Swim in the Kuang si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang

Known as one of the best waterfalls in Luang Prabang, the Kuang Si Waterfalls are located 23 km south of Luang Prabang and it takes about 45-60 minutes to reach from the center of town. 

After arriving at the gate, visitors have to walk along a marked trail to reach the first set of pools. One can see a lot of people swimming and it will most certainly tempt you to dive in. But before you do, it is best to check out the entire area, decide on the right pool and then swim in the best! Yes, swimming is allowed at Kuang Si falls!

Continue on the trail uphill and notice how the pools get bigger with cleaner water. Also explore the small waterfalls cascading over limestone rocks, thick trees engulfing the entire area overhead and small fishes at the feet – like a fish spa. No matter what you decide to do, you will certainly fall in love with the place.

Trekking at Kuang si waterfalls

For the adventure junkies, there is an option of a small trek in Kuang si Falls. Near the final and the biggest falls, there are steps pointing towards the trek. These steps lead the visitors to the top of the waterfalls. 

This short hike of 20 minutes will take you into the untouched and surreal world. A steady stream of water flows at the top before it hits the 50m drop, forming the stunning waterfall. You can take a canoe ride on this stream. A small shop owner who sells water can help you go on this ride.

If you have more time in hand, trek for 3 km to reach a Secret cave near a spring and have the entire area to yourself.

Cruise on the Mekong River

If you are looking for an activity in Luang Prabang, I highly recommend this.

The Mekong River has been the lifeline for the landlocked country of Laos and is one of the most important rivers in the six South Asian countries that it flows through. You cannot miss the Mekong River, as it is probably the first and last thing you will see in Luang Prabang. It is visible from the aircraft, from the hotels, in the city centre, and you will probably end up eating dinner on its banks on most days. I’d highly recommend the morning breakfast at Saffron Cafe and dinner at Bille River

Hop on a boat which can take you on a ride over the Mekong River and maybe also visit some Laotian villages. Soak in the earthy colour of the Mekong against the limestone mountains, which form a spectacular sight. This was one of my favourite things to do in Luang Prabang.

Enjoy the panoramic views of Luang Prabang from Mount Phou Si

The Mount Phou Si, which translates to sacred mountain, is located in the heart of Luang Prabang and rests at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. The mountain is about 100 meters high and has 355 steps for a climb u,p and is a popular sight with visitors of the city. If you are up for a hike, choose a time at sunset to soak in the peaceful views of Luang Prabang from the peak.

The Royal Palace Museum

The Royal Palace is one of the must visit places in Luang Prabang. The museum is also known as “Haw Kham” and in early days was the country’s Royal Palace. This is the best place to know about the history of Laos. 

It was built in 1904 for King Sisavang Vong, and like the town, it is the perfect blend of French and Lao architecture. The palace was converted into a national museum and opened to the public in 1995. There are several buildings in the palace compound, including the Royal Barge Shelter, a conference hall, and Haw Pha Bang (an ornate pavilion) that houses the standing Buddha statue called Prabang.

Luang Prabang Night market

Luang Prabang comes alive at the Luang Prabang Night Market. 

Popular for the Lao street food and souvenirs, the Luang Prabang night market is closed for vehicles between 5 pm to 10 pm everyday as it turns into a colorful and eventful place. Local community members set up temporary stalls and display the materials for sale. Lao coffee, indigo dyed clothes, bed sheets, purses, handicrafts and artifacts are all sold here. And like all south east asian countries, even Snake whiskey. 

There are money exchange shops on the street so don’t worry if you run out of the local currency Kiep. The best part is they accept US dollars and even Thai Baht if you do not have local currency at all!

The night market is also a foodie heaven and you can try delicious yet inexpensive street food like Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad), Khao Niaw (Sticky Rice), Mok Pa (Steamed fish in banana leaves), Khao Piak Sen (Noodle Soup), Naem Khao Tod (Crispy Rice Salad), fried seaweed, etc.

Get blessed at the temples of Luang Prabang

Wat Phon Phao, Wat Aham, Wat Mahathat, That Chomsi, Wat Pa Phai, Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, That Makmo, Royal Temple.. the list is endless. Most of the temples are Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang.

Each temple is unique with elaborate art and intricate designs – wood carvings, Buddha murals and even Laotian festivals depicted on the walls of temples. The designs and colour will catch your eye, and you are guaranteed to feel blessed and mesmerised by its beauty and tranquillity.

