Visit Luang Prabang: Top 10 Amazing Things To Do And See

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage city in Laos, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage and magnificent natural beauty. This place offers a tranquil escape for travelers looking for a unique blend of spirituality, adventure and relaxation.

It was the royal capital of the Kingdom of Laos and is home to numerous temples, monasteries, and colonial-era buildings. The city’s architecture reflects a blend of Lao and European influences.

In this article, Hanoi Voyages will give you things to do when visit Luang Prabang, the weather in Luang Prabang, local foods and where to stay in Luang Prabang.

Things to do in Luang Prabang

Wondering what are the best things to do in Luang Prabang? This UNESCO World Heritage town is full of unforgettable experiences — from exploring the sacred Wat Xieng Thong, climbing Mount Phousi for panoramic views, visiting the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls, and taking a boat to the mystical Pak Ou Caves, to strolling through the vibrant night market. With its mix of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, visit Luang Prabang is a must-do activity in your Laos trip.

Climb mount Phousi

When visit Luang Prabang, you can climb to the top of mount Phousi for panoramic views of Luang Prabang. The views are simply breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset, and it’s the ideal spot to take photos of the city and its surroundings.

Mount Phousi is easily accessible by foot. Start your ascent near the Royal Palace museum at the bottom of the hill.

Discover Kuang Si waterfalls

Kuang Si waterfalls is a natural gem that captivates visitors with its cascading turquoise pools and lush surroundings. Kuang Si waterfalls are approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles) from Luang Prabang, making it an easy day trip. You can hire a tuk-tuk, join a tour, or rent a scooter for a more adventurous ride - a must-try activities when visit Luang Prabang.

You can purchase tickets for Kuang Si waterfalls Park at the entrance for 20,000 Kip per person (about 2.5 USD). The park area is open daily from 8 am until 5.30 pm.

You can also refer: Explore Kuang Si waterfall: A complete travel guide

Wat Xieng Thong

• Address: Khem Khong, Luang Prabang, Laos

• Opening hours: Open daily 08:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Entrance fee: 30.000 kip per person (~ $1.4)

Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most beautifully preserved ancient temples in Luang Prabang, situated at the tip of the peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. Built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, it reflects classic Lao architecture with elegant tiered roofs and intricate gold detailing.

The temple once hosted royal ceremonies and remains central to Buddhist life. Its stunning mosaics, including the Tree of Life mural, highlight traditional artistry. During Boun Pi Mai, senior monks and officials gather here for sacred New Year rituals, showcasing the city's deep cultural roots. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang.

Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham

• Address: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

• Opening hours: Daily, 08:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Entrance fee: 10,000 kip per person (~$0.46)

Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, or simply Wat Mai, is one of the largest and most beautifully decorated temples - a must-visit site for those who want to visit Luang Prabang. Built in the late 18th century, it boasts a striking multi-tiered roof and exquisite gold reliefs illustrating the life of Buddha.

As a key site for religious ceremonies such as Boun Pi Mai, Wat Mai offers visitors not only impressive architecture but also a glimpse into Laos’ spiritual traditions. Visiting this temple is undoubtedly among the top things to do in Luang Prabang for anyone exploring the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Explore the Old Town

Relaxing and taking in the sights of the historic Old Town is one of the best things to do when visit Luang Prabang.

Wander through the well-preserved streets of Luang Prabang’s Old Town, where colonial architecture, traditional Lao wooden houses, and vibrant markets await.

The Royal palace

• Address: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

• Opening hours: Daily, 08:00 am – 11:30 am & 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm (closed on Tuesdays)

• Entrance fee: 30,000 kip per person (~$1.50)

When it comes to things to do when visit Luang Prabang, exploring the Royal Palace Museum is one of the most popular activities in Luang Prabang for travelers seeking history and culture. Built in 1904, this Golden Palace (Haw Kham) replaced the old residence destroyed in 1887 and later became the home of King Sisavang Vong and his family.

