Travel Itinerary

Start a gentle forest walk past turquoise cascades; learn about the Tat Kuang Si Rescue Centre for Asiatic black bears before reaching the 60 m main fall.

Swim or picnic beside the largest turquoise pool; a short scramble leads behind the curtain of water for a natural shower under the jungle canopy.

On the return road watch master weavers produce complex supplementary-warp textiles on traditional foot-braced looms—purchase directly from the artisans.

Browse hundreds of red-roofed stalls for hand-loomed scarves, Saa paper lanterns and natural-dye textiles—chat with makers and sample grilled Lao sausages.

Cruise upstream on a slow boat to limestone cliffs honeycombed with 4 000 lacquered Buddha images left by pilgrims over 500 years—watch fishermen cast nets along the way.

Step ashore to see rice-whisky distillation in clay pots and try khao-lao infused with local herbs; browse hand-painted saa-paper umbrellas.

Climb the riverbank steps to this 1888 temple for sweeping Mekong views and faded Jataka murals that tell the Buddha’s previous lives.

Explore a restored 19th-century teakwood house with carved eaves and clay-tile roof; demonstrations on khan tok dining and Saa-paper umbrella making.

Admire the 5-tiered roof and bas-reliefs of Lao life on the temple’s verandah; monks gather here for daily chanting—quiet photography welcome.

Small but powerful exhibits on unexploded ordnance from the Secret War and how clearance teams work—vital context for modern Lao history.

Luang Prabang’s oldest temple (1513) houses a rare coconut-shaped stone stupa and a collection of 15th-century Buddha statues damaged by marauders.

Relax in a traditional herbal steam of lemongrass and tamarind leaves; proceeds fund local health programs—perfect after a culture-packed day.

Learn about ethical elephant care and the history of mahouts in Laos; observe rescued elephants from a respectful, no-ride distance.

Cross the Nam Khan river to this 18th-century retreat where kings once meditated; faded murals depict the last life of the Buddha in quiet riverside gardens.

Climb the forest lane to this golden ‘Mountain of Light’ temple for panoramic views and to see murals that teach the 37 Bodhipakkhiya virtues.

Shop the market for mok pa herbs, pound jeow bong chilli paste and grill lemongrass stuffed chicken—take home recipes and cultural stories to finish your heritage journey.