September 2016

"Solo Adventure in Luang Prabang: Not as Lonely as I Thought" - A Dreamy Travelogue

This solo trip to Luang Prabang proved to be less lonely than expected. With a limited budget, I spent 3 days and 2 nights for only 4,394.71 baht.

Luang Prabang (Lao: ຫຼວງພຣະບາງ) is the capital of Luang Prabang Province in northern Laos. Situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its significance stems from its numerous ancient temples, distinctive colonial architecture, scenic riverside location, and the friendly, welcoming nature of its inhabitants. The city's rich cultural heritage is evident in its traditional customs and practices.

(Personally, I think the atmosphere is similar to Nan Province in Thailand, as it is a city with many temples. You can relax and cycle around, stopping to pay respects at temples and take photos along the way.)

Travel Destinations

• Black market

• Hua Xiang Temple (Wat Hua Xiang)

- Wat Phra Mahathat Ratchaworawihan, also known as Wat Tha Noi (Wat Mahathat)

• Morning market

• Phonxay Temple

- Prashaniyom Coffee Shop

- Joma Bakery Cafe'

- Kuang Si Waterfall

- Buffet Alley

- Xieng Thong Temple

- Wat Sene

• Haw Pha Bang

• National Museum

In early 2016, AirAsia launched its first direct flight route between Thailand and Laos to Luang Prabang with a round-trip promotion of 1,690 baht. Many people must have already booked this promotional ticket or may have seen it before. So we immediately invited friends who we thought would be able to go with us. And we were very happy that our friends agreed because normally when we invite someone to book something in advance like this, not many people dare to take the risk. Haha! When the travel date was approaching, we searched for information and studied various maps, including booking accommodation through the website. We got the price we wanted. But then!! Our friend couldn't take leave to go with us... We were secretly disappointed but knew that our friend was both disappointed and heartbroken, so we could only comfort them and say, 'It's okay, I can go alone.' Because AirAsia flight tickets cannot be changed to another passenger's name. We took a day to think about it and then continued to search for information. We booked everything because we couldn't bear to let it go. ^^

To prepare for the trip and feel more at ease, we thoroughly studied the map beforehand. We used a map from www.hobomaps.com, which we cropped and circled the points we planned to visit. We also added the names of some specific locations for reference.

Day 1: The Black Market

Upon arrival at the airport, everything seemed to be in order. However, as I got out of the taxi, my belongings tumbled out of my backpack without warning! I didn't even realize the bag was open. To my horror, my camera was among the items that fell to the ground! Fortunately, it was undamaged. I proceeded to the airport, searching for the check-in counter as I needed to use a coupon to upgrade my seat to a hot seat, which required me to check in at the airport. After looking around for a while, I asked an airline staff member, "Where do I check in for Luang Prabang?" "Luang Prabang is in another building," the elegant young woman in a red uniform replied with a smile. Oh my god! I got off at the wrong building! (Haha, I laughed at my own clumsiness.) I had been thinking all along that I needed to get off at the domestic departures terminal. Oops! I had to walk back to the international departures terminal, which gave me a bit of an adrenaline rush early in the morning.

International flight check-in is available 3-1 hours before departure. We presented our AirAsia Bangkok Bank co-branded credit card and seat upgrade coupon at the premium counter. After selecting our desired seats, we proceeded through security. I reminded myself, "Stay focused and avoid overindulging, as I need to take care of myself."

Upon departure, airline staff will distribute arrival and departure forms for Laos. Please complete these forms in advance.

Don't forget to take advantage of the available benefits, which include presenting your AirAsia Platinum Mastercard Bangkok Bank credit card along with your boarding pass to receive a free hot or cold beverage (Sprite every round).

As the plane descends towards Luang Prabang, the breathtaking view of the Khan River and the lush green mountains unfolds below.

It takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Luang Prabang International Airport.

Urgently needing to use the restroom, I rushed in only to find a long queue of people waiting to pass through immigration control.

After passing through immigration, you will find a path leading outside. Along the way, there are booths selling SIM cards for internet access. If you think you will need internet access throughout your stay, you can contact them here. The price for internet access only is around 250 baht.

We exchanged money at the airport at a rate of 233.51. We exchanged 2,000 baht and received 467,020 kip (we are rich!!). We also had 5,500 kip left in our wallets from our previous trip to Vang Vieng, for a total of 472,500 kip. Some people say that you can get a better rate at the black market, but we checked and the rates are not that different. If you are only exchanging a few hundred kip, it may not make a difference. In Laos, they use banknotes, not coins. The lowest value is 500 kip, so if you calculate and have a remainder of less than 500 kip, it will be automatically deducted. (If you compare the decimal places, the bank at the airport currently has a better rate.)

