LUANG PRABANG: THE KINGDOM OF A MILLION ELEPHANTS
Today, from our 5-star luxury resort Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, we would like to show you one of the places that most appeal to tourists when they visit Asia which tends to go unnoticed: Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang is in Laos and it is known for its more than 50 Buddhist temples and also for having been the capital of the Lang Xang Kingdom. It is said that its temples are the most beautiful in South East Asia thanks to its architectural features combining Buddhist and French colonial styles. This could maybe be why in 1995 the UNESCO named it the first Heritage of Humanity in Laos.
This is probably the most religious city in Laos, and it is common to see Buddhist monks on the streets. The city has a mystical aura, its peace takes over everyone who visits it and its temples transmit respect.
The Ceremony of the Offerings is quite impressive. 400 monks walk the streets seeking for offerings and food to later bring it to the needy as a sign of poverty and humbleness. This ceremony starts around five in the morning when there is total silence, and people kneel when the monks pass by as a sign of respect.
Among the temples located in Luang Prabang, the following stand out: Phu Si, Wat Ho Pha Bang, Thay Pathum (built in the 16th Century) and the Wat Mai Suwannaphumahan Temple, one of the most unique ones, with a 5-floor roof.
The Night Market, visited by hundreds of people, opens in the evening, and contrary to what you might think, it isn’t noisy and chaotic. In this market, simplicity and spirituality reign. There are no anxious street vendors hollering, and there is not much haggling either. In this market there is peace and quiet. However, during the day, there are noisier markets in the area.
Another one of the most majestic places is the Royal Palace, where the luxury of ancient times can be felt. The throne room is spectacular and impressive. There are red walls covered with colour glass in the shape of plants. In the rest of the rooms that can be visited, the simplicity with which they lived is palpable.
If you also wish to feel the peace and quiet that can be experienced in this emblematic spot in Asia, we suggest you come visit us at the Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, a 5-star luxury resort considered a temple of relaxation and wellbeing by many visitors.
