The Luang Prabang National Museum is the former royal palace, showcasing a fusion of traditional Lao and colonial French architectural styles. — NOEL FOO/The Star
LUANG PRABANG: Renowned for its World Heritage charm, Luang Prabang has reaffirmed its position as Laos’ leading tourist destination, attracting more than 2.1 million visitors, both domestic and foreign, in the first seven months of this year, an increase of 83.8 per cent compared to the same period last year.
The figure was reported at a meeting held in Luang Prabang to summarise the work carried out by the provincial taskforce to address economic problems during the first seven months of this year and outline plans for the next five months.
The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Governor of Luang Prabang province, Bounleua Sinxayvoravong.
Tourism has boomed since provincial authorities have improved visitor facilities, and travel to Luang Prabang is now much easier thanks to the Laos-China Railway, which is the most popular way to reach the tourist hotspot, a provincial official said.
Over the next five months, provincial authorities will repair roads in Luang Prabang city in readiness for an influx of visitors in the next high season, when tourist numbers reach their peak.
Luang Prabang continues to gain international acclaim as a premier cultural and tourism hub.
This year, Travel and Tour World listed the town among the world’s top 10 destinations, while Lonely Planet ranked it first among 22 must-visit places in Asia.
The town’s commitment to sustainable tourism was also recognised in the 2024 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, highlighting local efforts to preserve heritage and promote responsible travel.
Luang Prabang is home to many popular attractions such as Mount Phou Si, the ancient Xieng Thong temple, the Royal Palace Museum, the picturesque Kuangsi waterfall, and the Pak Ou cave, which houses thousands of Buddha images.
Visitors can also enjoy river cruises, traditional markets and cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of the former royal capital. - Vientiane Times/ANN