Experience the Baci Ceremony

Baci ceremony (locally called Pha Kwan) is conducted to celebrate a special event, welcoming guests, homecoming, wedding, birth, or conducted even during Loatian festivals. 

The Baci ceremony consists of a silver dish or bowl on a white cloth in the center of the room. On its top is a cone made from banana leaves  and contains flowers. This setup is connected with long white cotton threads.

A village elder generally conducts the ceremony and the person for whom it is being conducted sits opposite to him. He chants some verses wherein the person is supposed to hold the thread from the opposite side. After that a group of senior local women tie these white threads around the person’s wrists and offer blessings. Fruits, snacks and eggs which are offered during the ceremony are later distributed amongst the participating persons.

After the ceremony, everyone shares a meal as members of the community. The meal consists of sticky rice, local vegetables, soup served with chicken and fish, etc.

Taste Ethical Cheese

Laos Buffalo dairy farm was started as a social enterprise and on the concept of sustainability. Located approximately 40 kms from Luang Prabang, the dairy is a great half a day activity which is a must visit. 

It consists of a petting area where visitors can pet rabbits, pigs and cows. They can bathe the cows and learn the process of making ethical cheese.

Visit Pak Ou caves

Extend the Mekong River to visit the Pak Ou caves, which are famous for the Buddha structures in varying shapes and sizes. Pak means mouth, and the two caves at the mouth of the Ou River are Tham Ting and Tham Theung. The caves are revered as a place for spirituality and were thought to be occupied by spirits by the animists. Later, Buddhist monks started bringing the Buddha statues to the cave.

Best time to trek Nong Khiaw Viewpoint

Time-wise, obviously in the early morning so that you can avoid the heat and humidity. Season wise in cooler months – between October to February. I trekked in the month of July and it was slippery, humid and very difficult.

Planning the Nong Khiaw Viewpoint Hike

I suggest that you dedicate 1 night and 2 days to the hike. Leave from Luang Prabang on day 1 in the afternoon and reach the early evening to Nong Khiaw. Watch the sunset from the bridge and catch an early dinner. Rest well.

Start at 5:30 am towards Nong Khiaw viewpoint.

What to wear and carry?

Clothes: Comfortable hiking pants and sweat absorbing t-shirt. You can keep a spare t-shirt to change once you reach the top as you will be dripping wet. You’ll probably need a light jacket in the cooler months.

Shoes: Good grip hiking shoes and socks

Water and snacks: I drank 2 litres of water while climbing up, so plan accordingly. Light snacks like sandwiches, fruits, chocolates and nuts are what you should keep as you’ll need them to reward your body after the steep hike.

Camera: DSLR for still landscape shots, GoPro for the stunning timelapse and a Drone should do the trick. Divide the gadgets amongst your group, otherwise, it will get really heavy to carry all this to the top. If you are going solo I suggest you make a difficult decision and just take one of these.

Where to stay in Nong Khiaw?

I stayed at the Nong Kiau Riverside and it had amazing views from the room.

The hike to Nong Khiaw Viewpoint

The starting point is near Nong Khiaw bridge – about 300m. Pay an entry fee of 20,000 kip per person and do not forget to ask for walking sticks from the starting point. Trust me you will need them.

We had a local guide with us who said we could finish the hike upwards in 45 – 50 minutes. But since it had poured the day before so the entire trek path was extremely muddy, messy and slippery. It took us almost 2 hours.

Luckily there were bamboo rails and ropes to hold on to and pull yourself up where it was extremely steep and slippery.

After reaching the top, the view was surreal. The clouds were playing peek-a-boo with the mountains showing a hint of Nong Khiaw village at the bottom. We spent some time having our breakfast and taking loads of photos and making videos.

After almost an hour, the clouds starting clearing out and we could see the gorgeous Nam Ou river and Nong Khiaw bridge amongst the mountains. It was absolutely incredible.

Interested to know about more such treks in Laos? Check one from Luang Namtha.

Tips for Sustainable Trek:

• Carry a bag to store the wrappers, bottles, plastic packets. Ideally, dispose of it in waste bins after reaching back to Nong Khiaw.
• Do not throw leftover food at the top of the peak. Just carry it back down.
• Avoid carrying liquor – it harms your health while trekking
• Be careful at the rocks above. The edges are sharp and make sure you don’t topple in order to get the perfect photo from the top.

