PIXEL VISA

Luang Prabang, a serene town nestled in the lush landscapes of northern Laos, is celebrated for its captivating natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the sense of tranquility that envelops every visitor. This UNESCO World Heritage site has gained renown for its breathtaking scenery, featuring verdant hills, dense forests, and the graceful confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers, providing a serene backdrop for exploration and reflection. Visitors are drawn to Luang Prabang for its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. The town's historic temples and traditional architecture reflect the influence of Buddhism, while its lively night markets and local festivals offer insights into the vibrant Lao culture. The town's designation as a World Heritage site has contributed to its preservation, ensuring that the charm of its well-preserved historic center endures.

Wow, the Architecture!

I regret that I feel as though I did not fully appreciate the architecture in Luang Prabang while there. Although much of Southeast Asia features a mix of oriental and French-impacted colonial architecture, Luang Prabang is special in that the city's landscape is protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site and features stunning well-preserved buildings, temples, and landmarks. Whether you're having a drink on the river or a stroll around town, you will find a mix of natural and constructed beauty all around you.

Great for Backpackers

Luang Prabang offers lots of activities and amenities options for backpackers. With well-priced hostels, an international night market food court with lots of options, and walkable infrastructure, there is plenty to do in this gorgeous city. The hostel which I stayed at, Downtown Hostel, offered breakfast, clean facilities, and comfy beds for just 120,000 LAK or $6 USD.

Perfect if You Have Money to Spare

Although Luang Prabang is great for backpackers, it is perfect for those who have a bit deeper pockets. The Luang Prabang riverside is dotted with plenty of mid-to-high range restaurant and cafe options, while the northern portion of Sakkaline Rd (north of the night market) features adorable cocktail bars in beautiful colonial buildings. Mark my words Luang Prabang, I will be back when I'm rich! *shakes fist at the sky*

Luang Prabang Bowling

Believe it or not, a backpacker common activity in Luang Prabang is bowling. Taking place at the Luang Prabang Bowling Alley at the southern edge of town, backpackers will meet after the night market closes to bowl, dance, and drink. Right around 9pm, tuk tuk drivers will start asking if you'd like a ride to the bowling alley with a more imperative than cordial "Tuk tuk? Bowling?" And if you're lucky, their suggestion will be followed up by a "Smoke smoke? Opium?" That last one had me laughing. All the tuk tuk drivers in Southeast Asia also double as plugs.

Don't Trespass on Temple Grounds at Night

Luang Prabang was a bit of a difficult city for me to enjoy because I was experiencing some social anxiety regarding the friends I was traveling with while there. One night in Luang Prabang, I was feeling especially irritable, so I went for a jog to the Phousi Hill Temple, unaware that it was in the process of closing. Making it up the temple stairs just before some monks appeared and gated off any chance of exit, I ignorantly climbed to the topmost point of the hill and looked out over the entire city. It was amazing! I was the only one on the hill and the peace of the bright city lights calmed my nerves. On my way back down the hill, however, I quickly realized that the temple had been closed for the night. All the paths were pitch black and I suddenly started to hear.. screaming? A high pitched scream wailed through the darkness, starting from a hum and turning to a chorus. I quickly sped up my speed breaking into a running scramble down the hills steep steps. The longer I stayed on the hill, the louder the screams. I finally made it to the exit of the temple and the stairs back down to the market area below, but my way out had been gated and locked. My heart racing, I scrambled over the fence and ran down to the light of the city below, leaving the screams of the temple's guarding spirits behind. Moral of the story: Don't trespass on temple grounds at night.

Slowboat

Arriving in Luang Prabang by slowboat is a scenic and leisurely journey that allows you to soak in the beauty of the Mekong River. The slowboat ride typically starts from Huay Xai, near the Thai-Lao border, and takes two days to reach Luang Prabang. From Pak Beng, a popular stop along the route, the duration is about seven hours. The cost can vary depending on the operator, but a two-day slowboat journey from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang might cost around $20 to $40 USD. Travelers can enjoy stunning river views, pass by remote villages, and take in the tranquil landscapes of northern Laos during this relaxed voyage. It's an unforgettable way to experience the region's natural beauty and connect with the local culture along the Mekong River.

Bus & Van

Traveling to Luang Prabang by bus or van offers an efficient and budget-friendly option for exploring this charming town. From Huay Xai, near the Thai border, the journey takes approximately 10 to 12 hours and costs around $25 to $30 USD. If you're coming from the capital, Vientiane, the trip can vary from 9 to 11 hours with costs ranging from $25 to $35 USD. From the popular backpacker destination of Vang Vieng, expect a 5 to 7-hour ride costing about $15 to $25 USD. The exact duration and cost may fluctuate based on road conditions and the operator. However, the scenic views of Laos' countryside and the ability to interact with fellow travelers make the bus and van journey to Luang Prabang an excellent way to discover the country's beauty and culture.

Train

Travelling by train in Laos is primarily managed by Laos-China Railway (LCR), a joint venture between Laos and China governments. The main railway line, the Vientiane–Boten railway, connects the capital city of Vientiane with the northern border town of Boten, passing through key cities such as Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Muang Xay, and Luang Namtha. The high-speed trains are designated as C81/82 and C83/84, offering both first and second-class seats. The ordinary train is known as K11/12 and offers standard seats. Ticket reservations can be made at the railway station, and the prices can vary depending on the distance, but a rough estimate for a journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang might cost between $20 and $50. Travelers should arrive at the station well in advance to validate their tickets and board the train.

Plane

Traveling to Luang Prabang by plane is the most convenient and time-saving option. Luang Prabang International Airport is well-connected to various domestic and international destinations. Several airlines operate flights to Luang Prabang, with carriers like Lao Airlines, Bangkok Airways, and Vietnam Airlines being the most common. Domestic flight prices can vary depending on the departure city, but for a rough estimate, a one-way domestic flight within Laos might cost between $100 and $300, with lower prices for shorter routes like Vientiane and higher costs for longer routes from places like Pakse or Savannakhet. Flying into Luang Prabang provides a smooth and quick entry, allowing you to begin your exploration of this beautiful town and its surroundings without the need for extended land travel.