Luang Prabang

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Luang Prabang Overview

Luang Prabang town is a jewel in Indochina, and a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Once the capital of former kings and an important post along river trade lines it became a site of interest for visitors from all over the world. The ancient royal city is surrounded by misty mountains at the junction of the Mekong and the smaller Nam Khan river.

The center of town is located on a peninsula at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level. Here we find ancient buildings, the former royal palace which is the national museum today and of course numerous Buddhist monasteries and temples. In the middle of the small city is Mount Phousi with truly stunning views of the surrounding temples and hills.

Luang Prabang is one of the best places in Laos to witness the alms giving ceremony, which is a longstanding tradition in Laos Buddhist culture. Almsgiving takes place daily as the sun rises, beginning on the main street of Luang Prabang before spreading out to all the side streets. You should buy your offerings (mostly food) in advance and arrive early as it’s considered offensive to disrupt the ceremony once it has commenced. Follow the locals by kneeling down to present your offering. Common gifts include rice, fresh fruit, and traditional snacks. The idea of giving alms for the Buddhist monks is to make merit and also to collect food for their 1 meal of a day.