Curator’s statement
The ancient capital of Luang Prabang works its quiet magic from the start—a riverside town where monks in saffron robes glide past weathered colonial facades, French bakeries, and open-air markets stacked with dragon fruit and bamboo-trussed crayfish. Days unfold slowly here, with sunrise alms, temple-dotted bike rides across the Mekong, and hands-on experiences at places like Living Land Farm and Ock Pop Tok—pioneers of Laos’s community-based, sustainable tourism. Evenings bring sunset drinks by the river and socially conscious shopping, from naturally dyed textiles to soda-can-stitched chameleons. With Laos on the cusp of change (New York Times: “Is This the Year Laos Breaks Through?”), now is the time to experience its offbeat rhythms and reflect on how we engage with the places we visit.
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Where to stay in Luang Prabang, Laos
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Things to do in Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang at dawn: saffron-colored robes, barefoot and bowls brimming with alms.
Offer alms at sunrise
A sacred and solemn ritual—join locals in giving sticky rice to monks at dawn. It’s reverent, rhythmic, and yes, slightly surreal (and photogenic). Just remember to do it respectfully.
Cruise the Mekong at sunset
Hop aboard a traditional wooden boat and watch the world burn gold. River life slides by: fishermen casting nets, kids swimming, buffalo wading at the banks.
Visit the Living Land Farm
An immersive, hands-on experience that connects you to Lao agriculture and foodways. Try your hand at planting rice (behind Suzy the water buffalo), taste sugarcane juice, or simply walk the paddies.
Climb Mount Phousi
A short but rewarding ascent in the middle of town. Come at sunset for panoramic views over the city and rivers—golden hour turns the rooftops and temple spires into fire.
Shop at the Night Market
Browse a sea of textiles, teas, hand-stitched bags, and indigo everything. It’s touristy but fun, and a great place to pick up locally made, handmade goods.
Practice English with locals at Big Brother Mouse
One of the most heartwarming ways to connect with the community. Drop by during the daily conversation hours to help young Lao students practice English—no teaching experience needed, just curiosity and kindness.
Bike the Mekong’s Far Side
Take a ferry across the river and spend a slow morning cycling through palm-lined paths, quiet temples, and tucked-away villages. Stop by the pottery cooperative in Ban Chan for a glimpse into one of Luang Prabang’s oldest craft traditions.
Places to eat & drink in Luang Prabang, Laos
Another secret cafe find—Formula B
Bouang Asian Eatery
Laid-back, young energy with fusion takes on Lao cuisine. Think pulled pork bao, pumpkin curry, and the best banana flower salad in town.Manda de Laos
Set around a lily pond and lush garden, this is your go-to for upscale Lao dining. The lemongrass-infused cocktails and grilled river fish are musts.Tangor
A chic French-Lao bistro with killer cocktails, banana flower salad, and globe-trotting expats. Go for the vibe, stay for the roasted duck.Khaiphaen
A social enterprise restaurant serving up traditional dishes with heart—everything from crispy riverweed to rich mok pa (fish in banana leaf).Saffron Coffee
Locally grown, ethically sourced, and seriously good coffee. A solid pick for your morning cup, overlooking the river.Tamarind
A long-standing favorite that celebrates traditional Lao flavors. Join one of their cooking classes or come for dinner and try the tasting platters.Kaogee Café
A minimalist café with maximal charm tucked on a quiet side street. Kaogee serves up some of the best coffee in town alongside buttery croissants, slow-pour lattes, and an understated aesthetic that could hold its own in Tokyo or Copenhagen. Beans are locally sourced, and the staff knows their way around a Chemex.
Need to know
Skip the waterfalls unless you’re keen on crowds: Kuang Si is beautiful but wildly popular—expect the masses. If waterfalls aren’t your raison d’être, give it a miss and savor the slow pace in town instead.
Pack for modesty: Lao culture is conservative, especially around temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Bring USD and cash: Credit cards aren’t widely accepted, and local ATMs can be fussy. Small denominations are handy for tipping and tuk-tuks.
Go slow: The magic of Luang Prabang is in the in-between moments—mornings on your balcony, an impromptu chat with a monk, the scent of frangipani at dusk. Don’t overschedule.
Respect the rituals: Almsgiving isn’t a performance. If you’re not participating, watch from a respectful distance and avoid flash photography.
Get outside town: There’s beauty in the nearby villages, rice fields, and riverbanks—opt for slow boat outings or cultural visits that don’t come with a crowd.
Travel Advisor
Saskia Veendorp
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