Discover Luang Prabang
Destination Guide
The Best of Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang was once the royal capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom. Now this tranquil mountain town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find it perched 700 metres above sea level and nestled between the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. With ancient temples and natural wonders, there’s so many things to do in Luang Prabang. Stay at La Résidence Phou Vao and let us show you where to start.
Read time: 2 min
About Town
Every morning Buddhist monks rise at dawn and make a slow procession through the town. Follow their footsteps and enjoy an adventure for the senses. You’ll see ornate shrines glistening in the early light. Food vendors grill freshly caught fish and locals head to the market. Le Café Ban Vat Sene is a lovely spot in the centre of town.Take a seat and soak-up the atmosphere, this is the perfect place for people watching.
Falling for the Falls
The mountainscapes surrounding the town are an ideal trap for cascading waterfalls and dreamy lagoons. Hike up to the enchanting Kuang Si waterfalls. You’ll encounter breathtaking vistas on the way and arriving at the falls is a magical experience. We’ll provide a gourmet picnic, so you can rest and recharge while taking in the views. The Tad Se falls to the east of the town are also well worth a visit. The crystal clear rock pools are irresistible if you’re in need of a cooling dip.
Old World Laos
Beyond the main sites, there’s still plenty to explore. Hop on a ferry to the Old Town. Here the charming French-colonial mansions and winding avenues simply demand a meander. You could wander for hours among the market stalls too. You’ll find hand-woven fabrics, locally crafted wood-carvings and jewellery. Or, step aboard a barge if you enjoy sitting back and watching the world drift by. As you glide leisurely along the Mekong you can admire the Old Town’s charms from afar.
Under the Mountains
Another tempting reason to take to the waves is a trip to the Pak Ou Caves. Choose the full or half-day tour and board our traditional river boat for a cruise down the Mekong. We’ll dock near the caves, giving you time to step ashore and explore. Admire the many Buddha statuettes carefully placed by local fishermen to watch over them as they head out to sea. On the full-day tour, you’ll also visit three nearby villages to go beneath the surface of rural Laos.
Into the Heavens
There’s no greater spot to watch the sun set over Laos than Mount Phousi. Climb the 300 steps to the top and take in the tranquil views of Luang Prabang below. You’re also likely to meet the odd saffron-robed monk en-route. Local legend has it that the mountain was once home to Naga, the powerful serpentine Buddhist deity. Reach the peak in time to take in the stunning panoramas as the amber glow of dusk sets in.
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11 nights
Contrasting Cultures
Immerse yourself in fascinating Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Laos. Begin your journey in Bangkok aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express and make your way across Southeast Asia. Finally, sink into a world of bliss in Luang Prabang.
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7 or 14 nights
Grand Tour of Southeast Asia
Embark on the ultimate personalised adventure through Southeast Asia, experience your choice of the region’s most unique and captivating destinations.
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