Joanna James
Located in the charming Laos, Luang Prabang is a treasure trove of attractions. Once a royal capital, Luang Prabang offers an abundance of things to do. Keep reading to find out more.
In the heart of Luang Prabang stands Mount Phousi, a sacred hill where thrilling adventure awaits you. Climbing 300 steps might sound tiring, but the remarkable temple at the summit, along with breathtaking panoramic views, makes it well worth your effort. For a magical experience, you should visit at dawn or dusk.
You can journey into the rich history of Laos at the Royal Temple Museum. There’s an extensive collection of cherished artefacts, including ancient Buddha statues. This is a religious place, so remember to be respectful and dress modestly – no photography is allowed inside, so leave your camera behind. A 10-minute drive from Avani+ Luang Prabang will get you to the temple.
A religious and cultural jewel of Laos, Wat Xieng Thong is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual aura. If you visit, you can witness and engage in a variety of unique rituals. A visit to Wat Xieng Thong is among the most popular things to do in Luang Prabang for both locals and foreigners, so make sure it’s part of your itinerary as well.
Whether you’re a botanist or just simply interested in all things nature-related, a visit to Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens is a must. The garden serves as a teaching centre as well as a research centre. Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens offers an in-house programme that offers an interesting experience for visitors. Here at the gardens, you will also see a few endangered tree species like Water Pine and Dipterocarp.
The park is run by two Dutch people who are enthusiastic about nature and butterflies. This is a stunning tract of nature where you can spend a bit of time in perfect serenity. There are various ticket options, and some include coffee and lunch. If visitor reviews are anything to go by, the coffee served at the park is delicious, and only good things are said about the delightful apple cake. You can enjoy these delightful treats with your feet in the carp-inhabited water.
Sitting atop a hill, Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is immersed in stunning scenery. The place upholds the culture and traditions of Laos’ ethnic groups. The museum section of the centre is completely dedicated to showcasing ethnic artefacts. There’s also a café where you can enjoy a cup of tea, and the small gift shop sells a variety of beautiful things created by minority artisans. The centre also offers a variety of activities, including seminars, workshops, and embroidery classes.
If you’re a night owl, you’ll find plenty to do and buy here at the Night Market. Open from 5 pm to 10 pm, the market is a buzzing place where locals and tourists get together. You’ll find an array of delicious street food items, and they’re not expensive at all. The market is not accessible by car, so you might have to suffer a detour if you get here by car – a bicycle is the best way to get here. The market also features various souvenir shops that sell t-shirts, handicrafts, and paintings. Bring cash; credit cards are not accepted.
A morning person? Well, then head to the Morning Market! The Night Market is aimed at tourists, but the Morning Market is busy with locals. A visit here is a must if you want to experience local life. You’ll see locals purchasing groceries and fresh produce before they start their day. Stalls at the market sell all manner of fruits and vegetables. If you look around, you’ll also find fresh seafood. And the market also sells some things you might find a little strange – think pig heads, bats, and insects.
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.
