Quick Facts:
- Location: north central Laos, about 300 kilometers north of Vientiane
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Population: 408,800 people (2004)
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Area: 16,875 square kilometers
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Status: former capital of Laos
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Name meaning: Royal Buddha Image
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Name variant: Chiang Thong
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Highlights: the tidiness and cleanliness of the city, night market at the end of the main street, many natural and historical sites
Luang Prabang is the ancient town situated in northern Laos. In 1995, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The global body described it as an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved town scape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.
Once tourists coming Luang Prabang, their curious will be waken up by the Alms Giving Ceremony. It takes place daily as the sun rises, beginning on the main street of Luang Prabang before spreading out to all the side streets.
Saying goodbye with the monks, tourists will continue their journey to many famous destinations in LuangPrabang. As you know, Luang Prabang is considered as citadel of Laos. This beautiful town is a collection of historical and majestic constructions. The most typical one in this collection is WatXieng Thong which was built in 1560. There are many legends about the place where the Nam Khan enters the Mekong. It is believed to be the site where the two hermits, who founded Luang Prabang, placed the boundary stone for the new settlement. Another story tells about a betel merchant with the name of Chanthapanit who built a palace on this site, making himself the first king of the new capital. It has been said that he was the first founder of WatXieng Thong.
Besides WatXieng Thong, Royal Palace Museum is a worthy place for s visit. Presently, it displays things that were used during the reign such as gifts from neighboring countries.
If tourists feel satisfied with your discovery around historical buildings, waterfalls are the next interesting choice for you. For a long time, Luang Prabang have been famous for Tad Sae or Kuang Si waterfall. They are really spectacular natural wonders best appreciated in the wet season.
In general, Luang Prabang is a must see destination in the world. There are so many hidden beauties in this town that we can not list all. Let’s contact with us to have exciting journey in your life.