We took a taxi to the city for 50,000 kip. Before we arrived, we tried to find information about cheap transportation options, such as taking a shared taxi or a local bus. However, there weren't many options available. This was the cheapest option for three people, which meant that even if we were traveling alone, we would still have to pay 50,000 kip. I tried to find someone to share the cost with, but I couldn't find anyone, probably because I arrived late. There was only one woman who seemed to be around my age walking ahead of me, but I couldn't catch up with her. When I got into the taxi, I saw the same woman again. I thought she might be Thai, so I started talking to her. Her name was "Tangmo" and she was one year older than me. Her birthday was the next day (September 12th) and she was planning to visit a temple to celebrate. The reason why we were both traveling alone was the same: we didn't have any friends who wanted to travel the same way. This was Tangmo's first time traveling alone. We were staying in different places and had our own plans, so we didn't make any arrangements to travel together. At least I wasn't the only young woman traveling alone.

Luang Prabang city center is located approximately 6 kilometers west of the airport. It takes only a few minutes to reach the city center. You can inform the driver where you would like to be dropped off.

The accommodation I booked was called "Khonesavanh Guesthouse" for both nights. I booked it through a website for 696.25 baht for 2 nights. It was a room with only a bed and bedding, and a shared bathroom. But what was even more interesting was that the owner was Chinese and could speak a little Lao and even less English, which we didn't know beforehand. Communication was quite difficult, but luckily another Chinese girl, who seemed to be a friend of the owner, came to talk to us in English. (There are many types of rooms here.) We came with a semi-backpacking mood, so we didn't think much of it. The room was cheap, had the necessary equipment, a bed, a good room lock, no musty smell, no insects, and was quiet and private. So it was okay.

The original plan was to hike up Phousi Hill and then visit the Night Market after checking into the accommodation. However, it started raining as soon as we arrived. Even if we had walked up with an umbrella, the view from below might not have been very good. So, we stayed in the room until the rain stopped and then went to the Night Market, which is also known as the "Hmong Market" by the locals because most of the vendors and products are Hmong. Many things felt like walking through a "kad" or market in northern Thailand. The Night Market typically sets up its stalls from around 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Located on Sisavangvong Road, stretching 500 meters from the roundabout to the Luang Prabang National Museum.

On the way, we also stopped to ask for a car to go to Tad Kwang Si Waterfall or Kuang Si Falls tomorrow. From what I have researched, I found it quite expensive, so I tried to ask myself. Along the way, there were vans, tuk-tuks, and songthaews parked everywhere. We agreed on the price and arranged the time and place to get on the car. As I mentioned earlier, we came as a semi-backpacker, so we will find the most economical place for us. We don't emphasize comfort, but we don't want it to be too difficult either. I asked several people, and most of them invited me to rent a car, which would be very expensive, around 200,000 - 250,000 kip. I told them directly, "No, it's too expensive. I want to go cheap and join other people." (Hahahahahaha) Finally, one of them agreed to let me continue for 30,000 kip and told me to wait in front of the post office at 11:15 am. So, I'm relieved tonight.

The majority of goods sold on the black market are of Hmong origin, similar to those found in northern Thai walking street markets. Laotians often refer to it as the "Hmong market".

The light rain today, coupled with the already low-lying tents of each shop, required the use of additional tarpaulins or plastic sheeting to prevent rain from entering, further lowering the height. As a result, walking around required constant ducking and weaving.

After walking for a while, I came across this restaurant. It was a sukiyaki restaurant. At first glance, I thought it was a spicy salad restaurant, and I was about to go in and order a spicy salad. But the owner told me that they only sell sukiyaki.

Across the street from the previous shop, there is a pho restaurant.

We walked past all the food stalls until we found a sandwich shop like this. I remembered how delicious it was when I ate it in Vang Vieng, so I ordered it to try. It turned out that the taste here was not comparable to the one in Vang Vieng. I was a little disappointed and didn't finish it. It was too greasy.

Continuing our exploration of the buffet alley, we stumbled upon a restaurant we had previously encountered in passing. This alley is conveniently located next to Indigo Cafe.

Looking into the alley, there are many food stalls.

Luang Prabang's famous specialties, such as jaew bong and dried kai tak, are widely available for purchase.

