Joanna James
Its religious atmosphere is the most appealing feature of Luang Prabang. In fact, the name Luang Prabang translates to 'Royal Buddhist Image'. Tourists are enamoured by its charming scenery.
It doesn't get as much recognition as other waterfalls in Laos, but it is quite popular with the locals. The journey is made by a tuk-tuk and by boat. Many people visit the waterfalls for a relaxing swim. Tad Sae Waterfalls is located at 12 miles from Luang Prabang, and the best time to visit is during the rainy season when the water level is high.
This is one of the places in Luang Prabang that offers some insight into the ethical structure that governs Laos. You see local artisans in their element practising arts. The goal of the centre is to preserve heritage by promoting traditional arts among locals. There are 80 ethnic groups in Laos, and they all use the centre as a way to demonstrate various art forms passed down to them by their forbearers.
When compared to other palaces in the world, the Royal Palace Museum doesn't have a long history. It was only built in 1904 during the French colonial period as the residence of the Lao royal family. The monarchy was overthrown by a communist movement in 1975, and the palace was converted into a museum. It is built in both French and Lao architectural styles. A room inside the palace contains the gifts received by the royal family; the contents of the room is categorised into two groups: capitalist and socialist.
This is one of the most striking waterfalls found in Luang Prabang; the waterfall has three tiers with a 50-meter drop. It cascades into a massive pool of water, which is perfect for swimming, and it also offers the best view of the falls. On-site are several wooden huts used by visitors to change clothes. Travellers can choose to sit on the perimeter that lies through the thick wilderness and simply view the gushing waters. If you can spare the time, visit the nearby butterfly park.
It wouldn't be wrong to call these caves a sanctuary of Buddhas. There are nearly 6,000 statues found in these caves, and they come in various sizes and shapes. The caves are found along the Mekong River in a scenic setting 24 km away from Luang Prabang. A visit to these caves is necessary if you are to get a sense of the prevalent historical charm in Laos, many hotels including Avani+ Luang Prabang, arrange sightseeing tours that include Pak Ou Caves.
Things to do in Luang Prabang include a visit to this local night market. Your best bargaining skills need to be at play if you are to weather the challenge of shopping at Luang Prabang Night Market. The market has a diverse range of merchandise for sale, including handbags, ethnic crafts, clothes and items made of bamboo.
Also called the Temple of the Golden City, Wat Xieng Thong is found between Mekong River and the Nam Khan. The temple was built in the 16th century and is an excellent model of Laos architecture. Once, this was the site where the coronations of the Laotian kings were held. The complex comprises 20 buildings which serve different purposes. Among the religious valuables found at the complex are statues of various deities and a funeral coach that's 25-meters long.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
