If you’re traveling through Laos, there are a plethora of awesome things to do in Luang Prabang and we’re confident you won’t be disappointed in exploring this former Royal Capital City. If you take the slow boat from Thailand, the ancient city will be your first stop and is the country’s first UNESCO heritage site. So close to Vang Vieng, yet so different, be sure to save some time for Luang Prabang.
1. Kuang Si Falls
These are the waterfalls you’ve been hearing about. We all know why you’re in Luang Prabang…Just do yourself a favor and allow enough time the spend the whole day here. You’re even allowed to swim in the pools! It will run you about $30USD for a songthaew to the falls. Find some hostel friends to split the fare and enjoy the bouncy 45-minute ride to what may be one of the most awesome things to do in Luang Prabang. At 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD), the entrance fee is a steal and includes an admission to visit the Tat Kuang Si Moon Bear Rescue Centre.
Bros Tip: Hike to the top of of the falls to get away from the crowds and enjoy a different perspective. There’s a path at the top to explore further and you may even find the secret hidden pool. We went in November, however, monsoon season can be hit or miss (July – October) and you may not get those picture-perfect Instagram shots you were planning on.
2. Climb Mount Phousi
The best view of the city, bar none. Trek up the 600+ steps to the sacred mountain summit for an amazing sunset. Not to worry, you’ll be stopping along the way, as there are some great photo ops to be had as you ascend.
Bros Tip: The summit does tend to get crowded at golden hour, so allot some time to go a bit earlier (4-5 pm) and claim a spot to sit as the sun sets down over the Mekong River. Typically less crowded at sunrise, either way, just a 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD) entrance fee.
3. Go Bowling
Yup! That’s right, bowling! There must be something about bowling barefoot because never bowled so well in our lives! The perfect way to kill some time at only $1.75 per game. If bowling is not your thing, you can grab a bow and arrows to try your luck with the archery targets. You’ll end up here late-night if you want to party as the lanes stay open when all the bars close, pumping pop music til’ almost 3 am.
4. Visit Wat Xieng Thong Monastery
Built by the King during the 16th Century, Wat Xieng Thong temple is Luang Prabang’s best-known and most visited monastery. It also could be arguably one of the most important Lao monasteries and one of the most beautiful temples in all of Asia. Explore the grounds and get in touch with your inner zen as you soak in glass mosaics as you’ve never seen before. Located right in town and just $2.50 USD/20,000 Kip fee to enter.
5. Observe the Alms Ceremony
Get up early, like 5 am early. If you don’t hit snooze and are able to witness Tak Bat, be respectful, be quiet, and put your camera away. The purpose of the ceremony is so that monks from nearby monasteries can collect food for the day. Participate only if it’s meaningful to you, not just to take photos, as people say tourists have ruined this sacred ceremony.
If you participate, be ready to give the monks food, rice from the morning market, or possibly something packaged (not from the food stall on the monk’s route). This tradition is over 600 years old and a unique experience, don’t be that cringy tourist. Better yet, go with a local guide, and participate properly.
6. Explore the Buddha Caves
Set in a sheer limestone cliff at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers lie the Pak Ou Caves. Just under 2 hours away, 25 km north of Luang Prabang on the Mekong, the caves can be accessed by boat ($10 USD) or tuk-tuk ($25 USD). If you took the slowboat then you may have noticed them on your way to Luang Prabang.
As a special place of worship for many centuries, thousands of mini Buddha statues fill both the upper and lower caves. Underwhelmed or not, the fact remains that the Royal Family has been making pilgrimages here since the 16th century and the caves are treasured as one of the most important religious sites in all of Laos.
7. Stroll the Night Market
One of our favorite markets in all of Southeast Asia. Eat, haggle and stroll; this market has got it all. Go hungry, leave happy. Runs from 5 – 11 pm daily.
8. Visit the Artisan Village
The Ban Phanom Artisan Village is the former royal weaving village that specializes in cotton and silk textiles. The same techniques and patterns used to supply the royal family are still carried out to this day. You are able to observe the textile workers as they work on their looms, dyeing and weaving some special garments. The perfect place to pick up a traditional craft or handwoven souvenir fit for a King or Queen.
9. Chill at Utopia
This place has all the vibes and we don’t think they could have named it any better. Don’t worry, you’ll end up here either way because Utopia is THE spot. Have a bevy or two, catch up on some emails and meet other travelers at this laid-back hang out.