There are 3-4 rice and curry shops, offering a variety of dishes.

The restaurant serves papaya salad, grilled chicken, and grilled fish.

There are 2-3 buffet restaurants nearby. I'll try them tomorrow. (Just to let you know, for me, who is easy to eat, I think the taste is not good. I feel a little sorry for the money. There are only vegetables and tofu, and the taste is bland. If there was a cup of chili paste, it might be okay.)

Just beyond the dark market, there are several cafes, upscale restaurants, and even a few made-to-order food stalls. If I hadn't already bought a sandwich, I would have stopped by one of the food stalls. They have a wide variety of dishes to choose from.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I decided to stop by and buy some bottled water. The price was as listed on the label.

Let's stop by for some souvenirs. Here are some bamboo speakers. There are many shops with different prices. Be sure to ask around and bargain before you buy. Just a heads up, haha.

I came across an auntie carrying a basket selling fried fish and sticky rice, walking around, teasing my taste buds until I couldn't resist and had to stop and buy some more!! The fish was only 1,000 kip each, and it came with sticky rice and chili sauce, but I only bought the fried fish. I want it!!!

Note: The provided text only contains HTML tags and no actual content to translate. Please provide the actual text you want translated from Thai to English.

Day 2:

• Morning Alms Offering: Start your day with a traditional Laotian alms offering of sticky rice to the monks at Wat Hua Xiang.
• Wat Mahathat: Explore the historic Wat Mahathat, also known as Wat Tad Noi, and admire its impressive architecture.
• Morning Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the local morning market and discover fresh produce and local crafts.
• Wat Phonxay: Visit Wat Phonxay, a beautiful temple known for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.
• Coffee Break: Enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee at Prashaniyom Coffee or indulge in delicious pastries at Joma Bakery Cafe.
• Kuang Si Waterfall: Hike to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, a series of turquoise pools cascading down a lush mountainside.
• Night Market: Explore the bustling night market and discover a variety of street food and local souvenirs.
• Soi Buffet: Conclude your day with a delicious buffet dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Soi Buffet area.

The alarm was set for 5:00 AM to avoid rushing, as the sticky rice offering ceremony starts early in the morning. However, due to a late night, I hit the snooze button a few times. By the time I got up, showered, and dressed, it was almost 6:00 AM. Luckily, the alleyway I was in was right across from Wat Ho Cheing, where monks were walking for alms. First, I needed sticky rice. The cheapest option I found online was 10,000 kip, available at the morning market. There were also vendors selling sets with sticky rice, snacks, and a mat, or even a shoulder cloth (sabaai) included for 20,000-30,000 kip. I initially planned to walk to the morning market, but since I was running late, I encountered an auntie selling a set for 30,000 kip. I almost walked away, but then I saw the monks approaching, so I managed to bargain the price down to 20,000 kip. It was a good thing, as I was worried I wouldn't make it in time. (I later learned from a Lao friend that near Wat Ho Cheing, fewer monks walk for alms and they start earlier in the morning. However, near Wat Saen, monks come from several temples, but they arrive a bit later.)

Monks and novices will gradually walk out to collect alms, as they come from many temples.

The monks walk very quickly, so you need to be quick and focused when offering them sticky rice.

Meanwhile, you can also observe the slow-paced morning lifestyle of the city's residents.

After the sticky rice and snacks were finished, we got a few photos (a little regret that no one asked to help us take photos, haha). We folded the mat, packed the basket and sticky rice container, and walked across the street to return it to the aunt. Then we crossed the road to Wat Ho Cheing again. Some villagers brought food to offer to the monks at the temple and listened to the sermon. We also followed to admire the beauty of the art here.

"Hua Xiang Temple (Wat Hua Xiang)"

The Wat Ho Xiang, constructed during the reign of King Sai Setthathirath (1548 CE), shares similarities with Wat Phra That Luang. Archaeological discoveries have revealed numerous bronze Buddha statues from the same period. The small-scale ordination hall showcases authentic Luang Prabang architectural style. The murals adorning the front facade were added at a later date.

The temple grounds are adorned with numerous frangipani trees, resulting in a picturesque scene of fallen frangipani blossoms carpeting the ground.

From Wat Ho Cheang, walk a little further and you will find another temple right next to it, Wat Phra Maha That Ratchaworawihan or Wat Tad Noi. There is no fence, so you can just walk down the stairs and you will be there.

