Where to stay in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, in northern Laos, is a former royal capital set on a peninsula where the Nam Khan river meets the Mekong. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial houses and a slow, gentle pace that's rare in the region's cities.

Most visitors stay in or near the old town, where you can walk almost everywhere: to the night market, up Mount Phousi for sunset, and to the dawn alms-giving procession of saffron-robed monks.

Airport
Luang Prabang International (LPQ), a short drive from the old town
By rail
Laos-China Railway trains link Luang Prabang with Vientiane and Vang Vieng
Getting around
On foot or by bicycle in the old town; tuk-tuks further out
Best for
Temples, markets, river trips and waterfalls

Places to stay in Luang Prabang

16 hotels

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Luang Prabang, area by area

The old town is small, so even the outlying areas are rarely more than a short tuk-tuk ride from the centre.

The old town and night market

Best for first visits and sightseeing on foot

The heart of Luang Prabang runs along the peninsula's main street, where the night market sets up each evening below Mount Phousi. Temples such as Wat Xieng Thong, the former Royal Palace (now the National Museum) and dozens of cafés and guesthouses are all within walking distance. It's the most convenient place to stay, and the busiest.

The Mekong riverfront

Best for sunsets and river views

The road along the Mekong side of the peninsula is lined with restaurants and terraces looking across the wide brown river. Boat trips to the Pak Ou caves leave from here, and sunsets are spectacular. Areas a little further along the river are quieter and greener.

The Nam Khan side

Best for a quieter stay close to the centre

On the other side of the peninsula, the smaller Nam Khan river is calmer, with bamboo bridges in the dry season and leafy guesthouses along its banks. The night market is a few minutes' walk away, but evenings are quieter.

Getting to Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang International Airport has flights from Bangkok, Hanoi, Vientiane and other regional hubs, and it's about ten minutes by car from the old town. The Laos-China Railway also runs trains to Vientiane via Vang Vieng, which have largely replaced the long bus journey. The slow boat along the Mekong from the Thai border at Huay Xai, usually over two days, is a classic overland route.

Things to do

Mornings start early with the tak bat alms procession, which visitors are asked to watch quietly and respectfully from a distance. During the day there are temples to visit, the National Museum, cookery classes and boat trips to the Pak Ou caves. Kuang Si waterfall, with its turquoise pools, is about 45 minutes away by road.

In the evening, climb Mount Phousi for sunset, browse the handicraft stalls at the night market and eat at one of the riverfront restaurants.

When to go

The cool, dry season from about November to February is the most comfortable and the most popular. March to May gets hot and hazy, while the rainy season, roughly June to October, brings green countryside, fuller waterfalls and fewer visitors.

Questions about staying in Luang Prabang

Where is the best place to stay in Luang Prabang?

The old town, between the night market and the Mekong, is the most convenient for a first visit. The Nam Khan side is a little quieter while still close to the centre.

How do I get from the airport to the old town?

By taxi or tuk-tuk; it usually takes around ten to fifteen minutes.

How many days do I need in Luang Prabang?

Three days is enough for the temples, Mount Phousi, the night market and a trip to Kuang Si waterfall. Many people stay longer for the relaxed pace.

What is the alms-giving ceremony?

Tak bat is a daily dawn procession in which monks collect offerings of food. Visitors are welcome to watch, but should keep their distance, dress modestly and avoid flash photography.