Joanna James
Known as the 'Jewel in Laos Crown', the Luang Prabang town is soon becoming popular among all tourists. Here is a list of reasons as to why.
You must witness one of the best practices of this wonderful town, the Buddhist alms-giving ceremony. This is a valued practice of the locals and you must attend. Visitors can take part in the processions, as long as they behave respectfully and be disciplined at all times. This is a sacred ritual in this town and adhering to the rules is a must. The practice typically starts early in the morning- during sunrise to be precise. They start at the main road of Luang Prabang and start dispersing throughout many other side roads.
That isn't it, Luang Prabang offers more. The one hundred and fifty-meter mountain known as Mount Phousi does fill up the skyline of the city at a distance. If you want to witness an incredible sunset or sunrise, this is just the place to go to. With the sun playing a myriad of colours across the Mekong River, it's a view you'll never forget. Besides, you can go on luxury Mekong river cruises too, cruises the likes of that offered by the Mekong Kingdoms offer a good experience.
The village of Ban Phanom is an important place near the town that is involved in making traditional clothes and attire. Families here tend to take part in this traditional weaving to sell their items and goods in the night markets held there. These items used to be purchased by the royals long ago. However, still, the same techniques of weaving is used to produce fine silk and cotton in various colours. Besides, the prices of these products are very affordable and prices are often times negotiable too. Don't miss out on this industrious village for a fine insight into traditional dressmaking. On top of that, you can take a bicycle and explore some of the ancient temples residing around the village.
Head towards the Nam Khan River for a delightful surprise. Here, you'll find the elegant village sanctuary which is one of the primary attractions of this town. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for Lao elephants that are rescued from brutal work involving logging. After they are rescued, they are given lodging at the forest, where they can rest and recuperate. Disabled elephants are given an extra hand to recover by well-trained vets at the sanctuary.
At the Luang Prabang, the Kuang Si Waterfall is the largest waterfall and it deserves a visit. The 50-meter fall reaches a pool of azure coloured waters which is of breathtaking beauty. The colour itself is just calming to the mind. Besides, pack up your swimming attire before heading over here, as the pools are a delight of its own. Places for changing are provided too. So why miss out on an opportunity to cool off in these waters?
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
