Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls
4.7 / 5 · 93 traveler reviews
This full-day private tour combines a Luang Prabang city tour with an afternoon excursion to Kuang Si Waterfall. In Luang Prabang, you will visit various temples and royal palaces and learn about Lao history culture and local life. Walking with a local guide, you will hear stories about the history of the temples and the city, Buddhist stories and legends painted all over the walls of the temples, and more, giving you a taste of Luang Prabang's culture. In the afternoon, we will head to Kuang Si Waterfall. There will be time to bathe in the emerald green waterfalls and visit a bear rescue center. On the way back, we will visit a Hmong village and have the opportunity to meet the ethnic minorities and get a glimpse of their culture.
Your experience
Stop 1
[5:30 am opition only] In Buddhism, alms or almsgiving is the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk, nun, spiritually-developed person or other sentient being. It is not charity as presumed by Western interpreters. It is important to know the ceremony is also a spiritual practice to accumulate good karma for those who give the alms. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual realm and to show humbleness and respect in the presence of the secular society. The act of almsgiving connects the human to the monk and what he represents. The morning alms giving is a living Buddhist tradition for the people of Luang Prabang which, because of its beauty, has become a major tourist attraction. However, when tourists are unaware of its customs their inappropriate behaviors can be disruptive.
Stop 2
[5:30 opition tour only] I Following alms giving, we visit a local morning market. Luang Prabang morning market lining a couple of quiet streets near the Royal Palace, starts early and is over by mid-morning. It sets up along a couple of side-streets next to one of the city’s many Wats. A butcher and some of the more touristy stalls have actual tables for their wares. But most of the vendors, selling anything from rice, to fresh vegetables, to steamed fish, frogs, and anything else that might be the day’s catch, just set up on the ground. We go back to your accommodation and have a free time for breakfast until 8:30 am.
Stop 3
[The museum is closed on the last Thursday of every month and cannot be visited] Explore the former royal residence and discover the story of the Lao royal family through its rooms and collections. Your guide will tailor the explanations to make the visit engaging for the whole family.
Stop 4
Climb the steps to the summit for panoramic views over the old town, the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, and the surrounding mountains. The climb is optional; if you prefer a gentler morning, your guide can adjust the route.
Stop 5
Visit this local temple for a Buddhist blessing, subject to the monk’s availability. The ritual includes a sprinkling of holy water and the tying of cotton threads around your wrists, with wishes for well-being and good fortune.
Stop 6
Discover one of Luang Prabang’s most important historic temples, known for its graceful, sweeping roofs and intricate decoration. Your guide will introduce its history and explain some of the stories behind the artwork.
Stop 7
Finish with a short walk to the tip of the peninsula, where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong.
Stop 8
Kuang Si Waterfalls
Stop 9
Visit Kuang Si Heritage Rice Farm for terraced-field scenery and fresh sugarcane juice, and finish with a Mekong sunset cruise
Stop 10
[Joint tour options only] The journey continues as we follow the water's path to the Kuang Si Heritage Rice Farm. Witness how the falls' water irrigates the terraced paddies and taste fresh, traditionally pressed sugarcane juice. You'll see firsthand the vital connection between the forest, the water, and the local way of life. Conclude your unforgettable day with a magnificent sunset cruise, returning to Luang Prabang around 6:30 PM. This gentle journey back on the Mekong perfectly captures the tranquil spirit of your adventure.
What’s included
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
Before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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