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The former royal capital of Laos, lovely Luang Prabang, exudes a rich essence of French-Indochinese architecture, with French provincial ochre-colored buildings woven into ancient red-roofed Theravada Buddhist temples and gold stupas under Mount Phousi. Luang Prabang was rarely ever visited by travelers for decades, but since the ‘Jewel of Indochina’ was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, much has changed. Surrounded by mountains and set 700m above sea level at the confluence of the Nam Khan River and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang has now become Laos’s premier tourist highlight. Considered the best preserved town in Southeast Asia, it is packed with inviting homes, shops and temples, including the 16th century Wat Xiang Thong. At sunrise, hundreds of orange clad monks gather at Wat Xiang Thong and other temples for tak bat, a 6 am walk through the mist filled streets where locals wait to gain spiritual merit by filling their alms bowls with sticky rice. Enjoy a day trip to ‘Hongsa’, where you can see plenty of elephants in the ‘Land of a Million Elephants’, also visit the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls a short drive away.
Wat Xieng Thong
Wat Xieng Thong is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture from the 16th century, impressing visitors with its golden facades and mural paintings. The temple was used for the highest royal ceremonies and to temporarily house the bodies of deceased kings. Built in 1560, by King Setthathirat, Wat Xieng Thong remained in royal benefaction until 1975. Placed on the northern tip of Luang Prabang, the magnificent structure is fringed by the river.
The sim (main building) is thought to represent classic Luang Prabang architecture with its sweeping roofs. The rear wall of the sim has an interesting 'tree of life' mosaic set on a red background and the temple's interior is stenciled with gold images of the former King Chanthaphanit (of whom no written history exists). A smaller adjoining building, houses a reclining Buddha created in classic Lao style - a rarity.
Royal Palace Museum
Built as a residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family in 1904 by the French, like Wat Xieng Thong the palace was built on the riverfront, to be in direct view of arriving official visitors. Displaying traditional Laos motifs fused with French beaux-art styles, many of the rooms have been preserved since the day of the revolution when the royal family was forced into exile by the Pathet Lao.
Locals believe the palace to be haunted by ghosts and few will venture inside after dark. Inside, the walls feature murals and paintings depicting typical Laos life. It is advisable to visit the place first to stock up on some knowledge before taking the temple tours, ultimately making them more interesting.
Wat Wisunarat
Wat Wisunarat is the oldest temple situated within Luang Prabang. This unique temple was built in 1513 and was originally made of wood. It was rebuilt with brick and stucco after it caught fire in 1887, but many original features were kept to mark the importance of the wat. Unlike other temples in Laos, Wat Wisunarat is completed with a sloping roof and a stupa that was constructed in 1503.
Mount Phousi
Mount Phousi is right in middle of Luang Prabang. On top of the mountain is Wat Chom Si, built in 1804. You have to climb 328 steps up Mount Phousi, but if you're fit enough, the beautiful view from the top is worth the effort. In the 18th century a number of other Wats were on the mountain.
The Feeding of the Monks
The saffron clad monks in Luang Prabang occupy a generous proportion of conversational and visual space. Watching or taking part in the morning food procession that sees the monks walking through and collecting food donations from locals is a heart-warming and culturally telling experience.
Each temple takes a different route around town, making sure that there is a steady flow and pace as the monks receive their alms (food donations). Woman should note that you must always keep your head lower than the monks' and your feet (always bare) should never ever be pointed at anyone. It's considered a grave insult. Also your shoulders and knees should be covered. The novices are happy to practice their English with tourists so feel free to indulge in some light-hearted conversation and perhaps learn something new about Laos culture.
Attractions outside the city
• The famous Pak Ou Caves are located 25km upriver from Luang Prabang where the Ou and Mekong rivers meet. Tham Ting and Tham Phun are filled with Buddah images that have been placed there by pilgrims over hundreds of years. The caves are best reached by boat from Luang Prabang.
• About 30 km south of Luang Prabang, you will find the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls. Trails lead up to the falls and there are pools to swim in at the base. A covered area has been built for for picnickers and there are also some stalls serving simple Lao food and drink. A full day is needed to visit the falls, which can get busy during locl festivals and holidays.
• The weaving villages of Ban Phanom, Ban Xieng Lek are a popular destination for visitors looking for authentic local textiles, which can be bought direct from the women at work there. You ca watch the silk-making process from harvesting the silkworm, through to colouring and weaving the fabric, and finally, hanging the finished product.