10. Visit Nong Khiaw
Remote hikes and waterfalls?! Yes please! The journey to Nong Khiaw will take 3-4 hours via road or 6-7 hours by boat from Luang Prabang. Though a bit more costly, if you take the boat you will be rewarded with spectacular views along the Mekong and Ou River. Due to its location, visiting may be best reserved for longer than a day in this beautiful, laid-back town in Northern Laos. Nong Khiaw, sometimes spelled Nong Kiaow or Nong KiauIt is only beginning to become a popular destination between tourists and backpackers so crowds are few and far between.
Not to worry, it still has its fair share of accommodations, restaurants and tour companies. If you’re looking to discover an adventure with stunning views off the beaten path, you may want to pencil Nong Khiaw into your Luang Prabang itinerary.
11. Take a Cycling Tour
There is an abundance of cycling companies offering bike rentals and/ or guided tours in town. Luang Prabang is a great place to bike due to its relatively flat, wide roads and little alleyways with clearly marked cycling routes (signs w/ cycler icon). Hopping on a bike is a great eco-friendly way to explore the countryside and get some exercise. No wrong way to do it, biking gives you the freedom to choose your own adventure.
12. Farm on the Living Land Rice Farm
Spend your morning on the Living Land Rice Farm and learn how rice is grown with locals. You’ll experience the life of a farmer and try your hand at some of the cultivation activities. The Living Land Company is a Community Enterprise, run by a local team for the benefit of Lao people. They grow organic vegetables, greens, herbs and rice to supply leading restaurants and hotels in Luang Prabang. This unique experience is both fun and educational, giving you a taste of farm life in the Luang Prabang Valley.
13. Relax at Tad Sae Waterfalls
Just 35-40 minutes outside of town, hidden in the jungle, these falls remain a bit off the beaten track. You can daydream to the sound of the turquoise falls, picnic, go for a swim and relax here for the day. Bonus points for visiting during the rainy season when the water levels are high.
14. Enjoy a Sunset on the Mekong
There’s just something magical about a sunset on the Mekong River.
15. Play a round of Golf
Luang Prabang Golf Club is a world-class premier golf course located just 10 minutes outside of town. No matter what your skill level, you’ll be sure to enjoy the beautiful and unique atmosphere. No need to bring clubs, the rentals here are superb. Want to golf like a pro? You can even hire a caddy!
16. Take a Cooking Class
Surprisingly, Laotian cuisine can be very different from it’s South East Asia neighbors. Understanding a country’s food can be a window into understanding a country’s culture. There’s even a vegetarian class!
17. Get A Massage
At $6 USD?! Who doesn’t have time to fit a massage into their day?
18. Explore the Botanical Garden
Although it has a $25 USD admission fee to enter, it goes to a great cause. The passionate team behind Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden hopes to showcase native plants and authentic recipes while helping to preserve a precious aspect of Lao heritage along the way. All revenues are reinvested in the garden’s development, research and education. Included with admission is a relaxing 15-minute boat ride on the Mekong to Laos’ first botanical garden.
19. Visit the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is a heritage museum where you can learn about Luang Prabang as a former capital city and where the Royal Family once lived. It costs only 30,000 Kip ($3.50 USD) to enter with most visitors typically spending an hour or so to walk through. An important royal landmark and an opportunity to learn about the dramatic history of Laos. Also, heads up here, you must dress modestly or cover up before you enter, and note, no photos are allowed to be taken inside.
20. Drink Beer Lao
From the second we set foot in Laos we vibed with the slow peaceful way of life and fell in love with their beverage of the people, Beer Lao. There’s nothing like putting back a few cold, tall bottles of Laos’ finest on a hot day when a big bottle will run you about $1-1.50 USD. Brewed using locally grown jasmine rice, malt imported from France and Belgium, and hops and yeast from Germany, there’s a reason this brewski is the best selling and leading brand in Lao.
21. Visit Phan Phao Temple
Situated on a hill in South East Luang Prabang, also known as Wat Phol Phao, Pahn Phao translates to “Peacefulness Temple”. They nailed it with the name of this Wat and Phan Phao temple rewards with serenity plus a decent view. We wouldn’t say it’s a “can’t miss” but if you’re in the area or bored and looking to explore, it’s worth a detour.
Backpacking Southeast Asia?…or around the world?! Check out our posts on Thailand, Laos & Cambodia!
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