When traveling to Laos, there are many places and sights to see. But one of the most unique and interesting destinations has to be the Pak ou Caves. Located near Luang Prabang you can hire a boat or songthaew to take you the 25 km down river.
The Pak Ou Caves are a sacred sight located on the Mekong River. They are loaded with thousands of Buddha statues and are still used as a place of worship. Every New Year people make a pilgrimage to the caves.
There are all sorts of different Buddha's but the majority are the standing tall Luang Prabang Buddha statues. It is sensational. Approaching the caves from the opposite side of the river is a beautiful view. The white stairs can be seen leading into the dark hole cut into the side of the limestone cliff.
The caves contain two chambers. Tham Thing and Tham Pheung. Both are filled with thousands of statues, but Tham Pheung has more than the two. Tham Pheung is the higher cave and a torch is recommended as it can be quite dark.
While the caves make for a great day trip from Luang Prabang, there are many things that you can do in town. The city is beautiful and there is no better way to see it than by bicycle.
Being a world heritage sight, Luang Prabang is littered with temples. Most Notably Haw Kham, the former Royal Palace. Each is beautiful and they contain ornate tapestries, carvings and Buddha images.
There are coffee and pastry shops to stop for lunch, and you will feel very civilized as you sip a caf latt while enjoying a croissant. If you are lucky, you may stumble into a temple at a time when Monks are playing their drums.
While in Luang Prabang, you must walk the steep hill to Phou Si. It has a spectacular panoramic view of the area and the sunset is certainly one of the most beautiful you will ever see.
End your day at the busy if not overpriced night market. Vendors sell everything you could possibly want and you can even grab dinner at one of the many restaurants nearbye.
Laos is a wonderful country to visit and you should make it top on your list before it is discovered by the rest of the world and overrun with tourists.
The Pak Ou Caves are a sacred sight located on the Mekong River. They are loaded with thousands of Buddha statues and are still used as a place of worship. Every New Year people make a pilgrimage to the caves.
There are all sorts of different Buddha's but the majority are the standing tall Luang Prabang Buddha statues. It is sensational. Approaching the caves from the opposite side of the river is a beautiful view. The white stairs can be seen leading into the dark hole cut into the side of the limestone cliff.
The caves contain two chambers. Tham Thing and Tham Pheung. Both are filled with thousands of statues, but Tham Pheung has more than the two. Tham Pheung is the higher cave and a torch is recommended as it can be quite dark.
While the caves make for a great day trip from Luang Prabang, there are many things that you can do in town. The city is beautiful and there is no better way to see it than by bicycle.
Being a world heritage sight, Luang Prabang is littered with temples. Most Notably Haw Kham, the former Royal Palace. Each is beautiful and they contain ornate tapestries, carvings and Buddha images.
There are coffee and pastry shops to stop for lunch, and you will feel very civilized as you sip a caf latt while enjoying a croissant. If you are lucky, you may stumble into a temple at a time when Monks are playing their drums.
While in Luang Prabang, you must walk the steep hill to Phou Si. It has a spectacular panoramic view of the area and the sunset is certainly one of the most beautiful you will ever see.
End your day at the busy if not overpriced night market. Vendors sell everything you could possibly want and you can even grab dinner at one of the many restaurants nearbye.
Laos is a wonderful country to visit and you should make it top on your list before it is discovered by the rest of the world and overrun with tourists.
About the Author:
Deb Corbeil is one half of Canada's Adventure Couple. Together with her husband Dave Bouskill they have trekked, hiked, biked and climbed to over 30 countries all over the world. Visit their website theplanetd for useful tips, advice and information on exotic and adventure destinations.
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