Luang Prabang Travel Blogs

Luang Prabang travel will offer you many magnificent tourist attractions, amazing local food and vibrant nightlife. See the highlights & hidden gems of Luang Prabang with a local on your side. For first-timers, this travel blog will be your best friend to ensure your satisfaction in the trip to Luang Prabang.

Best Laotian Food in Luang Prabang: Full Guide

If you’re planning a food tour in Laos, you don’t need to travel across the entire country. Simply head to Luang Prabang, where you can savor the full spectrum of Laos flavors in one place. From the diversity of dishes to the budget-friendly prices, Luang Prabang is a paradise for food lovers. Laos Travel Packages will introduce some of the best Laotian food in this charming old city and discover what makes them so irresistible![incredible_toc]1. Features of Typical Laotian FoodLaotian MealsLaotian food shares some similarities with the food from Thailand and Cambodia, being spicy, sour, and sweet. However, Laotian food has its unique characteristics, particularly in its use of ingredients like ginger, tamarind, kaffir lime leaves, and fiery chili peppers.And, many tourists ask “Is Laotian food spicy?” The spicy kick is what makes Laotian food stand out, as it adds heat and flavor to many dishes. In Laos, spiciness is seen as essential, especially since a large portion of the population engages in manual labor. Spicy food stimulates the appetite and helps boost energy levels, which is why you’ll find most Laotian dishes packing a punch.Another distinctive feature of Laotian cuisine is the preference for grilled foods. Whether it's a quick snack or a full meal, grilled meats are common throughout the country. You’ll often see food stalls at night markets lined with grilled chicken, fish, pork, and even whole skewered birds. These mouthwatering items are usually laid out on banana leaves, ready to be enjoyed by hungry visitors.2. Best Laotian Food in Luang PrabangNow that we’ve covered the essentials of Laotian cuisine, let’s explore some must-try dishes when you visit Luang Prabang as one of the most interesting things to do in Luang Prabang.2.1. LarbLarb LaosOften considered the national and famous Laotian food, larb is a type of minced meat salad, typically made with pork, chicken, duck, or fish, though you may find vegetarian versions with tofu. It’s a unique blend of meat, fresh herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and roasted rice powder, giving it a distinctly Laotian flavor.Larb is commonly served with sticky rice, and in Luang Prabang, you’ll often find it garnished with chili and eaten by hand, using the rice to scoop up the salad. The balance of sour, salty, spicy, and umami flavors makes larb a must-try dish, especially for those who want to understand the heart of Laotian cuisine.2.2. Or LamA bowl of Or LamA traditional Laotian food from the royal kitchens of Luang Prabang, Or Lam is a savory stew that has become a beloved staple across Laos. Traditionally, venison was used for this dish, but today, it is often made with beef, chicken, or pork. The stew is slow-cooked with a variety of local ingredients such as eggplant, long beans, lemongrass, mushrooms, and wood ear fungus, alongside aromatic spices like galangal and chili.What makes Or Lam stand out is the inclusion of sakhaan, a spicy vine pepper that gives the dish a distinctive kick. In Luang Prabang, you can find Or Lam in both street markets and high-end restaurants often served alongside sticky rice for the perfect meal.2.3. Sai Oua (Lao Sausage)Sai Oua (Lao Sausage)For meat lovers, Sai Oua is a must-try. This grilled Lao sausage is packed with flavor, made from ground pork mixed with an array of fragrant herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. In Luang Prabang, Sai Oua is typically grilled over open flames until the outside is crispy and caramelized, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful. It’s often served with sticky rice or eaten on its own as a street food delicacy. You’ll find it in night markets, local restaurants, and even food stalls around town, an easy and delicious option to try while exploring Luang Prabang.2.4. Ka Nom Kok (Coconut Rice Cakes)Ka Nom Kok (Coconut Rice Cakes)For those with a sweet tooth, Ka Nom Kok is a delightful Laotian dessert that you’ll find at most night markets in Luang Prabang. These small, round coconut rice cakes are made from a batter of rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, cooked in a special cast-iron pan with small, round molds.The result is a crispy outer layer with a soft, gooey center that’s bursting with the sweet and rich flavor of coconut. They are perfect as a snack while you wander through the vibrant streets of Luang Prabang or as a treat to end your meal on a sweet note.2.5. Khao Soi Noodle soupKhao Soi Noodle soupUnlike the more well-known Thai Khao Soi, the Laotian version is a noodle soup that’s rich in flavor but lighter in texture. Made with flat rice noodles, this dish features a flavorful broth that’s typically tomato-based and seasoned with fermented soybean paste. It’s usually