Luang Prabang holidays

Enjoying the natural surroundings, getting up close to nature, and uncovering the culture of the city are among the most popular activities in Luang Prabang. Climb 355 steps for panoramic views from the summit of Phousi Mountain. Cycle or hike to swim in pools beneath dramatic waterfalls at Kuang Si and Tad Sae. Explore the Buddha-filled caves of Pak Ou and Tham Sakkalin, cross the Nam Khan River on an illuminated bamboo bridge, or zipline through the trees of Green Jungle Park.

Immerse yourself in nature at Kuang Si Butterfly Park, Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden, and the Elephant Village sanctuary. Learn ancient myths from the storytellers at Garavek. Find tales of ancient Laos at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre and the Royal Temple Museum. Take a cruise on the Mekong before wandering Night Market stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, tempting street food, and local beers.

Angkor Wat in Laos’ southern neighbour of Cambodia might grab the headlines when it comes to Buddhist temples, but the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang is an incredible destination for those who prefer to get up close to beautiful wats within the city. Visit the 2000-year-old stupas of Wat That Luang, once the cremation site of the Lao Royal Family. Turn through the city’s streets to find the 14th-century bronze Buddha of Wat Manorom.

Check out the elaborate five-tier roof and beautiful murals of Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham. Wander the chapels and stupas of Wat Xieng Thong. See the rich gold leaf and crimson décor of Wat Sensoukaram. Step into the monastic classrooms of Wat Xieng Mouane. Or cross the Mekong River for views back to the city from Wat Chompet and its neighbouring temples.

Luang Prabang is a place to feed the soul but, with some of the best food in Southeast Asia, it's also a place to feed the body. From the national salad dish of laab to sticky rice and delicious buffalo noodle soup, you’ll find the tastiest treats among the restaurants and cafés of Luang Prabang. Learn the secrets of the country’s cuisine when you visit the morning market and gather fresh ingredients for a professional cooking class in one of the city’s most famous kitchens.

Explore the journey of Laos’ most abundant ingredient with an afternoon at the Living Land Farm where rice is grown and harvested in traditional paddies and visitors can try their hand at ploughing a field with a water buffalo. At night, Luang Prabang sizzles with fragrant street food stalls in the heart of the city.

November to March is the best time to visit Luang Prabang. Pleasant temperatures around 28°C and dry days make these months perfect for exploring temples, parks, jungle, and outdoor attractions while annual festivals bring enthusiastic crowds to the city. For those wishing to cruise the Mekong, river levels are also best during this time.

Temperatures begin to rise through March, making the months of April to June uncomfortable for some. Monsoon season arrives in June or July and rainfall during this time can be heavy. However, most showers are short, leaving plenty of clear days for flexible travellers to take advantage of the quieter days at Luang Prabang’s most popular attractions. Event lovers should plan visits for the Pi Mai water-throwing festival in April, or the Bun Awk Phansa boat racing festival which usually takes place in September or October.