Cao Bằng to Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang Travel Guide

Luang Prabang is a city in Laos that is known for its beautiful temples, stunning natural scenery, and friendly people. It is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. Here is a guide to help you plan your trip to Luang Prabang.

Language

The official language of Laos is Lao. However, English is widely spoken in Luang Prabang, especially in tourist areas.

Currency

The official currency of Laos is the Lao kip (LAK).

Distance

Luang Prabang is located in the north of Laos. It is about 400 km from Vientiane, the capital of Laos.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Luang Prabang.

• By plane: Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) is the main airport in Luang Prabang. There are flights from several cities in Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Hanoi.
• By bus: There are several bus companies that offer bus services from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. The journey takes about 12 hours.
• By boat: There are also several boat companies that offer boat services from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. The journey takes about 2 days.

Expenses

Luang Prabang is a relatively affordable destination. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities is reasonable.

• Accommodation: A basic guesthouse room costs around $10 per night. A mid-range hotel room costs around $20-30 per night. A luxury hotel room costs around $50-100 per night.
• Food: A meal at a local restaurant costs around $5-10. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15. A meal at a luxury restaurant costs around $20-30.
• Activities: There are several activities available in Luang Prabang, such as visiting temples, taking a boat trip on the Mekong River, and going on a hike. The cost of activities varies depending on the activity.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Luang Prabang is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What to Eat

Luang Prabang has a variety of delicious food to offer. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Khao soi: A noodle soup with a rich coconut curry broth, topped with chicken or beef.
• Larb: A spicy minced meat salad, made with pork, beef, or fish.
• Sai oua: A grilled sausage made with pork, herbs, and spices.
• Sticky rice: A glutinous rice that is steamed and served with various dishes.
• Mango sticky rice: A popular Lao dessert made with glutinous rice, ripe mango, and coconut milk.

Where to Go

Luang Prabang has a lot to offer visitors. Some of the must-see places include:

• Wat Xieng Thong: A beautiful Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and stunning murals.
• Royal Palace Museum: The former royal palace of Luang Prabang, which now houses a collection of royal artifacts.
• Mount Phousi: A hill that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
• Kuang Si Falls: A stunning waterfall located about 30 km from Luang Prabang.
• Pak Ou Caves: A series of caves that are home to thousands of Buddha images.

FAQ

• Is Luang Prabang safe?

Yes, Luang Prabang is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is low and the people are friendly and welcoming.

• Can I get a visa on arrival in Luang Prabang?

Yes, you can get a visa on arrival in Luang Prabang if you are a citizen of one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.

• What is the currency exchange rate in Luang Prabang?

The currency exchange rate in Luang Prabang varies depending on the currency you are exchanging. You can check the current exchange rate on Google or at a local currency exchange kiosk.

• What are the customs in Luang Prabang?

The people of Luang Prabang are friendly and welcoming. It is important to be respectful of their culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
• Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes.
• Do not touch people's heads.
• Be respectful of the royal family.