Top 10 Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang
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Top 10 Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang

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  • Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon
    󰺂4.2
    NakaMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    Blue Lagoon view from mid-mountain
    󰀆Explore stunning limestone & stalactites
    4.8/5
    ariel423ariel423

    The Blue Lagoon is really beautiful and worth a visit. It was the last stop of our day trip. Even if you don't dive, it's fun to watch people diving below. The people below were very supportive and kept encouraging the divers. The lagoon is clear and fun to swim in. There are many tables and chairs around, as well as food stalls. You can spend a leisurely afternoon here.

  • VLT Tour
    󰺂4.7
    3442
    Vang ViengMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    󰋄Hot air balloon over Vang Vieng
    󱨜Panoramic view of Vang Vieng
    󱨠Saved by 113 users󱨠44% positive reviews
    4.5/5
    千易之阿花千易之阿花

    Friends who like hot air balloons must come to Wanrong City to have a look. There are many large and attractive hot air balloons in many colors. They are also very suitable for taking pictures. There are also many kinds of shapes, which are really nice.

  • Lao Art Museum
    󰺂4.6
    314
    VientianeMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    󱨠100% positive reviews
    4.9/5
    rob***anrob***an

    The Museum itself for us is worth the visit. Beautiful architecture, artwork/woodwork. Special mention to the carpark security. We visited 10/18, arrived around 12noon and when we're ready to leave around 13:30, our driver is nowhere to be found. When we called the hotel since they booked the car for us, we were advised that the driver left for lunch and we just wait. The security staff of the museum approached us and advised us that the car/driver we arrived with has already left with other passengers. He showed us a picture of the car with the new passenger. This helped us a lot and since we booked the car with the hotel, hotel staff booked a new car for us and dealt with the driver separately for his horrible service.

  • Pha That Luang Vientiane
    󰺂4.7
    VientianeMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    󱨜Cultural & sports shows in November
    󱨜Grand festival & fair in November
    󱨠Saved by 249 users󱨠128 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    M43***18M43***18

    That Luang Temple is the most sacred Buddhist building in Laos and one of the national symbols. Its golden pagoda is ‌2. Historical background ‌Origin: It was built in the 3rd century and was originally a small pagoda for worshipping Buddha bones. In the 16th century, it was expanded to its current size by King Saythathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom. ‌Reconstruction: After wars and colonial destruction, it was restored many times in the 19th and 20th centuries. The current appearance is the result of the restoration during the French colonial period in the 1930s. ‌Symbolic significance: The That Luang pattern can be seen on the national emblem and currency of Laos, reflecting its national spirit and cultural core position. ‌3. Architectural features ‌Main tower structure: The four-story base symbolizes the Buddhist "three realms" and "nirvana", the top lotus spire points directly to the sky, and the stupa-style tower body is inlaid with reliefs and religious patterns. ‌Decorative details ‌: The base of the tower is engraved with reliefs of Buddha statues, lotus flowers, mythical beasts, etc., and the murals in the corridors depict Buddhist stories and Laotian history. ‌Attached buildings‌: The surrounding small Buddhist temples, scripture pavilions and Buddha statues are well preserved. Some buildings were newly built in recent years with a unified style. ‌4. Cultural significance‌ That Luang Temple is not only a religious holy place, but also a symbol of Lao national identity. The ‌That Luang Festival‌ (Boun That Luang) in November every year is the grandest festival. Monks and believers from all over the country gather to hold ceremonies, parades and market activities, which are very lively. ‌5. Visiting experience‌ ‌Visual shock‌: The golden pagoda forms a sharp contrast with the blue sky. It is particularly magnificent at sunrise and sunset, which is suitable for photography. ‌Cultural immersion‌: You can observe local believers praying and monks chanting scriptures, and feel the immersion of Buddhist culture. ‌Suggestions for visiting‌: Avoid the scorching sun at noon, it is best to visit in the early morning or evening; the interior of the pagoda is not open, but you can visit around the outside. ‌6. Practical information‌ ‌Opening hours‌: 8:00-17:00 (daily) ‌Tickets‌: 10,000 kip (about RMB 4) ‌Transportation‌: Tuk-tuk takes about 15 minutes to reach the center of Vientiane, and the cost is less than 30,000 kip. ‌Dress requirements‌: Wear long pants/long skirts, cover shoulders, and respect the etiquette of religious places. ‌Duration of the tour‌: 1-2 hours (it is recommended to plan a half-day itinerary in combination with other temples in the surrounding area). ‌7. Precautions‌ ‌Respect customs‌: Avoid making noise, pointing at Buddha statues, and women should not touch monks. ‌Sun protection and heatstroke prevention‌: The venue is open, and you need to prepare a hat, sunglasses, and drinking water. ‌Guide service‌: You can hire an English guide at the entrance (about 50,000 kip) to explain the historical details in depth. ‌Small vendors‌: There are stalls selling flowers, incense, candles and souvenirs outside the temple, and you can bargain appropriately. ‌8. Summary‌ ‌Recommendation Index‌: ★★★★★ That Luang Temple is a "must-visit place" in Vientiane and even Laos, with a heavy sense of history and visual impact. Although it is not as large as other famous temples in Southeast Asia, its sacred atmosphere and national symbolism are unique. Suitable for cultural enthusiasts, photography players and short-distance tourists. It is recommended to combine it with attractions such as the Vientiane Arc de Triomphe and Sisaket Temple to experience the charm of Laos. ‌Tips‌: If you have enough time, you can participate in the That Luang Festival (during the full moon in November) to experience the most authentic religious culture and folk customs!

