Luang Prabang, Soul of Laos
Vibrant Town, Frequented by Hilltribes on the Banks of the Mekong
May 8, 2009
Luang Prabang, is nestled strikingly on a peninsula formed by the confluence of two rivers, the Mekong River and Nam Khan river. Once the royal capital of Laos it is still considered to be its religious heart, the river town of Luang Prabang breathes a rich meld of French Indochinese architecture and subtle Theravada Buddhist temples, it imparts on travellers an especially unique vibe. Luang Prabang with its palm-lined riverbanks, ochre-daubed houses, terracotta roofs and saffron-robed monks all come together to form a picture postcard setting.
Mount Phou Si, Buddhist Temple and Monastery in Luang Prabang
Phou Si, meaning Holy Mountain or Sacred Mountain, has an excellent view over the town, as well as the Mekong River and Nam Khan River. The temple is striking and people gather here to watch the sunset or sunrise and chat to the novice monks who gather to practice their English. There are two entrances, back and front. Tourists can walk up one side and down the other and be rewarded with spectacular views of each river.
Royal Palace and Museum in Luang Prabang
The former Royal Palace is now a museum displaying paraphernalia of Lao’s recently extinguished monarchy. Within the grounds is a temple which was used by the monarchy for their personal worship.
Hmong Hill tribe night market
The night markets that line the streets are a must see, Hmong Villagers usually start setting up their wares late afternoon, all is laid out on sheeting on the ground with colourful lanterns to guide. The street food is very good and inexpensive here. Handmade Hmong hilltribe wares are quality products and include blankets, clothing and paper lanterns and umbrellas.
Wat Xieng Thong, Ancient Monastery in Luang Prabang
Situated on the bank of the Mekong River, on the wedge of land formed where the Mekong and the Nam Khan rivers meet, Wat Xieng Thong was constructed in 1559/1560 A.D. by king Say Setthathirath. Wat Xieng Thong is the most beautiful among all monasteries of Luang Prabang and represents the typical Lao art style.
Big Brother Mouse – Books for Children in Laos
Big Brother Mouse is a charity which promotes and supplies books to children to enhance their future and sustain an education into adulthood.
Pak Ou Caveson the Mekong River
The cool limestone caves are located on the steep rock cliff rising vertically from the waters of the Mekong River, at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers. Thousands of Buddha statues can be viewed here in a variety of sizes. Across the river there is an ethnic Lao village whose prime commerce is the production and brewing of Lao Lao, rice whiskey which is almost pure alcohol.
Kwang Si Falls, hinterland of Laos
About an hour's scenic drive through rice fields, mountains and dusty ethnic minority villages lies the beautiful Kwang Si Waterfall. Clear water cascades gracefully over limestone formations gathering into layers of stunning turquoise pools.
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