Spiritual Beauty in Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is home to an almost dizzying array of options, with over 30 temples located in the area. Below are some of the most notable within the city itself.

• Wat Xiengthong: A centuries-old temple complex near the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, its name means Temple of the Golden City.

• Wat Sensoukharam: Legend says that this 18th-century temple was made with 100,000 stones from the Mekong River, giving it the name Temple of 100,000 Treasures.

• Haw Phra Bang: This contemporary temple is located within the Royal Palace Museum and houses the city’s namesake Phra Bang Buddha statue.

• Wat Mai Souvannapoumaram: Located near the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Mai temple is the city’s largest and one of the most intricately decorated.

• Wat Wisunarat: Located near the Old French Bridge crossing the Nam Khan River, Wat Wisun is Luang Prabang’s oldest temple and features the unique Great Lotus Stupa. Additional temple buildings featuring numerous Buddha images are also found at this historic site.

• Mount Phousi: Visitors pass a multitude of statues and shrines as they climb the 300+ steps to the top of the mount, where the golden Wat Chom Si and panoramic views await.

Travelers looking to include a hike and visit more rural temples can take a short boat ride across the Mekong. (Both public and private ferries are available from the crossing near The National Museum—coordinate with your hotel’s front desk for options and costs.) After the crossing, walk up the local road that follows the river to visit the temples Wat Xieng Meme Sai Ya Set Tha Ram, Wat Chomphet, Wat Had Siaw and continue up to The Jungle Shrine. The hike is just about 7km/4.5mi roundtrip and can be done in a few hours.

• Manda de Laos: A truly remarkable experience, this fine-dining restaurant features traditional Lao dishes set among serene lily ponds. Celebrated by multiple publications, this establishment is not to be missed on any trip to Luang Prabang.

• Lost in Baan: Asian fusion gastropub and ‘listening bar” in a hip and modern atmosphere. The innovative team serves up eclectic fare while spinning some unique beats.

• Maolin Tavern: Classic cocktails, craft beers, and bar bites in a laid-back setting along a street in Luang Prabang’s heritage district. This is a great place to enjoy a happy hour drink and watch life unfold on this main thoroughfare.

• Mookata Asian Grill: Tabletop barbeque restaurant with extensive meat and seafood options, as well as accompanying sides. Ample seating with a large outdoor space makes it a great space to gather with friends for an evening of grilling together.

• Luang Prabang Night Market: Open daily from 5 pm–11 pm, this busy night market is in the heart of Luang Prabang. The market features vendors selling local Lao and regional cuisine, as well as handicraft items and live entertainment at times.

• Nagini by 3 Nagas: Craft cocktail bar in a historic mansion with views of the Mekong River. A great place to enjoy an evening drink while taking in the beauty of this unique setting.