ANN/VIENTIANE TIMES – Luang Prabang province in Laos has claimed the top spot in Lonely Planet’s 2025 list of the best places to visit in Asia. The renowned travel guide placed the charming province ahead of other iconic destinations, including Bangkok, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Hoi An in Vietnam, showcasing its unique appeal as a haven for travellers seeking natural beauty, cultural depth, and a tranquil environment.
The Lonely Planet list, which features 22 destinations across Asia, also includes the Hungary Valley in Pakistan, Jaipur in India, Pokhara in Nepal, Singapore, the Kerala Backwaters in India, and Yunnan province in China, among others. Luang Prabang’s selection reflects its growing international recognition and reinforces its position as one of the continent’s most beloved destinations.
This is not the first time Luang Prabang has been in the global spotlight. Earlier this year, it was honoured as part of the 2024 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories for its commitment to responsible tourism and preservation of its unique architectural heritage. This recognition, under the theme ‘Preservation of Architectural Housing Styles in a World Heritage Area’, celebrated the town’s dedication to maintaining its cultural and historical identity while embracing sustainable tourism practices.
In 2023, the American magazine Time also listed Luang Prabang among its ‘50 Greatest Places to Visit’ describing it as a “hidden paradise”. The magazine praised the town’s turquoise waterfalls, serene temples, and memorable sunset boat trips along the Mekong River, which offer visitors a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
Luang Prabang’s allure is deeply tied to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. The town’s old quarter, with its blend of traditional Lao wooden houses and French colonial architecture, has been preserved as a testament to its rich cultural history.
The town also boasts several iconic attractions, including the Phu Si stupa, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and the Kuang Si and Sae waterfalls, known for their breathtaking beauty. The bustling night market, renowned for its locally crafted souvenirs and traditional handicrafts, is another highlight, drawing both locals and tourists to its lively atmosphere.
The province’s growing popularity has translated into a significant surge in tourism. Over 1.9 million visitors – both domestic and international – flocked to Luang Prabang in the first 11 months of this year, marking an increase of over one million compared to the same period last year. This influx has generated over USD1 billion in revenue, providing a substantial boost to the local economy.
Foreign tourists made up a significant portion of the visitors, with over 1.3 million arrivals – a remarkable 87.43-per cent increase. China, South Korea, the USA, Thailand, France, Sweden, Austria, Germany, Canada, and Japan ranked among the top 10 sources of international visitors, highlighting Luang Prabang’s appeal across a diverse range of markets.
