How to enjoy Luang Prabang at its best

Located in northern Laos and set amidst mountain backdrops, Luang Prabang is an enchanting town that has a rich heritage too. A UNESCO World Heritage Centre, it offers much to discover for intrepid travellers from ancient temples and colonial architecture to captivating river cruises and age-old traditions. Here are some insights and things to keep in mind to help you get the most out of your getaway.

Stay Within the Historical Town

One of the best ways to fully experience the wonders of Luang Prabang is to stay within the town itself. This provides an ideal opportunity to truly soak up its old-world charm as well as appreciate the unique architecture which features a blend of traditional and colonial designs. You can also easily visit key attractions in Luang Prabang such as the 16th-century temple called Wat Xieng Thong and Mount Phousi which offers panoramic vistas from its summit.

Visit Temples and Sacred Sites

Apart from the above mentioned Wat Xieng Thong, there are many other temples in Luang Prabang well worth visiting, each providing something different to experience; these include Wat Aham initially built to honour the town's two guardian spirits, Wat Pa Phai featuring a fascinating wooden fresco and the Royal Temple (referred to as Haw Pha Bang) with its Phra Bang Buddha. Also of note, is the Buddhist shrine called That Chomsi at the summit of Mount Phousi and the forest monastery, Wat Phon Phao within easy reach of the town centre.

Add Key Sites to Your Itinerary

While there is much to see on your sightseeing adventures, do make sure you include some of the key sites of interest in your itinerary like the Royal Temple Museum; housed in what was once the royal palace, it features various exhibits such as statues, weapons, paintings, religious items, the Laos crown jewels and more.

Also worth visiting is the Night Market where you will not only find a range of bargain items but delectable street food too. Those planning excursions in Luang Prabang can add sites like the Kuang Si Falls, Kuang Si Butterfly Park and Pak Ou Caves to their itinerary as well.

Witness a Buddhist Almsgiving Ceremony

No trip here would be complete without witnessing the traditional Buddhist almsgiving ceremony known as "tak bat". Early morning each day, monks silently traverse the streets in and around the town with large bowls; as an act of earning merit, locals put food (generally, sticky rice or bananas) in these bowls as they pass by. Some properties like Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel are not only ideally placed for you to view this ritual, but will prepare food and tell you about the proper etiquette so you can take part.

Embark on a River Cruise

Heading off on a magical cruise along the Mekong River is one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang Laos. Hotels can be found which will organise such river adventures and will even give you a chance to make your way to the Golden Triangle. Letting you enjoy stunning natural backdrops and witness local livelihoods like fishing, such journeys are ideal to take at sunset, while dinner cruises are available too.

Enjoy Outdoor Adventures

Those who love the great outdoors have plenty to look forward to as well. Kayaking is a popular activity to try and adventurers traversing the Mekong or Nam Khan rivers have much to take in. On land, trekking is a great way to witness the natural beauty of mountains and forests of Luang Prabang as well as visit traditional villages. You can also try off-road cycling with plenty of mountain trails to explore.