Destination Laos
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in South East Asia, and has a tranquil, old world charm rarely found in Asia today. This fascinating town was the capital of the Lane Xang (Million Elephants) Kingdom until the mid-sixteenth century, and in colonial times it served as a provincial headquarters of the north. The legacy of the European presence here – well preserved French architecture and careful street planning – has blended delightfully with more than 30 gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history. Magical and charming, it has preserved its long-standing reputation as a stronghold of Lao cultures with its splendid natural scenery and sense of timelessness. In 1995 the uniqueness of Luang Prabang was recognized internationally when the old town came under UNESCO protection as a World Heritage Site.
Surrounded by thickly forested mountains and situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong Rivers, Luang Prabang is probably the most unhurried, relaxed city in all of Asia, with some of the friendliest people you could hope to meet anywhere. With a population of approximately 25,000 there are few cars and no pollution or traffic jam – it’s a perfect place to stroll leisurely through the ancient lanes and alleyways and absorb the timelessness of this still relatively undiscovered part of the world.
Phou Si sacred hill, with its temple and stupas, rises in the center of town, providing wonderful views of the former Royal Palace, the Mekong and assorted temples. Luang Prabang National Museum is the former Royal Palace; constructed in 1904 the museum displays lovely collection of personal artifacts of the former Royal Family and gifts that the former Royal Family received from dignitaries of foreign countries. In addition, there is Wat Xieng Thong, built in 16th century with impressive golden facades and colorful murals. Steep roofs reaching almost to the ground are a feature of classic Lao architecture. This temple was used to organize the highest Royal Ceremonies and housed the Royal Hearse.
One of the most memorable excursions from Luang Prabang is a trip along the Mekong by boat to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, approximately 20 kilometers or so away. The caves are set high in a cliff, and are reached by way of a series of steps from the river. Inside are hundreds, maybe thousands of images of Buddha, of all sizes and styles. These have been placed here over the centuries and are regularly visited by local pilgrims. trip is also a good opportunity to experience life on the Mekong, where small boats provide transport for people and produce, and villagers along the banks use the river for bathing, swimming, clothes washing and communal gatherings.
Kuang Si Waterfall is approximately 30 kilometres by road from Luang Prabang and if water levels permit it is a pleasant place to spend time swimming in clear blue water (as a result of abundant limestone deposits) or relaxing in the beautiful scenery. The pleasant journey by road to the waterfall can be undertaken by coaster bus, or for the more energetic by bicycle, and along the way the route passes scenic Laotian countryside with rice paddy fields and many small ethnic minority villages with friendly locals.
