Luang Prabang Travel

Best time to go to Luang Prabang

The best time to visit Luang Prabang is from November to March when the weather is comfortably dry with pleasant average temperatures. It can also get somewhat crowded, especially in January and during festivals, so be sure to book ahead if you’re travelling during this time of the year.

The northeast monsoon brings cooler temperatures to the city from November to May, while heavy rainfall comes with the southwest monsoon from June to September. Luang Prabang’s annual rainfall is 1,300 mm, with August generally being the wettest month.

Downpours usually last for only short periods, but the Mekong River may get flooded in August and September. March to May is the hottest time of year when Luang Prabang experiences high levels of humidity and high average temperatures. 

Monthly weather guide

The weather in Luang Prabang is typical of many Southeast Asian countries – the city enjoys a tropical climate with warm weather year-round, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 38°C. The rainy season in Luang Prabang is from June to September, while the dry season falls between October and May.

Average temperatures in Luang Prabang vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for most of the year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 25th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide.

If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Luang Prabang, the hottest months are May, June, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid April where highs are regularly around 97.4°F (36.3°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 72.2°F (22.3°C) at night.

Check the below table to have the general idea of Luang Prabang weather throughout the year:

Luang Prabang's current weather & 7-day forecast

LUANG PRABANG WEATHER

By Flight

Luang Prabang International Airport is just 4km from the city center. A spacious new terminal opened in 2013, but depending on your craft, you may still experience a blast of nostalgia walking across the tarmac for departure or arrival.

Flights to Luang Prabang International Airport(LPQ)

• International Routes: Hanoi, Chaing mai, Bangkok, Siem Reap, Guangzhou, Jinghong, Singapore, Incheon and Kuala Lumpur.
• Domestic Routes: Vientiane and Pakse.

Getting to and from the airport

From the airport: A flat-rate taxi (50,000kip/group) is available to each hotels/guesthouse or else in the town. The ticket counter is by the exit. A tuk-tuk is not allowed to pick the tourists at the airport.

To the airport: A tuk-tuk is available and takes about 15 minutes from the town centre.
For a more comfortable ride, your hotel or guesthouse should be able to arrange a transfer by air-conditioned minivan for 50,000 – 60,000 kip.

By Boat

The boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Khong, Chieng Mai or Chieng Rai, the north of Thailand (the other direction than you're planning). From LPB to Thailand takes 2 days and those 2 days are an absolute highlight of the trip. The relaxation, the scenery, the whole expereince is wonderful. To accross the Mekong River from Bokeo (Houayxai) to Thailand, there are 2 ways: crossing by boat or by Song Thaew (mini-bus) through the International Third Friendship Bridge (Visa on arrival is depend on the condition of the country), for mini-bus ticket is about 50 Thai Bath or 5.000 Kip.

To go to the boats peir is far form the town center about 9 kilometers, close to Souphanouvong University. Tuk-Tuk cost about 50.000 Kip.

There are two different boats: slow boats and speed boats.

• Slow boats: To Pakbeng and Bokeo (Houayxai). It take 2 days and you should spend a night in Pakbeng.
• Speed boats: To Pakbeng and Bokeo (Houayxai).

By Bus

Luang Prabang has a mini-bus terminal to go to the South and North of Laos and also go to Vietnam, Thailand and China. Further more, there are two main bus stations, one serving destinations to the north and the other for destinations to the south.

Southern Bus Terminal

Description: The Southern Bus Station known as Kiew Lot Sai Tai is located near the Luang Prabang stadium and about a 10 minutes ride southwest of town.   The Southern Bus station is the customer depot for all buses arriving and departing to southern cites. This Bus Station is near the  mini-bus service terminal. Tickets bought at the Bus Terminal or travel agencies around the town.

Open Daily from 7:00 to 17:00. (If you want to go by yourself have to pay 20.000 kip for Tuk-Tuk.)

To the south: Xayabouly, Kaenthao, Phonsavanh, Vangvieng and Vientiane.

North Bus Terminal

Description: The Northern Bus Station in known as Kiew Lot Sai Nuae is located near the airport about a 15 minutes ride east of town.  In general, the Northern Bus Station services buses going in the northerly direction. Tickets bought at the Terminal Counter.

Open Daily between 7 am to 17 pm. (If you want to go by yourself have to pay 50.000 kip - 70.000 kip for Tuk-Tuk).

To the North: Nongkhiew, Phonthong, Oudomxay, Luangnamthar, Huaphanh (Xamneua), Bokeo (Houayxai) and Phongsaly.

Mini-Bus Terminal

Description: Minivan prices quoted at the minivan station are inclusive of hotel pickup and a discount is not provided if you are making your own way to the station.

