Things to Do in Luang Prabang

Wondering what to do for fun in Luang Prabang? The city is so rich in history, spirituality and nature that you definitely will not get bored no matter what you choose.

Watching the monks collecting alms in the morning

The main attraction for visitors to Luang Prabang is arguably focused on the spiritual side of the city. Many monks in bright orange robes walk around the city, and every morning the ceremony of alms collection never fails to impress – if you can get early enough to witness it (around 6am). Visitors are welcome to participate by donating, although they should read up on proper etiquette for making a donation. Stand across the street and do not take any photos of the monks using flash.

Setting on a temple-hopping tour

With all these monks around, of course there are lots of gorgeous temples which come an an essential feature of the city. Gold and elaborately decorated, they rival those of Chiang Mai. Visitors can check out quite a few temples that dot the city from Wat Xieng Mouane to the Golden City Temple. There are over 30 glistening temples in the city, many of which you can enter for free or paying a very small fee (LAK5,000/USD 0.50).

UXO Laos Visitor Center

History fans will have to make a stop at the UXO Laos Visitor Center, where many truths about Laotian history can be discovered. Many visitors have no idea how much the Laotian people have suffered until they visit the UXO Center.

Kuang Si Falls

Nature lovers will really enjoy Kuang Si Falls, a series of gorgeous waterfalls meant for trekking. The falls have an adjoining Butterfly park on site. There are also many other waterfall treks in the surrounding area and there’s a mountain that hikers will enjoy scaling called Mount Phou Si. It’s only 300 steps to the summit where you can look out on the beauty of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO world heritage city. It’s even better to plan your climb around sunrise or sunset!

Exploring the countryside around Luang Prabang

Water-lovers can enjoy a nice boat ride along the Mekong. The most popular – we would not call it ‘epic’ but still – boat trips are from Luang Prabang via Pak Beng to the border town of Huai Xai. Though reverse route is more common, travelling in the other direction is also possible. It is a good alternative to a bus, especially if you are heading to Thailand next. There are slow boat, speedboat and cruise boat options. Unless you take a speedboat which will whisk you to Huai Xai in about 5 hours, prepare to spend the night in Pak Beng.

Admire the beautiful countryside just outside of Luang Prabang. There is also a bamboo bridge within the city boundaries of Luang Prabang – those who crave adventure can dare walk across. There are also a bunch of day trips you can take to the countryside if you would like to explore more around Luang Prabang.

Spend a day as a local

If you’re feeling really adventurous, get outside of the city for a bit and try your luck as a rice farmer at Living Land Rice Farm. Here, you learn about all 13 stages of rice making all while you hang out with a water buffalo named Susuki.

Pamper yourself in a massage or spa shop

If instead, you crave relaxation, then Luang Prabang is home to many spas that offer generous packages for cheap prices. Spa by Burasari and Angsana Spa are two great ones to check out during your time in Luang Prabang.

Going shopping

Luang Prabang has many markets to check out. The markets are a great way to practice your bargaining skills and pick up a few souvenirs for friends and family. They also serve cheap and delicious foods there, from BBQ skewers to sticky rice desserts.

Are you a foodie?

The city also has lots of cooking classes if you would like to learn how to make any of the foods you see at the market or have eaten at a restaurant. And if you’re a fan of good coffee, be sure to try out any number of the Laotian coffee shops. Or just sit and enjoy the view!

At night, there are plenty of delicious restaurants to try for dinner and bars to head out on the town with other expats and travellers. Overall, there is a lot to keep any traveller busy in Luang Prabang – at any budget!