served with minced pork, fresh herbs, and lime juice, giving it a refreshing and tangy twist.What sets Laotian Khao Soi apart is the simplicity of its ingredients combined with bold flavors. In Luang Prabang, it’s commonly enjoyed as a breakfast dish, but you’ll find it served throughout the day at local eateries.2.6. Ping Kai (Grilled Chicken)Grilled to perfection, Ping Kai is a popular street food in Laos. This dish features marinated chicken that’s skewered or flattened and then grilled over charcoal until the skin is crispy and golden brown.In Luang Prabang, you’ll find Ping Kai in almost every night market and food stall. It’s often served with sticky rice and a side of Jeow Bong, a spicy dipping sauce made with roasted chili and garlic. The simplicity of the dish allows the flavors of the marinade to shine, making it a go-to for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal on the go.2.7. Kaipen (Mekong River Moss)Kaipen (Mekong River Moss)One of the more unusual and Laos unique foods you’ll find in Luang Prabang is Kaipen, which is made from dried Mekong River algae. The algae are seasoned with sesame seeds, salt, and sometimes garlic before being dried in the sun and fried until crispy.Kaipen is a dish featuring the resourcefulness of Laotian cuisine, utilizing natural ingredients from the environment. It’s perfect as an appetizer or snack, and its crisp texture and salty flavor make it an excellent companion to a cold Beer Lao along your Mekong River cruise tour.2.8. Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad)Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad)Also known as Som Tam in Thailand, the Laotian version of papaya salad is a spicy, tangy, and savory dish made from shredded green papaya, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and an abundance of chilies. However, the Laotian version often includes fermented fish sauce, which gives it a deeper, more pungent flavor.Tam Mak Hoong is typically served with sticky rice and can be found in both street markets and restaurants throughout Luang Prabang. In Luang Prabang, it’s often made fresh to order, allowing you to customize the spice level to your liking.3. Where to Eat in Luang PrabangYou can enjoy these dishes all over Luang Prabang, from street stalls to elegant riverside restaurants. Here are some top spots to eat in Luang Prabang.3.1. Luang Prabang Night MarketLuang Prabang Night MarketLocated along the main street of the old town, Luang Prabang Night Market is easy to find when you arrive at Sisavangvong Street, Luang Prabang. It is packed with street food stalls, handicrafts, and souvenirs, attracting both locals and tourists. The busiest time is in the evening when the market comes into full swing from 5 P.M. to 10 P.M.If you want to do Laotian street food, coming to this night market is a great idea for a cheap and perfect sample of authentic Laotian flavors. 3.2. Restaurants Along the Mekong RiverRestaurants Along the Mekong RiverDining along the Mekong River provides not only great food but also a serene and scenic atmosphere. Many restaurants are located along the riverbank, providing diners with stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. The cool breeze from the river makes this a perfect spot for a relaxing meal, especially at sunset.Some of these spots even offer cooking classes, so you can savor the food and pick up some cooking skills too. It's a slightly more upscale experience compared to the night market, but the prices are still quite reasonable.3.3. Restaurants in the Luang Prabang Old StreetThe Old Quarter of Luang Prabang is filled with charming restaurants tucked away in colonial-style buildings. Many of these restaurants offer both local and international dishes, but the focus on Laotian food remains strong.The Old Quarter is also a fantastic spot for those who enjoy a quieter, more intimate dining experience, as the streets here are peaceful, especially in the evenings. After meals, you can also have a coffee sip in nearby cafe shops along the street.3.4. Luang Prabang Cooking ClassesOne of the most unique ways to experience Laotian cuisine in Luang Prabang is through a cooking class. These classes usually start with a fun trip to the local market to pick out fresh ingredients. Then, you'll get to roll up your sleeves and dive into hands-on cooking sessions where you’ll learn to whip up popular dishes like Larb, Or Lam, and Sai Oua.The best part is that these classes offer a fantastic opportunity to discover local ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultural significance behind the food. And of course, you’ll get to sit down and enjoy a scrumptious meal at the end that you’ve prepared yourself. How cool is that?Luang Prabang Cooking ClassesIf any of these dishes sound tempting to you, feel free to share this Laos food guide in Luang Prabang with your friends! And if you’re ready to try these amazing foods yourself, let us help you plan the perfect Laos Food Tour. We’ll guide you to the best places to eat, fun cooking classes, and more. Contact us today to start your food journey in Luang Prabang!

