10 Things to Do in the Royal Palace Museum (National Museum) of Luang Prabang, Laos
Situated in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos, the Royal Palace Museum (National Museum) is a must-see on any trip to the city. Established in 1904, the museum is one of the oldest in the country, and houses a wealth of cultural artifacts and royal treasures that tell the story of the city’s rich and fascinating history. From the royal artifacts of King Sisavang Vong to the traditional Lao Buddhist sculptures, the museum is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang.
1. Explore the Royal Palace: The Royal Palace Museum is housed in the former residence of King Sisavang Vong, the last king of the Kingdom of Laos. The palace is a stunning example of Lao-style architecture, and it is filled with artifacts that tell the story of the royal family’s reign. Be sure to take time to explore the palace grounds and admire the intricate details of the building.
2. Visit the Royal Carriage Room: Located on the second floor of the Royal Palace Museum, the Royal Carriage Room houses a collection of royal carriages and chariots that were used by the royal family. The carriages are beautifully decorated with intricate designs, and are a fascinating reminder of the city’s royal past.
3. Check out the Royal Armory: The Royal Armory is located on the ground floor of the museum and contains an impressive collection of weapons and armor that were used by the royal family. The armory includes a wide variety of swords, spears, and shields, as well as a number of cannons and guns.
4. Admire the Traditional Lao Buddhist Sculptures: The museum also houses a collection of traditional Lao Buddhist sculptures, which are a beautiful reminder of the city’s spiritual heritage. The sculptures range from small statues of the Buddha to larger statues of the gods and goddesses.
5. Visit the Royal Library: The Royal Library is located on the first floor of the museum and contains a wealth of books and manuscripts that date back to the reign of King Sisavang Vong. The library also houses a number of rare manuscripts, which are a fascinating reminder of the city’s literary heritage.
6. Learn about the City’s History: The museum also houses a number of exhibits that tell the story of the city’s history. From the ancient Kingdom of Lan Xang to the French colonial period, the museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the city’s past.
7. Admire the Artwork: The museum also houses a number of beautiful works of art, including traditional paintings, sculptures, and carvings. The artworks range from traditional Lao Buddhist art to modern works, and are a great way to appreciate the city’s cultural heritage.
8. Explore the Traditional Lao Village: The museum also houses a traditional Lao village, which is a great way to experience the city’s traditional lifestyle. The village includes a number of traditional Lao houses, as well as a number of shops where you can buy traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
9. Visit the Traditional Lao Market: The museum also houses a traditional Lao market, which is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture. The market sells a variety of traditional Lao food, as well as handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
10. Enjoy the Museum’s Gardens: The museum is also home to a number of beautiful gardens, which are a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty. The gardens include a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of statues and monuments.
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s rich and fascinating history. From the royal artifacts of King Sisavang Vong to the traditional Lao Buddhist sculptures, the museum is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Be sure to take time to explore the palace grounds and admire the intricate details of the building.