Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage city and it is no wonder given its temples and culture. It is estimated that there are over 80 temples around this small city and while we didn't have enough time to visit many of them, we did visit a few of the most important ones.
Royal Palace Museum
The Royal Palace Museum, also known as Haw Kham is situated in the centre of Luang Prabang. The palace was constructed early in the 20th century and is a mix of classical Lao and French architecture.
Wat Xieng Thong
Wat Xieng Thong, also known as the Golden City Monastery is Luang Prabang's most renowned temple. This temple was built in 1560 and sits close to the tip of the peninsula, on the banks of the Mekong river. This temple was built in the classic Luang Prabang style of temple architecture. The temple itself is very regal with its gold covering.
Adjacent to the golden temple is a smaller building dubbed by the French La Chapelle Rouge or Red Chapel. This chapel is exquisitely decorated with a beautiful mosaic.
Wat Pahouak
Wat Pahouak may not look like much from the outside, but it contains well-preserved 19th century murals of Mekong life. These murals were well worth a visit.
Phu Si and Wat Chom Si
Phu Si is the rocky outcrop that sits in the centre of the city. Visitors can climb the 328 steps up Phu Si to Wat Chom Si on the summit. What Chom Si is a temple with an impressive gilded stupa in classical Lao style. The summit also offers amazing views of Luang Prabang and the surrounding areas.
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