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BY  Sibashree Nov 3, 2025

I visited Luang Prabang in 2022, and the capital of the ancient Laotian kingdom was slowly recovering from the rampage of COVID-19. The misty mornings were special, with hundreds of monks walking through the narrow streets with their alms bowls.  People gather and offer fruits and rice to the monks. The monks silently accept the offerings, then quietly return to the temples.  Even today, with skyrocketing tourism numbers, Luang Prabang remains one of the most unspoiled places on earth. Buddhism and a strong belief in the power of nature have helped the city to maintain its authentic charm.  Also, the 32 Buddhist temples present in Luang Prabang today are a telltale of the history, myths, and spiritual beliefs associated with the city’s origin. In this Luang Prabang temple guide, I will talk about the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang Laos. Of course, the Golden City Temple or Wat Xieng Thong is the most famous among them. It was built in 1560.  What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Luang Prabang Laos?  As the mornings in Luang Prabang are special with the quietude and humility of the alms giving ceremony, the evenings are magical with the evening chants of the monks in the temples.  The sound of the chants echoes through the valley with the Mekong River passing by dreamily and the outlines of the mountains fading into the darkness.  I used to get lost in my thoughts that these temples were the sites of the coronation of many Laotian kings. Also, despite their intricate designs, they look like an extension of the ethereal natural landscape here.  Nevertheless, these are the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang, Laos.  1. Wat Xieng Thong Also known as the “Monastery of the Golden City,” Wat Xieng Thong evokes awe. Built in 1560, it is home to the famous reclining Buddha Sanctuary or the Red Chapel.  It also stands out with its architectural excellence, including the multi-tiered roofline and beautiful mosaic work.  2. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marek Kotlarski (@mkotlarski) Wat Mai, or the New Temple, is the largest in Luang Prabang. It looks exquisite with the gilded bas-relief panels on the façade.  Also, it is historically important as it served as the residence of the highest Lao Buddhist dignitary till 1975.  3. Wat Visounnarath (Wat Visoun) Wat Visoun has a distinctive, spherical, and unique stupa called "That Mak Mo” or the “Watermelon Stupa.” It has a rounded shape.  Also, Wat Visounnarath was founded in 1512. So, today, it is the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang.  4. Wat Aham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Austin Bush (@bushaustin) Wat Aham is also known as the Monastery of the Open Hearted. It is located next to Wat Visoun.  Wat Aham is famous for its two ancient banyan trees on its grounds. Locals believe that these trees are home to the guardian spirits of the city.  5. Wat That Luang Locals call Wat That Luang the Monastery of the Royal Stupa. The ashes of King Sisavang Vong, who died in 1959, are present in the golden stupa in the temple grounds. Even before that, it was used to cremate many members of the royal family.  6. Wat Chom Si Located on the top of Mount Phousi, Wat Chom Si was the best temple I visited in Luang Prabang. The spiritual energy there was so high.  I don’t know whether it’s the joy of reaching the temple after a trek or the magical views of the Mekong River from the top! Everything looks and feels so magical here! 7. Wat Sop Sickharam The structure of the Wat Sop Sickharam temple, what we see today, is the renovated form of the 19th century. However, the origin of the temple goes back to the 16th century.  Its architecture is a wonderful fusion of the French Colonial Style and traditional Lao architecture.  8. Wat Pa Phai The congregational hall or the traditional Lao-style sim is the highlight of Wat Pa Phai. Furthermore, its facade is unique with exterior columns and a verandah.  It also has another name, “The Monastery of the Bamboo Forest.”  9. Wat Sene Souk Haram Wat Sene Souk Haram looks dazzling with its golden and red ornamentation. It is known as the Temple of 100,000 treasures, as it was built with 100,000 stones collected from the Mekong River in 1718.  10. Wat Nong Sikhounmuang Wat Nong Sikhounmuang has recently gone through a major renovation. It is home to one of the largest and richest pagodas in Luang Prabang.  Furthermore, you can spot it from a distance due to its vibrantly colored roof in the traditional Thai style.  11. Wat Khili View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat & Ricky Dunn (@lifedunndifferently) The large gold Wheel of Life on the front gable of Wat Khili will be the first thing to catch your notice. Furthermore, it has low roofs and a red facade with golden columns.  It shows influence from the Xieng Khouang province and was built in 1773.  12. Wat Phon Phao Wat Phon Phao has a unique octagonal structure, and with the sunlight falling over it, it uses its golden glow to illuminate the city.  The paintings in the interior of this temple are beautiful, and they depict the Buddhist philosophy of life and death.  