Inside, visitors can explore the Throne Hall, where royal regalia, costumes, and precious artifacts are displayed, alongside a series of museum exhibits that showcase the country’s rich heritage. Beyond its exhibits, the palace itself is a landmark of French–Lao architectural style, making it both a cultural and architectural highlight of Luang Prabang.

Visit the Pak Ou caves

Among the most fascinating attractions to visit Luang Prabang, a visit to the Pak Ou Caves combines both adventure and spirituality. Located along the Mekong River, these sacred caves are filled with thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over the centuries.

• How to get there: The journey usually starts with a scenic boat ride from Luang Prabang, offering stunning views of the river and lush landscapes along the way.

• What to see: Two main caves — Tham Ting (lower cave) and Tham Theung (upper cave) — both home to countless Buddha images in various shapes and sizes.

• Why visit: It’s not just about the caves, but also the cultural insight into Lao Buddhism and the unforgettable river journey that makes this trip special.

Exploring Pak Ou Caves is a must-do for travelers looking to combine natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a touch of adventure during their stay in Luang Prabang.

You can refer more options: Top 7 must-see caves in Laos for your trip

Take a cooking class

The culinary scene in Luang Prabang is a delightful blend of flavors influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and French cuisines. Taking a cooking class in this charming town is an excellent way to immerse yourself in its gastronomic traditions.

Lao cuisine is known for its aromatic herbs, sticky rice and flavorful sauces. You can learn how to cook local dishes such as Laap (a minced meat salad), Mok Pa (steamed fish in banana leaves), and Tam Mak Hoong (green papaya salad). You should to try this experience when visit Luang Prabang

Bicycle tours

One thing you must do when visit Luang Prabang is to rent a bicycle and explore the peaceful countryside surrounding. Ride along the Mekong river, visit local villages and enjoy the scenic beauty of rice fields and mountains.

Start your bicycle tour in the morning when the weather is cooler, and the town is less crowded. Grab a local map, and don’t forget essentials like water, sunscreen and a hat.

Start off by renting bikes from Tiger trails in Luang Prabang, which costs 10 USD per day. Then go exploring in the nearby villages and towns. The sound of chickens pecking at corn husks and corn boiling over an open fire slowly awakens these towns.

Luang Prabang night market

After a day of exploring, the Luang Prabang night market is a great place to slow down. The market is known for its wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry and artwork created by local artisans. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Because of the French influence, there are also numerous stands selling delicious baked goods and crepes!

At Hanoi Voyages, we've designed a selection of Laos tours with the iconic sites of Luang Prabang to perfectly suit your journey. If you’d like a tour tailored to your preferences, don’t hesitate to reach out to us - we’re here to create your ideal travel experience!

Laos tour 10 days The Ethnic groups Laos tour 10 days to discover the northern part of Laos in depth and to get to know its different ethnic groups and their timeless way of life	Panorama of Laos 14 days A concentration of must-see sites, magical landscapes and traditions that will surely transport you!	Laos family tour 18 days Discover northern Laos, its charm and its nature. Its ethnic groups and authentic markets will leave you speechless

The best time to visit Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang experiences distinct seasons, and each has its unique appeal:

• Dry Season (November to February): It’s the peak tourist season, so accommodations can be more expensive, and popular sites can be crowded, especially in January and during festivals, so be sure to book ahead if you’re traveling during this time of the year.

• Pre-Monsoon Season (March to April): It can be quite hot in Luang Prabang, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F) or higher.

• Rainy Season (May to October): While daily rainfall is common, it doesn’t typically rain all day. Showers are usually heavy but short-lived.

The best time to visit Luang Prabang is from November to March when the weather is comfortably dry with pleasant average temperatures.

👉 NOTICE: Don’t miss best time to visit Luang Prabang in some local festivals such as Pi Mai (Lao New Year) in April to experience the cultural heartbeat of Laos.

How many days should you visit Luang Prabang?

Planning your trip and wondering how many days to spend in Luang Prabang? For most travelers, around 3 days in Luang Prabang is the perfect amount of time. This gives you the chance to explore its UNESCO temples, wander the night markets, take a boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves, enjoy the laid-back rhythm of this charming town without feeling rushed and visit Luang Prabang at its best

Day 1 – Discover Luang Prabang’s Cultural Heart

📍 Morning Alms-Giving Ceremony

Start your journey at dawn by witnessing the sacred alms-giving ritual, where locals offer sticky rice and food to monks in their saffron robes — a humbling glimpse into Luang Prabang’s Buddhist traditions.

