Luang Prabang is a stunning semi-rural location. Distinctive karst hills impressively rise from lush green forests crisscrossed by rivers and streams. There are caves and rice paddies to explore, and nearby lagoons offer great opportunities for refreshing dips.
You can partake in many outdoor activities, including cave exploring, hiking, kayaking, tubing and rock climbing. In town you can enjoy a fun and laid-back scene. There are bars and restaurants serving Lao and international foods, and you can stroll past Buddhist temples, colorful textile shops and open-air markets to mingle with locals.
How do I get to Luang Prabang?
Most travellers arrive by plane at Luang Prabang’s international airport. As the airport mostly serves destinations in Asia, backpackers coming from non-Asian countries usually have a layover in a country like Singapore, South Korea, Thailand or Vietnam.
Luang Prabang Travel Tips
Food and Eating Out
In downtown Luang Prabang there are lots of places to eat for all budgets. For some of the best local cuisine head to Sisavangvong Road. After the roundabout as you enter Luang Prabang’s equivalent to a high street you’ll see a welcoming selection of food vendors.
At breakfast try the fresh fruit smoothies and warm sandwiches – the latter no doubt a throwback to the days of the French. The noodle soups and rice dishes whipped up by the hosts are great too – the spicy chicken and Thai basil versions especially good – and be sure to try a Beer Lao or two, a large bottle costing around 50p.
Safety
Luang Prabang is a small city and very safe for tourists. People are very welcoming. There is very little crime but like in other places in south-east Asia should be careful with petty crime and certain aspects of daily life.
Additionally, as Luang Prabang is crisscrossed by natural terrain, including forests, rivers and wetland, you should always take precautions and use sound judgment before venturing out into nature. As long as you use your head and follow the instructions of our team, you should have no problems in Luang Prabang.