Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang (Lao: ຫລວງພະບາງ), 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 means “Royal Buddha Image,” named after the Phra Bang, a statue that represents the country's history and pride.

In 1995, Luang Prabang was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its special mix of Lao buildings, old European-style architecture, and more than 30 Buddhist temples. The protected area includes 33 of the city's 58 villages. In these villages, people still follow old traditions, such as the morning alms-giving ceremony, which is an important part of daily life.

History

Dvaravati city state kingdoms

Further information: Muang Sua

By the 6th century, people called the Mon had built up small kingdoms along the Chao Phraya River. In the north, another group called Haripunjaya grew strong. By the 8th century, the Mon moved north and created several important towns, including Muang Sua, which is now Luang Prabang. These towns helped spread a type of Buddhism called Theravada from missionaries who came from Sri Lanka.

Lan Xang

Xieng Dong Xieng Thong was ruled by the Khmer for a time. In 1353, it became the capital of the Lan Xang kingdom. In 1359, a Khmer king gave a special Buddha statue called the Phra Bang to the first Lan Xang king, Fa Ngum. This statue helped make Fa Ngum’s rule legitimate and spread Theravada Buddhism. The capital was renamed Luangphabang after this statue.

Luang Prabang was sometimes controlled by other countries, like Vietnam. In 1707, Lan Xang split up, and Luang Prabang became the capital of its own kingdom. Later, when France took control of Laos, Luang Prabang was still important as the royal home. After Laos became independent, the king of Luang Prabang became the leader of the whole country.

World War II

During World War II, Luang Prabang was controlled by several different countries, including Vichy France, Thailand, Imperial Japan, Free France, and Nationalist China. In 1945, some Laotian nationalists declared independence, but the French later returned to take control again.

Laotian Civil War

In the years following World War II, there were conflicts in Laos. French forces tried to take back control of Luang Prabang in 1946. Later, during a bigger war called the First Indochina War, forces trying to take over Laos came close to the city but were stopped by French troops.

Tourism

Luang Prabang has many beautiful places to visit, such as the Kuang Si Falls, Tat Sae Waterfalls, and Pak Ou Caves. You can even ride elephants at some of these sites. Phou Si, located in the middle of town, offers great views of the town and rivers. At the end of the main street, there is a night market where you can buy shirts, bracelets, and other souvenirs.

Historical sites include the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and the Wat Xieng Thong temple. The town has many smaller temples, like Wat Hosian Voravihane. Every morning at sunrise, monks walk through the streets collecting offerings from locals. People also enjoy mountain biking around the town or visiting the waterfalls. Just a short boat ride down the Mekong River brings you to a pottery village.

Gastronomy

Luang Prabang has many tasty local dishes. Some popular foods are Or lam, a special sausage from Luang Prabang, mokpa which is steamed fish, and Kaipen. Kaipen is made from moss found in the Mekong River and is served fried with a sauce called Jeow bong.

Transportation

Luang Prabang is connected by Route 13, which links to Vang Vieng and Vientiane to the south, and to Boten in the north. The road is paved. Since 2014, a new road from Kasi (near Vang Vieng) to Luang Prabang has made the trip shorter, taking about 3 hours instead of 5 hours.

Since December 2021, the Vientiane–Boten railway has served Luang Prabang. This train runs from Boten at the Chinese border to Vientiane, making the trip in less than 3 hours, compared to 3 days by road. Daily buses still travel from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, taking about 11 to 13 hours.

Education

Luang Prabang has a French international school called École francophone de Luang Prabang.

Climate

Luang Prabang experiences a tropical savanna climate. This means it has distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, which typically runs from May to October, the city receives plenty of rainfall. The dry season, from November to April, is generally warmer and less rainy, making it a popular time for visitors. The city's climate supports lush greenery and makes it a beautiful place to explore throughout the year.

Sister cities

Luang Prabang has a special friendship with another city. Since 2009, it has been connected with Bagan in Myanmar. This means the two cities work together and share ideas.