Last updated on Dec 17, 2013
All information below is subject to change
Luang Prabang (LP) was one of the places I loved when I went backpacking!
It's hard to describe the atmosphere because you have to be there to appreciate it.
But I can tell you that this town is peaceful and has its lovely charm. The whole town is built in French colonial architecture, and is surrounded by an incredible, luscious scenery.
I kept taking pictures when I traveled around!
On the other hand, some will maybe
find Luang Prabang as too calm because it's not the ultimate party place. If you're more into cultural experiences, Luang Prabang is the right place for you, and you can easily stay here for at least 4-5 days.
Either way, I recommend staying in this lovely town in Northern Laos at least a couple of nights to find out...! ;-)
You won't regret it!
By air: Luang Prabang International airport is located 4km from downtown Luang Prabang. This airport serves domestic and international flights.
There's a taxi counter at the airport - a trip to downtown cost $6.
There's an international departure tax: $ 10 per passenger. Normally, this is included in the flight ticket.
By boat from Huay Xai: The majority of travelers take the slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang.
The slow boat stops by Pakbeng, and continues to Luang Prabang. You should calculate 2 days for this trip alone.
Most backpackers arriving from north Thailand arrange a ticket for the slow boat in Thailand, as part of a package. This package includes transfer to Chiang Khong (the Thai border town), boat to Huay Xai (Laotian border town), and then slow boat to Luang Prabang.
Price for the package varies; anything from 1700B to 2000B.
Taking the slow boat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You're in the same boat with dozens of locals and you're passing endless green fields. There's no doubt that you have time to contemplate over your life ;-)
Make sure you bring something nice to sit on because the boat can become quite full, and most of the time you have to sit on the deck floor. Also bring refreshments like fruit and snacks.
By bus: Luang Prabang connects well with Udomxai, Luang Namtha, Phongsali, Sam Neua and Nong Khiaw. Buses to these destinations leave Kiew Lot Sai Nuan station in Luang Prabang. This station serves northern destinations.
For southern destinations, go to Naluang station. From here there are buses to Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Phonsavan. We took a local bus from Naluang station to Vang Vieng, and it was packed. Make sure you arrive early at the station. The bus we took left at 10.30 am.
Another option is to arrange minibus- or VIP-bus transportation through travel agents in Luang Prabang.
A: Sisavangvong road is the main road in Luang Prabang. Along this road, there are tons of restaurants, shops, galleries and food stalls.
As you can see, Phousi mountain and Royal Palace museum are within walking distance.
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