Luang Prabang, Laos, February 14th 2024

Today, we embarked on a captivating journey through the cultural and natural wonders of Luang Prabang. Our day commenced with a visit to the morning market, which is where the locals go to get their daily supplies, and where tourist go to watch the locals.

Our walk continued to two venerable temples, Wat Mai and Wat Pha Bang, standing as architectural and spiritual marvels. Wat Mai, known as the «New Monastery,» showcases stunning Luang Prabang style with intricate gilded carvings and ornate decorations.

Adjacent to the Royal Palace, Wat Pha Bang houses the revered Pha Bang Buddha, a sacred image with a storied past, believed to hold extraordinary powers.

Central to Luang Prabang’s religious calendar is the annual procession of the Pha Bang Buddha, named after Wat Pha Bang. During the traditional New Year celebration, the Buddha is paraded through the streets, drawing devotees and onlookers who pay homage and partake in vibrant festivities.

Facing Wat Mai, nestled amidst lush gardens, we visited the former Royal Palace, constructed during the colonial era in 1904 for King Sisavang Vong. Now transformed into the National Museum, with no cameras allowed, it offered a glimpse into well-preserved royal chambers adorned with rare religious and cultural artifacts. Walking on the polished floors, we could sense the historical essence of life within.

After experiencing a touch of royalty, we went down to the confluence where the river Nam Kham flows into the Mekong, where it was evident that we were in the dry season as the water leves were low.

From there it was a short walk over to one of Luang Prabang’s grandest and most decorative temples, Wat Xieng Thong.

Also known as the Golden Monastery, this temple dazzled us with intricate gold-plated mosaics and a distinctive multi-tiered roof that seemed to float above the ground. A splendid example of the classic Luang Prabang style from the 16th century, this temple held historical significance as the site of royal coronations and remains a focal point for annual celebrations.

Ending of the first part of our excursion today we had a tasty lunch menu at a restaurant overlooking the Mekong, with car ferries crossing constantly below us.

Our driver of the day was soon to take us on winding roads southeast of the town, to the Kuang Si Falls.

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This blog post is part of the Indochina trip 2024 – see other blogs from the same trip