Whether it's a traditional Lao meal in a restored Lao town house or just a cold Beer Lao at a bar on the Mekong river bank, dining in Luang Prabang can be an experience in itself. There are restaurants serving a wide variety of eastern and western cuisine including Vietnamese, Swiss and French and of course, most places serve Lao food. Indeed, Luang Prabang is well known for its unique cuisine.

Built during the 16th Century by King Saysetthathirath and completed in 1560. Wat Xieng Thong temple is one of the most interesting examples of art and Buddhist architecture. The ornate carved and gilded funeral vehicle of the former king is kept in one of the buildings in the temple grounds. It is well worth visiting and paying your respects to this temple while in Luang Prabang. This temple was used to organize the highest Royal Ceremonies and houses the bones of King Sisavangvong. The intricate golden facades, colorful murals, glass mosaics and unique three-layered roof make this one of the most beautiful temples in Asia.

This is the oldest surviving temple in Luang Prabang, originally erected in 1503 by King Photisarat and rebuilt in 1898. The carved wooden railings in the temple's windows are reminiscent of those found in the Vat Phou temple in southern Laos. Inside you can admire ancient statues and steles. Also located on the grounds of this temple is That Pathoume, also known as that Mak Mo (watermelon stupa) because of its shape.

Built in 1796, Vat Mai (New Monastery) was given its present name following the restoration undertaken in 1821 by King Manthathourat.
Notice the four-tiered roof when visiting the temple, as well as the scenes from daily life and the legend of vessantara on the bas-relief walls.

Located across the Mekong river to the north of Ban Xieng Mene, Vat Chomphet is built on the top of a hill, and offers stunning views of Luang Prabang town and the river. The temple was built in 1888, and although currently undergoing renovation, the dragon and bird designs on the ceiling still retain their mystical power.

The former Royal Palace, which was constructed between 1904 to 1909 during the reign of King Sisavangvong, has now been converted into the National Museum. A collection of personal artifacts belonging to the former Royal Family, historical photographs, musical instruments and gifts to the nation from foreign countries are on display

Located at the top of Mount Phou Si in the heart of the town, this delightful stupa was built in 1804 during the reign of King Anourouth. Wat That Chomsi has become a symbol of Luang Prabang's spiritual significance to Laos. The view of the Mekong and the city from the hilltop is superb, especially in the evening. However, you must first climb 328 steps to see the 20m high Vat Chomsi Stupa. - please dress accordingly and be aware that the consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited.

During the Pimai Festival, woman carry flower offerings up the stairs and leave as offerings at the foot of the stupa. A spectacular view is afforded from the top of Mount Phou Si.

In the foreground the National Museum and gabled roofs of the many Buddhist temples can be seen scattered around the palm-tree label urban landscape. In the distance, the Mekong and Khan rivers are set against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

This waterfall is accessible by car, tuk-tuk, bicycle but during the rainy season can be raech by boat only. It is divided into three limestone steps and is ten minutes ride up the Nam Khan River from Luang Prabang. This waterfall is perfect for picnicking, swimming and relaxing.

This impressive waterfall is located about 28 kilometers south of Luang Prabang. You can take a tuk-tuk from the center of the city or rent your own transport. Several villages inhabited by people from ethnic minorities can be visited along the way to the waterfall. The scenery on the way to Tad Kuang Si is beautiful featuring fresh air, flowers and wild animals.

Nong Khiaw is a small district capital bisected by the Nam Ou River north of Luang Prabang, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and lush vegetation. From Nong Khiaw take a boat one hour upriver to Muong Ngoi Gao, where you can get a taste of traditional Lao village life and relax in riverside bungalows.

In Luang Prabang, two community-based treks have been supported by the Mekong Tourism Development Project. One trek begins just across the river from town in Chomphet district; the other starts in Muong Ngoi. Both are 2-day. 1-night treks where you can enjoy nature, interact with local people, and be confident that you are contributing to the sustainable development of tourism in Laos. More details are available at the Tourism Information Center.

This village located 4km to the north of Luang Prabang was a former royal weaving village. You can view women working on their looms, buy their products and take a stroll through the vaillage. It can be reached by bicycle or tuk-tuk.