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Luang Prabang National Museum: A Glimpse into Lao Royalty

Explore the former Royal Palace, now a museum showcasing Lao history, royal life, and cultural treasures in Luang Prabang.

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Housed in the former Royal Palace, the National Museum of Luang Prabang offers a fascinating look into the lives of Lao royalty and the country's rich history. Built in the early 20th century, the palace showcases a blend of traditional Lao and French colonial architectural styles and houses a collection of royal artifacts and religious treasures.

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Local tips

  • Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this was a former royal residence and is a place of cultural significance.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the museum, so leave cameras and phones in the lockers provided.
  • Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the palace grounds, including the Royal Temple (Wat Ho Pha Bang) and the Royal Ballet Theatre.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Museum is centrally located in Luang Prabang, making it easily accessible on foot from most hotels and guesthouses in the city center. From the main tourist area near Mount Phousi, walk along Sisavangvong Road towards the Mekong River. The museum is situated on the right-hand side, opposite the Phousi mountain. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang and are a convenient way to reach the National Museum from further locations. A short tuk-tuk ride within the city center typically costs between 20,000 to 50,000 LAK, but negotiate the price before you get in. The journey from the airport to the museum by tuk-tuk is around 50,000 LAK.

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The National Museum of Luang Prabang, also known as the Royal Palace Museum or Haw Kham ('Golden Hall'), provides a captivating glimpse into Laos' royal heritage and history. Constructed between 1904 and 1909 during the French colonial era, the palace served as the residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family, replacing an older palace that had been destroyed in 1887. The architecture is a blend of traditional Lao and French Beaux-Arts styles. After the monarchy was abolished in 1975, the palace was converted into a national museum and opened to the public in 1995. Today, visitors can explore the palace's well-preserved rooms, including the royal family's living quarters, reception areas, and throne hall. The museum displays a diverse collection of royal artifacts, religious objects, and gifts from foreign dignitaries, offering insights into the kingdom's political and cultural significance. Highlights of the museum include the King's reception hall, adorned with busts and paintings of the Lao monarchy and traditional Lao murals painted by a French artist. The throne room displays the Crown Jewels of Laos, symbolizing the country's rich heritage. Visitors can also view the royal car collection and Haw Pha Bang, an ornate pavilion housing the Prabang Buddha statue, from which Luang Prabang gets its name. Note that photography is not allowed inside the museum, and visitors are required to dress modestly, removing their shoes before entering.

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