LUANG PRABANG, Laos — Got 48 hours to explore
Luang Prabang? Reuters Correspondents with local knowledge help
visitors get the most from a short stay in this enchanting
former mountain kingdom, which, despite its tiny size, boasts an
impressive number of cultural, natural and culinary attractions
to please any discerning traveler.
FRIDAY
7 p.m. - Start your weekend at Dao Faa, a
friendly bar on the main Sisavangvong road with a happy hour
that lasts from 5pm till 9pm. It’s a no-frills place but great
for watching the world go by.
8 p.m. - Tamarind is usually only open for
lunch, except on Fridays where a special banquet of Lao
Celebration Feast (Pun Pa) is held. Book in advance and for
70,000 kip ($7).
10 p.m. - If you have an early morning, Pack
Luck wine bar on the main drag is the place for a chilled
evening. Sit on the beanbags outside and enjoy your sauvignon
blanc.
SATURDAY
6.00 a.m. - A visit to Luang Prabang is
incomplete if you don’t see the Tak Bat (the monks’ daily alms
collection). The sight of hundreds of saffron-robed monks in the
early morning mist is both inspiring and humbling, despite the
increasing presence of package tourists.
8.30 a.m. - Get up close and personal with
the animals that gave Lao its moniker, "Land of the Million
Elephants". Tiger Trails is a well-respected eco-tourism company
with an elephant camp 15km out of town where elephants receive a
comfortable retirement.
12.00 p.m. - Tiger Trails also operate the
charming Lao Spirit Resort. If you don’t have time for an
overnight stay, have a simple lunch here while enjoying the
mountainous surroundings.
1.30 p.m. - Not many associate Luang Prabang
with shopping, but the place is teeming with gorgeous boutiques
showcasing beautiful textiles. Check out Kopnoi (exhibition in
the gallery upstairs is also worth checking out), Ock Pop Tok
(worth checking out their weaving centre on the bank of the
Mekong or taking a dyeing class), Lisa Regale and Laha Sinh, all
on the main strip.
4.30 p.m. - Time to work your legs again and
climb the famous Mount Phousi. There is a pagoda at the top and
it’s great for panoramic sunset views.
7.00 p.m. - Luang Prabang’s night markets are
legendary. Browse through the colorful wares but be aware that
many products are from neighboring countries and not made in
Laos.
SUNDAY
9.00 a.m. - Have a lazy Sunday morning to
make up for a full day yesterday. But if you need some
pick-me-up, nothing beats a cup of steaming Lao coffee and
noodle soup for breakfast.
10.00 a.m. - There are more than 30 temples
in Luang Prabang so if you don’t want to feel overwhelmed,
choose wisely. One of the oldest and most atmospheric is Wat
Xieng Thong, but also worth a stop are the large and ornate Wat
Saen and the expansive grounds of Wat Visoun.
12.30 p.m. - Time for some nature. Pick up
your picnic lunch at Tamarind (arrange in advance) and head out
to the famous Kuang Xi waterfalls, an hour’s drive out of town.
4.00 p.m. - Tired from all the exertions?
Stop by at Lao Red Cross on Visounnlath Road for a traditional
steam bath and massage. For a little over $1, you’ll be as fresh
as daisy when you’re done. Even better, proceeds go to finance
the organization’s relief efforts.
5.30 p.m. - One of the best ways to enjoy an evening in Luang
Prabang is to take a stroll along the banks of Nam Khan and
Mekong rivers. The breeze is fresh , the location scenic, and
there are many cafes and restaurants along the riverside for
that sunset view. —Reuters
