Tourist attraction, Buddhist temple, Heritage museum
Royal Palace & National Museum
The former residence of King Sisavang Vong blends Lao and French architecture and now holds royal regalia, diplomatic gifts and the Phra Bang Buddha, the sacred image that gave Luang Prabang its name.
The story
A seven-headed naga guards the staircase of this symmetrical, restrained palace set within its own grounds. After the monarchy was abolished, the royal residence was turned into a museum largely as it was left. Rooms display ceremonial objects, historical photographs and gifts presented to Laos by other countries, along with the surprisingly plain bedrooms of the king and queen. In a temple on the grounds sits the gold Phra Bang Buddha, the country's most important religious symbol, though it is not always on view. A separate exhibition shows the cars the royals used, and QR codes link to a free audio guide on your phone. The Luang Prabang Royal Ballet Theatre stages a 90-minute show of Lao dance and the Lao Ramayana, with masks, costumes and live music.
Good to know
TAGGG AI- ✦Cover shoulders and knees; sarongs or long trousers can be rented at the entrance if you arrive in shorts.
- ✦Bags go in lockers, shoes come off inside the palace and temple, and photography is banned indoors.
- ✦Arrive early to stay ahead of large tour groups and leave enough time before the long midday closure.
