Luang Prabang: More than just Kuang Si waterfalls

Luang Prabang is a city that has the vibe of Bali, charm of Paris and natural sights any destination might envy. It’s an UNESCO protected city with the history and heritage of the old French town, turquoise waterfalls, one of the best trekking opportunities, countless mountain-bike trails, kayaking trips, river cruises, the whole ensemble encircled by hazy green mountains. We arrived with intention to spend three days here, but have prolonged it into a full week. If you are visiting just for a day or two, Kuang Si is definitely a must do, for every traveller. And if you are lucky enough to spend a week here, that’s what we loved most and we’re sure you will too.

Kuang Si waterfall

Imagine one waterfall pouring into another & another and creating numerous turquoise natural pools you can jump in by swinging off ropes. Thirty kilometers away from Luang Prabang, this eden awaits. It opens at 8AM, but we rented a motorbike and drove for 45 minutes to get there as early as 7.30 to be the first ones there. It was no problem getting in, we even didn’t have to pay the parking and the most importantly – we had the falls for almost an hour all to ourselves. You can reach the falls also by a tuk tuk, there are plenty waiting in the town or with a mini van.

Kuang Si is definitely one of the best waterfalls in the world, so we returned 2 days later to discover the secret pool. It lies above the main one, but it’s forbidden to climb it up due to safety reasons. We tried our luck and successfully reached it. Just follow the signs “don’t enter”, climb some fences and be careful. The reward is worth all the effort, but it’s only for the adventurous souls 🙂

On your way back from the waterfalls make sure to stop at the Tat Kuang Si Bear rescue center. The facility is within the Kuang Si area, just before the exit. These bears have been rescued from illegal wildlife trades and poor living condition in small cages. Here they have a platform where they can play and fully enjoy life. Donate if you can and support this great cause!

Chill at Utopia

Zen by day, groovy by night is the motto this bar operates by. Yoga in the morning, chill during the day and a little party then. Pick the part of the day that fits you best and enjoy the views. They also offer some vegan options, but always mention to remove the fish & oyster sauce.

Sunset River Cruise

Mekong river is one of the greatest river systems and it is essential for life in 6 countries that flows in. I remember myself learning in school about it and given to opportunity by Avani hotels to join the Sunset cruise was something I couldn’t refuse! We went with Mekong Kingdoms and I would definitely recommend it as one of the best things to do. The boat was super comfortable, a small group, they even provided drinks and vegan snacks. And it was all about the views.

Night Market

Every night in Luang Prabang the main street turns into a pedestrian zone and creates the most beautiful night market in SE Asia. Grab a passion fruit juice and get yourself one of the pretty scarfs the locals make & support the local community.

Alms giving ceremony

It’s a sacred buddhist Lao tradition that occurs every morning on the central streets of Luang Prabang. We woke up at 5AM (again) to contribute in the ceremony where locals offer food to the monks on their way to the monastery. You should buy your offerings (usually sticky rice) in advance and arrive with plenty of time to spare as it’s considered very offensive to disrupt the ceremony once it has commenced.

Climb Mount Phousi and see Wat Tham Phousi

Right in the center of the town, there is a hill with numerous gorgeous paths and staircases that all lead to the Wat Tham Phousi temple and to the top to enjoy the view. It gets quite crowded for sunset, so we decided to do it just before. Don’t forget to take your camera!

Enjoy boutique hotels

The city offers plenty of beautiful boutique hotels, yet there are 2 that should be on your radar.

1. Luang Prabang View Hotel

If you’re looking for the most amazing views, private pool villas and being slightly remote from the town, don’t think further. We spent the most amazing 5 days there also decided to dine there as they prepared us delicious vegan feasts!

2. AVANI+ Luang Prabang

If you are more of a “need to be in the center of happening” type, the obvious choice is AVANI+ as it’s the most central hotel in Luang Prabang. It’s brand new, but old colonial style building. I got the most amazing vegan banana pancake & the nicest staff.

Dine by the river

Luang Prabang offers beautiful views over the river – right from many bars and restaurants. Explore the area and treat yourself with a nice dinner. Our favourites are Tamarind and Bamboo Tree, both by the river offering delicious Lao food. If you miss western food, go for Boss Burger and Indigo Cafe. You’re welcome 🙂

What you can easily skip

Definitely don’t go to Tad Sae waterfalls. Especially in the dry season as there’s no water. That’s right. Not less water – NO WATER. We still went there to make sure and they still sell tickets, though it’s a rip off. And the worst part, there are elephants to ride, monkeys and birds in the smallest cages, just a sad place. Even when waterfalls have the water, always pick Kuang Si.

After Luang Prabang we headed to Vang Vieng, which was also a great positive surprise. See why here.