Luang Prabang Province Travel Tips
To have a better travel experience in Luang Prabang Province, there are some useful Luang Prabang Province travel tips which may be helpful for your Luang Prabang Province tour. When plan your trip to Luang Prabang Province, view our answers to questions about Luang Prabang Province travel to get better understanding of Luang Prabang Province.
Useful Numbers
Here are some useful numbers for Luang Prabang Province in Laos:
Emergency Services:
- Police: 191
- Ambulance: 195
- Fire: 190
Hospitals and Clinics:
- Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital: +856-71-212076
- Lao Friends Hospital for Children: +856-71-253780
Transportation:
- Luang Prabang International Airport: +856-71-212888
- Luang Prabang Bus Station: +856-71-212709
Tourism:
- Luang Prabang Tourism Information Center: +856-71-253511
- Luang Prabang Tourist Police: +856-71-252452
Government Services:
- Luang Prabang Province Governor's Office: +856-71-212007
- Luang Prabang District Office: +856-71-212134
Note: Please keep in mind that phone numbers in Laos can change frequently, so it's always a good idea to confirm these numbers before you need them.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Luang Prabang Province is during the cool and dry season from November to February. During this time, the temperatures are comfortable and there is little rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's sights.
The hot season from March to May can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F), which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
The rainy season from June to October can also be a good time to visit, as the countryside is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. However, it can rain heavily and often, and some roads may become impassable due to flooding.
Overall, the best time to visit Luang Prabang Province depends on your personal preferences and what activities you have planned. If you want to avoid the heat and rain, the cool and dry season is your best bet. But if you don't mind some rain and want to see the waterfalls at their best, the rainy season can be a good option.
What to Pack
When packing for a trip to Luang Prabang Province, here are some things you may want to consider bringing:
- Lightweight and Breathable Clothing: Since the weather can be hot and humid, you'll want to bring lightweight and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Loose-fitting clothing can also help keep you cool and comfortable.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Luang Prabang is a walkable city, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking around and exploring. Sandals or flip-flops may also be a good option for when you're at the waterfalls or temples.
- Sun Protection: The sun can be strong in Laos, so be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in Laos, so bring insect repellent to help prevent bites.
- Travel Adapter: Laos uses Type A, B, C, E, and F electrical outlets, so bring a travel adapter if you plan on using electronic devices.
- Lightweight Rain Gear: If you're visiting during the rainy season, it's a good idea to bring lightweight rain gear like a poncho or rain jacket to keep you dry.
- Medications and Toiletries: Bring any medications you may need, as well as toiletries like hand sanitizer, tissues, and wet wipes.
- Cash: While credit cards are accepted in some places, cash is still king in Laos. Bring enough cash to cover your expenses, especially if you plan on visiting rural areas where ATMs may not be available.
- A Daypack: A lightweight daypack can be handy for carrying around essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent while you're out exploring.
Overall, pack light and practical items that will keep you comfortable and prepared for the weather and activities you plan on doing in Luang Prabang Province.
Currency
The official currency of Luang Prabang Province and Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). The kip comes in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 bills.
While the kip is the official currency, US dollars are also widely accepted and can be used for larger purchases like hotels and tours. However, it's always a good idea to have some kip on hand for smaller purchases like street food and souvenirs.
You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels in Luang Prabang. ATMs are also available, but they may not be as common in rural areas. Keep in mind that some places may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to have some kip on hand at all times.
Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in Luang Prabang, but it's always a good idea to check beforehand to avoid any surprises. Some establishments may also charge a fee for using credit cards, so be sure to ask about any additional charges before making a purchase.