Read more Luang Prabang posts

• Sustainable Tourism in Luang Prabang
• Kuang si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang
• Sustainable Cheese at Laos Buffalo Dairy 
• Luang Prabang night market

Disclosure: I was invited by Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) and Luang Prabang Tourism Board on a FAM trip. However all opinions are unbiased and of my own.

 Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

Pin this post!

How to reach Kuang Si Waterfalls from Luang Prabang

The Kuang Si Falls in Laos is located 23 km south of Luang Prabang and it takes about 45-60 minutes to reach from the centre of town making it a perfect day trip from Luang Prabang. Reaching the waterfalls is easy and accessible, with plenty of transport options available – Tuk-tuks (private or shared), public van, private car, motorbike and boat. If you are feeling a bit adventurous you can even bike to waterfalls from Luang Prabang.

Visiting hours: 8:00 to 17:30

Entrance fees: 20,000 kip per person including camera fees and entry to bear rescue centre

Kuang Si Falls Activities

Trekking to the top of falls

From the biggest waterfall, on its either sides, you will find muddy steps which can take you to the top of the waterfalls. A steep yet short hike of 20 minutes will take you into the untouched and surreal world. The top is the kind of location where movies are shot and one can get amazing Instagram photos.

A steady stream of water flows a the top before it hits the 50m drop to form the stunning waterfall. You can take a canoe ride on this stream. A small shop owner who sells water can help you go on this ride.

If you have more time in hand, trek for 3 km to reach a Secret cave near a spring and have the entire area to yourself.

Love trekking? Check a guide on Nong Khiaw not far from Laos Kuang Si Falls.

Enjoy the pristine nature

Sit down on the wooden benches set up near most pools.  Enjoy the sight of aqua colored water. Or sit down near the pool and dip your feet in the cold water for a free fish spa! Just soak in the unspoilt nature. May be having a snack here is good idea too.

Swim in the pools

Yes, swimming in the pools is allowed unless specified in certain areas. However, diving is strictly prohibited. You need to be careful in these pool as there are deep waters in certain areas and no lifeguard on duty!

Tip: There are changing rooms for men and women before and after you take the dip.

Visit the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre

When you entre through the entrance gate, you will come across Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre even before you hike towards the waterfalls. The centre is operated by Free the Bears organization who have helped rescue and relocate more than 20 Asiatic Black Bears. See them in a playful mood or just taking a nap before you move on to the falls.

Best time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls

The best time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls is from November to April. The weather is pleasant and the water in the pools are settled post-monsoon. However, if you happen to visit the waterfalls between May to October, the falls would have a totally different look and swimming would not be possible.

Kuang Si Waterfalls Tips

• Shoes – Proper walking/hiking shoes are highly recommended if you trek to the top.
• Comfortable clothing – Shorts and t-shirts are ideal for this place with a change in a swimming costume.
• Drinking water and some snacks – Even in winter months, the jungle can get a bit humid. It is best to carry your own water and you will need a snack after the hike. There are 2 shops – one at the bottom near the pools and one at the top but they are extremely expensive.
• Mosquito repellent – Thanks to the lush green forest and waterfalls, there are way too many mosquitoes for comfort. It’s best to carry a mosquito repellent.

You can also check out Tad Sae Waterfalls which are near Luang Prabang.

Sustainable tips for Kuang Si Falls visit

• Reusable water bottle – Though it is important to carry drinking water, carry in a reusable and refillable bottle.
• Do not litter – It is perfectly okay to snack near the waterfall, but do not litter the pristine areas. Use a trash bin to dispose of snack pouches or pet bottles. Or even better, take it back to the hotel.
• Do not go in the water applying sunscreen lotion/mosquito repellent creams – Cosmetic products use many known and unknown chemicals. They may or may not react with the natural flora and fauna of the area. Why take the chance? Best is to avoid it. For mosquitoes, apply an organic roll on, on clothes.
• Respect the nature – Though you may get the most perfect shot and a thousand likes for the photo, do not in any way harm the natural formations of the waterfalls or trees for a vantage point.
• Do not feed the bears – After reading their sad stories, you may be tempted to give them a snack, but don’t. Buy a souvenir instead so that the organization taking care of them can feed them.

Read More posts from Laos:

• Luang Prabang Night Market
• Sustainable tourism in Luang Prabang
• Ethical cheese at Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm

Disclosure: I was invited by Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) and Luang Prabang Tourism Board on a FAM trip. However, all opinions are unbiased and of my own.

 Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

Pin this Post!

