It’s easy to spend time drinking coffee and wandering from temple to temple in the Unesco World Heritage portion of Luang Prabang. However, the province also offers spectacular natural wonders and hidden gems for those who venture outside the town. Here are the top day trips from Luang Prabang, Laos.
1. Kuang Si Waterfall
Park, Natural Feature
The journey through the winding hills to get to Kuang Si is gorgeous. Resist the temptation to rush to the falls and wander around the beautifully curated, Dutch-run Kuang Si Butterfly Park located 300 metres before the entrance. Once you buy your ticket to Kuang Si, you’ll walk through the Sun and Moon bear sanctuary before reaching the aquamarine pools. Swim at the bottom or the hidden pool at the top.
2. Pak Ou Caves
Buddhist Temple, Natural Feature
Take the slow boat up the Mekong to Ban Pak Ou. There are two caves to visit. Hike up the long staircase to the pitch black upper cave, Tham Theung. The lower cave, Tham Ting, is smaller and less busy with some sunlight shining through. Both caves are pilgrimage locations for devout Buddhists who have been leaving carvings of the Buddha in the caves for centuries. Over 4,000 statues are located inside.
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