"Luang Prabang" Luang Prabang by Rodan44

Luang Prabang Travel Guide: 1,074 reviews and 2,330 photos

Luang Prabang is the former captial of the Kingdom of Lan Xang (million elephants) whose monarchs ruled Laos for centuries until being overthrown by the communist revolution in 1975. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its numerous beautiful old Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture. With only 16,000 inhabitants, the city is small and laid back with a very spiritual air.

Personally, I found Lunag Prabang to be the most charming city that I have visited in Asia. Walking its streets is like being transported back in time to the glory days of French Indochina. And while there are many tourists, it is not hard to find a peaceful little back alley once you venture off the main streets. Plus, the locals are exceptionally friendly and very happy to show you around their beautiful little town. Definitely the jewel of Southeast Asia!

Please visit the Luang Prabang page on my personal website to see many more high quality photos from this destination.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Ancient Temples, French influence, laid back and friendly
Cons:becoming over-touristed
In a nutshell:The most charming city in all of Asia!

Last visit to Luang Prabang: Apr 2004
Intro Updated Nov 23, 2004
Add to Trip Planner (?)
Report Abuse

Reviews (23)

Old bomb casings now used as planters, LP - Luang Prabang

UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) Warnings Or Dangers (2)

Laos has the dubious distinction of being the most heavily bombed country in the history of warfare. During the war... more travel advice

Laos Visa Information Favorites (5)

When traveling to Luang Prabang, it is possible for foreign tourists to obtain a Laos visa on arrival at the airport.... more travel advice

Lao Sausage hanging out to dry - Luang Prabang

Lao vs. French Cuisine Favorites (5)

There are two types of cuisine that dominate in Luang Prabang (and Laos in general), Lao and French. The former... more travel advice

Enjoying Beer Lao with Lao Cuisine - Luang Prabang

Drink Beer Lao Favorites (5)

Like everywhere else in Southeast Asia, Laos is hot and humid. A long day of sightseeing can really drain you quickly.... more travel advice

Comments (9)

nicolaitan Sep 27, 2010 at 4:05 PM Report Abuse

your image of khan river from mount phousi is a great great picture. n.
bpacker Dec 21, 2005 at 2:06 AM Report Abuse

Justin, I like your keen observation on the local culture:) Trick and Treatin' time for monks looks interesting.
xuessium Sep 19, 2005 at 10:06 AM Report Abuse

Hope to make it to Luang Prabang soon. Last country in Indochina yet to visit. Will come back again and look through your tips. Cheers Justin!
Wild_Orchid Jun 23, 2005 at 2:59 AM Report Abuse

feel like I've been to LP after reading your tips! : ) two thumbs up! and hope springs eternal that I may someday visit.
muddybok Jun 12, 2005 at 1:29 PM Report Abuse

I wish i read your page before my trip. I still have 200.000Kips with me (not exchangable outside Laos). Apsara room seem cool, but the food menu is a bit of disappointment.
bkoon Mar 29, 2005 at 4:38 AM Report Abuse

Lovely!!! Thanks for sharing. Bee :)
richiecdisc Dec 7, 2004 at 7:06 PM Report Abuse

Great overview of Lao food in General Tips but I DID eat the raw laap and lived to tell about it. Not that the next couple days were the most pleasant of my life. ;)
tiganeasca Jun 16, 2004 at 5:08 AM Report Abuse

Great page with some top-notch tips and interesting pics. There is so much to see in SE Asia; this is clearly going to have to go onto the "must-see" list. Thanks for sharing!
BorderHopper Jun 14, 2004 at 8:36 PM Report Abuse

You've got a great page here! I really enjoyed looking thru your LP pics. I was amazed to see how dry Kuang Si Falls looked on your visit. It was really moving when I was there. Happy travels!