Anastasia Smith
In the northern part of Laos lies one of the most well-preserved cultural elements anywhere in the world. The town of Luang Prabang wears the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site on account of its religious and architectural significance. If your journeys just happen to take you to Laos, then Luang Prabang is an experience you just can't afford to miss, and here, we’re going to discuss 5 must-tries within this haven.
From an array of colourful tropical fruits and vegetables to the early morning catch still yet to meet its demise, fresh ingredients and local food culture thrive within the Morning Market. Vendors from all over the area gather here to sell their goods, and, for someone passionate about culinary arts, Luang Prabang’s Morning Market is sure to leave you impressed with what it has to offer. As for its whereabouts, the main Morning market can be located on the peninsular, just off Luang Prabang’s main street. However, in case you aren’t able to visit in the early hours of the day, Phosy Market is a great choice too. It is open throughout the day and is an experience of its own.
Also known as the Golden Palace, this was the place of residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family during the French colonial era. The Golden Palace was built in 1904, replacing the palace that had been destroyed by Chinese mercenaries in 1887. The palace is said to display a symphony of traditional Lao and French styles, linked to his close collaboration with French colonists. You will also bear witness to a 2,000-year-old golden statue of Buddha known as Phra Bang, the holiest image of Buddha in Laos. The Royal Palace can be visited between 8 am and 11:30 am as well as between 1:30 pm and 4 pm in the evening.
Perhaps all the exploring has made you hungry? You’ll be thrilled to know that Laos is celebrated for its flavours of local cuisine, and Luang Prabang won't hesitate to show them off. The town is full of restaurants and vendors who are more than happy to give you their take on local cuisine. You will be sure to come across some fragrant sticky rice acting as the base to most meals, usually served with marinated protein paired together with herbs, greens and especially spices, adding to that hit of chilli that local food is known for.
There is more than one way to go about your adventures in Luang Prabang, and for those who are looking for a truly unique experience, A Luang Prabang cruise is the ultimate way to explore the waterways that surround this heritage. Mekong Kingdoms is a name that comes to mind when considering this, as they offer an array of cruises that you can choose from, be it during the day, or with a fine dining experience.
The famous Mount Phousi sits in the middle of Luang Prabang, its summit of a 100-meter hill. After a 300-stair climb to the top, visitors will be met with a breathtaking view of their surroundings, namely the Mekong River, the city of Luang Prabang itself, and the beautiful surroundings that sit around it. There are two entrances to Mount Phousi, one opposite the Royal Palace Museum and the other next to the Nam Khan River.