Explore the town’s most iconic temples:

• Wat Xieng Thong – Famous for golden stenciling and the striking “Tree of Life” mosaic.

• Wat Visoun, That Makmo & Wat Aham – Neighboring temples that showcase a mix of Lao and Khmer influences and centuries-old Buddhist heritage.

• Wat Mai – Admire its gold reliefs and murals before heading next door to the

• Royal Palace Museum (Haw Kham) – Once home to King Sisavang Vong, now displaying royal artifacts and the throne hall.

In the afternoon, visit the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center, where artisans share the secrets of silk weaving and natural dye-making.

End the day with a sunset cruise on the Nava Mekong, enjoying a Lao-style dinner, traditional music, and cultural dance performances as the sun sets over the river.

Day 2 – Experience Nature and Village Life

📍 Kuang Si Waterfalls

Take a short trip outside the city to the stunning Kuang Si Falls, where turquoise pools flow through limestone cascades. Bring a swimsuit to swim in the refreshing waters.

Nearby:

• Bear Rescue Centre – Meet rescued Asiatic black bears in a sanctuary that supports wildlife protection.

On your way back, stop at traditional villages:

• Ban Thinkeo (H’mong) & Ban Thapaene (Khmu) – Learn about ethnic minority cultures and daily rural life.

• Ban Xang Khong – Known for handmade Saa paper and weaving, perfect for unique souvenirs.

In the evening, wander through the Luang Prabang Night Market, where you can shop for silk scarves, silver jewelry, wood carvings, and taste local specialties like grilled meats and coconut pancakes.

Day 3 – Cruise to Sacred Caves and Riverside Villages

📍 Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting & Tham Phoum)
Take a scenic boat ride north along the Mekong River to the famous Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over centuries.

On the return cruise, make enriching village stops:

• Ban Xang Hai – Discover how the local Lao-Lao rice whiskey is distilled and sample a shot if you’re curious.

• Ban Xieng Lek – A quiet riverside village known for silk weaving and its laid-back atmosphere.

Wrap up your adventure back in Luang Prabang or extend your journey to Nong Khiaw, a beautiful mountain town offering breathtaking landscapes and further exploration of northern Laos.

You can refer more information: Visit Luang Prabang in 3 days: A complete guide

Local foods and restaurants in Luang Prabang

Looking for the best local foods and restaurants when visit Luang Prabang? This charming UNESCO town is a food lover’s paradise, where you can sample authentic Lao dishes at night markets, riverside eateries, and cozy family-run restaurants. From aromatic noodle soups to traditional sticky rice with grilled meats, exploring the city’s food scene is one of the most rewarding things to do in Luang Prabang.

Local foods

Luang Prabang offers a delightful array of traditional Lao dishes and international cuisine, making it a food lover’s paradise. Here are some must-try dishes and foods in Luang Prabang:

Laap (Larb)

Laap is a signature Lao dish made from minced meat (usually chicken, pork, or fish) mixed with herbs, lime juice and roasted rice powder. It’s often served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.

Mok Pa (Fish steamed in banana leaves)

Mok pa is a delicious dish where fish, typically freshwater fish from the Mekong river, is mixed with herbs, lemongrass, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The dish can be placed in whole banana leaves or small, individual-sized parcels and it usually comes served with rice and a dipping sauce on the side.

Or Lam (Lao stew)

This versatile Lao stew is traditionally associated with Luang Prabang. The dish usually combines chunks of meat with typical Laotian spices such as lemongrass, cilantro, dill, basil, galangal and sakhan – the stems from wild vines which impart a peppery, spicy flavor to or lam.

Tam Mak Hoong (Green papaya salad)

It’s a popular side dish or snack. The ingredients used include shredded green papaya mixed with lime juice, garlic, dried shrimp, chilies, tomatoes, garlic and Lao fermented fish sauce or padaek.