Open Daily between 7 am to 21 pm. (If you want to go by yourself have to pay 20.000 kip for Tuk-Tuk and for the E-Bus ticket is 4.000 Kip).

+ Domestic Routes:

• To the north: Nongkhiew, Luangnamthar and Bokeo (Houayxai).
• To the south: Phonsavanh, Vangvieng and Vientaine.

+ International Routes: Dien Bien Phu (Vietnam), Hanoi (Vietnam), Hue (Vietnam) and Ving (Vietnam); Chieng Mai (Thailand), Chieng Rai (Thailand) and Loei (Thailand); Kunming (China), Jinghong (China) and Meuang Lar (China).

Bus departures are subject to changes to time and even point of departure, and getting to the North or South station by tuk-tuk can be expensive. Arranging transport through your guesthouse or a tour agency and paying a small commission is usually good idea: as third-party booking ensures that the ticket price includes pick-up from your guesthouse and transportation to the correct bus station.

Transport, particularly minivans, is often filled to capacity (and then some), so arrive early, which will give you have a better choice of seats. Leave a bag of non-valuable belongings on your seat to reserve it if you don’t want to hang around there until departure time.

Luang Prabang has so many incredible things to see and do – whether you’re interested in communing with nature, learning more about local culture, walking through beautiful temples, or shopping for tasty treats and souvenirs

1.Pleasant walk to explore the ancient city of Luang Prabang

There are dozens of temple complexes around town and visitors are welcome to wander around as long as they are respectful and cover up inside the buildings themselves.

We recommend you to start from Wat Xiengthong, which is one of the most important of Lao monasteries and remains a significant monument to the spirit of religion, royalty and traditional art.There are over 20 structures on the grounds including a sim, shrines, pavilions and residences, in addition to its gardens of flowers, ornamental shrubs, and trees.

From there, we can make a short visit to the old temple of Wat Sene Souk Haram, literally “Temple of 100 000 treasures”, which is the first monastery in town whose vihan was covered with yellow and red tiles in the modern Thai fashion.

Continue further down the street, you cannot ignore Luang Prabang National Museum, the former Royal Palace, whose architecture has a mixed of traditional Lao motifs and French Beaux Arts style.

The nearby Wat Mai, built in the 18th century, is the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in Luang Prabang.

In the afternoon, continue the visit with some more unique temple of Wat Visoun and Wat Aham before taking the visit to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center (TAEC).

Established in 2007, TAEC has inspired visitors by exploring, celebrating, and preserving the diverse ethnic cultures and peoples of Laos through professionally curated permanent and special exhibitions, events, and craft workshops. This is a place where you can learn more about Lao culture and tradition with its plenty ethnic minorities 

You can either ascend the 329 steps to the top of mount Phousi to watch the sunset with the panoramic view over the city, or spend a peaceful moment at the riverside temple of Wat Prabaht. Both gives you the unforgettable finish of the day.

2. Cruise the Mekong River

Mekong river is the blood of Laos, which does not only supply the water for daily life, but also the easiest route to connect the different mountainous parts of the country.

Luang Prabang itself has plenty of benefits from the river, especially for tourism. Cruising the mighty Mekong is one of the most exciting experiences when travelling to Luang Prabang.

During day time, you can either take the upstream cruise to the mysterious Pak Ou caves in the north of the city; or enjoy the leisure downstream cruise to Kuang Si waterfall in the south.

Along the way, there are plenty of local authentic traditional villages to visit. You can learn about traditional weaving at Ban Xangkhong, saa paper making at Ban Xienglek, or wine distilling at Ban Xanghai.

Before the dust falls over the city, it is also the best time to enjoy a sunset cruise and have dinner on board while watching the traditional dance & folk song. 

3. Nahm Dong Park - Back to nature

Located only 10 Km from the center of Luang Prabang, Nahm Dong Park is 18 hectares of beautiful plants, lush greenery, exquisite flora and fauna and rushing waters.

The area is spotted with cosy picnic places, some under straw huts, some in flower gardens. You could spend an entire day lounging, swimming, trekking and enjoying this natural preserve.

Not only are you immersed with this beautiful greenery that is easy to navigate, but you are also in a self-sustaining destination.

Check more about the activities offered by the park on their website

4. Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden

Pha Tad Ke is the first and only botanical garden in Luang Prabang, offering a collection of tours, workshops and activities for visitors!

The garden is located on the other side of the Mekong with a 15-minute boat ride downstream the river. You can spend half day stroll around the garden to learn more about the trees in Laos, take a short hike to the nearby Buddha cave, read a book by the Mekong, or sip a tea by the lotus pond.

Enjoy a beautiful lunch there before joining the boat back to Luang Prabang; or you can either spend the afternoon to join the workshop about permaculture, herbal tea, or taking the cruise further down to Kuang Si waterfall to refresh with the cool clear water.

