Novice Monks, Luang Phrabang, Laos

Luang Prabang

Unesco Heritage listed and former royal capital, the delightful and vibrant town of Luang Prabang sits in a quiet valley on the edge of the Mekong River and is the highlight of most holidays to Laos.

Colour infuses throughout Luang Prabang, from the brightly coloured frangipanis which add a heady perfume, to the burnt orange robes of monks and the resplendent gold and claret shades of the temples or Wats as they are locally known.

The visual mixture of deteriorating French provincial architecture, glistening temple roofs, and multi-ethnic inhabitants captivates even the most seasoned traveller, and the quiet compassion of the city’s residents lulls them into peaceful bliss.

Sleeping Budda, Wat Phou Si Hill, Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang, Laos

A little more about Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is also a key link between Thailand and China as its highway provides a relay point for trade between the three countries. It is also in close proximity to the caves at Pak Ou which can be reached by boat; there are literally thousands of Buddha statues which have been placed by the locals over the centuries. In addition, the drive between Luang Prabang and Vientiane via the town of Vang Vieng is spectacular, passing towering shrub-covered limestone cliffs.

Experiences

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Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Amantaka £££££

  • Laos
  • City

Amantaka (taka meaning Tipitaka, the teachings of Buddha and Aman the well-known luxury hotel group), is housed in a series of beautiful French colonial buildings with high ceilings and shady verandas. Aman Resorts took possession of the site in late 2005 and after the painstaking restoration under strict UNESCO guidelines, have successfully provided one of Luang Prabang’s most beautiful properties. It houses 25 suites, some with pools and all beautifully decorated with Aman’s typical flair.

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La Residence Phou Vao £££££

  • Laos
  • City

La Residence Phou Vao sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, nestling on the Hill of Kites, overlooking the Mekong and just a 10-minute walk from the centre of Luang Prabang.

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Satri House £££££

  • Laos
  • City

Located in the heart of the city, the 31-roomed Satri House was built at the turn of the last century as a private residence. The house was completely renovated and is designed with a style inspired by Lao culture and set in a relaxed environment. Watch local everyday life unfold from your balcony, sit by the emerald tiled pool or take a cruise on the Mekong cruise.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Paul Craven

Paul is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Central Asia and the Silk Route.

I first travelled to Vietnam in 1988, when tourism was barely a concept, and have been visiting Central Asia since it was still behind the Iron Curtain. Such first-hand experience makes all the difference when talking to clients. I know the importance of asking questions, not taking the first answer as gospel, and matching the right destination to the right person.

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  • 01285 880 980

Clare Wiggins

My love for Asia began with living there. Based in Vietnam and then Malaysia, I also explored the surrounding regions before eventually finding my way back home via China and the Trans-Siberian railway. At Steppes Travel, I get to share that love for Asia every day, helping clients experience the places I know best as if they were locals themselves.

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  • 01285 880 980

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