Restaurants in Luang Prabang

• 3 Nagas restaurant & bar: 3 Nagas Restaurant & Bar is a classy venue within Luang Prabang’s 3 Nagas MGallery by Sofitel. Featuring cosy indoor bistro and an al fresco courtyard, you can enjoy traditional Laotian dishes with traditional folk music playing in the background.

• Coconut garden: Coconut Garden features an intimate ambience and a delightful menu of traditional Lao and Western fusion dishes. The front garden overlooks the main street, whereas the rear garden offers more privacy, with views of decorative lights and water features.

• Dyen Sabai: Dyen Sabai offers beautiful views of the Nam Khan River and Luang Prabang. Floor cushions, low tables and pillows are set on wooden terraces in the dining area. There’s also an open garden for enjoying traditional Lao barbecue and individual bamboo huts for private parties.

• L’Eléphant: L’Eléphant serves authentic French and Laotian cuisine in the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang. The restaurant is located about 500 meters southwest of Wat Xiengthong in a 1960s colonial building.

Where to stay in Luang Prabang?

Wondering where to stay in Luang Prabang? This UNESCO World Heritage town offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury riverside resorts and boutique hotels in restored colonial villas to budget guesthouses tucked away in quiet alleys. No matter your travel style, finding the right place to stay is one of the essential things to do in Luang Prabang for a comfortable and memorable trip.

Sunrise garden house – Luang Prabang

📍 Address: Ban Aham, Luang Prabang, Laos

💸 Price: ~62 USD/night

Sunrise Garden House offers 4-star accommodation less than 1 km from Mount Phousi. With an outdoor swimming pool, lush garden, and relaxing terrace, it’s conveniently located near the Night Market, National Museum, and Wat Xieng Thong.

Villa Ban Lakkham river view

📍 Address: Sakkaline Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

💸 Price: from ~36 USD/night

Villa Ban Lakkham River View is just a 3-minute walk from the Night Market and Wat Xieng Thong. Modern air-conditioned rooms come with private balconies overlooking the river, making it a comfortable and affordable stay in Luang Prabang.

Villa Maly Boutique hotel

📍 Address: Phetsarath Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

💸 Price: ~115 USD/night

Villa Maly Boutique Hotel sits in the heart of the city with buildings dating back to 1938. Rooms are elegant and cozy with touches of history, while the homely ambiance and boutique style make guests feel right at home.

3 Nagas Luang Prabang

📍 Address: Sakkaline Road, Ban Vatnong, Luang Prabang, Laos

💸 Price: ~225 USD/night

3 Nagas Luang Prabang – MGallery combines heritage charm and luxury across three restored UNESCO-listed buildings. Featuring a serene courtyard garden by the Nam Khan River and a fine dining restaurant serving authentic Lao cuisine, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an upscale cultural stay.

How to get to Luang Prabang?

Getting to Luang Prabang is straightforward with several options from nearby cities like Vientiane and Vang Vieng. Whether you prefer the convenience of flying or the budget-friendly option of traveling by bus or minivan, there are multiple routes to suit different preferences.

From Vientiane

• By plane: The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Luang Prabang is by plane. The flight takes about 1 hour, providing a quick and scenic route from Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport to Luang Prabang International Airport.

• By bus: For a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus. The journey takes 10–12 hours, with both day and night buses available. This option is ideal for travelers who don't mind the long trip and want to save money.

From Vang Vieng

• By minivan: If you’re coming from Vang Vieng, the only direct option is by minivan. The journey takes 5–6 hours and costs around $15 USD, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities.

From golden temples and sacred caves to refreshing waterfalls, lively night markets, and hands-on craft villages, Luang Prabang offers experiences that blend history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage town is more than sightseeing — it’s about immersing yourself in Lao culture and lifestyle. With so many unforgettable things to do in Luang Prabang, your journey is sure to be both enriching and memorable.

Visit Luang Prabang and discover the top 10 amazing things to do and see in this stunning city. Contact us to plan your perfect trip and experience the magic of Luang Prabang!