13. Wat Manorom Wat Manorom is home to a 6-meter-high bronze Buddha statue, which dates back to the 14th century. Apart from being a temple, it is also an important community center for the locals.  In fact, all the temples in Luang Prabang help nurture community bonding. Also, historically, it used to be the home of the largest number of monks.  14. Wat Ho Pha Bang (inside Royal Palace) The Wat Ho Pha Bang, or the Temple of the Pha Bang, houses the Phra Bang Buddha image, the palladium of Laos.  This temple is located inside the Royal Palace grounds.  15. Wat Mahathat Wat Mahathat was founded in 1548. It houses the ashes of the revered Prince Phetsarath, who declared the independence of Laos in 1945.  It also has a highly ornamented facade.  16. Wat Xieng Mouane View this post on Instagram A post shared by nrq (@nrqpapa) Wat Xieng Mouane is important for its role in promoting traditional art and culture. Furthermore, I loved the gilding and traditional woodwork in the temple.  17. Wat That Phoun Wat That Phoun is one of the most peaceful temples I have visited in Luang Prabang. Also, once you enter the temple, it’s like an art gallery with a wonderful display of paintings.  The entrance gates are adorned with serpent deities or Nagas, and the temple also functions as a cremation location.  18. Wat Long Khoun “Wat Long Khoun is where our kings once meditated. It’s quiet, sacred, and often overlooked.” - Somsack, my local guide.  This former royal meditation retreat is a wonderful example of Lao architecture in the 18th century, and it has the most illustrious Jataka murals, depicting the last lives of Lord Buddha.  19. Wat Phra Bat Tai Wat Phra Bat Tai in Luang Prabang is very similar to Prabhas Tirtha in India. Prabhas Tirtha has the footprints of Lord Krishna, and War Phra Bat Tai has a huge footprint of the Buddha.  Furthermore, its architectural style shows a wonderful fusion of Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese architectural styles.  It is also where I found it the easiest to interact with the monks and share our philosophies about life.  20. Wat Phon Heuang The traditional stenciling on the temple's ceiling instantly evoked a sense of awe. Furthermore, I saw how it is an important social area or hub for the local community. It is so because it is one of the prime locations for participating in the alms-giving ceremony.  In addition, when I visited, it had not been extensively renovated. So, it was like connecting to the past for me.  Wat Xieng Mouane: The Lesser-Known Temple Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruprecht Lin (@boblinize) Wat Xieng Maen is a hidden gem if I talk about the top temples to visit in Luang Prabang. It was founded in 1592.  I took a ferry across the Mekong River to reach this temple. It is a quiet escape, and it is significant as it was home to the famous Phra Bang Buddha image for a short period.  Accessibility Ratings Of The Best Temples In Luang Prabang  Check out the table below to know about the most accessible Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang.  TempleWheelchair AccessStairsQuiet ZonesWat Xieng Thong✅Minimal✅Wat Mai✅Few steps✅Wat Visoun✅Ramp available✅Wat Aham✅Flat terrain✅ Photography Tips Golden Hour: 6:00–7:00 AM and 5:00–6:30 PM. Best Angles: Capture rooflines from low angles; use temple doorways for framing. Respectful Shots: Avoid interrupting rituals or photographing monks without consent. Gear: Use a wide-angle lens for interiors and a tripod for low-light shots. Temple Etiquette & Dress Code In Luang Prabang Dress Modestly: Shoulders and knees covered. Avoid tight or revealing clothing. Remove Shoes: Always take off footwear before entering the temple interiors. Avoid Pointing Feet: Never point your feet toward Buddha statues or monks. Photography: Ask permission before photographing monks or rituals. Alms Giving: Participate respectfully in morning alms (Tak Bat) by kneeling and remaining silent. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang’s temples are open year-round, but timing enhances the experience: MonthHighlightsNovember–FebruaryCool, dry weather is ideal for walking tours.Mar–MayHot but less crowded and good for early morning visits.June–OctoberRainy season, and it stands out with its lush greenery and fewer tourists. Best Time of Day To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang  Sunrise: Wat Chom Si after a climb to Mount Phousi Midday: Wat Mai, with its shaded interiors, is the perfect late morning and afternoon refuge.  Sunset: Wat Xieng Thong is ideal for golden hour photography.  Walking Routes & Maps: Exploring The Best Temples Of Luang Prabang  Visiting all the temples in Luang Prabang is not possible in a single visit to the city. Instead, for a short trip to the city, you can follow these temple tour routes.  1. Temple Trail Route (2–3 Hours) Start at Wat Xieng Thong.  Walk to Wat Sop Sickharam.  Continue to Wat Sene.  Visit Wat Mai.  End at Wat Visoun. 2. Sunset Spiritual Loop (1 Hour) Climb Mount Phousi to Wat Chom Si. Descend to Wat Aham. Finish at Wat That Luang. Luang Prabang Temple Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang temple guide.  