Things To See And Do In Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Laos, is celebrated for its rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. I didn’t expect to love Luang Prabang as much as I did, but the scenery and slow pace truly captivated me. Nestled in the mountains, this town is a gem that has so much to offer! Keep reading to learn more about what to do when you visit Luang Prabang.

GETTING TO LUANG PRABANG.

There are two main ways that you can get to Luang Prabang, either by taking the slow boat along the Mekong River from Northern Thailand, or flying directly into Luang Prabang airport. I chose to arrive by slow boat as I was coming from Northern Thailand.

If you are getting the slow boat the easiest way to do this is to go from Chiang Rai. Here, your hostel will more than likely be able to arrange your transport to the slow boat for the next day which actually leaves from Huay Xai, a town in Laos just across the border between there and Thailand. You have to cross the border on foot first, and then a bus will collect you at Huay Xai to bring you to board your boat. Be warned – the boat trip is 9 hours a day, and depending on the season you travel it could be CRAMMED. There isn’t a huge amount of space, and the closer you sit to the back of the boat, the louder the engine will be, although the engine room is also the least crowded place to sit – so it is up to you to pick your poison! There is a toilet on board and you can also buy some snacks, drinks and beers or if you are prepared you can always bring your own.

The first day you will go down the Mekong River until you reach your destination for the night Pak Beng. This is a pretty sleepy town in Laos but there is ample accommodation and a few restaurants to choose from to eat at. Be warned you will get harassed by people trying to sell rooms in their guest houses when you land, and children begging for any food or drink that they see you with. The next day you leave again from the same port that you left from the night before and usually the boat is a little less busy as they drop people off along the way on the first day, and some travellers do not return after Pak Beng making the second day a little bit more comfortable! The trip is roughly 9 hours again the second day before arriving at your final destination, Luang Prabang! I think we paid roughly 1,000 THB (€27) to travel from Chiang Rai all the way to Luang Prabang.

Visit Wat Xieng Thong (Golden City Temple)

One of the most significant temples in Laos, Wat Xieng Thong is renowned for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and golden mosaics. Built in the 16th century, it’s a prime example of traditional Lao temple design. The temple is a stunning example of Buddhist art and architecture, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and learning about the spiritual life of Laos.

Climb Mount Phousi

A 100-meter-high hill in the heart of Luang Prabang, Mount Phousi offers panoramic views of the city, the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, and the surrounding mountains. The climb is about 300 steps, but the view from the top, especially at sunrise or sunset, is breathtaking. This being said, if you do go at these times expect to see LARGE crowds of people. I don’t think I have ever been anywhere so crowded for sunset in my entire life – it was a really crazy experience! Entry to the top of Mount Phousi is 20,000 Kip.

Kuang Si Waterfall

These waterfalls were the first thing I ever learned about Laos, and were one of the main reasons I added the country to my list and they did NOT disappoint! The multi-tiered waterfall are located about 30 kilometers from Luang Prabang but the road is very, very bumpy. If you get car sick I would suggest hiring a scooter to drive yourself, or make sure you are close to a window/seat by the door if you book a transfer. The scenery is stunning, and there’s an easy walking path around the falls, and also another path that goes up to the top of the falls. We chose to go up here as the views were stunning and the pools up there were a lot quieter (but also a little colder due to them being more shaded). The site also has a rescue center for Asiatic black bears near the entrance, which you can visit before heading to the waterfall or on your way back – they are adorable!!

Take Part in the Alms-Giving Ceremony (Tak Bat)

One of the most unique and spiritual experiences in Luang Prabang is witnessing the daily Alms-Giving Ceremony at dawn, where locals offer food to the monks. The ritual is an important part of Buddhist culture in Laos, and observing it respectfully is unlike any other religious experience I’ve partaken in abroad. It’s worth the early wake up call!

Explore the UXO Museum

The UXO museum was a really eye opening and educational visit. It is dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of unexploded ordnance left over from the Vietnam War era. Laos is one of the most heavily bombed countries in history, and many of these unexploded devices still pose risks to communities. The museum provides visitors with insight into the ongoing efforts to clear these dangerous remnants, sharing stories of local people affected and the crucial work of organizations like UXO Lao. It is a really meaningful and educational stop for anyone visiting Luang Prabang.

Take a Sunset Cruise Along The Mekong River

The sunsets inn Luang Prabang are arguably some of the best I have ever seen, and one of the best ways to experience those sunsets is by taking a boat trip along the Mekong River. There are loads of different cruises you can choose from, from low budget to boujee and romantic so it all depends what you are looking for. Some of them also include trips to the Pak Ou Caves nearby so you can do both at once! We simply walked down to the water and booked with one of the restaurants that advertised a cruise, but they also offered to book these at our hostel.

Stroll Through the Night Market

The Luang Prabang Night Market sets up every evening along Sisavangvong Road, offering handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, as well as local street food. It’s a great place to pick up unique, locally-made items like handwoven scarves, wood carvings, and artwork. It’s also a fun way to experience Lao street food culture, with stalls offering dishes like Lao sausages and coconut pancakes.

Go To A Weaving Class or Jewellery Making Class

If you are looking to get a bit creative, there are a few different things you can do in Luang Prabang like learn how to weave in the older, traditional Laos way at The Weaving Sisters. Or if weaving isn’t your thing, you can make some jewelry while looking out onto the river at The Garden of Eden. You can make basic necklaces, bracelets or earrings with beads and other materials, or you can book in to make silver jewlery.

Enjoy a Lao Cooking Class

Similarly to cooking classes being popular in Thailand, you can also take these in Luang Prabang! They offer half- or full-day classes where you can learn to cook traditional Lao dishes like Laap (spicy minced meat salad) and Or Lam (a type of stew) and is a great way to immerse yourself in the Laos Culture.

Tad Sae Waterfalls

Located about 20 km from the city, Tad Sae Waterfalls offer smaller, cascading pools surrounded by lush jungle. The falls are less crowded than Kuang Si, making them ideal for a relaxing day trip. I didn’t make t here personally, but I heard it’s the perfect spot to cool off, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, especially during the wet season when the water flow is stronger.

Go Bowling

There aren’t really any bars or pubs in Luang Prabang, but they do have a late night bowling alley! The most weird and wonderful thing about Luang Prabang is this bowling alley, where everyone gets drunk under the harsh bright lights of the bowling alley until the early hours of the morning! It genuinely is the only place to be for nightlife in the town for backpackers and is definitely worth a visit, even just the once!

I assumed I would like Luang Prabang, but I didn’t expect to LOVE it. In my four months traveling around Southeast Asia, this town in Laos became one of my top three favorite places. I enjoyed wonderful interactions with locals, participated in wholesome activities like weaving and jewelry making, and witnessed stunning sunsets. Luang Prabang is truly a unique and beautiful place, and if you’re considering adding it to your travel list, I would most DEFINITELY say that you should!