The UNESCO former capital city, rich in heritage and natural beauty

Deep in the centre of Laos, the former capital city of Luang Prabang boasts UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its vividly coloured temples, rich heritage and is also surrounded by a mountainous landscape filled with cascading waterfalls and caves ready to explore.

The city itself is a shimmering patchwork of golden temple roofs, burnt orange monks’ robes and teak-bordered French-colonial architecture. Wander down the busy streets and discover the ancient monasteries, hunt for bargains in the night markets and cycle throughout the area, from the old quarter to the rugged mountains beyond the city limits.

As the countryside surrounding the city offers a large menu of active pursuits; visit various waterfalls such as Kuang Si and Tad Sae. These don’t have the biggest descents, but instead meander through multiple, step-like pools, many of which you can bathe in. Or venture into the depths of the Pak Ou Cave system, trek along the forest-shrouded Tiger Trails and kayak along the winding waterways.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our destination specialists

Watch monks collect alms at dawn

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Watch monks collecting alms from the local residents at dawn.

Join a Baci ceremony at a local home

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Participate in a Baci ceremony at a local house, which is believed to re-align the ‘kwan’ (soul) with the human body.

Cruise the Mekong through jungle and mountains

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Cruise down the Mekong River and enjoy the spectacular backdrop of Luang Prabang’s forest, jungles and lush mountains.

Cycle through the UNESCO-listed city centre

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Enjoy a bicycle ride through the UNESCO protected city centre to enjoy the intricate architecture.

A word from one of our experts

Tranquil Luang Prabang is set on the banks of the Mekong River. I recommend visiting its gilded, picturesque Buddhist temples and rising early to witness the daily procession of saffron-clad monks collecting alms from the local residents.

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Ellie Khoury

Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Luang Prabang

There are many incredible places to stay in Luang Prabang. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Luang Prabang

Rosewood Luang Prabang
Set amid a scene of lush green jungle that surrounds the historical and captivating city of Luang Prabang is the Rosewood hotel. Throughout, you will detect a combination of blissful natural characteristics with charming and authentic features. An exotic retreat that celebrates the essence of experiential travel, guests will also be treated to a touch of local tradition, with architectural themes and décor reflecting that of colonial and Laotian style. Dotted throughout the verdant grounds are 23 spacious accommodations, consisting of four deluxe rooms, four speciality suites, three riverside villas, six pool villas and six luxury tents. All exemplifying Lao tradition and French colonial style, each accommodation features stunning furnishings with use of indigenous materials and local artwork. The rooms and suites are located on the riverside and benefit from wonderful views of the mountainous setting, while the riverside villas are calmed by the soundtrack of the gentle flow of water. The pool villas are immersed in nature, boasting their own private pool, outdoor wooden bathtubs and private bar, while the hilltop tents are hidden away, affording amazing views that are best enjoyed from the sofas that sit on the private balcony. The Great House restaurant serves up delicious Laotian regional specialities, and has a farm-to-the-table philosophy in order to support the local community. The Elephant Bridge Bar promises relaxation and refreshments with its cocktail list and Laotian bar snacks, while for an extra sense of rejuvenation, the Sense spa presents a range of luxury treatments and signature holistic offerings. If you need to cool down, the retreat’s inviting swimming pool, set next to a natural waterfall, is the perfect antidote to a busy day exploring Luang Prabang.
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Trip Inspiration

Get inspired with our Luang Prabang example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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Whatever you want from your Luang Prabang tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Explore Laos

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Don Daeng

This island is part of the 4,000 islands that make up the picturesque riverine archipelago. Here you can venture out on foot or bicycle and take the time to witness the natural beauty and unspoilt charm of the island, or travel to the nearby town of Champasak to traipse around the pretty wooden houses and small restaurants along the waterfront.

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Oudomxay Province

Nestled within the fertile rainforest, this region is home to over 500 villages where traditional life still prevails, all waiting to educate you on their languages and customs. Some of our favourite sights around the region include the tranquil Huay Nam Kat Waterfall and the expansive, cathedral-like Chom Ong Cave, from which the Nam Kaeng River flows.

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Vientiane

Vientiane retains a laid-back charm bereft of most capital cities, and its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. There’s a pleasing lack of traffic as a result. Climb atop a replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe and enjoy the views from the deck or visit Ho Phra Keo, a scenic temple complex set in immaculate gardens.

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Meet your Asia team

When to visit

Although this is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Laos is during the months of November to April. This period offers warm days and cool nights along with clear skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the country’s natural beauty and engaging in outdoor activities. The temperatures are generally mild, although cooler in the northern regions, making it comfortable for sightseeing and trekking.

City sightseeing

November - April

Boun Pi Mai Celebrations

April

When Is the Best Time to Visit Laos?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Laos?

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Plan your trip to Luang Prabang

Whatever you want from your adventure in Luang Prabang, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.