1. How Many Temples Are In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has 32 operational Buddhist temples. These temples with their beautiful murals, paintings, and sculptures depicting the life and lessons of Lord Buddha, are prominent social, religious, and community centers. Furthermore, they show a wonderful fusion of Lao, Thai, and Khmer architectural styles in their architecture.  2. Can I Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang During Festivals? Yes, you can visit the temples in Luang Prabang during major festivals such as Boun Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, and Boun Khao Phansa, or the start of the Buddhist Lent. However, you have to be patient as there will be crowds, and you have to follow the etiquette. 3. Are Women Allowed To Give Alms? I found out that people taking part in the alms-giving ceremony were mostly women. However, my guide told me to follow some strict rules. You cannot touch the robes of the monks or make any physical contact with them. Also, you must kneel down before them while offering the alms. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 7, 2023

A blend of natural beauty, a rich history, and a dynamic culture make Vietnam in southeast Asia perhaps one of the most attractive nations on the continent. It has become a popular travel destination. Vietnam offers a really unique experience with its broad range of scenery. You will find breathtaking coasts, towering mountains, lush deltas, and dynamic towns in Vietnam. Vietnam is a land of contrasts. It is the site of some of the world's most stunning beach locations, including Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc Island. Crystal-clear waters and white sands form a tropical paradise abound on these beaches. On the other hand, energetic hubs with bustling marketplaces, active street life, and a vibrant food scene, Vietnam's cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi provide a vivid fusion of modernity and tradition. If you want to know the best time to visit Vietnam, we are spilling all the details here. Best Time To Visit Vietnam Image Source: onewanderatatime.com Your best bet to visit this beautiful country is between November and April. From Sapa's verdant rice terraces to Ha Long Bay's spectacular limestone karsts, Vietnam is home to some breathtaking vistas. For those who enjoy being outside, it offers plenty of chances. Adventure seekers have a variety of activities. It includes trekking in the northern mountains, visiting caverns in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, or sailing the Mekong Delta. In coastal regions, water sports like kayaking, diving, and snorkeling are also very popular. Vietnam has a rich past that is evident in its many historical sites and is firmly anchored in ancient traditions. The Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty. These are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hue, an imperial city that has a Citadel and other royal tombs, also preserves the splendor of earlier Vietnamese eras. Vietnam now is a far cry from its turbulent and war-torn past. Its cities and towns are bursting with tall and imposing skyscrapers. It also has charming floating markets and mopeds zipping through the streets. You may complete the experience with the consistently delicious traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnam is becoming more and more well-known on a global scale. Try well-known meals such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), fresh spring rolls, and mouthwatering seafood. Vietnam is unique in that it offers a wide range of experiences. It offers a range from the craggy peaks of Ha Giang to the Mekong Delta's backwaters. Chase dragons in Hue join the crowd inside the canary-yellow walls of Hoi An's UNESCO Ancient Town. Finally, find space to breathe in a remote northern Vietnamese village. There are sand dunes in Mui Ne, tea fields in Thai Nguyen, waterwheels in Pu Luong, and hundreds of charming hamlets and intriguing little cities. The small villages dot the velvety rice terraces of Sapa and Mu Cang Chai. They also abound in the spiky limestone karsts of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. Things To Do In Vietnam Image Source: www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au Now that you know when is the best time to visit Vietnam, here are some things you can try out when you visit: Learn To Prepare Vietnamese Cuisine- It's one thing to enjoy great Vietnamese cuisine. Consuming it after learning how to prepare it is another! Dive Underwater At Nha Trang- Although Nha Trang offers some fantastic diving, you would not think of Vietnam as a major dive destination. Visit The Canyons In Dalat- Climb, slide, leap, and rappel your way across canyons in this breathtaking location! Visit Da Nang's Marble Mountains- These stunning mountains have amazing vistas and temples to stop at along the trip. They have been quarried for marble for years. Sandboard Along Mui Ne's Sand Dunes- Similar to snowboarding, but you will go down enormous sand dunes! Embrace the rush! Go To Ghan Da Dia's Giants Causeway- Located in Northern Ireland, half a world from the Giant's Causeway, be awed by this extraordinary geological formation. Outside Of Ho Chi Minh City, See The Cu Chi Tunnels- Without visiting these famous tunnels that were utilized during the war, no vacation to HCMC is complete. Ride A Bike Over The Hoi An Pass- This is