture a little further the following should help you around.
- Taxi | Easiest way to get to or from the airport and are ready for you upon arrival at the airport. Your hotel can order a taxi for you to take you back to the airport.
- Shuttle bus | When you arrive to Luang Prabang by train, there are shuttle buses waiting to transport you to your hotel.
- Motorbike | You can ask your accommodation, such as at Villa Chitchareune 2 to arrange a motorbike/scooter for you. The costs should be around USD 7 per day. Perfect for a day trip to Kuang Si Falls.
Get Travel Insurance for Laos
If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. Honestly, it might sound cliché, but I firmly believe it’s true. Travel insurance gives me peace of mind, because if something happens I don’t have to worry about expensive bills.
I always have travel insurance, 365 days a year, because I travel quite a lot. And it usually turns out cheaper than taking out separate policies for each trip. Find my recommendations for travel insurance below.
- Under 50 years old? | My recommendation is to check out Heymondo Annual Multi-Trip travel insurance. It covers all your trips for a year up to 60 days per trip. You can also get insurance through Heymondo for trips with specific travel dates. As a reader of Next Journey Ahead you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance.
- Over 50 years old? | Older than 49 and travel a lot? Then you want to check out World Nomads travel insurance. They also offer annual travel insurance, or you can insure trips with specific travel dates.
- Digital Nomad? | If you’re always on the move then I recommend checking out the Nomad Insurance of SafetyWing. This insurance company offers subscription based insurance. That means it renews every month until you cancel. But you can also insure specific travel dates.
Staying Connected in Luang Prabang with an eSIM
In all my travel guides my advice is to check before you travel whether your phone and data provider also got you covered in Laos. If not then you can buy and install an Airalo eSIM in your phone. I always use Airalo when my data plan from home doesn’t cover my travel destination. No more swapping of physical SIM-cards.
You can buy the Laos eSIM right here. Or for even better value the Asia eSIM right here that also has coverage in Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and other Asian countries.
Tip: If you rely on Google Maps to get around, then download the map before your visit to save data.
Final Thoughts on Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang really captured my heart and I’m sure it will also capture yours. It’s one of those places where no matter how small they are you always want to stay longer, wandering the same streets over and over.
Have you been to Luang Prabang, or have any questions? Then leave a comment below, or send me a message on Instagram. And to receive upcoming travel guides and itineraries, please sign up to my newsletter.
Planning your trip to Laos? Make sure to include all of the tings to do in Luang Prabang to your itinerary. Check my Laos Travel Guide to plan your trip, or keep on reading the latest blog posts:
