Why go
- District and municipality in Laos.
- Served by Sayaboury Airport (ZBY).
History
Luang Prabang, historically known as Xieng Thong, and alternatively spelled Luang Phabang or Louangphabang, is the capital of Luang Prabang Province in north-central Laos. Its name, meaning “Royal Buddha Image,” derives from the Phra Bang, a statue symbolizing Lao sovereignty. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the city is recognized for blending Lao architecture, European colonial buildings, and over 30 Buddhist temples. The protected area encompasses 33 of its 58 villages, where daily rituals like the morning alms-giving ceremony persist.
Restaurants & places to go
18 more places in the Ultimate edition. See the Ultimate edition →
Airports
✈ Airlines & flight paths — 6 airlines, 7 direct destinations
- Lao Airlines QV (ATR 72, A320) · 7 routes: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Jinghonggasa, Pakse, Siem-reap*, Vientiane
- Vietnam Airlines VN (ATR 72) · 2 routes: Hanoi, Siem-reap
- Air France AF (A319) · 1 route: Bangkok*
- Bangkok Airways PG (ATR 72) · 1 route: Bangkok
- Etihad Airways EY (A319, ATR 72) · 1 route: Bangkok*
- FlyNordic LF (737) · 1 route: Vientiane
Routes and aircraft from OpenFlights (open data; a point-in-time snapshot). * = codeshare. Linked destinations open their own guidebook. Flight numbers are not in the open data — they come from the airline or a paid schedule feed.
✈ Airlines & flight paths — 1 airline, 1 direct destination
- Lao Airlines QV (ATR 72) · 1 route: Vientiane
Routes and aircraft from OpenFlights (open data; a point-in-time snapshot). * = codeshare. Linked destinations open their own guidebook. Flight numbers are not in the open data — they come from the airline or a paid schedule feed.
Getting there by ferry
Where things are
Photographs
credit: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons · See source page
When to go
The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.
Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.
Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.
Getting there & around
Getting there. The nearest airport on record is Sayaboury Airport (ZBY); 2 other airports serve the wider area. Check rail and road links from the tourism sources below. By air: LPQ has direct flights to 7 destinations on 6 airlines (incl. Bangkok, Hanoi, Siem-reap, Vientiane, Chiang Mai…). By water: 5 ferry terminals within 20 km (nearest: Ferry landing, 0.4 km); routes include Ferry back to Luang Prabang, Tad Sae waterfall Ferry, Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave.
Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Luang Prabang. Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.
Private aviation
On-demand charter, jet cards and the semi-private scheduled carriers that serve this city.