regarded as one of the most stunning stretches of road in the entire globe. Enjoy! Read More: Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge! Where To Stay Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Vietnam is currently home to a wide variety of lodgings thanks to the country's construction boom. It includes glitzy sky pads in Ho Chi Minh City and rustic mountain retreats with nearby hill tribes. For the extravagant, there are opulent beach resorts with world-class spas. Whether you're on a tight budget or can afford to splurge, Vietnam excels in providing quality lodging at affordable prices. You can discover family guesthouses, flashpacker hostels, and fantastic local businesses. Wink Hotels, which recently launched in Ho Chi Minh City's hip District 3 with fusion cuisine and artsy rooms, starts at £30 per night. The most expensive option is to book a night at a landmark hotel like the Park Hyatt Saigon or Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Boutique hotels abound in this region of Southeast Asia, so you won't have to travel far when looking for something more design-focused. The InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort Danang, Hotel de la Coupole Mgallery Sapa, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Bay, and Capella Hanoi are some of the hotels. They were created by hotel designer Bill Bensley. Labels like An Lam, Fusion, Azerai, and Zannier promote a more eco-chic look. Wrapping Up Despite having one of the longest wars of any country, a third of Vietnam's 97 million residents are under 30. This vibrant fusion of the ancient and new is what has propelled the nation from post-war destitution. It has become one of Asia's fastest-growing economies and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Vietnam has over 2,000 miles of majestic coastline, a profusion of golden beaches, fishing villages, and idyllic tropical islands. It has national parks and mind-boggling biodiversity. Its spectacular inland waterways stretch from its northern border with China to the Gulf of Thailand in the southwest. Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's most famous spectacular inland waterways. Vietnam has a patchwork of undulating mountains, dizzying rice terraces, and 1,000-year-old temples. Its vibrant cities, and life-giving rivers, most notably the Mekong, help dazzle its interiors. Along the way, you can munch your way through the trip. You can choose between mountains of zingy fresh food. There are meaty banh mi sandwiches, prawn-filled spring rolls, and sizzling banh xeo pancakes. You can pick up a whole new wardrobe from cheap-as-chips tailors. Or you could immerse yourself in a variety of historical treasures. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask on when is the best time to visit Vietnam, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives! Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! Singaporean Expert Says Vietnam Tourism Needs Better Destination Management: Report

BY  Shahnawaz Jun 26, 2023

If you are planning a family trip away from the hustle and bustle and bustle of daily life, then Bayshore, Newport, is the place to go. The Alsi Resort hosts the best place for your leisurely holiday with a variety of amenities. They have a seasonal outdoor pool, bay-front property, Jacuzzi Suites, and, most importantly, Barbeque ( who doesn’t love barbeques?). Bayshore, in New York City, is a good place for a small holiday of a day or two. You can visit the Sagtikos Manor, The Himes Museum, and other attractions of the sight. So, when making a small trip to Bayshore, why should you choose Alsi? Well, that is what this review is for. Here you will learn about Alsi Resort and the amenities it has to offer, its locations and more. About Alsi Resort Alsi Resort runs on passion. The resort is a family-owned resort, and they pay attention to lots of things, starting from assuring you are having the best food, a better sustainable living practice, spiritual development, and the sense of being part of a community. All of the different principles of this resort add up to make up for the idea it stands for – the idea of the Alsi Native Indians and their philosophy. The Alsi Native Indians were the early settlers of the land on which the resort is built now. It is the place where the peaceful waters of the Alsea River meet the strong wave of the Pacific Ocean. It is where the headstrong part of nature meets the calming, bringing balance to the world and to your mind. The word Alsi means peace. If you want to find harmony in a life stormed by both the calm and the noise, this is the place where you can find it. The bridge view and a serene look at the coastal mountains will surely give you a sense of peace. Also, the food is something to look forward to. What's Nearby! If you are visiting Bayshore, you should be aware of the closest places. Here are some of them - Historic Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center - 4 min drive Holly Beach - 4 min drive Waldport Heritage Museum - 5 min drive Oregon Coast Trail - 4 min drive Big Stump Beach - 6 min drive Alsi Resort Amenities The amenities of the resort are something to look forward to. Why? Here is why – Internet It is hard to live without the internet. Alsi Resort does not make your