night market
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Night Market

4.3
·6k reviews·Luang Prabang, Laos

A vibrant street market offering authentic Lao crafts, delicious street food, and a relaxed cultural experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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night market

Night Market

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant street market offering authentic Lao crafts, delicious street food, and a relaxed cultural experience.

4.3
(6k reviews)

"A vibrant cultural experience capturing the soul of Luang Prabang beautifully."

Vertical photo
TIP

😋 Taste the Local Delights

Try Luang Prabang sausages, roast chicken, and mango sticky rice. The noodle stall is on the north side!

🛍️ Support Local Artisans

Many crafts are handmade. Prices are fair, and bargaining is welcomed but not aggressive.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Lao Street Food

Authentic Lao Street Food

Side alley

Savor local delicacies like grilled meats, noodle soups, and fresh spring rolls. Mango sticky rice is a must-try!

Handcrafted Textiles

Handcrafted Textiles

Vendor stalls

Discover beautiful handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and unique silver jewelry from local artisans.

Unique Souvenirs

Unique Souvenirs

Various stalls

Find creative items made from bomb metal, traditional clothing, and other distinctive keepsakes.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Flavors

Dive into authentic Lao cuisine! Don't miss the local sausages, roast chicken, and the famous mango sticky rice. Many vendors offer delicious, affordable options, perfect for a casual evening meal.

Souvenir Hunting Paradise

This market is a treasure trove for unique souvenirs. From handwoven textiles and wood carvings to items made from bomb metal, you'll find plenty of authentic Lao crafts to take home.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Luang Prabang Night and Morning Market

😋 Taste the Local Delights

Try Luang Prabang sausages, roast chicken, and mango sticky rice. The noodle stall is on the north side! Reddit

🛍️ Support Local Artisans

Many crafts are handmade. Prices are fair, and bargaining is welcomed but not aggressive. Reddit

reddit.com

Any recommendations for street‑side food markets in central Vientiane and central Luang Prabang?

reddit.com

Night market, Luang Prabang, Laos

🚶‍♀️ Relaxed Browsing

Vendors are friendly and don't pressure you to buy, making it a pleasant shopping experience. Reddit

💰 Fair Pricing

Items are reasonably priced, and supporting locals feels good. Bargaining is possible if needed. Reddit

reddit.com

The night markets in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Tips

from all over the internet

😋 Taste the Local Delights

Try Luang Prabang sausages, roast chicken, and mango sticky rice. The noodle stall is on the north side! Reddit

🛍️ Support Local Artisans

Many crafts are handmade. Prices are fair, and bargaining is welcomed but not aggressive. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Relaxed Browsing

Vendors are friendly and don't pressure you to buy, making it a pleasant shopping experience. Reddit

💰 Fair Pricing

Items are reasonably priced, and supporting locals feels good. Bargaining is possible if needed. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Luang Prabang Night Market for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse selection of authentic Lao crafts, and delicious street food. The relaxed and friendly environment, coupled with reasonable prices and the opportunity to support local artisans, makes it a highlight for many. Some find certain craft prices a bit high, but generally feel they are fair for the quality.

"Prices for the same items are nearly the exact same at all the shops. Items aren’t all that expensive so you could bargain if you are really short on cash, but otherwise it’s good to help the locals, it’s all relatively inexpensive anyways. It’s a good night market for souvenir hunting. Shirts, handmade goods, local food and whiskey. Many options to choose from"

B

"The market is nice and clean. Nobody was forcing me to buy stuff from them. So even if i am just looking they are ok with that. Which is the best thing trust me. Mostly there are crafts and local things you can buy from here.

A good place to spend your evenings. Lots of cafes and bars to enjoy dinner"

Deepti Garg

"Great place to wander around. Lots of handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs made from bomb metal, and food options on side streets. Most sellers speak English and Chinese"

Su Su

What People Like

Authentic local crafts
Delicious street food
Relaxed atmosphere

What People Dislike

Some craft prices high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Night Market is located on the main street of Luang Prabang, which transforms into a lively walking street every evening. It's easily accessible on foot if you're staying in the town center. Tuktuks are also readily available to take you there from further accommodations.

Yes, the market is very easy to find. It takes over the main street in the heart of Luang Prabang, usually starting in the late afternoon and running into the evening. You'll see the stalls setting up and the crowds gathering.

Walking is ideal if you're nearby. Otherwise, a short tuktuk ride is a convenient and affordable option. Negotiate the price before you get in.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Luang Prabang Night Market. You can wander through the stalls and enjoy the atmosphere for free.

The market typically opens in the late afternoon, around 5 PM, and runs until about 10 PM or 11 PM. It's best to go in the evening to experience its full vibrancy.

No advance booking is necessary. The market is a public space, and you can simply show up and explore.

The market is set up on a street, which can be uneven. While many areas are walkable, navigating with a wheelchair might be challenging due to crowds and stall setups. It's best to proceed with caution.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs, including handwoven textiles like scarves and bags, intricate wood carvings, silver jewelry, paper lanterns, clothing, and unique items made from recycled bomb metal. Reddit

Yes, friendly bargaining is generally welcomed, especially for handicrafts and souvenirs. However, prices are already quite reasonable, and many vendors offer fair prices for their work. Reddit

While prices are similar across many stalls, exploring different vendors can sometimes yield slightly better prices. Don't be afraid to politely inquire and compare.

