Destination

Mekong River, Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang

“The City of Enduring Natural, Cultural, and Historical Wonders
Welcomes Tourism Professionals to Unite for a Stronger GMS Future. ”

Located in northern Lao PDR, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage City, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it the perfect host for MTF 2025. Delegates will explore the city’s unique cultural and historical sites while enjoying its serene landscapes, ideal for meaningful discussions and networking. Luang Prabang’s commitment to sustainable tourism aligns with the forum’s goals, offering valuable practices for other regions.

A Cultural Treasure
Luang Prabang is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and spiritual traditions. The city’s historic center features golden-roofed temples like the iconic Wat Xieng Thong, French colonial buildings, and vibrant markets. The daily Alms Giving Ceremony, where monks collect offerings at dawn, offers a glimpse into the city’s deep-rooted spirituality.

Natural Splendor
Surrounded by lush mountains and the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The turquoise cascades of Kuang Si Waterfalls and the serene Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues, highlight the region’s natural and spiritual allure.

Sustainability in Action
Luang Prabang is a model of sustainable tourism, balancing preservation with growth. Community-based tourism initiatives and eco-friendly practices showcase how tourism can empower local communities while protecting cultural and natural heritage.

Warm Lao Hospitality
Known for its welcoming spirit, Luang Prabang offers authentic cultural experiences. From savoring traditional Lao cuisine at the night market to engaging with local artisans, visitors are immersed in the city’s vibrant culture and traditions.

An Inspiring Setting for MTF 2025
As the host of MTF 2025, Luang Prabang embodies the forum’s theme, “United Journey – Stronger Together.” Its commitment to sustainability, community, and heritage makes it an ideal backdrop for discussions on inclusive and resilient tourism development in the Greater Mekong Subregion.

Join us in Luang Prabang, where history, nature, and culture converge, and together, let’s shape a brighter future for tourism.

Getting to Luang Prabang

Here are some ways to access Luang Prabang:

By Air:

Luang Prabang International Airport, the second-largest airport in Laos, is located just 4 kilometers from the city center. It offers flights from several international and domestic airlines. International services are provided by Lao Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Lao Skyway, China Eastern Airlines, and 9 Air, with direct connections to regional cities in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, and Siem Reap, as well as cities in China, including Kunming, Haikou, and Nanchang. The airport also offers domestic flights to major destinations in Laos, including Vientiane and Pakse, operated by Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway.

Destinations Connected to Luang Prabang (LPQ) & Airlines
Domestic Destinations
Cities	Airlines
Pakse (PKZ)	Lao Airlines
Vientiane (VTE)	Lao Airlines, Lao Skyway
International Destinations
Cities	Airlines
Bangkok (BKK)	Bangkok Airways, Lao Airlines
Bangkok (DMK)	Thai AirAsia
Chiang Mai (CNX)	Lao Airlines
Hanoi (HAN)	Lao Airlines, Vietnam Airlines
Haikou (HAK)	9 Air
Kunming (KMG)	China Eastern Airlines
Nanchang (KHN)	9 Air
Siem Reap (SAI)	Vietnam Airlines

Note: Please check the updated services prior to your journey.

Laos – China Railway Company Limited

China Laos Railway Map

By Train:

Delegates can conveniently travel to Luang Prabang for MTF 2025 via the Boten–Vientiane Railway, part of the Laos-China Railway. This high-speed rail network connects Vientiane, Lao PDR, with Kunming, China, with Luang Prabang as a key stop.

The journey between Vientiane and Luang Prabang takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on the train type (Lane Xang EMU Train or LCR Ordinary Train). The Luang Prabang Railway Station, about 15 km from the city center, is accessible via minibus shuttles, taxis, and private cars.

How to Book Tickets

Foreign travelers can book tickets through the official LCR Ticket app, managed by the Laos-China Railway Company Limited. This platform allows users to check schedules, make reservations, and process payments.

Download the LCR Ticket App:
Google Play Store
Apple App Store

Note: Tickets can only be booked up to three days before departure. Due to high demand, early booking within this window is recommended.
For the latest updates, visit the official Laos-China Railway Facebook page.

Things to Do in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, the host city of the Mekong Tourism Forum 2025, is a UNESCO World Heritage City in northern Lao PDR, renowned for its well-preserved temples, French colonial charm, and rich cultural heritage. Set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, with lush mountain surroundings, it is the spiritual heart of Lao PDR. Here are some activities and experiences to enjoy in Luang Prabang.

Explore Temples and Monasteries: Visit iconic sites like Wat Xieng Thong, a masterpiece of Lao temple architecture with intricate mosaics and golden facades, reflecting centuries-old craftsmanship. Stop by Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, known for its elegant multi-tiered roof and murals depicting Buddhist lore and Lao history. These sacred sites offer a serene glimpse into Laos’ deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

Alms Giving Ceremony: Participate in or observe the daily Tak Bat (alms offering) at dawn, a sacred Buddhist tradition where barefoot monks in saffron robes silently collect offerings from local residents. This meaningful ritual reflects Laos’ Buddhist culture and way of life, shaping the community’s daily rhythms.