  • Patuxai
    󰺂5.5
    Vientiane.Vientiane City CenterMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    360° view of Paris skyline
    󱓊Panoramic view from 150 steps
    󱨠Saved by 354 users󱨠161 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    走遍天下XZ走遍天下XZ

    The most symbolic attraction in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is the Arc de Triomphe, which was built to commemorate the country's independence and is located in the center of the entire city. It is said that between the airport and the Arc de Triomphe, the majority of the people chose to build the Arc de Triomphe first. At both ends of Lancang Avenue, one is the Presidential Palace and the other is the Arc de Triomphe. There is also the Prime Minister's Office next to the Arc de Triomphe. The square and the big fountain around the Arc de Triomphe are very beautiful. They were built with assistance from the Chinese government a few years ago. When the setting sun sets, it is also the most beautiful time for the Arc de Triomphe Square. Vientiane citizens bring their children to come and stroll around, and there is a peaceful scene. With the majestic gushing of the musical fountain ⛲️, the entire square also reached a climax. The happiest city, the happiest country, and the happiest people!

  • Presidential Palace, Laos
    󰺂4.6
    Vientiane.Mekong RiversideMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    󱨜Presidential Palace & river views
    󱓊Majestic river views by Mekong
    󱨠32% positive reviews
    4.2/5
    走遍天下XZ走遍天下XZ

    There is no Prime Minister's Office on Ctrip, so I can only comment on it here. The Prime Minister's Office of Laos is across the road from the Arc de Triomphe and is also the most eye-catching building around the square. The architectural style is mainly French, incorporating traditional elements of Laos, with red roofs and white walls, and is majestic. Many people easily confuse the three concepts of the Presidential Palace, the Chairman's Palace, and the Prime Minister's Office. In fact, the Presidential Palace and the Chairman's Palace are the same place, just on the other side of the road facing the Arc de Triomphe. The French call it the Presidential Palace, and the Laotians call it the Chairman's Palace, because socialist countries do not have a president. The Prime Minister's Office is the building next to the Arc de Triomphe. The entire square is also very beautiful, and there are many beautiful historical buildings around it, and the fountain at night is not to be missed.

  • Haw Phra Kaew
    󰺂4.1
    Vientiane.Mekong RiversideMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    Admire the temple's jade Buddha
    󰀆Laos & Thailand style woodcarvings
    4.5/5
    一直在路上的猫一直在路上的猫

    🌈Wat Phra Kaew in Vientiane, Laos. Wat Phra Kaew is a famous temple in Vientiane, Laos. It was built by King Setthathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom in 1565 to enshrine a jade Buddha statue brought from Luang Prabang. In 1778, the Siamese army (present-day Thailand) invaded Laos and looted the Emerald Buddha to Bangkok, where it remains today. You can see photos of it during the tour; it's truly pitiful. The temple is quite beautiful. It's right next to the Presidential Palace and within walking distance of several other attractions. It's open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, and is closed on holidays. Admission is 5,000 kip for Laotians and 30,000 kip for foreigners. There are a large number of precious cultural relics in the temple, including the king's gold-plated throne, Khmer statues, high-quality wood carvings, and gold, jade, and crystal Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. You must wear long sleeves and long pants to visit. There are free knee-length robes at the door. You must take off your hat when entering the main hall and you are not allowed to take photos.

  • Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane Luang)
    󰺂5.2
    VientianeMore than 100 km from Luang Prabang
    Highlights:
    󰋄View Thailand from Mekong River
    󰋄Experience Buddhist reincarnation culture
    󱨠Saved by 215 users󱨠39% positive reviews
    4.4/5
    梨花落🍀梨花落🍀

    Xiangkun Temple is also called the Ten Thousand Buddhas Park. The park is not very large. If you walk straight into the park, you will see the Mekong River at the end of the road, and Chiang Rai in Thailand is on the other side. There are various Buddhist and Hindu Buddha sculptures in the park, of different sizes and expressions. It is more like a stone sculpture park than a temple. The various sculptures are set off by colorful bougainvilleas and other tropical plants, making them more sacred and beautiful.

Best things to do in Luang Prabang (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Luang Prabang? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Luang Prabang offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Luang Prabang

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Luang Prabang experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon

• Naka | More than 100 km from Luang Prabang

• : Blue Lagoon view from mid-mountain,Explore stunning limestone & stalactites

VLT Tour

• Vang Vieng | More than 100 km from Luang Prabang

• : Hot air balloon over Vang Vieng,Panoramic view of Vang Vieng

Lao Art Museum

• Vientiane | More than 100 km from Luang Prabang

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Luang Prabang

If you want to explore attractions just outside Luang Prabang, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Luang Prabang, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Luang Prabang special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Luang Prabang

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Luang Prabang

Ready to explore the best of Luang Prabang? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are some Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang?
Some Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang include:Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon, VLT Tour, Lao Art Museum, Pha That Luang Vientiane, Patuxai
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang include:Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon:4.8, VLT Tour:4.5, Lao Art Museum:4.9, Pha That Luang Vientiane:4.6, Patuxai:4.6
Where are Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang located?
The Best Things to Do near Luang Prabang are mainly located in:Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon:Naka, VLT Tour:Vang Vieng, Lao Art Museum:Vientiane, Pha That Luang Vientiane:Vientiane, Patuxai:Vientiane
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