Discover Luang Prabang: Charming Colonial Gem of Laos – Top Things to Do
We're city enthusiasts who thrive on the energy, cuisine, art, and vibrant street life of urban hubs. After exploring remote northern Laos, the French colonial city of Luang Prabang felt like a bustling metropolis by comparison. In just one afternoon of wandering, it revealed itself as a delightful treasure.
Home to around 100,000 residents, Luang Prabang is Laos' second-largest city (behind Vientiane, with about 1.3 million people). Long after French rule ended, it has become a magnet for international travelers, offering comfort and entertainment—but smart planning is key to dodging crowds. Here's our expert guide to the must-see sights and activities.
Climb 367 Steps to Phou Si Summit
The 367-step ascent may sound daunting, but it's essential for panoramic city views. On our first full day, we reached That Chomsi temple atop the hill, gazing over Luang Prabang's peninsula where the Old Town sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
Sunset seekers, like Dani, will love capturing the rivers, mountains, golden temple, and palm-fringed horizons in vivid colors. Arrive at least an hour early to claim a spot amid the crowds (pack mosquito repellent—they're fierce).
If crowds irk you, visit in the morning. Evenings, stroll the night market as stalls open, enjoying it nearly to yourself.
Explore the Markets
Traveling light with 60-70L backpacks for two years, we rarely splurge, yet Luang Prabang's night market tempted us with souvenirs. Stretching along Sisavangvong Road, it's unmissable. We browsed paintings, silk scarves, blankets, wooden masks, and intriguing Lao rice whiskey bottles infused with snakes or insects.
The morning market nearby is a local affair: fresh produce, Mekong seaweed and fish, plus exotic eats like fried rats, grilled insects, frogs, or ox heads.
Bike Around Town
From Phou Si, Luang Prabang's expanse beyond Old Town was evident, so we rented bikes—a classic way to dive deeper. Rentals are plentiful and cheap (20,000 kip/$2.50 daily for a city cruiser). We pedaled past decaying French villas and ornate wats. Wat Xieng Thong, at the peninsula's north end (built 1560), is the most magnificent.
Master Lao Cooking
While Thai food is global, Lao cuisine deserves more spotlight. Among options like Tamarind, Tam Nak, and Tum Tum Cheng, we chose the latter for a private vegetarian class, crafting five dishes.
We prepared:
Fried noodles with vegetables
Fresh spring rolls
Papaya salad
Red curry with tofu
Sticky rice and banana dessert
The session started at the morning market with chef's sister Noi, who demystified local ingredients. Back at the school, prepped items made for an efficient hour-long class. We cooked for six but devoured it all, paired with local orange fruit wine. 
Relax in Luang Prabang
After markets, biking, and feasting, pampering beckoned. Inspired by Nong Khiew's herbal steams, we found a budget gem off Sisavangvong Road (10,000 kip/$1.25). Skip pricier foreigner rates ($8.25/hour)—opt for authentic local vibes.
These wooden saunas mist fresh herbs like lemongrass from a heated drum. Alternate 10 minutes steaming with tea breaks; it detoxes and soothes. Sarongs, towels, and tea included.
Luang Prabang boasts excellent massages: Lao, Thai, oil, foot, etc. Budget spots on Khem Khong (Mekong riverside) offer 1-hour sessions for 38,000 kip ($4.75).
Observe Tak Bat Mindfully
Dawn sees saffron-robed monks collecting alms along streets—locals offer rice, fruit, honoring Buddhism (not mere charity). A stunning sight, but tourism has turned it spectacle-like. Avoid flashing cameras or crowding; respect from across the street.
Dani recommends a quiet side street off Sisavangvong. Study do's and don'ts first. For deeper insights, read travel blogger Barbara's alms-giving experience.
Chase Waterfalls
Cool off at nearby falls. Kuang Si (30km out) is iconic—tuktuk roundtrip or group tours (40,000 kip/$5). Adventurous? Rent a motorbike, but roads are rugged.
Closer Tad Sae offers multi-tiered cascades and swimmable pools. Agencies offer countryside tours; book on arrival—no need to pre-book.
Hobomaps proved invaluable, marking guesthouses, eateries, and sights—check Hobomaps.com.