Things to do in Luang Prabang

Although Luang Prabang is not the capital of Laos, it is frequently referred to as a key entrance gateway for many Laos tours, thanks to its central location in northern Laos. Due to its popularity, travelers often search for "what to do in Luang Prabang", and Laos Travel Packages will list the must-see attractions and experiences in this historic city. Top things to see and do in Luang Prabang are expected to be presented in daytime and nightlife in this blog.[incredible_toc]1. What is Luang Prabang Known for?Luang Prabang street in the early morningLuang Prabang in Laos is famous for its rich Laotian culture, history, and architecture. In 1995, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been recognized as one of the most attractive tourist cities in Asia by Travel and Leisure magazine.As an old city, Luang Prabang impresses visitors with its ancient buildings, including palaces from the 14th century and over 30 unique temples. Highlight places to go in Luang Prabang include Wat Xieng Thong, colorful murals showing Buddhist stories, and Wat Mai, known for its beautiful 5-tiered roof. The city’s peaceful streets are lined with traditional wooden houses, and every morning, you can see monks in orange robes walking through the streets to collect food donations.For nature lovers, you can witness beautiful views from Mount Phou Si, especially at sunrise and sunset. You can also visit the Kuang Si Falls or explore local legends like the romantic story of Mount Phou Nhang and Phou Khao. Shoppers will love the night market with a wide variety of street food and unique handmade items from local artisans.2. Best Time to Visit Luang PrabangLuang Prabang Old TownIs Luang Prabang worth visiting? You can visit Luang Prabang year-round, the city has a way of captivating visitors so much that they rarely come just once. The dry and cool season lasts from late October or early November to mid-February, and this is generally considered the best time to visit. The Luang Prabang weather is ideal around Christmas and New Year, although it is also the most crowded time (though still less crowded compared to neighboring Thailand).Avoid the hot season, which spans from March to early May, as temperatures can soar above 40°C. During this time, particularly in northern Laos, the air can be thick with smog from rice paddy burning, making it uncomfortable for travelers. The smoke is at its worst in late March but usually clears up by Lao New Year (Pi Mai or Songkran), which takes place from April 13-16.3. Best Things to Do in Luang PrabangIf you can choose your time to visit Luang Prabang, then create your list of things to do around Luang Prabang by relating to the below activities.3.1. Admire the Mosaic Architecture at Wat Xieng ThongWat Xieng ThongOne of Luang Prabang's most important and iconic temples, Wat Xieng Thong stands as a masterpiece of Laotian architecture built in 1560. At Wat Xieng Thong, visitors can admire the intricate traditional Lao architecture and the famous sweeping roof of the temple. Wat Xieng Thong is open daily from 8 A.M to 6 P.M, and the admission fee is 20,000 kip (~$1 US).You can explore the temple grounds, which include beautiful mosaics, such as the iconic Tree of Life mural. Coming here, tourists often hire Laos traditional costumes (“Sing” for women, “Salong” for men) to take photos and enjoy the atmosphere like an authentic Laotian.3.2. Climb Mount Phou Si for City ViewMount Phou SiFor breathtaking city views, climbing Mount Phou Si is a must-do. Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, this sacred hill is 100 meters tall with sweeping panoramas of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, as well as the mountains beyond. The climb takes about 20-30 minutes via a stairway lined with Buddhist statues and small temples. At the summit, you’ll find Wat Chom Si, a small golden stupa that gleams in the sunlight. The most magical time to visit is at sunrise or sunset when the view over the city and the orange-hued skies, this is one of the best things to see in Luang Prabang but be aware of crowds.3.3. Experience the Alms Giving Ceremony (Tak Bat)The daily Alms Giving Ceremony is one of Luang Prabang's most spiritual and revered traditions. At dawn, hundreds of saffron-robed monks silently walk through the streets to collect food offerings from locals and tourists.To participate, visitors should dress respectfully and observe in silence. While taking photos is allowed, it's important to maintain a respectful distance. If you choose to give alms, make sure to follow proper etiquette to honor this meaningful tradition.3.4. Take a Fresh Dip in Kuang Si WaterfallKuang Si WaterfallNo visit to Luang Prabang is complete without a trip to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, located about 30 kilometers south of the city. Known for its multi-tiered cascades of turquoise water, Kuang Si is often considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls for a view of the entire cascade or relax in one of the many natural pools perfect for swimming. There’s also a small trail leading to a bear sanctuary nearby, where you can see rescued Asiatic black bears in a protected environment. 