Top 5 Places to Visit in Luang Prabang in 2024

Pak Ou Caves

Pak Ou Caves is located 25 kilometers to the north of Luang Prabang, right next to the mouth of Ou River and overlooking the Mekong River. The caves have long been considered a symbol of religion of Luang Prabang Province. They are a group of two caves, the lower is called Tham Ting and the upper is call Tham Theung. Along the caves, tourists can enjoy the view of hundreds of miniature Buddha sculptures, interestingly, each of them has its own position from meditation to peace and nirvana.

Kuang Si Waterfall

What makes Kuang Si Waterfall so alluring is the breathtaking cascades of water. Kuang Si Waterfall is the biggest in Luang Prabang area with three tiers which lead to a 50-meter drop into a giant pool. The pool is big enough to soak in as well as swim around. The area also has a famous bear sanctuary where keeping endangered species – moon bears (Asiatic black bear) – they will definitely make tourists go “Awww”.

Temples

Wat Xieng Thong is a symbol of great historic importance as well as a distinctive illustration of Luang Prabang architectural style and features with intricately carved walls, rare Buddhist deities and 12-meter high funeral carriage. In this property, there are ornate mosaics including a “tree of life” glass montage on the rear temple wall.

Wat Wisunarat also was known as Wat Visoun was originally built during King Wisunarat’s era. With hundreds of years of history, the temple now represents the earliest style of Lao temple architecture including the sims.

Wat Mai (Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham) with the similar sim architecture, is the largest and most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang. Due to its impressive dimensions Temple Wat Mai is easily distinguished from the street, highlighting greatly their roofs 5 levels although it is worth noting the covered porch nestled on 2 rows of columns and the detailed carvings in wood exteriors of Wat Mai.

National Museum

Situated adjacent Wat Mai Temple, National Museum formerly known as Royal Palace Luang Prabang is an attraction where you can learn quite a lot about Laos’ history and Laos’ Royal. In the palace compound, there are several buildings including the Royal Barge Shelter, a conference hall, and Haw Pha Bang – an ornate pavilion.

Mount Phousi

Rise above the centre of the town with the height of 150 meters, Mount Phousi is a place to broaden your view of both sunrise and sunset. Additionally, from the summit of Mount Phousi, tourists will have a chance to behold a spectacular 360-degree view of the city and its temples.

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