Luang Prabang Night Market Information

About the Night Market

A straight street is cordoned off for traffic and visitors can see four lines of vendors selling local food, handicrafts, merchandise, jewellery and souvenirs. Approximately 300 sellers set up their mats on the road under. The set up is in such a way that there is one way in and one way out and the vendor’s stalls face each other on both sides. 

Although visitors want to shop authentic products from the night market, cheap Chinese goods have flooded the market. These goods are lookalike of original Laotian products and present vendors with reliable profits. Shoppers need to beware and look for Handmade in Luang Prabang tags which are helping the local artisans and vendors. This sticker tag can be found on most merchandise, including pottery, jewellery, lacquerware, silks and cotton scarves. The sticker’s presence assures the buyer of the item’s high quality and authentic make.

Location of Luang Prabang Night Market

I was dropped at the junction of Kingkitsalat Road near the post office by my Hotel shuttle. The market is set upright in the middle of town at Sisavangvong Road. Even if you don’t take a tuk-tuk or shuttle to the city centre it is super easy to find it on Google maps. Just input Luang Prabang Night Market or Avani hotel and it is pretty much a straight walk from there. 

Luang Prabang Night Market Timing

The night market set up begins at 4 pm by the locals while the market officially opens for business at 5 pm every day. The market is open till 10 pm. The otherwise busy Sisavangvong Road is blocked for traffic for this duration. Even bikes are not allowed. 

Shopping in Luang Prabang Night Market

Lanterns and Handicrafts

The local Laos community makes paper and silk lanterns which are extremely beautiful and colourful. I almost had Hoi An feeling while going across the lantern stalls and I almost bought one to give the Vietnamese lantern some company but decided otherwise.

Other handicrafts include hand-carved wooden products and toys, hand-sewn slippers and many many others.

I was especially surprised to see jewellery being made from aluminum of the bombs and crashed planes during the Vietnam war. The villagers were taught to recycle the metal into cutlery and jewellery.

Fabrics and Outfits

Luang Prabang Night Market has many stalls selling cotton and silk fabrics. There are many eye-catching cotton cushion covers with many designs that it is difficult to resist buying it for back home. There are even bed covers and pillows in a wide assortment of beautiful designs!

The night market also sells elephant printed pants which are extremely popular all over Asia as well as all ‘I Love Laos’ t-shirts.

Something more eye-catching in this market is the Indigo dyed outfits and purses. There are shorts, t-shirts, blouses, pants with lovely dyed prints.

Souvenirs

Visitors will find typical souvenirs like keychains, fridge magnets, shot glasses, bags, toys and postcards in the Luang Prabang Night Market. The best part about these souvenirs is that they are all locally made. Even fridge magnets and keychains are hand painted which is such a respite from ‘Made in China’ tags on its rear side!

Lao Coffee and Tea

As much as I fell in love with Vietnamese coffee, I would be lying if I told you that I found Laotian coffee better than Vietnamese!

Yes, the Laotian coffee is a premium quality Arabica, organically grown in the mountains of Northern Laos, hand-picked, processed, and hand-sorted to give the best coffee experience. There are an ample number of cafes lined on the Mekong river proposing for a charming coffee experience. I may write about visiting Saffron Coffee later but picking up Lao coffee is non-negotiable!

Lao Lao Whiskey

Like most Southeast Asian countries, Laos also has a tradition of adding reptiles or insects to their alcoholic beverages. Few vendors at the Luang Prabang Night Market sell “Lao-Lao” rice liquor, poured from bottles with snakes and scorpions pickling in the liquid. Sellers offer visitors to try some before selling you the whole bottle, something very similar to Snake Whisky of Vietnam.

Luang Prabang Night Market’s Food

How can we forget food when we are talking about the Night Market?

Food vendors are situated at the start of the market, perfectly positioned for visitors who want to start their evening with a meal and then shop, or for the shoppers looking for a bite just before going back to their hotels.

There is a lot on offer at these stalls which sell cooked food a la carte, and buffet-style meals, all served on makeshift tables and benches along the street. You stand and eat or pack it and eat along as you shop, depending upon what you are eating. I am a vegetarian but still giving non-vegetarian options based on my friend’s suggestion who visited with me. There are plenty of vegetarian options across Luang Prabang whether it is street food or in hotels.

Meat Barbecue

The traditional way of barbecuing meat in Lao is the meat is either skewered or clamped between bamboo sticks over burning charcoal. Most preferred meat is ping kai (roast chicken) and ping pa (roast river fish).