"Wat Phra Mahathat Ratchaworawihan, also known as Wat That Noi (Wat Mahathat)"

Built in 2091 CE (during the reign of King Sai Setthathirath), Wat Phra That Luang has undergone several renovations, the most significant of which occurred in 1910 CE under the patronage of Prince Bun Khong. The sim (ordination hall) in the Lan Xang style features an exquisitely carved "tian railing" adorned with 24 naga figures. In front of the sim stands a large stupa containing the ashes of Prince Phetsarath Rattanavongsa, the first Prime Minister of Laos and a revered statesman of the modern era. The grand ubosot (main chapel) boasts intricate carvings on its doors and windows depicting the Jataka tales of Prince Sudhana and Manora, a masterpiece by the renowned artisan school of Pa Tuean. At the back, the bell-shaped stupa is adorned with 17 white parasols, signifying that the temple was built by a king or sovereign.

We then continued to the morning market, passing by the post office and the rows of ATMs.

Continue walking straight until you reach the roundabout, then turn left. Walk for approximately 200 meters, and the morning market will be on your right. Enter the alleyway.

This route will take you past Wat Phonsai, a temple with a rich history. I recommend stopping by for a visit.

"Phonxay Temple"

The temple was built in 1791 by King Anuruttha. According to historical records, it was a tradition for the kings of Luang Prabang and their military commanders to perform a ceremony of worship to the "Phra Ong Luang" (the principal Buddha image) to seek blessings before going to war. It is believed that the principal Buddha image of this temple has the power to grant victory in battle. The ordination hall exhibits the typical Luang Prabang architectural style. The interior is divided into three long rooms and four cross rooms. Two of the cross rooms later collapsed and were restored in 1970, expanding each side by one meter. Subsequently, the entire building was renovated.

I stood admiring the beauty of the temple for a while, when I saw an elderly woman walk out of the church and start stuffing sticky rice into the mouth of a lion statue. I was about to approach her to ask about it, but she walked away too quickly. Oh well!

Stepping out into the morning market again, there were quite a few people walking around.

At this market, we only buy "kai," a specialty of Luang Prabang, as souvenirs. There are both fresh and dried seasoned kai here. Kai is a green aquatic plant, similar to algae and duckweed. We also have it in Thailand. Do you know? "Spirogyra (water fern)" has the scientific name Spirogyra sp. and the common names water fern, stove, kai, or vegetable stove. In the north, there is a menu called "yam tao," and in the northeast, there is "larb tao." (I later found out that the seasoned kai sheets during this period are old kai. They will be made again during the winter season, which is from October to February. I don't know, I bought it and it really smells old, even though I chose the dark ones. The taste is quite bland with a slightly salty taste. There are tomatoes and spices in it, similar to eating seaweed sheets, but the taste is not very appealing. I should probably wait to try the new kai first ^^)

After visiting the morning market, head to "Pracha Niyom Restaurant," a popular spot among Thai food reviewers. To get there, walk out of the market and onto Chao Phanakhang Road. Continue walking until the end of the road and turn left. Along the way, you will find a shop selling everything for 6,000 kip.

A sandwich shop is located on the corner.

The People's Shop is just a short walk away.

Alternatively, you can sit on the opposite side of the View Rim Khong restaurant.

The food was delicious and affordable. A bowl of rice porridge cost 7,000 kip, a fried fish was 1,000 kip, and a cup of tea or coffee was 5,000 kip. We were full after eating just the rice porridge and didn't order any drinks because we don't like coffee and didn't want to drink sugary drinks early in the morning.

After finishing my errands, I took a relaxing stroll along the Mekong River. It seems like it has been raining almost every day lately, and the water in the river is the color of a strong iced tea.

After that, I took a nap in my room. Haha! Then I went out to have some bakery at "Joma Bakery Cafe" because I had plenty of time.

The restaurant offers both outdoor seating in front of the shop and indoor seating with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

The menu offers a wide variety of sweet and savory bakery items, as well as a selection of beverages.

We only ordered this much, and although many people recommended it, I didn't think it would be that delicious. But after trying it, I can say that it's truly delicious. I love it! This whole meal cost 41,000 kip, which is about 170 baht.