5. Refresh at Kuang Si waterfall

Kuang Si Waterfalls, is a three leveled waterfall about 29 kilometres (18 mi) south of Luang Prabang.

These waterfalls are a favorite side trip for tourists in Luang Prabang. The falls begin in shallow pools atop a steep hillside. These lead to the main fall with a 60 metres (200 ft) drop.

You can spend the whole day exploring the falls, hiking up to the top to enjoy the panoramic view. You can also combine with a visit to some interesting stops along the way including Buffalo Dairy Farm, and Butterflies Park.

Need some adventure? The morning trek from Ban Long Lao through the jungle, ending at the top of the falls is a good choice.

6. Elephant Experience

This is one of the most exciting experiences you have in Luang Prabang.

There are 6 elephant camps in Luang Prabang for you to choose from depending on your plan and preference.

The first one we recommend is MandaLao Elephant Conservation Center, which focuses on the non-riding elephant tour.

The center offers the half day excursion (morning or afternoon), or full day interaction with the elephant. All starts with a short lecture about the elephant and its living conditions in Laos.

The second one is the Elephant Village, which is the first of its kind in Luang Prabang. Here you can enjoy the elephant ride of about 30 minutes and combine with a visit to the exciting Tad Sae waterfalls.

There are the options of (1) full day excursion including some trekking in the nearby area; (2) learning some Mahout skills; or (3) spending 2 to 3 days with the elephant if you wish.

For the one looking for some different experience, learning about making paper from elephant dung is for you.

There are 2 nearby camps in the area including All Laos Elephant Camp, which offers quite the same excursion with Elephant Village but less professional services; and the small camp with 4-5 elephants near Tad Sae waterfall, where you can enjoy the 30-minute-to-1-hour elephant ride.

For the one with limited time but still wish to enjoy a short elephant ride, we recommend the one in Ban Xanghai to combine with the day to Pak Ou caves. And on the day to Kuang Si waterfall, you can make a short stop at Luang Prabang Elephant Camp to have some interaction.

7. Rice Experience at Living Land Farm

The best farming experience in Laos, the Living Land Lao company offers you the best the land has to offer and a rare glimpse into the lives of traditional rice farmers in Luang Prabang.

In this course, you will be able to experience how it is like to plough the land, plant rice, harvest them, thresh and eventually cook up a traditional meal!

Set in a beautiful farmland about 20 minutes from town, it is peaceful and serene yet bustling with life as all sorts of plants and animals interact in a thriving ecosystem.

Besides farming, you will also get to see a host of other traditional crafts such as blacksmiths, bird traps, musical instruments and a whole lot more.

Also comprising a zen-like lotus lake, and an organic garden with more than 30 types of vegetables and fruits, it will delight the plant-lover in you, if not inspire the creation of one!

8. Tad Sae waterfall

Tad Sae waterfall is a spectacular natural wonder best appreciated in the wet season.

Despite the fact that it’s not as high as Kuang Si waterfall, there are still many more streams of water which cascades make a thunderous sound following plenty of rain.

The falls pour over beautiful limestone formations across a variety of levels into large pools below, which are fantastic to swim in.

Tad Sae can only be reached by boat, making it quite an adventure and an opportunity to retreat into nature.

Normally, you can combine Tad Sae waterfall with a 2-hour trek exploring the area with some authentic village.

More adventurous tourists can also enjoy some biking in the morning, spend time at the waterfall, enjoy the picnic, then take part in the kayaking downstream the Nam Khan river back to the town of Luang Prabang

There is also a small elephant camp nearby if you want to experience something different.

As many other cities in Asia, Luang Prabang host some of the most fantastic festival that you wish to join once in your lifetime.

Boun Pimay – Lao new year celebration

Although the Lao new year is celebrated in joyous spirit throughout the country, nowhere hosts more ancient traditions and colorful pageantry than the northern heritage city of Luang Prabang.

Although officially a three day festival, the party always goes on for at least a week.

Officially the last day of the year, 13th April is traditionally a day of renewal, the main symbol of which is water. Buddha images are washed, temples repainted and homes cleaned from top to bottom.

In the afternoon, young people pour water on the hands of their elders and ask for their blessing in the year ahead.

Much like a New Year toast in western cultures, this is sometimes followed by a short speech from parents or grandparents.

During the speech, elders give their blessing to their family, as well as highlighting important family events such as births, deaths or marriages.

The blessing of relatives, friends and even strangers with water continues throughout the festival.

Traditionally, you wish someone ‘Happy New Year’ (‘Sok Dii Pimai’), before pouring water over their head, symbolizing the washing away of sins committed in the past year.

These days, water is also shot through water guns or thrown from buckets and pans, creating and enormous water-fight that’s impossible to avoid.