Sausages

Lao sausages involve a healthy helping of fatty pork and sticky rice flavoured with herbs and chilies.

Baguettes

Thanks to French influence, baguettes are easily available and super tasty. With the options of toppings such as tofu, avocado, cheese, tomato, etc lettuce, baguettes are available here during the day too.

Coconut pancakes

A healthy, delicious and soul-satisfying plate of freshly-cooked and piping-hot coconut pancakes served on a banana-leaf plate is the answer to the much-required sugar rush after shopping through Luang Prabang Night Market.

Salads and Fruit shakes

There are vegetarian stalls that sell all-you-can-eat buffet options which include many varieties of salads.  There are ample varieties of fruit shakes being sold such as mango, dragonfruit, and limes.

FAQs about Luang Prabang Night Market, Laos

Is shopping and eating at Luang Prabang Night Market affordable? 

All the merchandise sold at Luang Prabang Night Market is extremely affordable. Do remember that you are paying for the artist’s hard work and time spent in making the product. 

Currency exchange at Luang Prabang Night Market

Did you run out of local currency while shopping and eating at Luang Prabang Night Market? Fret not. Just at the starting of the market, there are a couple of currency exchange shops and you can easily exchange US Dollars, Thai Baht and Vietnamese Dong to Lao Kip. Do compare exchange rates in all 3 shops located and go for the best rate.

I had bought something from a vendor and was short of a few Kip. He saw me scrambling through my wallet and happened to see Thai Baht in my hand and offered to take it. I had no immediate trips to Thailand so I chose to give it.

Is shopping in Luang Prabang Night Market safe?

Luang Prabang as a town is super safe as it is frequented by a lot of tourists. And similarly, the night market is safe with negligible incidences of pickpocketing.

Where to stay in Luang Prabang

Luxury: Sofitel, Luang Say Residence, Rosewood

Mid-Budget: Villa Phathana Boutique Hotel

Low Budget: Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel, Chill Riverside Hostel & Cafe

Sustainable tips for Shopping at Luang Prabang Night Market

• Don’t bargain: The prices are anyway very affordable so don’t bargain too low or don’t bargain at all. As I mentioned earlier, the local community benefits from the sale and every sale by a visitor helps in making their ends meet. Bargaining reduces their profit margins. Thankfully the vendors are not rude when you bargain like in Thailand and will simply smile. Walk away if the price doesn’t match and don’t haggle too much. 
• Say no to Plastic Bags: Luang Prabang is the most sustainable tourist place but there is still use of plastic bags in the night market. It is best to carry your own shopping bag and say no to plastic bags. 
• Use trash cans for disposing of leftover food or plates.

Read More Laos Articles here:

• Kuang si waterfalls, Luang Prabang
• Nong Khiaw Viewpoint
• Ethical cheese

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

Pin this post!

Sustainable Tourism in Luang Prabang – All the Initiatives

Refill My Bottle initiative

As a part of sustainable tourism in Luang Prabang, most hotels and cafes promote the use of refillable bottles. Cold, filtered water is kept at reception/ lobby areas which are easily accessible to tourists and can be filled. Some eateries even offer a small discount if you bring your own coffee cup.

Thanks to the efforts of the German development agency, GIZ, there are even maps put up in various tourist areas which shows places that offer free water stations.

Say No to Plastic straws

Luang Prabang has taken the No Plastic straws campaign extremely seriously. Hotels and restaurants promote the use of bamboo straws by actually using them. Thanks to self-help groups like Bamboo Lao, bamboo straws and even cups are readily available and used proudly. Other products readily made using different types of Bamboo are mats, hats, small stools and others. Read about Bamboo Weaving in Luang Prabang, Laos. 

You can easily buy these straws in the local night market as well.

Discourage the use of single-use plastic

Whether you stay in a hostel or luxury hotel, the toiletries offered to you will be in a reusable basket or jute pouch. And you cannot stop yourself from falling in love with these small gestures and the attention to details they offer.

You will not find tissue papers for wiping hands near any washbasins in public toilets and cafes. You will see fresh, nicely folded cloth napkins/towels with a basket underneath the basin to dispose of after use. They are washed, dried and folded again for use of next tourist, just like traditional times.

Grow Local, Eat Local

This is a mantra, quite religiously followed in Luang Prabang. Rather than importing items, the local community is employed in producing fresh products, herbs and spices which are used across the town. One can easily shop for local produce or eat them after cooking, sold in the morning and night markets of the town.