As the time for my appointment at Tad Kwang Si approached, I walked to the post office to wait for a ride. Several vans and tuk-tuks were parked nearby, and I was constantly asked where I was going and if I wanted to visit various attractions. As the time neared, I began to worry that no one would show up to pick me up. I chatted with various people, gathering information as I went. I even met some fellow Thai tourists. Eventually, I met a minivan driver who was about to leave for Tad Kwang Si and offered me a ride. After some negotiation, we agreed on a price of 35,000 kip. I checked the van, which was still empty. A short while later, the driver told me that he would put me in a friend's van, a larger one, for the same price. Seeing that the van was full, I agreed to go. The other passengers were all foreigners, mostly Westerners and Koreans. I was the only Thai person in the van. We set off, and while the others paid 50,000 kip, I only paid 35,000 kip. I dared to bargain because the van was already almost full, and I figured they wouldn't mind adding one more person for a slightly lower price. The driver was kind enough to agree, allowing me to pay less than the others. (If there had been only a few people, I wouldn't have dared to bargain so much.)

The minivan that I initially thought I would be driving. I even took a picture of the license plate to remember it. Haha!

The Blackbuck Conservation Center is located about 30 kilometers southwest of the city center. The road conditions are not very good in some sections, and it takes about an hour to get there. Upon arrival, you must pay the entrance fee and the driver will tell you that you have 3 hours to visit the center. You will meet back at the parking lot after 3 hours.

"Kuang Si Falls" (English: Kuang Si Falls, Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls, Lao: ຕາດກວາງຊີ)

Known as the most beautiful waterfall in Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls has a total of 4 tiers and a total height of approximately 75 meters. It is a limestone waterfall, so the water in the waterfall is emerald green. Inside the waterfall area, there is organized tourism management. There are designated areas for eating, and cooking is not allowed. There are areas for swimming and trash cans at various points for tourists to dispose of their trash properly.

The entrance fee is 20,000 kip (approximately 80 baht). The opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

The entrance area features several shops selling food, snacks, and beverages. Prices are slightly higher here compared to other locations.

Upon entering the gate, you will encounter a fork in the path. The left path leads directly to the top of the waterfall, while the right path winds through the forest, offering scenic views and glimpses of the various waterfall tiers.

The entrance to the waterfall features a bear conservation center, which houses bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade across Laos. Admission fees partially support the care and conservation of these bears. Let's go find the bears! Find the bears, find the bears, find the bears!!!

This is not just an ordinary scenic view, but a view with large, black bears. Take a closer look.

Some are sleeping soundly, while others are playing mischievously. Adorable! ^^

The young bears have their own designated play area within their enclosure.

This article provides information about the various bear species found in the country.

Having observed the ears of the bear, we continued our journey along the path to the waterfall.

Due to the recent heavy rainfall, the water level has risen and the water is more turbid than usual.

Let's make the most of what we have. We can take photos ourselves, even if it means dealing with darkness, glare, missed focus, or not being able to keep up. It's a fun and hilarious experience.

The second level boasts a more picturesque waterfall cascading over rocks compared to the first level.

I tried setting up the camera to take a selfie again. It worked! (I can even compliment myself.)

The water level was so high that the seats were completely flooded, and no one was sitting on them.

Continuing on to the third floor, you will find a restaurant. However, during our visit, the restaurant was undergoing renovations and was being repainted.

The Majestic View from Tad Kwang Si's Upper Tier

Ascending further, we encountered the breathtaking upper tier of Tad Kwang Si. Nature's artistry was on full display, leaving us awestruck by its sheer magnificence. The cascading turquoise waters, framed by lush greenery, offered a captivating spectacle regardless of the chosen photographic angle. While the water's clarity fell short of the usual crystal-clear, vibrant blue-green hues seen in online images, its beauty remained undeniable.

The summit was teeming with tourists from all over the world, including Westerners, Koreans, Chinese, and Thais. It was easy to find someone to take a picture for me. All the tourists were so friendly! I would love to come back during the winter when the water is crystal clear and has a beautiful turquoise hue.

We were given three hours, but we only used two. We didn't dare put our belongings down to play in the water for fear that they would disappear when we came back. So we just walked around, took pictures, dipped our feet in the cool water, and then walked back to wait for the car to leave. On the way back, we stopped to take pictures along the way.

Indulging in a Wall's ice cream, a sudden craving that cost 10,000 kip, equivalent to roughly 40 baht.

Translation:

I had planned to visit the beautiful Phra That temple today, as I didn't get a chance to climb up yesterday. As I approached the city, it started to drizzle. I asked the driver to drop me off at the entrance on the Nam Khan River side, also known as "Kaem Khan" in Lao, so I could walk down to the Night Market. However, the driver informed me that the route was long and relatively deserted, with few people using it. Additionally, due to the rain and the gloomy weather, there might not be anyone walking up. Therefore, I decided to get dropped off near the Night Market instead.

