Ten Things To Do in Luang Prabang Laos

One of my favorite films is Pirates of the Caribbean. You know the picturesque Port Royal in the first movie with it’s tropical feel and European architecture? When you walk the pristine streets, you might feel as if you’d see an exciting pirate sword fight, except that would never happen because Laos is landlocked, but I digress. The old capital of Laos is a UNESCO World heritage Site for a reason. A little French architecture with a Lao spin lets Luang Prabang Laos knock your sandals off with its charm. 

Related: 21 Awesome Photos to Inspire you to Visit Laos

1. Walk Around the Town

There’s nothing quite like a stroll around the scenic town of Luang Prabang. You can get lost in this place for hours, check out local bars, eats, and souvenirs. Adventure is yours because you never know what hidden gem you’ll find off the Tripadvisor path. I also recommend staying at the Mekong Riverview Hotel located in the old quarter of the enchanting downtown area. It’s super convenient and breakfast is included.

2. Eat Mango Sticky Rice

Made famous in Thailand, I never had a sticky rice like this one. Local cafes seem to get it down right with warm rice, sweet stickiness and cool, fresh mango. Alternatively, you can also take a traditional Lao cooking class and learn firsthand how their delicious cuisine is prepared. #foodporn #ermergerd #yum #yahs

3. Check Out the Royal Palace

There’s an entrance fee, but you get to have a first hand experience of how the royalty lived long ago. It’s a great place to escape the heat and see the fancy things a king or queen was privy to. I’ll let you in on a secret tip. If you want this awesome view, go across the street from the night market and go up the stairs to get to Mount Phousi peak. 

Related: Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Laos

4. Watch the Sunset at Mount Phousi

Grab a drink, grab you husband, grab everyone because everyone is headed up to see the sun dip behind the mountains on this peak. Did I mention to grab good hiking shoes too? It’s a jaunt to the top. 

5. Stroll About the Night Market

If you’re looking for a great deal, check your bartering skills and grab your big kid ele-pants because the hand crafted things you’ll find are incredible. Did you know giving someone an elephant is good luck? If you’re not comfortable with bartering, you can still get a good deal. Note that if you walk away from a sale and come back, you’ll not get the price they offered.

6. Swim at Kuang Si Waterfalls

Chase all the waterfalls at this stunning place. There are four levels you can swim in and two inaccessible to the public. Make sure your camera and action cams are charged because you don’t want to miss a moment. The best time to visit this waterfall is very early in the morning when there are no people there. You can do a tour where you give alms to the monks and then take a day trip to Kuang Si Falls. Alternatively you can try kayaking on the Mekong River after your trip there.

Related: The Perfect Vientiane Itinerary 

7. Behold Frolicking Bears at the Black Bear Sanctuary

Right before you go up to see the Kuang Si Waterfalls, you need to check out these beautiful animals saved from a life of misery. Each bear has a profile and you can donate money to keep the sanctuary going.

8. Marvel at Wat Xieng Thong

This astonishing temple is so pretty it hurts. Google gives this 4.3 stars, but I give it 5 for its intricate carvings and decorations. Does anyone ever wonder how much time it takes to put all those shiny details on? I sure do.

9. Laze Around Utopia

It’s a theme in Laos to escape the afternoon sun and the best way to do it is to eat snacks and drink beer as you look over the river. Utopia is tucked away in the back roads and everyone there is super chill. At night, it becomes just as chill of a bar and hangout.

10. Observe the Alms Ceremony

If getting up at the ass crack of dawn is your thing, then by all means, make sure you’re dressed appropriately. The monks go in procession from the highest ranking honcho to the lowly little five year old pipsqueak. Don’t be a dickhead and make the mistake of wearing shorts. Luckily, a bystander gave me a towel to cover up. If you choose to partake remember your head should always be below the monk’s. You can also do a tour to find the best spots and then take a trip to Kuang Si Falls after.

Related: Ten Things To Do in Vang Vieng

Other Cool Things To Do

There’s so much to do in this culturally rich city, it’s actually quite hard for me to choose my favorite activities. Below, I’m going to list some really awesome things you should try if you have the chance.

• Visit Ethnic Tribes – Here you can take a day trip to the remote hills and visit the Hmong and Khmu Tribes. You’ll get a chance to see the beautiful hills, high mountains, and observe the daily life of these people. It’s truly a unique experience.
• Take a Half Day Sunset Cruise – Here you’ll get to visit Tadsae Falls, interact with elephants, and even go on a stunning cruise along the Mekong River and watch the sun set. Seriously, it’s breathtaking.
• Luang Prabang Traditional Food Experience – One of my favorite experiences when I travel is to really see the history and cultural aspects of the country I’m visiting. Here you can taste how real Lao Cuisine is served and prepared. You’ll even get to see a beautiful Siamese dancing show.

Exotic, picturesque Port Royal lookalike is what Laos will remind you of. You won’t see a street fight as everyone is so laid back, but there’s something here for everyone. Also, be aware that Luang Prabang is more expensive compared to the other parts of the country. Is there anything on this list you would definitely jump onto?

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