Boun Suang Heua – Boat Racing Festival

Did you know the Boat Racing Festival (others name known as “Boun Souang Heua”), dates back thousands of years?

Boun Souang Heua is a local festival that held during the Buddhist Lent depending on the lunar calendar.

On the main day of the festival, some of Luang Prabang’s finest racing boat teams will take to the Nam Khan River to compete for this year’s title. Are you ready for all the fun and festivities?

There will be a Market Fun Fair in the morning at the same date, will set up along Chao Fa Ngum road which is start from That Luang Ground to Tourism Office.

Locally made textiles, woven bamboo baskets, handmade clay pots, agriculture products, food and so on.

Boun Lhai Heua Fai – Festival of the boats of light

Lhai Heua Fai means “floating boats of light downstream”. This festival is celebrated on the night of the End of Lent.
It is held all over Laos, especially where there is a river. The festival in Vientiane attracts big crowds of devotee and tourists but the one in Luang Prabang is even more spectacular.

In Luang Prabang, each temple and each village send a boat to join the procession on the main street leading to Wat Xieng Thong.

Once at this beautiful 16thcentury temple, the boats are lined up and a jury awards prizes to the most beautiful boats.

After that, one by one, the boats are brought down the staircases of Wat Xieng Thong, reminiscent of a scene from the film Fitzcaraldo when people carry a boat from the mountain down to the river.

Then they are delicatedly put on the water and floated down the Mekong River among thousands of small individual banana leaf skiffs in a breathtaking sea of lights.

Hmong new year

As every year, Hmong New year is “the first of the 5 new year days” in Laos (before the Lao Theung, Christian, Chinese and finally Lao new year).

This festival takes usually takes place before the end of the twelfth lunar calendar month, when the harvest is finished and foods are abundant.

The New Year Celebration starts on the morning of the first day of the new year and may last three or more days.

Festivities of the New Year’s celebration include ball tossing, song contests, Qeej performances and sporting activities, such as top playing, kicking, and bull fighting.

Hmong girls are wearing their most elaborately embroidered new outfits.

Around Luang Prabang, the new place to assist these festival is in Ban Jad San.

On this occasion, many Hmong American come in Luang Prabang, to see their relatives…

Located in the northern part of Laos, Luang Prabang has its own distinct food culture and dishes. You’ll find some of the best green papaya salads in the country, a variety of stews that make use of unique Mekong river ingredients, mind blowing chili dips, and an abundance of fresh river fish that are made into soups, curries, and one of the best dishes – koi. Right on the center main street on the historic peninsula of Luang Prabang, you have to choose your restaurants wisely, as there are plenty of watered down Lao food restaurants. But slotted in between, and down alleys, you’ll be rewarded with local northern Lao restaurants that will impress your buds.

#1 - The legendary BBQ

This BBQ place, although a favorite of all falangs, is surprisingly authentic and uncompromising on food quality. If you have seen and tried this in your home country, rest assured this is many times better (unless of course your home country is Thailand)

They offer an unlimited buffet spead of meats, seafood, and heck even the cooked food tastes great! Unbelievable. At only a price of 60,000 kips (US$7.50) per person, it’s an absolute steal. This is our top recommendation for all guests travelling through Luang Prabang, and we’ve even included it in some of our full day experiences! If you don’t have time for all 7 must try foods in Luang Prabang, at least try this one. This is the most fitting ending after a full-day Luang Prabang exploration.

#2 - Khao Ka Moo (Pork Leg rice)

This pork leg rice is also pretty legendary. Looks nondescript and nothing amazing, it absolutely does not taste the way it looks. It punches way above its looks. The pork leg is simmered for hours in a trance-inducing gravy peeling away the fats and making it so tender that it literally melts in your mouth. A generous helping is piled on top of your rice, with that sinfully indulgent sauce poured over it, paired with a hot and sour spicy chilli, this is the bomb. A favorite of the locals, most foreigners don’t even get to try it because it’s really hard to get them to pull out their English menu (even though they do have one), and nobody really knows how good it is. I mean ‘Pork leg rice’ on the menu isn’t gonna tantalize anybody’s tastebuds like ‘Sous-Vide Pork loin casserole made with 100% 180-day grass-fed pigs’. Just kidding, pigs don’t eat grass. (At least not just grass)

#3 - Khao Piak Sen (Sticky Rice Noodles)

The almighty staple of the people in Laos! (Besides the even more almighty sticky rice of course). Although you can literally find noodle soups all over Asia (Think Pho in Vietnam, Kuy Teav in Cambodia, Khao Soi in Thailand, Fishball Noodle in Singapore & Malaysia, Mee Soto in Indonesia & the list goes on…) This interesting Lao version actually makes use of sticky rice noodles. By virtue of its base ingredient, the texture is absolutely different from any other noodle soup in the region. It’s slightly sticky, slippery and very refreshing. Most people are pleasantly surprised after eating it for the first time. Like other noodle soups, the broth always packs a punch seemingly boiled to perfection with tons of chickens simmering in a giant claypot vat.