life harder by taking away the internet. They offer free internet through Wi-Fi in all the living rooms and in the public areas. So, you will not miss any tweet from Elon Musk or any internet personality you follow. Parking Alsi Resort offers free self-parking on the site. You can park your car and enjoy the different services that come with the amenities. Some of them would be – Free self-parking on site Coach/Motorhome/lorry parking (free) on-site. On-site parking with off-street options Return airport shuttle (surcharge) Things To Do You are not running out of things to do at the Alsi resort. Here are some fun things to do there – Access to the nearby health club Hiking/biking trails Fishing Seasonal outdoor pool Family Friendly When it comes to family friendliness, this resort has you shorted. You will love their Laundry facilities, Seasonal outdoor pool. They also have a microwave and mini fridge you can use. The property amenities include a lot more, including Guest services, business services, outdoors, accessibility, games, smoke-free property, romance packages, and more. Room Amenities Bedroom amenities offer bed sheets, blackout drapes, and heating. In the bathroom, you have free toiletries, a hair drier, a private bathroom, shampoo, soap, toilet paper, towels, a shower/combination and more. You have a 27-inch TV for entertainment and satellite channels. Alsi Resort Policies Also, they have some reassuring check-in and check-out policies. The general time for checking in is between 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Also, the guests can check out before 11:00 AM. They have a staffed front desk making sure you can access them easily. Most interestingly, Alsi Resort allows you to take pets; even service animals are allowed here. But you cannot keep them unattended. Alsi Resort Review: Here are some reviews of this resort – When I made a mistake in my reservation, the management was quick to respond, helpful, and pleasant to work with. While I didn't end up staying this time, I've enjoyed the "bay view" on pre-COVID stays. (Note on "Overall Rating" I did not stay here, but a rating is required for a review") DryWit Very run down. No restaurant is open, so there is no free breakfast. Pool was green and dirty. Luxury rooms, don’t think so. Torn screens, no bed skirts on beds, no blankets, no cable tv, hot water ran out after a minute in shower. Door to additional room had broken lock. Only thing was a comfy bed but small pillows. More like a motel six rather than a “resort”. And the thing is, none of this was told to me when I arrived. When it was booked, things were good. I heard new owners, but I’d say keep on traveling. John S News Update When checking in, guests must present a photo ID and credit card. Please be aware that there may be additional fees and that all special requests are subject to availability. This property has implemented additional safety and sanitation measures in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Due to the coronavirus, food and beverage services at this property might be restricted or nonexistent (COVID-19). This property is taking precautions to help ensure the safety of both guests and staff due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, some facilities and services might be scaled back or eliminated. The property's reception and service operating hours have been shortened due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Please let the Alsi Resort Hotel know when you plan to arrive. When making a reservation, use the Special Requests box. Alternatively, use the contact information on your confirmation to get in touch with the property directly. Just dogs are allowed on the property, please. It is required for guests bringing pets to reserve a pet-friendly room. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)!!!: Here are some common questions people ask about Alsi Resort. The answers might be helpful. 1. Does Alsi Resort Allow Pets? Yes, pets are allowed in the Alsi resort. They welcome service animals, and they are exempted from any fees. Also, you cannot leave pets unattended. But, you need to book pet-friendly rooms during the time of booking your reservation at the Alsi resort. 2. What Time Does Alsi Open? Alsi has its own time for checking in and checking out. They keep the front desk open from Sunday to Tuesday. However, according to the ratings on Tripadvisor, visitors have the best experience during Mar-May and Sep-Nov. 3. When Is The Check-In Time At Alsi Resort? Alsi Resort’s check-in policy sets the check-in time at 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM. The minimum age for check-in is 18. Guests can check out before 11 AM. Bottom Line If you are visiting Bayshore, you can make your stay at the Alsi Resort. Their services are quite affordable. The different policies and amenities are up to the mark for a recommendation. If you read this review, you should have an idea regarding your booking. I hope this review was helpful. In case you have any further queries, please contact us through the comment section. Read Also: Is It Worth It To Stay In An All-Inclusive Resort In Florida? Sandals Curacao – Resort Reviews, Location, Price And Ambience Aeolian Village Beach Resort: The Ultimate Destination For Relaxing Holidays