Laos Place of Interest

Luang Prabang - is the ancient capital city of the Lane Xang kingdom. According to legend, its first name was Muang Swa. Later it was known as Xieng Thong. In recognition of the city's vast array of Lao monuments and its historic and culturally significant setting, UNESCO declared Luang Prabang as a World Heritage Site in 1995.
Luang Prabang is situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong rivers. It is surrounded by green hills and impresses travellers with its gleaming temple roofs and crumbling French architecture. Luang Prabang offers a numerous attractions.

Vat Xiengthong
with roofs that sweep low to the ground. Vat Xieng Thong, built in 1560, represents classic local temple architecture richly decorated as well as the prosaic setting on red background on the walls. Its sim (chapel) has a notable roof sweeping low to the ground. Other interesting temples are Vat Wisunalat, Vat Aham and Vat That Luang.

Phousi Hill
The town is dominated by the Phou Si hill; getting up to the top takes 328 steps. On its slopes several vats can be visited, and it is peaked by a 24-metre high stupa, That Chomsi. The top of Phousi affords astonishing views, especially during the serene sunsets which are characteristic of Luang Prabang.

Former's King Palace (National Museum)
The Royal Palace Museum was constructed 1904- 1909 as King Sisavang Vong's palace. These days it functions as a museum. It houses the royal throne and some interesting royal artifacts. The building itself features a mixture of French beaux-arts styles and traditional Lao motifs.

Pak Ou Cave
Equally fascinating are the Pak Ou caves which can be reached by a 2-hour boat trip (30 km) upstream from Luang Prabang. They are located within the steep rock-cliff, which rises vertically from the waters of the Mekong River at the point where it meets with the Nam Ou River.

Hmong village
Can be visited during a full day excursion on the dusty road by four wheel-drive vehicles.