Many vendors are local artisans or represent communities from nearby villages, offering authentic Lao crafts. It's a great way to support local economies and cultural traditions. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Don't miss the local sausages, roast chicken, and the incredibly popular mango with sticky rice. Noodle dishes and fresh spring rolls are also highly recommended. Reddit

The food stalls are typically found in a side alley or a dedicated section of the market, often towards the south side. Look for the aromas and the crowds!

Yes, there are usually vegetarian stalls offering dishes like fresh spring rolls and noodle soups. It's always a good idea to confirm ingredients with the vendor.

Food prices are very affordable, with most dishes costing just a few dollars. It's an excellent place for a budget-friendly and delicious meal.

Yes, most of the food is cooked fresh to order right in front of you, ensuring quality and taste.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant colors of the textiles, the bustling food stalls with vendors cooking, and the general lively atmosphere of the market at night. The paper lanterns also make for beautiful shots.

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls, especially if you're not purchasing anything. Most are happy to oblige.

The market truly comes alive after dark, with the stalls lit up by lamps and the general buzz of activity. This is when the atmosphere is most photogenic.

The colorful handwoven fabrics, the steaming bowls of noodles, and the unique handicrafts are all visually appealing subjects for photography.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Luang Prabang Night Market is a family-friendly destination. Kids will be fascinated by the colorful textiles, unique crafts, and the general buzz of activity. The food stalls offer a variety of simple and tasty options that are often appealing to younger palates, like grilled meats and fresh fruit smoothies. Reddit

It's a great place for families to wander together, with plenty of space to move around, though it can get crowded. The relaxed atmosphere means you won't feel rushed, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience at their own pace. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to see and learn about local crafts and culture in a safe and engaging environment.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Luang Prabang Night Market is a paradise for budget travelers. Souvenirs are reasonably priced, and you can find unique items without breaking the bank. Friendly bargaining is possible, allowing you to get even better deals. Reddit

More importantly, the food stalls offer incredibly affordable and delicious meals. You can enjoy a full, satisfying dinner of authentic Lao cuisine for just a few dollars. This makes the market an ideal spot for travelers looking to experience local flavors without overspending.

🍜 Foodies

For food lovers, the Night Market is a must-visit. It's a fantastic place to sample a wide array of authentic Lao street food. From savory grilled meats and flavorful noodle soups to the iconic mango sticky rice, your taste buds will be delighted. Reddit

Everything is cooked fresh, offering a genuine culinary experience. Don't be afraid to try new things and explore the different offerings. The affordability means you can sample multiple dishes and truly immerse yourself in the local flavors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Cultural Tapestry of Crafts and Cuisine

The Luang Prabang Night Market is more than just a place to shop; it's a vibrant cultural experience that captures the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage town. Every evening, the main street transforms into a lively pedestrian zone, brimming with hundreds of stalls showcasing the artistry and culinary traditions of Laos. Many of the vendors are artisans from surrounding villages, bringing their meticulously crafted goods to the market. This focus on local craftsmanship makes it a prime spot for finding authentic Lao souvenirs and supporting the community. Reddit

The market is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, a stark contrast to some of the more chaotic markets in Southeast Asia. You'll find a diverse array of items, from beautifully handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and delicate silver jewelry to unique creations fashioned from recycled bomb metal, a poignant reminder of Laos' history. The friendly nature of the vendors, who are generally not pushy, enhances the relaxed browsing experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the quality and effort behind each piece. Reddit

Beyond the shopping, the market is a culinary delight. Tucked away in a side alley, a tempting array of affordable and delicious Lao dishes awaits. From savory grilled meats and aromatic noodle soups to fresh spring rolls and refreshing tropical fruit smoothies, everything is prepared fresh. The mango with sticky rice is a particular highlight, offering a sweet and satisfying end to your market exploration. Reddit

Navigating the Market: Tips for a Smooth Experience

Visiting the Luang Prabang Night Market is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, largely due to its well-organized layout and friendly vendors. The market is set up along the main street, making it easy to navigate. Unlike some markets where aggressive sales tactics can be off-putting, the vendors here are known for their polite demeanor. They are happy to let you browse without pressure, which makes the overall experience much more pleasant. Reddit

When it comes to purchasing souvenirs, prices are generally considered fair, reflecting the craftsmanship and effort involved. While friendly bargaining is part of the culture, it's not as intense as in some other regions. It's advisable to have a general idea of what you're willing to pay, but also to appreciate the value of handmade goods. Supporting local artisans by making a purchase is a rewarding aspect of visiting the market. Reddit

For food enthusiasts, the market offers a fantastic opportunity to sample authentic Lao street food at very reasonable prices. Look for the stalls with the most activity and enticing aromas. Don't hesitate to try local specialties like sausages, roast chicken, and the ever-popular mango sticky rice. The food section is a highlight for many visitors, providing a delicious and affordable dining experience. Reddit

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