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Explore the grand architecture of the Royal Palace Museum, which was once the residence of Laos’ royal family. Visit the various rooms displaying royal artifacts, such as the throne room and the regalia hall. Don't miss the stunning murals and the Lao-style architecture in the museum's beautiful gardens.
The Royal Palace Museum, located in the center of Luang Prabang, was originally the bedroom of King Sisavangvong. It has been the bedroom of successive kings until the monarchy was abolished in 1975 and the palace was converted into the Royal Palace Museum.
This is the most suitable place to be the first stop for a trip to Luang Prabang. Here you can also see the remains of the Lan Xang Kingdom and many national cultural relics.
The entire palace is resplendent and dazzling, with elegant and luxurious interior decorations. This was the palace of the last King of Laos, Sisavang Vandana. The whereabouts of the royal family are unknown today, but the palace still retains its former main hall, meeting hall, study, collection room, and living room.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, and backpacks must be checked in. Dress code: Shorts or sundresses are not permitted.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
30,000 kip
8:00-11:30 , 14:00-16:00, closed on Tuesdays
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang was the residence of the Lao royal family until 1975. After the monarchy was abolished, the palace was converted into a museum. It holds a significant collection of artifacts, royal regalia, and religious items, offering insights into Laos' royal and cultural history.
The Royal Palace Museum is located in the center of Luang Prabang, Laos. You can reach the museum by walking from most hotels in the city center, or you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi for a short ride.
The museum is open daily from 8 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is around 30,000 LAK (approximately $3.50 USD). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there is no need to buy them online in advance.
No advance booking is required for the Royal Palace Museum. You can purchase tickets on-site when you arrive.
It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the Royal Palace Museum, including the main exhibits and the gardens surrounding the palace.
The main highlights include the throne room, the regalia hall, the royal reception rooms, and the beautiful murals depicting Lao history. The museum's gardens and the Buddha statue near the entrance are also notable attractions.
Guided tours are available at the museum in English and French. Audio guides are also available in various languages, including English, French, and Lao.
The best photography spots are in the palace's lush gardens, the throne room, and the exterior of the palace itself. The surrounding grounds offer great views of the city and the nearby mountains as well.
Start at the entrance and explore the exterior gardens before entering the main palace building. Follow the route through the throne room and the regalia hall, and end by visiting the royal reception rooms. Be sure to take a moment to admire the murals and the artifacts on display.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Royal Palace Museum. The museum operates only during the day.
The museum can get crowded, especially during the midday hours. The least crowded times are early mornings (right when it opens) and late afternoons on weekdays.
The museum has restrooms available for visitors. There are no food options inside the museum, but there are several cafés and restaurants nearby. A small souvenir shop is located near the entrance, offering various local crafts and memorabilia.
The Royal Palace Museum is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, the museum does not have specific facilities for disabled visitors, so those with mobility challenges may find it difficult to navigate some areas.
Cash is needed for ticket purchases and souvenirs, as cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted at the museum.
There are several restaurants and cafés around the Royal Palace Museum, offering a range of Lao and international dishes. Some popular options include the Luang Prabang Bakery and Café, as well as various local eateries.
There are vegetarian and vegan food options available at nearby restaurants, though halal options may be more limited. It’s recommended to check with the restaurant ahead if you need halal food.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Royal Palace Museum, including luxury options like the Luang Prabang View Hotel and more budget-friendly accommodations such as the Sayo River Hotel.
Other nearby attractions include Wat Xieng Thong, the Mount Phousi viewpoint, and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. All of these are within walking distance from the Royal Palace Museum and can be easily combined into a day trip.
Yes, there is a souvenir shop at the museum selling a variety of local handicrafts, including textiles, wood carvings, and small artwork. You can also find postcards, jewelry, and Lao silk products.
After visiting the Royal Palace Museum, the best transportation options are tuk-tuks or bicycles to explore other nearby attractions. You can also walk to other sites in the city center.