There are many versions of this everywhere around town, the difference in each version being the topping. The fried pork belly one is a personal favorite, the beef one is a heartwarming option for a cold morning, and there are also chicken and vegetable variations.

#4 - Khao soi, Luang Prabang-style rice noodle

Though there is some debate on where the name originates from, in the Lao language khao does mean “rice” and soi means “cut” and so it is a sensible theory since fresh hand-cut rice noodles are essential for the namesake khao soi, Luang Prabang’s signature noodle soup. Given their girth, the noodles are also referred to as sen nyai or “big noodle”.

Not to be confused with Chiang Mai khao soi, which is completely different, Luang Prabang khao soi uses a clear pork stock and it is topped with a bolognese of mince fatty pork, tomatoes, chilli and fermented soy bean paste which gives it a bright red hue. Before eating, it’s customary to sink in some watercress, Thai basil, mint and a squirt of lime.

#5 - Khao poon, fermented rice vermicelli

If you had to name a signature noodle for Laos, khao poon would be it. Khao poon (bun in Vietnamese) is fermented rice vermicelli. The noodles are thin and round, the thickness of skinny spaghetti, and they are sticky to the touch with a slightly soured aroma. Eaten all over the country, it is especially popular for feasts and celebrations, used as an ingredient in phan dishes, where everyone makes their own rice paper or lettuce wraps with meat, herbs and sauces. There are different types of khao poon noodle soups; a curry of pounded fish, coconut milk and kaffir lime leaves is the most common.

#6 - Sticky Rice with Khai Pen or Cheow Bong

This is the mainstay of people in Luang Prabang, they eat sticky rice all day all night long. And for more basic meals, they literally eat it only with chow bong (Buffalo skin chilli). I know it doesn’t sound tasty but trust me, it is good (provided you get the right cook). Most Lao people do it extremely well though and as long as tis home-cooked, generally you can’t go wrong. Join the Lao cooking class with a local hosted by Mrs Sengkham and you’ll get to try some of it! You will even be able to make some of your own special dips. There’s even a specialty dips class offered by another host in Vientiane focusing just on dips.

Khaipen is the fried Mekong seaweed. This one goes perfectly well with the Chow Bong as well as the sticky rice. Once you pop, it’s really difficult to stop. It tastes very much like the fried seaweed you get in Thailand (a.k.a. Tao Kae Noi) But a lot more fresh and less fried.

#7 - Pad Ka Pao Paa/Moo

This is a party food of the Lao people. You can find this on every beer garden for locals (sadly, foreigners in those foreigner run restaurants will have to be content with your Lao-style fried rice) Literally translated, it’s fried basil with fish/pork. That smell of spices, the lingering smoky flavor of the wok (Hong Kongers and Singaporeans will best understand what this means, also known as the Wok-Hei) is what makes this dish epic.

Don’t miss it if you ever see it on the menu!

#8 - Lao crushed ice dessert

This is the summer elixir. You’ll see it in glass display cases all over the local side of town. The jellies they make are so good they beat Konnyaku hands down. Moreover, they were more Konnyaku before Konnyaku came along. Just go to one of these glass displays, point at whatever you want, and it will be topped with a mountain of crushed ice and condensed milk. Heavenly.

#9 - Lao Hai & Laolao

Not technically a food, but really, you ABSOLUTELY CANNOT leave Luang Prabang without trying these 2 alcohols. Both are made from sticky rice, but in different ways.

Laolao is the more famous one and everyone knows about it. Youll probably pass by the Laolao or whisky village on the way to the Pak Ou Caves. This is a clear distilled rice alcohol that is very flavorful. The cloudy version is sweeter and resembles the Makgeooli of Korea. Sometimes they also make Lao lao from Black glutinous rice which is even better than the white one because of the lingering taste and slightly sweeter taste. For the adventurous, try the ones with a gecko, scorpion or snake packed into it! You can get these easily either at the village or in the night market. But you really have to try it before you go.

Lao hai is the lesser known counterpart, but in my humble opinion, a way more superior experience! Made by the Kamu people, this one is made by fermenting sticky rice together with the husks in jars. The taste is much thicker, more flavourful and you can literallly feel the sticky rice fields swaying in your mouth. That’s why they call Lao Hai Sticky rice wine and Lao lao is called whisky. The way you drink Lao hai is even more interesting. Because of the husks and rice still being present in the jar, you have to utilize these long bamboo straws that will be cut on the spot by a local farmer that prevents them from going up the tube. And you have to add cold water into the jar to generate the liquid. The fun part of it is adding beer lao instead of water. A little fizz added to the flavor of the rice wine is an epic experience in itself. Coupled with sitting down together with a farmer in the backyard of his house drinking from the same jar, it’s an experience you will never forget. 

