About Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, set on a peninsula where the Nam Khan meets the Mekong, was the royal capital of the Lan Xang kingdom and remains the spiritual heart of Laos. Its name comes from the Phra Bang, a revered gold Buddha image that protects the nation. More than thirty monasteries are scattered among colonial houses and palm-shaded lanes.
At dawn, long lines of novice monks walk barefoot through the streets to receive sticky rice from kneeling residents in the tak bat alms ceremony. Wat Xieng Thong, built in 1560, is the masterpiece of Lao temple architecture, with sweeping roofs and a glass mosaic tree of life. Climbing Mount Phousi at sunset gives a view of golden spires across the old town.
What to see
- Dawn alms giving ceremony
- Wat Xieng Thong
- Haw Pha Bang chapel at the Royal Palace
- Sunset from Mount Phousi
- Pak Ou Caves upriver filled with Buddha images
Visiting Luang Prabang: practical guide
- Best time
- November to March
- Hours
- Temples daily, roughly 8:00 to 17:00
- Entry
- Small fees at major temples, about 20,000 to 30,000 LAK
- Dress code
- Shoulders and knees covered in temples
- Nearest airport
- Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ), 4 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Watch the alms round silently from across the street, without flash
- Only give alms if you do so respectfully and with fresh food
- Arrive by the Laos-China railway or a Mekong slow boat
Festivals and special days
- Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year, April)
- Boun Ok Phansa boat festival
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Luang Prabang?
Luang Prabang is in Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang Province, Laos, Asia. GPS coordinates: 19.8856, 102.1347. The nearest airport is Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ), 4 km.
What is the best time to visit Luang Prabang?
November to March
Is there an entry fee for Luang Prabang?
Small fees at major temples, about 20,000 to 30,000 LAK Opening hours: Temples daily, roughly 8:00 to 17:00
What should I wear when visiting Luang Prabang?
Shoulders and knees covered in temples
Which religion is Luang Prabang sacred to?
Luang Prabang is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
