Royal Palace Museum
Explore the opulent former residence of Lao royalty, showcasing history, art, and stunning architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Royal Palace Museum
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the opulent former residence of Lao royalty, showcasing history, art, and stunning architecture.
"A visit to the Royal Palace and National Museum was more than worth it."
👖 Bring Pants or Rent
Shorts are a no-go! Rent long trousers for 10k kip or wear your own. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Lockers for Bags & Cameras
No cameras or phones inside. Use the lockers provided near the theater. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Palace Interior
Main Palace Building
Step back in time and explore the opulent living quarters of the former Lao royalty. See how they lived!
Historical Artifacts
Exhibition Halls
Discover fascinating displays of Lao history, including a piece of the moon!
Ornate Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the beautiful architecture and ornate details of this stately former king's mansion.
Well-Kept Gardens
Palace Grounds
Stroll through the beautiful and meticulously maintained gardens surrounding the palace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & What to Bring
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👖 Bring Pants or Rent
Shorts are a no-go! Rent long trousers for 10k kip or wear your own. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Lockers for Bags & Cameras
No cameras or phones inside. Use the lockers provided near the theater. :iphone:
🎧 Free Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with a free audio guide accessible on your phone. :musical_note:
⏰ Check Lunch Hours
The museum closes for lunch from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Plan accordingly! :clock10:
Tips
from all over the internet
👖 Bring Pants or Rent
Shorts are a no-go! Rent long trousers for 10k kip or wear your own. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Lockers for Bags & Cameras
No cameras or phones inside. Use the lockers provided near the theater. :iphone:
🎧 Free Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with a free audio guide accessible on your phone. :musical_note:
⏰ Check Lunch Hours
The museum closes for lunch from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Plan accordingly! :clock10:
🚶♀️ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Spend 45-60 minutes to truly appreciate the history and artifacts. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Royal Palace Museum a worthwhile historical and architectural gem, offering a glimpse into Lao royalty. While the no-photography rule and dress code are noted, the well-preserved interiors, interesting artifacts, and beautiful gardens are consistently praised. The free audio guide is a significant plus for enhancing the educational experience.
"A visit to the Royal Palace and National Museum was more than worth it. It costs 60,000 kip for foreigners. If you want to visit the palace and you wear shorts, for example, you have to rent long trousers for 10,000 kip.
Entry is closed approximately 20 minutes before closing time.
Both the temple and the palace showcase part of Lao history. You can also learn more about it with a free audio guide that you can open on your phone. Handy!"
Marco
"the english is really limited but this is not a problem, the place is so good to visit, ticket is 60.000 KIP for foreigner, I can spend around 45-60 minutes here. They have to gates: entrance and exit, around 4PM, they will close the entrance gate, you can not bring camera, bags but you can keep it in small lockers in the house which is near to the theater. You also are not allowed to wear hat, short pant that do not cover knees, can not take photo inside."
Phương Duy Nguyễn
"Bring Pants if you are going to visit the museum or else you will have to rent long bottoms for 10k kip. Also visit the locker room first to put all your stuff away to avoid a walk back
No cameras or phones allowed in the museum, but I think its for the better, take your time and read about the artifacts, its all very interesting if you are into history, they even have a piece of the moon in the collection, see if you can find it.
The museum is beautiful on the inside, and seeing how the king and queen lived is very interesting.
The outside garden and temple are also very nice to walk around it’s all well kept.
I recommend taking your time here ❤️🇱🇦"
Christopher VanNordstrand
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Palace Museum is centrally located in Luang Prabang, making it easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or a short tuk-tuk ride from most accommodations. It's a popular landmark, so most locals will be able to direct you.
While there isn't dedicated parking for cars, you can usually find space for bicycles and motorbikes nearby. For tuk-tuks, they can drop you off right at the entrance.
Yes, the Royal Palace Museum is within walking distance of the Luang Prabang night market, making it a convenient stop before or after exploring the market stalls.
