Things to do in  Luang Prabang

Yes, Luang Prabang is absolutely worth visiting. Laos’ top tourist destination and a former royal capital, Luang Prabang boasts the country’s best selection of hotels, including Raffles, Aman, and Rosewood. The city’s serene beauty has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and the food scene is also Laos’ best.

Luang Prabang is best known for monks and temples: it has the highest concentration of working temples in Southeast Asia. But it’s also a center for traditional crafts, including weaving and paper-making. Set where the Nam Khan meets the Mekong, it’s a popular spot for short river cruises.

You need at least three days in Luang Prabang. Explore the town, hitting the Royal Palace Museum and Golden City Temple (Wat Xieng Thong), with sunset on Mt. Phousi; cruise to the Pak Ou Caves and take a craft or cooking class; visit Kuang Si Falls and the UXO Lao Visitor Centre.

Get up early to see the monks line up for almsgiving, then explore the town—don’t miss Golden City Temple (Wat Xieng Thong). After lunch by the Mekong, cruise to the Pak Ou Caves. Scale Mt. Phousi for sunset, then hit the night market and a Lao restaurant.

There are more things to do in Luang Prabang than gawk at monks and temples: Mekong cruises, cooking courses, and classes in everything from weaving to pottery. The serene countryside is an excellent location for hiking, while the Kuang Si Falls and Tad Sae Waterfall make beautiful spots to unwind.

November is the best month to visit Luang Prabang. The dry season has started, and the weather is not too scorching, but the Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year crowds have yet to arrive. The Festival of Lights (Boun Lai Heua Fai) in October can also be magical.