3.5. Hop on a Mekong River Cruise for a Watery SightseeingCruising the Mekong RiverOne of the most serene ways to experience Luang Prabang’s beauty is by cruising the Mekong River. On these cruises, travelers can relax, soaking in the views of lush green landscapes, towering mountains, and traditional villages. Some cruises include stops at local villages, where visitors can observe crafts being made or visit ancient temples. If you take a longer overnight Mekong River cruise, you can explore deeper parts of Laos, connecting with the peaceful rhythm of the river and countryside. 3.6. Explore the Royal Palace MuseumRoyal Palace MuseumOnce home to Laos' royal family, the Royal Palace Museum (Haw Kham) built in 1904 during the French colonial era, the palace combines traditional Lao and French architectural styles. Inside, visitors can explore the grand throne room, royal living quarters, and a collection of artifacts, including religious objects, paintings, and gifts from foreign dignitaries. The highlight of the museum is the Phra Bang, a revered golden Buddha statue that has been a symbol of the Lao Kingdom for centuries.3.7. Visit the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts CentreAt the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, visitors can learn about traditional Lao weaving and textile art. In the center, you can join many things to do in Luang Prabang Laos such as workshops where you can participate in dyeing fabrics using natural colors or even learn to weave your scarf. Beyond the hands-on activities, travelers can explore the gallery, where beautiful woven products are displayed, and talk with the weavers to learn more about their craft.4. Things to Do in Luang Prabang at NightThere are also many things to do in nightlife in Luang Prabang, you can see a different Luang Prabang when the light shifts on.4.1. Stroll Through the Luang Prabang Night MarketLuang Prabang Night MarketEvery evening, Luang Prabang Night Market transforms the city’s main street into a bustling hub of activity. From handicrafts to textiles, jewelry, and traditional Lao clothing, the shopping in market is one of the top 10 things to do in Luang Prabang for shoppers. Artisans from the surrounding villages come to sell their goods, offering visitors the chance to purchase unique, hand-made items directly from the creators. Also, food lovers will enjoy the market, which features a wide array of Lao street food, from grilled meats and fresh fruit smoothies to the famous Lao baguettes (a delicious fusion of French and Lao cuisine).4.2. Take a Traditional Lao Cooking ClassLaotian cooking classFor a more hands-on experience, consider taking a Laotian cooking class in the evening, where participants learn to prepare traditional Lao dishes using fresh local ingredients. You’ll get to cook and eat classics like Larb (a minced meat salad) and Khao Niao (sticky rice), while also learning about the local food culture. It’s a great way to have dinner with your own cooking Laos dishes.4.3. Enjoy a Drink at a Riverside BarLuang Prabang Riverside BarIf you don’t know what to do in Luang Prabang at night and just want to relax after a long day's exploration, you can head to night bars or coffee shops. Luang Prabang’s riverside is home to several cozy bars and cafés, where you can relax with a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over the Mekong River. Popular spots include Utopia Bar, known for its laid-back vibe and scenic views. After dark, these bars have a chill atmosphere where you can enjoy a cocktail, Laotian beer, or mocktails while soaking in the peaceful riverside vibe.Enjoy Luang Prabang tripSo, those are some Luang Prabang activities, which we think our beloved guests might enjoy. But truly, no description can capture the full magic of Luang Prabang, you have to experience it firsthand. With Laos Travel Packages, we’ll help you craft the perfect journey. Contact us today to book your tour and discover the true wonders of Luang Prabang in person!