Mount Phousi: Climb over 300 steps to the summit of Mount Phousi, in the heart of Luang Prabang. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the city, the winding Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, and distant mountains. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the scenery is breathtaking, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.

Kuang Si Waterfalls: A short drive from Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Waterfalls is a natural wonder with multi-tiered cascades flowing into vibrant turquoise pools, surrounded by lush jungle. Visitors can hike scenic trails, explore viewpoints for photo opportunities, or relax in the tranquil setting while enjoying the refreshing mist.

Night Market: As dusk falls, Luang Prabang’s streets transform into a vibrant night market, offering handmade crafts, traditional Lao textiles, and unique souvenirs. Wander through colorful stalls, interact with friendly artisans, and sample local street food like grilled meats, sticky rice, and coconut pancakes. The market captures the city’s lively yet laid-back atmosphere.

Royal Palace Museum: Step back in time at the Royal Palace Museum, the former residence of the Lao royal family, now housing an impressive collection of historical artifacts, religious art, and royal regalia. The museum offers insight into Lao PDR’ past, with highlights including the sacred Prabang Buddha statue, a lavish throne hall, and French colonial influences in the architecture.

Mekong River Cruise: Embark on a leisurely boat trip along the Mekong River, soaking in the tranquil scenery, visiting riverside villages, and exploring cultural sites like the Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues. A sunset cruise offers a magical experience, with golden light reflecting off the water for a peaceful end to the day.

Things to Know
Before You Go to Luang Prabang

Currency: Lao PDR’s' official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK)

Credit cards are increasingly used in hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is still preferred for small purchases.

Language: The official language is Lao.

English is spoken in tourist areas, while some locals also understand French.

Time Zone: Lao PDR follows Indochina Time (ICT), which is UTC +7.

What to Expect from the Weather in June

June falls during the rainy season in Luang Prabang. Expect warm temperatures, high humidity, and occasional afternoon showers — perfect for lush green scenery, but don’t forget your umbrella or rain jacket!

Area Code & City Code

The country code for Lao PDR is +856, and the city code for Luang Prabang is 071 when dialing locally.

Emergency Numbers:

Police: 1191
Fire Department: 1190
Ambulance: 1195

Electricity & Power Plugs:

Lao PDR uses Type A, B, C, E, and F power sockets (Types A and B are the most commonly used), with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers may need a universal adapter.

Additional Tips:

Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated. Small tips for guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are common.
Health: Drink bottled or filtered water. Mosquito repellent is recommended, especially during the rainy season.
Alcohol Consumption: Be cautious with spirit-based drinks and avoid unbranded or suspicious alcohol. Public drunkenness is considered inappropriate.

Do’s & Don’ts in Luang Prabang

Do’s & Don’ts in Luang Prabang: A Guide to Respecting Local Culture

When visiting Luang Prabang, respecting local customs and traditions is essential. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city’s rich cultural heritage deserves mindful appreciation. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll show respect for the culture, preserve the environment, and ensure a positive experience for all.

Do’s	Don’ts
Dress Respectfully: Cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples or villages.	Don’t Touch Someone’s Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Laos, so avoid touching someone’s head.
Greet with a Smile and “Sabaidee” (Hello): A polite greeting is essential. A formal greeting is the “Nop,” with hands in a praying gesture at chin level while saying “Sabai dee.”	Don’t Point Your Feet: Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is considered disrespectful.
Respect Religious Traditions: Show reverence when visiting temples and avoid interrupting monks during their prayers.	Don’t Point at People: Pointing at people is considered rude. Use your whole hand or chin if you need to point.
Respect the Monks: Show respect by bowing your head slightly when passing by or interacting with monks. Women should avoid direct physical contact with monks.	Don’t Engage in Public Displays of Affection: Public displays like kissing or hugging are generally frowned upon in Laos.
Be Mindful of Where You Walk: Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on ancient sites or touching cultural resources.	Don’t Disturb the Natural Ecosystem: Stay on designated paths to avoid disturbing the environment.
Take Off Shoes: Always remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, or certain shops.	Don’t Buy Wildlife Products: Refuse to purchase wildlife products to help protect Lao wildlife.
Ask Before Taking Photos: Only take photos after receiving consent.	Don’t Take Photos Without Permission: Always ask before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies.
Use Both Hands for Giving and Receiving: When offering gifts or receiving items, use both hands as a sign of respect.	Don’t Give Gifts to Children: Avoid giving gifts to children as it encourages begging; donate to organizations or village elders instead.
Bargain Politely: While haggling in markets, do so with a smile and politeness.	Don’t Raise Your Voice: Loud behavior or raising your voice can be seen as impolite.

Entry & Visa Requirements

Citizens of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam can enter Lao PDR visa-free for up to 30 days, while Myanmar citizens can stay visa-free for up to 14 days under ASEAN agreements.

For citizens of other countries, please check the visa requirements with the Lao Embassy or Consulate in your country.

e-Visa Availability:
An e-visa is available for some nationalities. To see if you are eligible, please check the list of countries eligible for e-Visa.

For more details on how to apply for an e-visa, visit the official Lao e-Visa website.
(Note: Visa policies may change, so please verify the latest information with official sources.)