Dara Market
A local market known for traditional Lao skirts and antiques, best experienced during its evening transformation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Night market atmosphere
Dara Market
Best Time
Night market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local market known for traditional Lao skirts and antiques, best experienced during its evening transformation.
"The traditional Lao skirts are fairly priced, much better than convenience stores around town."
🎯 Focus on Outer Shops
Most interior shops are closed; focus on the textile and antique stores at the market's edges.
🍦 Try the Ice Cream
Don't miss the surprisingly good ice cream from the freezers near the checkout, especially chocolate!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Lao Skirts
Discover beautifully woven traditional Lao skirts at fair prices, reflecting intricate craftsmanship.
Local Snacks & Ice Cream
Sample delicious local sausages, roast chicken, and surprisingly good ice cream from freezer packs.
Antique Finds
Browse a selection of antique items, often found in the shops along the market's edges.
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What to Expect
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Luang Prabang Night and Morning Market
🎯 Focus on Outer Shops
Most interior shops are closed; focus on the textile and antique stores at the market's edges.
🍦 Try the Ice Cream
Don't miss the surprisingly good ice cream from the freezers near the checkout, especially chocolate!
Any recommendations for street‑side food markets in central Vientiane and central Luang Prabang?
Night market, Luang Prabang, Laos
💰 Fair Skirt Prices
Traditional Lao skirts are reasonably priced, considering the weaving effort.
🚶♀️ Evening Stroll
Enjoy a pleasant walk around the market in the evening when it's more lively.
The night markets in Luang Prabang, Laos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Focus on Outer Shops
Most interior shops are closed; focus on the textile and antique stores at the market's edges.
🍦 Try the Ice Cream
Don't miss the surprisingly good ice cream from the freezers near the checkout, especially chocolate!
💰 Fair Skirt Prices
Traditional Lao skirts are reasonably priced, considering the weaving effort.
🚶♀️ Evening Stroll
Enjoy a pleasant walk around the market in the evening when it's more lively.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dara Market's current state is mixed, with many shops closed, but the remaining textile and antique stores on the edges are noted for fair prices. Visitors appreciate the surprisingly good ice cream and the pleasant evening stroll atmosphere, though the overall experience may not meet past expectations.
"visited on Aug 2025
many shops seem to be permanently closed down. mostly skirts shop and bike rental still open.
traditional lao skirt are fairly priced though if you’re considering the effort they put to weave these patterns."
LI NG
"Fair prices, much better than the little convenience stores around town. Well stocked, clean and well lit. The temperature inside is a little hot though.
We tried the little ice cream bags from the freezers near the checkout and were really surprised at how good they were! I recommend the chocolate flavor."
Jake Padgett
"Place is empty and dusty. Got a feel of "about to be foreclosed". The only open stores are for textiles and some antiques. Those are the stores at the edge of the market. The inside ones are all closed."
A. M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dara Market is centrally located and can be easily reached by tuk-tuk or a short walk from most accommodations in the city center. It's a popular spot for evening strolls.
Yes, Dara Market is a well-known landmark. Ask your driver for Dara Market, and they should know exactly where to go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Dara Market. You can wander through the stalls freely.
While some shops might be open during the day, the market truly comes alive as a night market in the evenings, typically until late.
Unfortunately, many shops inside Dara Market have been reported as permanently closed. The most active stalls are usually the textile and antique shops on the outer edges.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find traditional Lao skirts, which are noted for their fair prices and intricate weaving. Some antique items are also available, primarily from shops on the market's periphery.
Prices for items like traditional skirts are considered fair, and while some negotiation might be possible, it's generally not expected to be a heavily bartering market.
The outer shops, particularly those selling textiles and antiques, are often the most active and may offer better value compared to the closed-off interior.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
While specific food stalls might vary, look out for local specialties like Luang Prabang sausages and roast chicken. The noodle stall is often found on the north side.
A vegetarian stall is mentioned as being on the south side of the market, often near where mango sticky rice is sold.
Beyond savory options, the ice cream from freezers near the checkout is surprisingly good, with chocolate being a popular flavor. Mango with sticky rice is also a common treat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🛍️ Budget Shoppers
Don't expect a huge variety of goods due to the closures, but if you're looking for specific textile items or unique antique finds, it can be a good spot. The ice cream is also a budget-friendly and tasty treat.
🚶♀️ Evening Explorers
It's a good opportunity to see what remains of the market's offerings, from textiles to antiques, and perhaps grab a local snack or a surprisingly good ice cream. It's less about extensive shopping and more about experiencing the local evening scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Dara Market's Current State
Despite the decline in overall activity, the market can still offer a pleasant experience, especially during the evening hours when it transforms into a more atmospheric night market. It's a good place for a relaxed stroll and to soak in the local ambiance. Be prepared for the temperature inside to be a bit warm, as noted by some visitors.
While the food scene might not be as extensive as it once was, keep an eye out for local snacks. The ice cream sold from freezers near the checkout has been a pleasant surprise for many, with the chocolate flavor being a standout recommendation.
Shopping for Textiles and Antiques
Beyond textiles, the market also features shops selling antiques. These are typically found among the more active stalls on the market's periphery. While the selection might be varied, it's worth browsing if you're a collector or looking for unique decorative pieces. Remember that the interior shops are largely closed, so focus your search on the outer areas for these items.
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