They even have Ethical cheese and sustainable coffee which is supplied to the local hotels. After Vietnam, I had honestly thought that there could be no coffee to top that experience, and boy was I wrong! So so wrong.

Sustainable Art and Culture in Luang Prabang

There are organizations in Luang Prabang that are working hard to preserve the ethnic traditional handicrafts by employing local villagers. Ock Pop Tok is one such organization which helps Laotian women to earn income while educating them and teaching them weaving.

“The institution’s brightly coloured textiles and designs are not just to be found in its shop, but also in its gardens, café, living crafts centre and even in its little boutique resort. The concepts and applications at work here are a true example of how responsible practices and a focus on sustainability can be both luxurious and ethical, and it not only benefits a business financially but contributes to people’s lives and conserves nature in the best way possible”. Says Khiri Reach.

Sustainable development through education and capacity building of hospitality staff

Most hotels in Luang Prabang are part of a CSR programme wherein the hotel staff participates in sustainability workshops conducted by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, a German development agency). The workshop helps hotels to formulate their environmental policy and maintain data of water and electricity consumption and how to reduce it. The programme capacity builds local community members in the hospitality sector.

There are even English speaking and personal grooming classes conducted for the staff by individual hotels.

Waste Management in Luang Prabang

This is one of the important sectors which makes or breaks the town. The aesthetics of the city are completely dependent upon waste management and thankfully it is extremely efficient in Luang Prabang.

During my discussion with hotels and locals at the ‘Oh Luang Prabang you are simply Beautiful’ event, most of them said that waste was segregated into 2 major categories – food waste and recyclable waste. Most hotels have their own space for composting leftover food waste which is later used as fertilizer in their gardens. Plastic and other recyclables are sent to recycling agencies.

Since hotels are part of ‘Refill my bottle’ initiative and use refillable shampoo and lotion bottles, the plastic waste generated is negligible.

Thanks to the efforts of Sustainable Tourism in Luang Prabang, the town was awarded the Golden Award for Top Tourist Destination for seven consecutive years. (News, 2016) 

The world needs more and more such tourist towns which are sustainable is all aspects. There’s lesson to be learnt here from Luang Prabang.

Special thanks to Ms Alichith Phengsavang, CSR Manager of Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum for most of the information in this post and answering my million questions on sustainability in Luang Prabang. 

Read More about Laos here:

• Luang Prabang Night Market
• Nong Khiaw Viewpoint
• Luang Say Residence, Luang Prabang
• Kuang si Falls, Luang Prabang
• Ethical cheese at Laos Buffalo Dairy

Disclosure: I was invited by Laos Tourism Board and Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) to Luang Prabang.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running. Read about my Privacy Policy.

Pin This Post!

Location of Luang Say Residence

I and another couple got in the car after loading our luggage and within 10 minutes we were at the gate of The Luang Say Residence.

We entered the French colonial pavilion and were welcomed at the reception. The pavilion has a checkered floor and a wooden staircase leading up which seemed to have some rooms. We were later informed that those were Explorator Suites up the lobby.

While waiting for the formalities to complete, I noticed photos, old maps, and artifacts from yesteryears, and some gorgeous Laotian craft and jewelry for sale around the reception area. Trying hard to fight the urge for some retail therapy, I got distracted as the staff at the reception handed back our passports and explained about the property, the breakfast timings and various amenities available for us. Welcome to The Luang Say Residence, he smiled and offered us Lemon juice and the Mango sticky rice.

Property at The Luang Say Residence

Conjuring the colonial-era of Luang Prabang, The Luang Say Residence is a beautiful five-star luxury boutique resort spread in a sprawling 14,000 square meter area. With lush, tropical gardens and mountain views from every room, it provides a refreshing yet vintage charm as though you are in a town back in France. With eight sophisticated, French-accented pavilions set amid perfectly manicured gardens are 28 pioneer suites and 04 Explorator suites. In the manicured gardens one can find statues of the old French explorers along side small ponds with fish. Talk about attention to detail!

Pioneer Suite at The Luang Say Residence

My home for 4 nights was one of the pioneer suites overlooking the inviting swimming pool. Entering the suite was like a blast for the senses. It had everything a modern suite has – Fast wi-fi, Aircon, a flat-screen TV, fully stocked mini-bar, fresh fruits, gourmet-style coffee/tea maker, etc as the list can go on; at the same time, it had the elegant and vintage style colonial furniture with Laotian wood flooring, poster bed (Diwan) with billowing mosquito net and wooden writing desk. Paintings and art objects decorated the rooms giving them a classy and charming finish.