Some of the best places to go shopping in Luang Prabang are located in the town centre, where you can purchase authentic handicrafts, art, textiles and jewellery. Many of these items are handmade by Laos’ ethnic groups, whose handicraft skills continue to be practised through the generations.

There are plenty of fair trade shops where you get to contribute towards sustaining local families in rural areas throughout Laos. Luang Prabang’s traditional markets offer fresh produce like meat, vegetables and herbs. From silk scarves and skirts to coffee beans and Lao herbs, check out our list of where to shop and what to buy in Luang Prabang.

1. Caruso Lao

Caruso Lao offers high quality and handcrafted souvenirs in downtown Luang Prabang. Everything is designed and fashioned together by hand, with products crafted from natural materials such as wood and silk. Caruso Lao's impressive range includes wooden bowls, decorative Buddha heads, cushions, natural silk shawls, bedspreads, and table runners.

Location: 60 Sakarine Road, Luang Prabang 0600, Laos

Open: Daily from 9am to 9pm

Phone: +856 71 254 574

2. Handicraft Night Market

Handicraft Night Market is an outdoor bazaar in central Luang Prabang. You can shop for ethnic embroidered crafts and handmade clothes from 5pm until 10pm. The market has labyrinths of stalls selling all things embroidered, from weaved bags, hill-tribe pants, and hats to Hmong blankets, coin purses and silk scarves. 

Location: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Daily from 5pm to 10pm

3. Kopnoi Gallery

Kopnoi Gallery promotes fair trade in Luang Prabang by selling handmade fabrics by local artisans. You'll also find cotton clothes, silk scarfs, local rice whiskeys, bamboo straws, and Lao coffee beans. One of the best things about shopping in Kopnoi Gallery is that you'll be able to purchase authentic products while supporting the local economy.

Location: 3 Kingkitsarat Road Luang Phrabang, Laos

Open: Monday–Saturday from 7am to 10pm, Sunday from 10am to 10pm

Phone: +856 71 260 248

4. L’Etranger Books and Tea

L’Etranger Books and Tea is a 2-storey wooden café that sells and trades second-hand books in Luang Prabang.

Located close to  Nam Khan River, the cafe's extensive collection spans many languages and subjects, including travel, art, culture, novels, Southeast Asia, and Luang Prabang.

The upper level is a café offering around 70 types of drinks, including tea, coffee, and fruit shakes. The casual setup – low tables, floor cushions, paper lamps – makes for a good spot for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. L’Etranger Books and Tea also hosts free movie nights at 7pm, so head there early as seats are limited. 

Location: 3 Th Kingkitsarat, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Monday–Saturday from 7am to 10pm, Sunday from 10am to 10pm

Phone: +856 71 212 880

5. Ma Te Sai

Ma Te Sai is a fair-trade shop on the main road, close to the Royal Pavilion in Luang Prabang. It sells ethnic handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs sourced from rural areas. Most of these items are fashioned out of natural fabric, bamboo, and recycled paper.

There are also herbal teas, coffees, locally made whiskeys, and rice. Ma Te Sai aims to help promote help improve the locals' quality of life through their crafts – the boutique works with 15 artisan villages and 8 non-profit organisations across the country.

Location: Ban Aphai Luang Prabang, 06000 Laos

Open: Daily from 8.30am to 8pm

Phone: +856 71 260 654

6. Luang Prabang Night Market

The Luang Prabang Night Market is one of the town's largest marketplace. Every evening, you'll find rows of stalls running from Wat Mai along Sisavangvong Road towards Settathilat Road. 

You can explore this market on foot as the streets are closed to motorised vehicles. Hill-tribe traders sell handmade clothes, ceramics, bamboo, lamps, blankets, bed covers, handicrafts and silk scarves. 

Location: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Daily from 5pm to 11pm

7. Luang Prabang Morning Market

The Luang Prabang Morning Market is a fascinating place to catch a glimpse of what goes on behind the town's culinary scenes. Here, you will see it all in the open – blood and gore and all, in fact.

Vendors sit on the street, with their vegetables, fruits, meat, spices and other fresh produce laid out on banana leaves. Some of the more exotic items, such as forest rats, silkworms, insects, and snakes, are either chopped up and placed on the ground or caged up, still alive.

Location: Off Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Daily from 5am to 10am

8. Ock Pop Tok

Ock Pop Tok (meaning ‘East meets West’) is a store selling hand-woven home textiles, cloth bags and scarves. It promotes fair trade and aims to empower local women through their crafts and the development of artistic skills.

