Visiting the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang, Laos
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang was once the royal residence of Laos. It’s a must-visit destination during your travel journey in Luang Prabang if you’re interested in history and architecture of the ancient capital of the Land of a Million Elephants.
The Royal Palace of Luang Pha Bang, Laos, was constructed in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family. Following King Sisavang Vong’s death, Prince Savang Vatthana and his family were the last occupants of this palace. In 1975, the monarchy was overthrown by communist forces, and the royal family members were sent to reeducation camps. By 1995, the Royal Palace of Luang Pha Bang was transformed into a national museum.
Architecture and Structure of the Royal Palace Luang Pha Bang
The architecture of the Royal Palace of Luang Pha Bang is designed in the elegant Beaux-Arts style of France, with refined elements of traditional Lao architecture. Royal Palace Luang Pha Bang The main building exhibits distinctive Lao architectural style
In addition to the main building, there are several other structures within the palace complex, including an exhibition hall, a prayer room, and a statue of King Sisavangvong. The palace is surrounded by a spacious garden, meticulously maintained.
What’s Inside the oyal PalaceRoyal Palace Luang Pha Bang?
Each area is impeccably preserved, offering an authentic glimpse into the royal family’s lifestyle. Currently, the museum displays royal religious artifacts, weaponry, sculptures, paintings, and more, spanning centuries. Within the rooms of the Royal Palace Museum, you can observe rooms containing Laotian gemstones, wall paintings depicting Laotian life in the 1930s, or a garage housing the final king’s car collection.
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- Kuang Si water fall
- Tad Sae waterfall
Moreover, the museum houses a 2,000-year-old golden, silver, and bronze alloy Buddha statue measuring 83 cm in height and weighing approximately 50 kg. Legend has it that this statue was created around the 1st century in Sri Lanka and later offered to King Fa Ngum in 1359, signifying his leadership in Lao Buddhism.
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
- Opening Hours: Mornings from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Afternoons from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Open all week.
- Entrance Fee: 30,000 kip
How to Get to the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Pha Bang
Address: 27 Ounheun Road, Luang Pha Bang, Laos
The Royal Palace Museum is located opposite the foot of Mount Phousi on Sisavangvong Road. The main entrance is also situated along this road.
Note: Visitors are required to store their shoes, bags, and cameras inside lockers (free of charge) before entering the exhibition rooms. The best time to visit, if you wish to avoid crowds, is in the early morning.
With this information about the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Pha Bang, we hope this article will be valuable for your upcoming travel plans. Don’t forget to regularly update your travel itineraries and explore the affordable and exciting Lao travel programs from Hanoi with Hidden Land Travel!