On opening the sliding window, there was a sit out balcony to relax, overlooking the gardens where you can listen to the chirping of birds and read a book or take a nap.

The bathroom at The Luang Say Residence was so spacious, it was like a room in itself. Spotlessly clean and white with checkered flooring, the bathroom had rainfall shower, two wash basins and quality toiletries. The shampoo and soap were in big ceramic refillable bottles. Rest of the toiletries like toothbrush, shaving razor, comb, etc. were near the wash basin and neatly packed in ecofriendly packing into a kit. This bathroom could definitely fit for a lifestyle feature!

The restaurant at The Luang Say Residence

La Belle Epoque is a classy restaurant serving French-inspired and Laotian cuisine. The breakfast is included in the room tariff and you enjoy it in an indoor or outdoor seating area with leisure. As soon as I was seated I was presented with a fruit plate with coconut milk, a freshly baked bread basket with butter and 2 types of jam and coffee. Then I had a choice to choose another main dish from an ala carte menu. I chose a different one on all 4 days of my stay and they had enough vegetarian varieties – pancakes, oatmeal, cereal bowl and fruit salad. The other couple staying with me swore that they had the best egg benedict ever.

All the herbs used in the hotel are grown in the organic garden in hotel premises. You can see the staff caring for them while you enjoy your meal in the outdoor seating area of the restaurant. They even get Sustainable cheese from Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm.

Swimming pool at The Luang Say Residence

The La Bella Epoque restaurant opens to the inviting swimming pool which also has another adjacent outdoor restaurant called Terrasse des Colonies. This infinity swimming pool overlooking a mini forest is a 20-metre free form pool. Take a refreshing lap or two after a tiring day roaming around the town and wind up the day under a starry night with their signature cocktails and fine dining chef’s special dish of the day.

If you do not fancy taking a dip, simply relax on the deck in one of the comfortable loungers with a beer.

Bar at The Luang Say Residence

Near the reception foyer is 1861 Bar, fitting in with the overall colonial theme. It is absolutely classy with plush and comfortable armchairs, hunting weapons and a fireplace giving it a very vintage feel of the French explorers who came to Luang Prabang in 18^th Century.

Sustainable practices at The Luang Say Residence

Most hotels in Luang Prabang follow sustainable practices wherever possible and The Luang Say Residence is not far behind on same. My interaction with the Hotel Manager, Mr. Francis Fernandes led to a discovery of how The Luang Say Residence believes in the ethics of sustainability:

• The hotel is a member of Pack for a Purpose, which is a charitable organization. The hotel accepts donations from guests on behalf of Pack for a Purpose. The donations could be food, utility or clothes which are later donated to the lesser privilege society of Lao.
• The hotel is a part of CSR programme in Luang Prabang wherein the staff participates in sustainability workshops conducted by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, a German development agency). The workshop helps hotels to formulate their environmental policy and maintain data on water and electricity consumption and how to reduce it. The programme capacity builds local community members in the hospitality sector.
• Waste segregation is religiously practised. The food waste is sent for composting and recyclables are sent for recycling.
• Use of ceramic bottles in the bathroom to store toiletries – shampoo and soap bottles to reduce small size plastic bottle usage.
• Use of in house grown organic herbs. Many times fruits and veggies are also grown in the property which is used in the kitchen and served to the guests.
• Negligible use of tissue paper. There are jet sprays in the toilets and cotton handkerchiefs near washbasin to wipe hands which are washed and reused.
• Plastic packaging is negligible – there is a lot of use natural and biodegradable materials.

Mr. Francis shared that they are underway to phasing out the use of drinking water PET bottles and join the water refill station campaigns. And I am sure they will be able to achieve it soon!

Recommended Read: Sustainable Tourism in Luang Prabang

Other services at the boutique resort

The management knows hospitality and they have not left any stone unturned to give guests the ultimate relaxation and five-star services. Here are some of them

• In-room spa
• Free shuttle on fixed timing to Luang Prabang town (however, they dropped and picked us up even before or after time). Read: Luang Prabang Night Market and Things to do in Luang Prabang
• A concierge for planning and booking excursions in and around Luang Prabang

Special Mention: I loved the gifts the staff left on my bedside table everyday. These gifts (elephant, hand-made soap, a bamboo dish) were accompanied with the photo and name of the maker and an explanation of how it was made. I am so glad the hotel is supporting the local community in more ways than one.