In doing so, the store offers various textile workshops and classes, as well as a crafts centre for visitors who’d like to watch the artisans at work. There’s also a café overlooking the Mekong River, and 4 theme villas surrounded by a garden.

Location: 125/10 Ban Saylom, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Sunday–Friday from 8am to 8pm, Saturday from 8am to 6.30pm

Phone: +856 71 212 597

9. Phosy Market

For a pleasant immersion in the local way of life, head over to Phosy Market on the outskirts of town. The semi-outdoor market has just about everything imaginable, from bags of ground spices, animal parts, and fermented fish paste, to enamelware, backpacks, and kitchen knives.

The fresh market section is similar to the morning market in downtown Luang Prabang but is much larger in scale and variety. The sights, the smells, and colours are simply fascinating – you'll find that going once is not enough.

Location: Photisalath Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Daily from 7am to 5pm

10. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre

The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre of Luang Prabang is a museum and resource centre promoting Lao ethnic diversity. The 2-storey heritage building has a number of cultural exhibitions, showcasing traditional arts and lifestyles of Lao ethnic groups.

Adopting fair trade and sustainability principles, the museum shop supports over 500 handicrafts producers and their families, with a selection of beaded necklaces, jewellery, embroidered belts, backpacks and children’s accessories. 

Location: Kingkitsarath Rd, Ban Khamyong Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang 06000, Laos

Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9am to 6pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +856 71 253 364

11. Ban Lao Natural Products

Ban Lao is a fair trade shop selling handicrafts, textiles and fashion accessories. The design is a fusion of traditional and modern styles – all handmade from natural materials or natural dye. There’s also a small exhibition space for ikat textiles and other crafts by select local and international artists. The shop is located on the Mekong riverbank.

Location: Ban Vat Nong, along the Mekong

Phone: +856 30 514 0555

12. Naga Creations

Naga Creations is an inviting shophouse on the main road, just south of Luang Prabang's Old Chinese Quarter. You can shop for handmade jewellery made by the ethnic Hmong people.

Most of these items are made from silver with precious and semi-precious gemstones. Pieces range from necklaces, bracelets, and earrings to pendants, and hair clips.

Location: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

Open: Daily from 10am to 10pm

Phone: +856 71 212 775

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with French architecture and culture that remain from Laos’ colonial past. As Laos’ top tourist destination, there is no shortage of places to stay. Check out some of the top hotels in Luang Prabang as listed below.

Budget options

Cold River Luang Prabang

An accommodation as midway between a hotel and a guesthouse … with a French touch!

The rooms blend rustic furniture with modern design and feature local artwork by Passa Paa Studio.

And the staff will offer you warmth and professionalism during your stay. 

Cold River is located in a quiet alleyway, on the beautiful Nam Khan River; just 15 minutes walk from the historic centre of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed town of Luang Prabang.

This will be a place where you can feel a family atmosphere with professional services.

Villa Chitdara

The hotel is located in the heart of luang prabang near main attractions of the city. Nestled among many temples, Villa Chitdara is in a quiet street but only less than 5 minutes walk to the night market.

From the courtyard or from the balcony, if the room is facing the street, you can discover the Monks collecting alms every early morning. But if the room is giving to the backcourt, so from the balcony you will have the chance to admire the relaxing tropical garden.

Every day, buffet breakfast is served in a peaceful terrace in the garden.

Mid-range options 

My Dream Resort 

This is a charming hotel, with Laos-style houses on stilts, natural wood flooring, sandy coloured walls and exposed distressed wooden beams; simple but elegant Laotian decor of the rooms, and open-air restaurant.

The hotel is located a 15-minute walk from the town centre, on the opposite side of the Nam Khan river. The hotel offers free bike loans to residents, which reduces the journey time to 5 minutes. Cycling is by far the best way to get around town, so this is an added bonus by saving the need to hire a bike elsewhere.

The swimming pool is of good size, and is surrounded by pristine tropical gardens that run down to the banks of the Nam Khan river. The hotel’s restaurant, where breakfast is taken, overlooks the swimming pool. 

With the comfort and lovely style, tourists will have memorable days while spending nights in this beautiful hotel.

Sunrise Garden House 

Sunrise Garden House Hotel is set about 1.5 km from Wat Sibounheuang. The property comprises 10 rooms. A luggage storage and a safe deposit box are available for guests to use.

The venue is 1 km from the city centre and adjacent to That Chomsi. Wat Sensoukharam is only 1.5 km away.The hotel is close to Luang Prabang Bowling Alley in Luang Prabang.

Soundproof rooms are provided with a ceiling fan, a private balcony and a work desk. Certain units have views of the mountain. Among others in-room facilities showers, a hairdryer and towels are also featured.

