Luang Prabang City and Temples Tour by Tuk Tuk

The tuk tuk (motorized-rickshaw) was brought to Southeast Asia in 1934 from Japan, its general construction is a sheet-metal body and open frame resting on three wheels. It is now one of most popular forms of transportation in Laos, Thailand and Cambodia and an icon of the area; which makes it the perfect vehicle for a relaxing open air tour of Luang Prabang the famous world heritage city and former royal capital of Laos.

Starting from your hotel at 8:30 hours, we drive to the Morning Market. Unlike the large grocery stores you might be familiar with back home; the food here is still produced by small farming families and villages and brought to Luang Prabang from the surrounding Northern provinces. Your guide will explain the common vegetables and fruits that are in season and buy pick up some snacks for later.

After a short walk along the streets you will arrive at Wat Mai ("New Monastery" built in 1796). It was given its present name following the restoration undertaken in 1821 by King Manthathourat. The most striking feature of the temple is the gilded relief panels covering the front facade. The panels tell the story of the highest incarnation of the Buddha -- Vessentara. The gilded door frames merge into the relief panel, forming what looks like a monolithic wall of gold. Next to Wat Mai temple is the National Museum which used to be the Royal Palace (Haw Kham). Your guide will help explain some information as you tour the museum. It houses the Royal throne of the Lane Xang kingdom in its original splendor, and many other religious treasures. After the museum you will take another ride in the tuk tuk enjoying the sites on your way to visit Wat Visoun. This temple was constructed during the reign of King Visounarat around 1520. In 1942, it was turned into a Museum of Religious Arts, and houses collections of Buddha images and religious artifacts from the fourteenth century.

Lunch is at a famous Khao Poon stand.

Now that you are re-energized, take another short tuk tuk ride along the Nam Khan river to Wat Xieng Thong. This is one of the most important temples in the entire country of Laos and the most important one in Luang prabang. Until 1975, when the Communist Party gained control over Laos, Wat Xieng Thong was a royal temple, supported by the royal family. During the 1960s Wat Xieng Thong was completely remodeled and redecorated, becoming the splendid temple we see today. To finish our trip we will climb the steps of Phousi Hill, to the top, which is studded with many small temples and shrines. The gilded stupa at the top of the hill is built on a large rock outcropping. An old opening in the base of the rock was sealed up to prevent vandalism. Next to the stupa is a small wiharn (chapel) for prayers. Further down the side of the hill is part of Wat Phra Phudthabath (The Buddha's Footprint Temple). From here enjoy the view of the peninsula where the Nam Khan river meets the mighty Mekong river. Then transfer back to your hotel. The rest of the day free at leisure.