As soon as I got off the car, the rain started to pour again. I walked to see the way up to the pagoda.

He looked down at the dark market below, another day of hunger.

Sheltering under an umbrella, we watched the drizzle fall. We admired the surrounding views, including the distant beauty of the Ho Phra Bang.

I decided to grab a bite to eat before heading out. Yesterday, I saw a buffet alley and decided to give it a try. It cost 15,000 kip and you could take as much as you wanted. However, there were only vegetable and tofu dishes. There was something that looked like fried chicken, but it turned out to be fried bananas. My dreams were shattered! The taste was indescribable. I thought I was easy to please, but it was really bad. If only there was some chili paste, it would have been much better. I forced myself to eat it, worried about the heavy rain, until I finished the bowl. That's enough for me. I'm feeling sick now.

To satisfy your cravings, head to the neighboring pho restaurant and order a bowl for 15,000 kip. Don't forget to request extra chili and lime to balance the richness of the broth.

With this abundance of ingredients, you can create a spicy dish to your liking.

Choose from two types of noodles: thin or thick.

Crispy rice and fried pork rinds are available for you to pull down and enjoy with your pho, adding another dimension to your dining experience.

The bowl is huge!!! Oh man, if I had just gone straight for the pho, I would have been done already. Haha.

Soon after, the rain began to subside. I walked through the black market again, stopping by a booth to exchange currency. The rate wasn't as good as at the airport, but for a few hundred baht, it didn't make much difference.

Day 3: Wat Xieng Thong - Wat Sene - Haw Pha Bang / National Museum

Morning:

• Visit Wat Xieng Thong, a stunning temple complex known for its intricate carvings and beautiful murals.
• Explore Wat Sene, a historic temple with a unique blend of Lao and Thai architectural styles.

Afternoon:

• Discover the Haw Pha Bang, a golden pavilion housing the revered Pha Bang Buddha statue.
• Immerse yourself in Lao history and culture at the National Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits spanning centuries.

Note: This is a concise translation of the original text, focusing on the key information and maintaining a simple and short tone.

The weather was pleasant early in the morning, so I was able to follow my planned itinerary. I woke up a little later than the previous day and missed the sticky rice alms offering. Since I had eaten a lot the night before, I wasn't hungry in the morning. I walked around and stopped by a museum, which I had read would be closed on Tuesdays. Coincidentally, I visited on a Tuesday, but the front door was open, so I went in to take some general photos.

As I was about to walk out, I saw a man cycling towards me. As I crossed the street to climb Mount Phousi to see the That Chomsi, I noticed that the same man was following me. I wasn't sure if he was looking at me, so I stopped to let him go first. I also bought some flowers for 5,000 kip to offer to the Buddha.

Admission fee 20,000 kip (tickets are almost sold out)

Translation:

Upon reaching the summit, one can pay respects at the temple before taking a few steps to admire the magnificent Phra That Chom Si.

"Phra That Chom Si on the summit of Phu Si Mountain"

Visible from almost every corner of Luang Prabang, the golden-hued stupa stands approximately 100 meters tall. Two paths lead to the summit: a 328-step staircase on the west side, opposite the museum and the Haw Pha Bang, and a steep staircase on the east side, ascending from the Mekong River via Wat Tham Phousi. From the top of the stupa, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Luang Prabang and witness stunning sunsets. The stupa's peak is adorned with a seven-tiered, 21-meter-high bronze stupa umbrella. The ideal time to visit is in the evening, around 4 pm onwards.

This image captures a view of the Mekong River from the Phra That temple, facing southwest. The river can be seen winding around the mountains.

Southward View

The eastern view (take photos on this side before noon, otherwise it will be backlit) offers a glimpse of the Khan River and the distant Wat Phon Pao.

The view is breathtaking, with clear skies offering panoramic vistas of Luang Prabang, encompassing both the Mekong and Khan rivers.

While admiring the view, the man who had been talking loudly approached me and spoke in a language I didn't understand. I asked him in English where he was from (which country), and he replied that he was Laotian! I was surprised because he looked more Pakistani. I told him that I was Thai, and he thought I was Laotian because I was wearing a traditional Lao skirt. He wanted to ask me for directions to a certain town. His name is "Hem." We started chatting, and it turned out that we were the same age, which made it easier to talk. We spoke in Thai, and Hem spoke it fluently and with a clear accent. He even took some pictures of me with his camera.