Parting thoughts?

I had the most amazing stay at The Luang Say Residence for its tranquil yet elegant style. With comfortable suites, an alluring swimming pool and lip smacking food, the Luang Say Residence is a great choice for families looking for a classy, peaceful yet modern hotel in Luang Prabang. The attention to detail has made the entire experience unforgettable for my Laos journey.

Contact and Bookings

The Luang Say Residence 

Address: 4-5 Ban Phonepheng, Luang Prabang, Laos

Contact: +856 71 260 891

Website: http://www.luangsayresidence.com/

Email: info@luangsayresidence.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luang_say_residence/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLuangSayResidence

Click here to book a suite for yourself!

Disclosure – I was a guest at Luang Say Residence as a part of FAM trip sponsored by Luang Prabang Tourism, Destination Mekong and Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO). However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and of my own.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

TASTING ETHICAL CHEESE AT LAOS BUFFALO DAIRY FARM

All about Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm

Laos Buffalo dairy farm was started as a social enterprise and on the concept of sustainability. During a half day visit to the farm, we were taken on a personal tour by the owners and explained everything about the animals, shown how they were taken care of and we even had a chance to pet them. It is one of the many ways of sustainable tourism in Luang Prabang.

The owners of the Laos Buffalo Dairy farm collaborate with local villagers who rent their buffalo.

Laos has water buffaloes that are traditionally bred for their meat so rearing them is an additional expenditure for the villagers if not sold early. Laos Buffalo dairy farm welcome buffaloes when they are 8 months pregnant and they go through the following process for the next 8-9 months:

• Quarantine and disease check for buffalo
• Feeding them nutritious diet
• Utmost care during calf birth
• Vaccination of calf after birth
• Calves stay with their mothers for one month and their milk is exclusive for the calf
• Milking happens for 6 months on the main farm by machine. After the buffalo moves to the mini-farm they milk, just once a day by hand for one month
• Calf goes to farmers with buffalo
• The farmers retain ownership of the buffalo at all times. Laos Buffalo Dairy also rent the buffalo from the farmers. Farmers don’t do the milking.

Extended stay for the buffalo

After the 6 months cycle, it is up to the farmer to decide if he wants to keep the buffalo at the farm or go home with him. Most buffalo go home to the farmer.  Staying at the farm is beneficial to him as the owners pay him money, take medical care of the cow and feed them which leads to more chances of survival.

In return the owners milk the cow and make organic dairy products which are sold to hotels and restaurants in Luang Prabang. If not, the buffalo goes back with the villager and returns to farm when she is 8 months pregnant again.

Being an Indian, we prefer cow’s milk over buffalo and I was intrigued to know the owner’s perspective and inquired about the quantity produced. I was informed that a regular buffalo generates 10 litres of milk every day. However, all the buffaloes at Laos Buffalo dairy farm are Water buffaloes which generate only 2-3 litres milk per day, so it is challenging to sustain the business.

Milk from water buffalo is beneficial as it has less fat content and less lactose which can be consumed even by a lactose sensitive person.

Ethical cheese from the buffalo milk

Ricotta and mozzarella cheese, ice cream, cake and milk shake are prepared at Laos Buffalo Dairy farm – which you can taste or choose to have over lunch – all of which is fresh, organic, ethical and cruelty-free.

Petting Animals

Apart from buffaloes you can spend time around the farm with bunnies, pigs, chickens, ducks and even calves. All these animals are kept in extremely healthy environment. We came across the nicest pig shed wherein the pigs have learnt to use the water tap and drink clean water.

Rice husk is kept in pig and bunny shed to keep the moisture away. The droppings and husk is later used after 6 months as organic fertilizer for growing vegetables on farm. There is sustainability in each aspect!

All in all the visit to Buffalo Dairy farm was enjoyable, educational and different! If you are visiting Luang Prabang, then do visit the farm which is only 40 km from the city.

Address:  Ban Muang Khay, Luang Prabang, Laos Phone : +856 30 96 90 487

Read More posts from Laos:

• Luang Prabang Night Market
• Nong Khiaw Viewpoint
• Luang Say Residence, Luang Prabang
• Kuang si Falls, Luang Prabang

Disclosure: I was invited by Laos Tourism Board and Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) to Luang Prabang. Special thanks to Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm for taking us around the farm and the amazing lunch and ice-cream! All opinions are unbiased and of my own.

Pin this post!