Sunrise Garden House Hotel Luang Prabang offers a buffet breakfast daily. Serving both food and drinks, Joma Bakery Cafe, Main Street Bar and Grill and Elephant Blanc Restaurant are situated around 200 metres from the property.

Deluxe options

Souphattra Hotel

Offering quality accommodations in the religious interests, culture, sightseeing district of Luang Prabang, Souphattra Hotel is a popular pick for both business and leisure travelers. The excitement of the city center is only 8 km away. With its convenient location, the property offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.

Every effort is made to make guests feel comfortable. To do so, the property provides the best in services and amenities.

Facilities like free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour room service, 24-hour security, convenience store, daily housekeeping are readily available for the convenience of each guest.

All guest accommodations feature thoughtful amenities to ensure an unparalleled sense of comfort. The property offers an excellent variety of recreational facilities, including boats, golf course (on site), indoor pool, spa.

Maison Dalabua

The name “Dalabua” means “the princess of lotus,” which perfectly describes the refreshing character of this 4-star charming boutique property that is surrounded by the UNESCO classified ponds.

Maison Dalabua Luangprabang Hotel situates on one of the most serene locations in Luang Prabang, away from the hustle and bustle of the Peninsula. The property is only a 3-minute walk from the historical center with easy access to the night market, royal palace, and historical temples and buildings.

It features 40 rooms, all of which are set in a tropical environment scattered around the area. All rooms are furnished in an elegant blend of traditional Lao and contemporary design with all modern amenities. The spa and swimming pool are the best place to chill out after a long day in town.

As the sun goes down, guests can watch the picturesque view of the sunset and the scenic view of Mount Phousi, while sipping on a glass of wine at Mada De Lao Restaurant.

Villa Santi Hotel

Walk to the historic city or head to the shopping district from this elegant boutique hotel decorated with both modern amenities and antiques from the royal family. Renovated from a century-old royal mansion are a collection of 20 sophisticated designer rooms, rich with rosewood and silks. Each room comes with hot and cold water, a bathtub, cable TV, and a refreshment center. In the morning, bells ring at the nearby temple, and breakfast, with fresh baguettes and made to order omelets, is served in a charming dining room. Nearby are the former Royal Palace, ancient temples dating back to the 16th century, and the Mekong River. After an exciting day exploring this much-to-do town, guests can spend the evening enjoying local delicacies at the in-house Princess Restaurant. Offering quality accommodations and the finest service, the Villa Santi Hotel is ideal for a memorable reside.

Luxury options

Satri House

This beautiful, refurbished property is one of the most exquisite places in this ancient city. Located in the heart of the city, the whole interior is designed with a style inspired by Lao culture, set in a serene ambience. All the rooms of this hotel are fully equipped with modern amenities, providing utmost comfort to all guests. Relax at the balcony while watching the everyday life of local people, or dip in the outdoor pool and spa or even sit back and do some work in the library provided with internet connectivity. Guests should not miss sampling food at the on-site restaurant or chill at the garden bar for a few drinks. Satri House Secret Retreats is an ideal holiday venue for all guests who wish to taste the original lifestyle of Laos.

AVANI+ Luang Prabang

Whether you're a tourist or traveling on business, Avani Luang Prabang Hotel is a great choice for accommodation when visiting Luang Prabang. Only 0.5 kilometers from the city center, the hotel's strategic location ensures that guests can quickly and easily reach many local points of interest. With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.

At Avani Luang Prabang Hotel, the excellent service and superior facilities make for an unforgettable stay. The hotel offers access to a vast array of services, including 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, wheelchair accessible and 24-hour front desk.

Guests can choose from 53 rooms, all of which exude an atmosphere of total peace and harmony. Besides, the hotel's host of recreational offerings ensures you have plenty to do during your stay. Avani Luang Prabang Hotel is a smart choice for travelers to Luang Prabang, offering a relaxed and hassle-free stay every time.

Sofitel Luang Prabang

Sofitel Luang Prabang is located in Ban Mano, a quiet residential area within a short walking distance to the Old Town center and only 10-minute drive from Luang Prabang International Airport.

Sofitel Luang Prabang offers a wide range of services and top-notch facilities in each of its 25 luxury suite to enhance your stay. Each clay-roofed suite is a passage to wellbeing with high ceilings and elegantly crafted furnishings. The suite also features a private garden and an outdoor private pool. You can also soak up the sun around the pool in the main garden.

Dine at the Governor’s Grill - the only steakhouse of its kind in the city –and enjoy the botanical garden picturesque, or sip a glass of wine by a fireplace in the cozy Library. The boardroom and gardens are ideal places for corporate retreats or family celebrations, while Le Spa, fitness center, and yoga classes will lead your way to nirvana.