We then headed to Wat Chiang Thong. Hem said he had been there earlier in the morning but didn't take many photos because it was too early and there was no one around. So we went again together, with me riding on the back of Hem's bicycle. I felt bad for him, as I'm not exactly lightweight, but he said he exercises every day so it was no problem for him. What a guy! Haha.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Descending the same way, on the museum side, capturing another image of the Ho Phra Bang.

"Wat Chiang Thong"

The Wat Xieng Thong is a Buddhist temple located in Luang Prabang, Laos. It was built in 1560 by King Sai Setthathirath and is situated near the Mekong River. The temple is known for its beautiful Lan Xang architecture.

Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 5:30 PM.

Admission fee: 20,000 kip

The ancient-style building features intricate carvings painted in gleaming gold. Known as "Ho Meun Kos" by the Lao people, it served as a repository for the royal palanquin, carriage, and other belongings of King Sisavang Vong, who passed away in 1959. The construction of Ho Meun Kos was completed in 1962.

The interior features a spacious hall with a removable front wall from the lintel to the floor, allowing for the removal of the royal carriage.

The ordination hall, known as "Sim" in Lao (also referred to as "Sim" in the Isan dialect of Thai).

After bowing to the principal Buddha image in the chapel, I noticed a long, golden pole placed above it. I asked the monk what the pole was for, and he explained that it was a channel for water to flow through during the bathing ceremony. Villagers would pour water onto the pole, and it would flow down to bathe the seated Buddha statue.

The rear of the church is beautifully decorated.

Flanking the sides and rear of the ordination hall are two small chapels.

The facade of the temple is adorned with stained glass windows, each composed of small pieces of glass arranged to form various shapes. These windows depict folktales on the pink walls, creating a charming and picturesque scene in true Luang Prabang style.

The small chapel beside the ordination hall, known as the "Red Chapel," houses a beautiful reclining Buddha statue.

We then returned along the same route to continue on to Wat Saen. Khem actually had a flight back home to Pakse at noon, but he agreed to postpone his flight until the evening because it had rained all day yesterday and he couldn't rent a motorbike to go anywhere. Today the weather was good, so he wanted to continue sightseeing. After dropping us off at Wat Saen, Khem went off to do some errands and change his flight. He returned not long after.

"Wat Saensukharam"

Constructed in the 15th century during the reign of King Kink Krich, the name of the temple is said to have originated from a donation of 100,000 kip to fund its construction. This historic temple was built 11 years after Luang Prabang separated from Vientiane, marking the establishment of a new kingdom. Prior to its construction, the site of Wat Saen housed an older temple.

The large standing Buddha statue, considered the only standing Buddha statue in Luang Prabang, has a beautiful and serene face. Next to the standing Buddha hall is a replica of the Buddha's footprint hall.

The ubosot, or ordination hall, is a visually stunning structure adorned with intricate gold paintings on a red background. The interior is lavishly decorated, featuring a majestic main Buddha statue known as "Phra Ong Luang." Wat Saen has undergone two renovations, the first in 1932 and the second in 1957. The exquisite gold leaf embellishments were restored in the 20th century by skilled artisans from the Royal Palace of Luang Prabang.

Racing shells are boats that are not made from a single hollowed-out log.

I met a friend from Luang Prabang on Facebook. Before I came, I asked him for some information. Today, I finally met him. Mr. Tui works in an alley next to Wat Sensouk. He used to be a tour guide for Thai people in Laos, so he can speak, read, and write Thai very well. After we met, we chatted for a while. Mr. Tui told me that there is a delicious pho restaurant opposite Wat Sensouk (I didn't get to eat there, what a pity!). There is also a delicious papaya salad restaurant in the alley. Of course, I had to try some Lao papaya salad.

The papaya salad here is pounded into thick strands. If you're not comfortable with that, you can order it with thin strands like we have back home. But I think this way is delicious too! The first bite reveals the addition of shrimp paste, but the flavor is excellent, very rich. Oh… I'm drooling just typing this, I want to eat it again!!! The shrimp paste they use is the "Sailboat" brand imported from Thailand. Most of the ingredients in Luang Prabang are imported, which makes the prices quite high.