Bank
There are several banks and financial institutions in Luang Prabang Province where you can exchange currency or withdraw money from an ATM. Here are some of the banks you can find in Luang Prabang:
Banque Pour Le Commerce Exterieur Lao (BCEL)
- Location: Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang
- ATM available: Yes
Lao-Viet Bank
- Location: Khem Khong Road, Luang Prabang
- ATM available: Yes
Agricultural Promotion Bank
- Location: Vientiane Road, Luang Prabang
- ATM available: No
Joint Development Bank
- Location: Souphanouvong Road, Luang Prabang
- ATM available: No
Note that the availability of ATMs may vary, and some may not accept all types of cards. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially if you plan on visiting rural areas where ATMs may not be available. Also, keep in mind that banks in Luang Prabang may have different opening hours, and some may be closed on weekends and public holidays. It's a good idea to check the opening hours of the bank you plan to visit beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Language
The official language of Luang Prabang Province and Laos is Lao, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, many people in Luang Prabang also speak other languages, especially those involved in the tourism industry. English is widely spoken by those working in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, as well as by many younger people who have learned it in school. French is also spoken by some older people, as Laos was a French colony from 1893 to 1954. Additionally, some ethnic minority groups in Luang Prabang Province may speak their own languages or dialects, such as the Hmong or Khmu languages. However, Lao is generally understood by most people, and you should be able to communicate effectively in Lao or English in most situations. It's always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as "sabaidee" (hello), "khawp jai" (thank you), and "lai lai" (slowly), as it can help you to connect with the locals and show your respect for their culture.
Useful Lao Language
Learning a few basic phrases in Lao can be very useful during your trip to Luang Prabang Province. Here are some commonly used phrases:
- Sabaidee: Hello
- Sabaidee mai: How are you?
- Khop chai: Thank you
- Khop chai lai lai: Thank you very much
- Sabai dee: I'm fine/good
- Baw pen nyang: It doesn't matter
- Laos dai: Yes
- Baw dai: No
- Bor pen nyang: Sorry/Excuse me
- Hong nam yu ti nai?: Where is the bathroom?
Note that Lao is a tonal language, meaning that the meaning of a word can change depending on the tone used. It may take some practice to get the tones right, but locals will appreciate your effort to speak their language. Also, keep in mind that many people in Luang Prabang Province speak English, especially those in the tourism industry, so don't be afraid to ask for help if needed.
Etiquette and Taboos
As a visitor to Luang Prabang Province, it's important to be aware of local customs and etiquette to show respect for the culture and avoid causing offense. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Dress Modestly: Lao people tend to dress conservatively, and it's considered respectful to cover your shoulders and knees in public. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or swimwear outside of the pool or beach area.
- Remove Your Shoes: It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, temple, or other sacred site. Look for shoes outside the entrance as a clue, and follow the lead of others.
- Show Respect for Monks: Monks are highly respected in Lao culture, and it's important to show respect for them by not touching them, avoiding physical contact, and giving them space. Women should avoid sitting next to or touching monks, as it's considered inappropriate.
- Don't Point Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest and least clean part of the body, so avoid pointing them at people or sacred objects. When sitting on the floor or a mat, sit with your legs crossed or folded to the side.
- Don't Touch People's Heads: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, and it's considered rude to touch someone's head or hair without permission.
- Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Lao culture is conservative, and public displays of affection like kissing or hugging are generally not appropriate.
- Don't Litter: Lao people take pride in their environment, and it's important to dispose of trash properly and avoid littering.
By following these customs and showing respect for the local culture, you can have a more enjoyable and meaningful trip to Luang Prabang Province.
Medical Care
Medical care in Laos is not well developed, and tourists with serious injuries or illnesses almost always have to be flown to Vientiane, or transferred urgently to hospitals in northeastern Thailand, or flown on direct flights to Chiang Mai or Bangkok. It's a good idea to bring your own anti-mosquito spray and anti-diarrhea medication in case you are unaccustomed to the climate of a new place. Pharmacies can be easily found in the ancient town and are usually open until 8:00 pm. The general level of local medical care is limited, and the cost of medical treatment abroad is high, so it is advisable to bring your own medicine and purchase insurance.
- Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital
Address: a few km outside of the center at Ban Phoumok, Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province
Tel: +8561-71254026 - Boua Phanh Pharmacie
Address: It's one of the better pharmacies downtown on Th Sakkarin street
Tel: +856-71-252252 - Chinese Hospital
Address: Ban Phu Mok
Tel: +856-71-254026
University
- Souphanouvong University
Address: National Road 13th, Ban Done Mai, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR
Tel: +856-71 254931-2
Tourist Information
- Luang Prabang Provincial Tourism Department and Tourism Information Centre
Address: Near the junction of Chao Fa Ngum Road and Kitsalath Road, next to post office
Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 08:00-11:30 and 13:30-16:00
Tel: 071-212-487
