Areas & Neighborhoods in Luang Prabang
Historic District - As the heart of Luang Prabang, the Historic District is home to over 30 Buddhist temples, some dating as far back as the 16th century. Come here in the early hours of the morning to watch the sacred almsgiving ceremony, where local Buddhists kneel to offer rice and fruit to the monks. With the help of a guide, you can participate in the ceremony yourself while ensuring you follow the rules in a respectful manner. In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll along Sisavangvong Road, also known as "restaurant row" for its diverse selection of eateries. In the evening, the district's action centers around the Night Market, where you can shop the colorful stalls until nearly 11 PM.
Mount Phousi - Directly to the south of the Historic District, Mount Phousi is a 328-foot (100-m) hill boasting sweeping views of the city and beyond. A climb up one of the steep stairwells will bring you to the golden temple of Wat Chom SI, a popular spot to watch the sun rise and set. Near the southwest foot of the hill, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre offers exhibits highlighting the diverse cultures of the country's various ethnic groups.
Pak Ou Caves - Roughly an hour north of the city, the Pak Ou Caves are one of the most respected sacred sites in all of Laos. Packed with more than 4,000 Buddha icons, the caves are set in a dramatic limestone cliff at the point where the Mekong meets the Nam Ou River. The best way to reach the caves is by boarding a boat at the Luang pier. Once through the first cave, use a flashlight to guide your way through the pitch-black upper cave, where thousands of these statues have been left by locals for hundreds of years.
What to See in Luang Prabang
Soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Luang Prabang countryside on a tour to the Kuang Si Waterfall. Located less than an hour south of the city, cascading Kuang Si boasts 3 dramatic tiers that tumble amid a landscape of vines, flowers, and ferns. Upon arrival, you can opt to hike the steep trails to the top of the falls, go swimming in the aquamarine pools, or merely find a spot to relax as you enjoy the lush tropical jungle.
Sightseeing in Luang Prabang
Delve into centuries of Luang Prabang culture on a tour that treats you to the best sites of the city in just a few hours. Travel back in time as you admire the intricate architecture of its Buddhist temples, see the former palace that's now a museum, and end your journey with a trip to Mount Phousi for stunning vistas of the city.
For a truly immersive experience, gets hands-on in a workshop designed to teach you authentic Laotian skills and techniques. With a village seamstress, weave a handmade scarf made of homespun fabric, or continue the tradition of woodcarving as you craft a flute with an artisan. If weaponry is of interest, learn how the locals hunt for their own food using handmade knives, bamboo bows, and fishing guns.
There's more to be seen outside the city as well. On a private tour, you can dive into the life of a farmer who serves some of Luang Prabang's leading restaurants and hotels. Gain insight into the care that goes into growing many of the region's food staples as you can lend a hand in the field. Once you work up an appetite, refuel with a mouthwatering lunch made of these farm-to-table ingredients.
And there's even more culinary greatness to be found back in the city. Roll up your sleeves as you learn to create your own Laotian classics such as soy vermicelli noodles and succulent pork casserole. For the extra adventurous, a walk through the backstreets brings you to hidden eateries known for serving some of the city's more unusual creations. Enjoy a spread of delicacies including cow udder, goat colon, and chicken feet.