You Tu ordered another dish of sai oua for us to try, along with sticky rice made from black glutinous rice. The sai oua here is different from the northern Thai version. It's a pork sausage without herbs, and the taste is delicious. It seems to be made only with pork, maybe with a little pork fat, and no herbal smell. It's not sour, the flavor is well-rounded and very tasty! The sticky rice is also not sticky to the hands, but chewy and delicious, and goes perfectly with the papaya salad and sai oua. Hmm… I want to eat it again! The papaya salad costs 10,000 kip per plate (which is about 40 baht, the same as the papaya salad back home). The total bill was 95,000 kip, and You Tu treated us! Oh… that was so kind! ><

And what we see in almost every shop is puffed rice. If it were in our country, what would it be? Pork crackling, crispy fish skin, something like that.

This restaurant does not have a name, but Khun Tui informed me that it is a regular spot for Khun Woody Milintachinda. I will provide further directions in case anyone is interested in trying the delicious and spicy papaya salad from Luang Prabang.

The shop is located in the alley next to Wat Saen. At the mouth of the alley, there is a 3Naga Hotel. Go straight until you reach a four-way intersection before the end of the alley. Turn left and go straight for about 100 meters. The shop will be on the right-hand side, opposite Wat Si Koon Muang.

After a hearty meal, we took selfies and said goodbye to Ms. Tui. Hem and I continued our journey together. He took me on the back of his bicycle along the Mekong River (Khong River) until we came across a coconut water stall. The stall was located on the banks of the Mekong River in Khem. He suggested we stop by. This was the same stall where former US President Barack Obama had enjoyed a drink during his recent visit to Luang Prabang. The stall offered large fresh coconuts, ice cream, and various other beverages. The coconuts cost 15,000 kip each, and the ice cream was also 15,000 kip per cup. My friend insisted on treating me again, refusing to take my money. ><

The coconut is very large!!!

Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Mekong River.

We then headed to the museum. Ms. Tui had said that it was open every day (but why did all the information I read say it was closed on Tuesdays...?). It turned out that it was indeed open.

“Luang Prabang Museum"

Originally a royal palace for the King, construction began in 1904 during the reign of King Sakkarin and was completed in 1909 under King Sisavang Vong. Designed by a French architect, the palace is a single-story complex with a cruciform plan and multi-layered base. The tiled roof reflects a harmonious blend of French architecture and Laotian art. King Sisavang Vong resided in the Royal Palace until his death. Following the change of regime in Laos in 1975, the Lao government transformed the Royal Palace into the Luang Prabang Museum, which opened in 1976.

Upon entering the gate, the most striking feature is the rows of large palm trees lining both sides of the path leading to the building. As you approach, the roof of the pavilion and the three-headed elephant on the front gable become visible, symbolizing the three kingdoms of Lan Xang (Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Champasak). This detail was added in 1930 when Chao Maha Sri Savang Vong ordered the restoration while awaiting the establishment of the Kingdom of Laos. The pavilion consists of several prominent chambers.

The Royal Palace Museum, formerly the Royal Palace, is located on the right side of the entrance gate. Next to it stands the "Haw Pha Bang," a large golden building in the Luang Prabang sim style, adorned with floral patterns (stained glass). It serves as the residence of the revered Luang Prabang Buddha image, which was relocated here in December 2013. On the left side of the entrance gate is the "Monument of King Sisavang Vong" (reigned 1904-1959). He is recognized as the king who bestowed the first constitution (written by Laotians) upon Laos in 1947.

Source: http://www.lannatouring.com/World/lao/Luangprabang/RoyalPalace-Phousi.htm

- Admission fee to the museum: 30,000 kip per person.

• Open from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Open daily.

- No photography allowed.

- No short pants or skirts allowed.

• Sarongs are available for rent here for 5,000 kip each.

- All belongings must be deposited in the storage room before entering the exhibition (free of charge).

- Photography is prohibited inside the museum.

It's almost time to go to the airport. We need to arrive at least one hour before our flight's departure time to check in. My flight is at 4:45 PM, while my friend's flight is at 6:00 AM. My friend is kindly accompanying me to the airport.

Traveling from Luang Prabang city center to Luang Prabang International Airport can be done by tuk-tuk, with fares ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 kip per trip (negotiable). Alternatively, van or minivan services are available for 50,000 kip per trip.

This trip was filled with good fortune, especially in meeting kind people and experiencing the warm hospitality of the Lao people. This is a city where people live peacefully without the hustle and bustle of competition. The Lao people are truly lovely. I hope to have the opportunity to visit again. Farewell, Luang Prabang.

Conclude with a complimentary in-flight Sprite.