If your accommodation is a bit further from the town center, a tuk-tuk is a convenient and affordable option. Negotiate the price beforehand.
The Royal Palace Museum is located on the peninsula, near the Mekong River and Wat Xieng Thong, making it easy to find with these prominent landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is 60,000 kip. This price is generally consistent and offers great value for the historical insights provided.
The museum is typically open from morning until late afternoon, but it closes for a lunch break between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Entry gates often close about 20 minutes before the official closing time.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance.
Modest clothing is required. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Shorts that are too short or hats are not permitted inside.
Yes, you can rent long trousers for 10,000 kip if your attire doesn't meet the dress code requirements. It's advisable to bring your own to save time and money.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the museum. You'll need to store your camera and phone in the provided lockers.
Yes, a free audio guide is available and can be accessed on your smartphone, which is very convenient for learning about the exhibits.
Most visitors spend around 45 to 60 minutes exploring the palace and its exhibits. Taking your time to read the information is recommended.
Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing Lao history, royal artifacts, and the former living quarters of the king and queen. There's even a piece of the moon!
Absolutely! The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer a pleasant space to walk around and admire the architecture from the outside.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within the Royal Palace Museum itself. You'll need to explore the surrounding areas of Luang Prabang for food options.
The area around the Royal Palace Museum is filled with cafes and restaurants offering local Lao cuisine and international dishes. The night market also has many food stalls.
Food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the museum. It's best to consume them before or after your visit.
You can find delicious Lao specialties like Laap (minced meat salad), Mok Pa (steamed fish in banana leaves), and Khao Soi (noodle soup).
Yes, street food stalls and local eateries offer affordable and tasty meals. The night market is a great place to find budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum. Visitors must leave cameras and phones in the provided lockers.
The exterior of the palace, the ornate architectural details, and the well-kept gardens offer excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely not. To preserve the artifacts and maintain the solemnity of the exhibits, no photos are allowed inside.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing the architecture and gardens. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grounds.
While not explicitly stated for the museum itself, drone usage in Luang Prabang can be restricted in certain areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat, which can be challenging for children. The museum's central location makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Luang Prabang. Pack snacks and water to enjoy outside the museum premises, as food and drinks are not permitted inside.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Many affordable eateries and street food stalls are available in the vicinity and at the nearby night market, so you can easily find budget-friendly meals before or after your visit. The museum's central location also means you can likely walk or cycle there, saving on transportation costs.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the information, especially regarding the royal family's lifestyle and the political history of Laos. The architecture of the palace itself is also a historical artifact, showcasing a blend of influences. Don't miss the unique display of the piece of the moon, a fascinating addition to the historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Royal Palace Museum's History
Inside the museum, you'll find a fascinating collection of artifacts that tell the story of Laos' rich past. These include royal regalia, religious items, and personal belongings of the former royal family. One of the most unique items in the collection is a piece of the moon, a testament to international relations and scientific endeavors. The museum also houses exhibits on the history of the monarchy and the country's cultural heritage, offering a comprehensive overview for history enthusiasts.
The architecture of the palace itself is a significant draw, blending traditional Lao and French colonial styles. The ornate details and grand halls provide a sense of the former splendor. The surrounding gardens are also beautifully maintained, offering a tranquil escape and a picturesque setting for exploration. It's a place where history, culture, and architecture converge, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Lao heritage.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
Another important rule is the prohibition of cameras and bags inside the museum. There are lockers available near the theater where you can safely store your belongings before entering the exhibition halls. This policy is in place to protect the artifacts and maintain the integrity of the exhibits. While it might seem inconvenient, it encourages visitors to focus on the historical content and immerse themselves in the experience without the distraction of photography.
To enhance your understanding, take advantage of the free audio guide available on your smartphone. This guide provides valuable context and information about the exhibits, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Plan to spend about 45 to 60 minutes here to fully appreciate the history and displays. Be mindful of the museum's lunch break (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) and the fact that the entrance closes about 20 minutes before the official closing time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit