Luang Prabang 2 Day Itinerary
Quick answer: A Luang Prabang 2 day itinerary covers the essentials of this laid-back Lao town: arrive and settle into the old town, then watch the Tak Bat alms procession at dawn, explore Wat Xienthong and other temples, visit the Royal Palace museum, and finish with sunset from Phousi Hill and a stroll through the night market.
“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, we have just landed at Luang Prabang International Airport,” announced the crew as the aircraft taxied to the gate. Flying through the mountains on a warm Saturday afternoon made the one-and-a-half-hour flight from Bangkok a spectacular one.
Day 1: Arriving in Luang Prabang
Immigration and customs on arrival were smooth. I paid a $35 visa fee and obtained entry to the land of wonders.
Towards the exit of the terminal building there is a small taxi counter, where I paid 8 USD for a transfer to my hotel. I stepped out of the airport eager to absorb everything this intoxicating city had to offer.
Where I Stayed
The ride through the streets of this laid-back town to Kounsavan Guest House took about half an hour. It is right in the centre of the old town, close to the night market and Phousi Hill, from where you can capture a majestic shot of the sun setting over the Mekong River.
Day 2: Temples, Museum and Sunset in Luang Prabang
Morning: Watch Tak Bat
The best way to start your day in Luang Prabang is with the morning alms procession, which locals call Tak Bat. The tradition is also practised in other Buddhist countries in Southeast Asia.
It is a beautiful ritual in which Buddhist monks in brown or saffron-dyed robes walk through the quiet streets before dawn, collecting offerings of sticky rice from devotees. Taking part is considered sacred, and watching it is a privilege, so keep a respectful distance.
After the ceremony, a nice breakfast at the morning market is the perfect next step.
Late Morning: Buddhist Temples
It’s great to walk around the streets of Luang Prabang and visit its many wats (Buddhist temples). The most prominent is Wat Xienthong, the Golden City Temple.
Wat Xienthong is one of the most visited and renowned active monasteries, built in 1560 by the Laotian King Settathirath. It stands in a prime location where the Nam Khan river joins the Mekong, and showcases classic Laotian architecture with a colourful exterior and low-slung roofs.
Other wats along the street include Wat Souvannakhili and Wat Sensoukaram, a popular place to watch and take part in Tak Bat.
Afternoon: The Luang Prabang National Museum
The other major attraction along the street is the Luang Prabang National Museum, also known as the Royal Museum or locally as Haw Kham. This former Royal Palace was built in 1904 and was the main residence of King Sisavang Vong. Its design blends traditional Lao and French beaux-arts styles.
| Entry fee | 30,000 Kip |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | 0800-1130 and 1330-1600 (last entry at or before 1530) |
| Dress code | Modest clothing (no sleeveless tops or shorts) |
Afterwards, stop for an evening snack and a cup of famous Lao coffee at the Scandinavian Bakery. Then head to Phousi Mountain to watch the sun set over the Mekong River.
Evening: Sunset from Phousi Hill
Phousi Hill, Luang Prabang’s most prominent attraction, stands 100 meters high in the middle of the old town. At the top sits That Chomsi, a Buddhist temple with a golden stupa.
After an exhausting climb of 329 steps, the real reward isn’t the golden spire. It’s the enchanting view stretching across the beautiful mountains and the Mekong River.
Night: The Night Market
The north side of the hill leads down to the night market, which brings the whole street to life at dusk and is the perfect way to end your day in Luang Prabang. This is the only place where tourists outnumber locals.
Vendors set up tents along the street selling handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, bags and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Luang Prabang airport to the old town?
There is a small taxi counter near the terminal exit. I paid 8 USD, and the ride to the old town took about half an hour.
What time is Tak Bat in Luang Prabang?
The alms procession takes place before dawn, as monks walk through the quiet streets collecting sticky rice.
How many steps are there up Phousi Hill?
There are 329 steps to the top, where That Chomsi and its golden stupa overlook the Mekong River.
Conclusion
Luang Prabang has a lot more to offer; this 2 day itinerary just touches on some of the major attractions in the city. Whatever you are looking for, Luang Prabang will offer it to you with an open heart.
Ill make sure to include luang prabang on my next visit in Thailand. It seems like there
More to see here and I cant wait to visit 🙂
Luang Prabang seems so pristine and emits an aura of spirituality. I can well imagine the atmosphere in the early morning during the Tak Bat ceremony. Your narrative and pictures vividly bring to life this charming place.
You have such a talent on delivering your experience, Sreeram. Keep on going! I’m glad you enjoyed Luang Prabang. I’ve personally never been there but your story is so emotional that it feels like I want to be there too!
Still dreaming to visit Laos, especially Luang Prabang. I love its rich culture and stunning architectures. 🙂
I looooved Luang Prabang! I came from Hanoi before LP, so the traffic and local shock for me was huge. It is a special place!
Intoxicating is correct, everything looks stunning. Especially The Royal Museum!
Amazing photos! Your guide offers some great tips for visitors. The Royal museum looks gorgeous and the scenery is fantastic.
Luang Prabang was the first foreign ‘city’ I fell in love with!
We however arrived by riverboat, so I’m not familiar at all with how it looks from the air.
Did you get to the Kuang Si Falls as well?
I have not been to Laos, but your photos make me want to visit. The Royal Museum looks like quite the stop! I think I might have difficulty pronouncing some of those names, though!