The beautiful ancient city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World heritage site, is the former royal capital of Laos. A serene city, perched on the banks of the Mekong River, it is a fascinating fusion of French and Asian influences, where Buddhist temples stand side by side with grandiose French architecture.
The city is the spiritual capital of Laos, where orange-robed monks make their early morning alms rounds through the peaceful streets. The 200 year old Wat Siphoutthabat sits at the base of the nearby Mount Phousii and charming traditional villages are scatted among the surrounding hillsides.