Awesome Things To Do In Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang has plenty to offer for all kinds of tourists coming from across the world. It is also known as the ‘Heart of Laos’ and also signifies the ‘Royal Image of Buddha’ as the rich land of tradition, religion, and nature. It is located on the Nam Khan River, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The moment you reach the destination, you can feel some soothing vibes, which might be because of the pristine nature, soothing presence of monks, small touch at the riverfront, or the charming smile of the locals. Each and every moment spent on the Laos tour package is worth it. Luang Prabang, Laos has numerous exciting things to do and places to visit, be it learning about its culture, exploring beautiful temples, communing with nature, trying local cuisine, or shopping for souvenirs. The religious architecture of the city is gorgeous and must explore your tour.
Here we have listed some of the best things to do on Laos tour package:
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Watch the sunset from Mount Phou Si:
Mount Phou Si is located in the heart of the city, offering stunning views. It is nestled between two rivers and is only 100 meters high, so hiking up the mountain is not too difficult. It has two stairways loaded with green trees, one with 328 steps and another with 355 steps. Both the stairs have interesting stops like a small cave temple Wat Tham Phousi which showcases golden Buddha images in different mudras, and a couple of more temples. You can choose to use one stairway to climb up and one to head back downstairs. Speaking of sunsets, the mountain is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Luang Prabang. The sunset view is worth climbing Mount Phou Si. Try and reach there a little prior to sunset time as a lot of people reach there before time, and then it can be a bit crowded to get the perfect spot to enjoy the view or click pictures.
Opening hours: 5.30 AM to 6.00 PM daily
How to reach: Climbing the stairways is the only way to access the mountain.
Location: Luang Prabang’s old town
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Visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls:
Kuang Si Waterfalls is one of the best places to explore on Laos tours. You can reach here hiking or cycling. It is a three-tiered, 50-meter waterfall, a combination of azure and turquoise color passing through the dense jungle. This milky blue waterfall looks like the sky is flowing in a liquid form, especially when the water is falling down the rocks. There are some swimming holes in there, and you can also stand in the waterfall itself if you hike up to the top with appropriate footwear. There are small shops to purchase souvenirs or try some food at the waterfall entrance. Try visiting the waterfalls early in the morning as later on the attraction will be crowded and swimming would be difficult.
Opening hours: 8.00 AM to 5.30 PM daily
How to reach: You can take a 45 minutes Tuk Tuk ride from the city, or hire a bike, scooter or a minivan. Sharing Tuk Tuks are also an option.
Location: 23 km from Luang Prabang town
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Take a cooking class:
Laotian food is very delicious, and the best part is you can learn to cook the local dishes at various cooking classes. A lot of travelers believe that the best way to breathe in the environment of a place is to try its delicious food. There are multiple cooking classes in Luang Prabang, but one of the most popular ones is called “Tamarind.” Here you will get to learn in an open kitchen overlooking the scenic fields. Learn some popular dishes and taste back to your home to relive Laotian food in your kitchen.
Tamarind opening hours: 11.00 AM to 9.00 PM from Monday to Saturday
Location: Kingkitsarath Rd, Luang Prabang
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Explore the majestic temples:
Luang Prabang is loaded with beautiful attractions, but its stunning golden temples are beyond comparison. The city consists of 34 temples, and all of them are rich in architecture and spiritually deep. In Luang Prabang, they are known as Wats, offering a soothing environment. One of the most famous temples is Wat Xieng Thong and is a must explore on Laos tour packages. It was built in the 1500s and is a popular spot to meditate, rest, contemplate Nirvana with the serenity all around. A lot of wedding photoshoots take place here. If you are lucky enough, you might get to witness such shoots and the beautiful traditional outfits. Temples are religious sites and should be respected, so dress decently with covered arms and legs. (for both males and females)
Opening time: Temple’s timing might be different from one another.
Wat Xieng Thong is open from 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM daily.
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Explore the night markets:
Night markets in Southeast Asia are vibrant, colorful, and exciting. Laou’s night markets are filled with people from all over the world. Local vendors sell various kinds of products, which include beautiful wood carvings, handicrafts, jewelry, apparel, and other knick-knacks. The handicraft night market is where you can get to find souvenirs like silk pieces, ceramic, bamboo carvings, apparel, jewelry, etc. Another specialty of these night markets is the food stalls. People who don’t wish to shop can try some delicious local dishes. You will find a buffet street just off the main road, filled with authentic food. Be careful of pocket pickers when it is crowded.
Opening hours: 5.00 PM to 11.00 PM daily
Location: Luang Prabang night market is on Sisavangvong Road
Some other things to do in Luang Prabang are:
- Try an authentic Laos Massage.
- Try traditional Whiskey at the Whiskey Village.
- Cruise along the Mekong.
- Learn how to grow rice.
- Know the history of Laos at the Royal Palace Museum.
- Watch the Alms giving ceremony.
- Explore Green Jungle Park.
These are some of the best things to do on Laos tour packages with your family, friends, or solo trip. Don’t miss out on them, for a memorable holiday like never before.