Luang Prabang Travel Guide
Gilded Temples, Laos’s Gem
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Ancient capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom Luang Prabang is the jewel of Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. This ancient royal city is surrounded by mountains at the junction of the Mekong and its tributary, the Nam Khan. Mount Phousi stands in the centre of the city with stunning views of the surrounding temples and hills. This is a city not to be missed!
According to legend Luang Prabang’s first name was ‘Muang Swa’, named after King Khun Xua around the 8th century and later became known as Xieng Dong Xieng Thong, meaning ‘city of gold’. Between 1354 and 1372, during the reign of King Fa Ngum the city was renamed Luang Prabang after the name given to a gold image of Buddha, the Phrabang which was given as a gift by the Khmer royal family; Luang means Royal.
The capital was moved from Luang Prabang to present-day Vientiane in 1545 and by 1694 had grown weak. Over the next 200 years the city was invaded and reinvaded, the French arriving in the late 1880s. Many colonial buildings sprang up, juxtaposing pleasingly with the gilded temples for which today the town is famous. It was during the wars of the late 20th century that the town declined and visitors returning today wouldn’t recognise it if they visited in, say, the Seventies by which time it was extremely dilapidated.
Today it is revitalised and once again a proud city. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995 it has seen a steady growth in visitors and yet remains utterly unspoiled.
Attractions in Luang Prabang
The attractions of Luang Prabang are many, from its temples to the charm of its riverside setting. The main must-sees include the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Wisunarat and Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham; there are dozens more in and around the town. Climb Phousi, the big hill for sunrise or sunset. Kuang Si Falls lie some 30km south of Luang Prabang (Tat Sae Falls are closer) whilst Pak Ou caves are around 25km north. There is a small night market in town though it’s much quieter than its Thai equivalents.
Activities in Luang Prabang
Allow at least 2 days in Luang Prabang and longer if you can. A day sightseeing the main temples in town and a day to explore a little outside town, then how about village cycle rides or a cooking course (Luang Prabang has its own style)? Shopping for handicrafts is also good – there are galleries and the night market.
Relaxing
Head to the Royal Theatre where you can enjoy traditional dance and music as well as displays of the dances of the tribal minorities.
Getting Around
The town is small enough to explore on foot and by bike – a recommended way of exploring. You’ll need your own transport if exploring beyond the town itself – hire a tuk tuk if not on an organised tour.
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