
Wat Long Khoun
Ancient royal residence on the Mekong, offering a tranquil escape with historical charm and unique river access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Wat Long Khoun
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient royal residence on the Mekong, offering a tranquil escape with historical charm and unique river access.
"A quiet, ancient temple with royal history, but be prepared for ticket sellers and potential begging."

Clarify Entry Fees
Be aware of ticket counters and clarify what the fee is for before paying. Some find them pushy. :ticket:
Boat Access
You'll need to take a boat across the Mekong River to reach the temple. :ferry:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Residence
Mekong River bank
Once housed kings for 7 days before their coronation. Experience a slice of royal history.

Tranquil Temple Grounds
Temple complex
A peaceful, quiet sanctuary with ancient monastic buildings and shaded walking paths.

Cave with Buddha Statues
Near the temple
Discover a hidden cave adorned with Buddha statues, often included with temple entry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
River Crossing & Entry Fees
Peaceful Escape & Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Clarify Entry Fees
Be aware of ticket counters and clarify what the fee is for before paying. Some find them pushy. :ticket:
Boat Access
You'll need to take a boat across the Mekong River to reach the temple. :ferry:
Explore the Cave
If you pay the entry fee, don't miss the nearby cave with its Buddha statues. :statueofliberty:
Consider Biking
Biking along the paved road offers a pleasant way to explore the area. :bicycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Clarify Entry Fees
Be aware of ticket counters and clarify what the fee is for before paying. Some find them pushy. :ticket:
Boat Access
You'll need to take a boat across the Mekong River to reach the temple. :ferry:
Explore the Cave
If you pay the entry fee, don't miss the nearby cave with its Buddha statues. :statueofliberty:
Consider Biking
Biking along the paved road offers a pleasant way to explore the area. :bicycle:
Quiet Atmosphere
Enjoy the serene and peaceful ambiance, as it's less visited by tourists. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Long Khoun offers a peaceful escape with historical significance as a former royal residence. Visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the unique experience of crossing the Mekong by boat. However, some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with pushy ticket sellers and the issue of begging children, which can detract from the serene ambiance.
"This is an ancient Buddhist temple on the bank of Mekong river from Luang Prabang central side. It is known as the accommodation of the Kings for 7 days before they had the official coronation ceremonies. You have to pass over the Mekong river by boat to access it.
This place is very quite and peacful. There is a road leading to many other temples in this area. You can walk under the trees to visit and enjoy the atmosphere here."
hoang tuan
"This is a temple is a quiet place which very few tourists visit. There are some nice wall paintings inside. Your ticket will also buy you entry into a nearby cave, which also features some Buddha statues. Visit cave and temple if you have extra time."
Martin Reindl
"Handsome small complex of monastic building of historical importance. If you want to go in that small area, a ticket is needed but not if you area using the paved road around it. Unfortunately the ticket people will tell you otherwise and are rather pushy, ruins the experience a little."
Vincent Dion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Wat Long Khoun, you'll need to take a boat across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang. The journey offers scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. :ferry:
Boats typically depart from the main piers in Luang Prabang. It's advisable to inquire locally for the most current departure points and schedules. :boat:
While there's a paved road leading to the temple, accessing it usually involves a boat crossing first. Biking is a great way to explore the temple grounds once you arrive. :bicycle:
Walking under the trees provides a pleasant way to explore the temple complex and its surroundings. Biking is also an option for covering more ground. :walking:
Some visitors have reported encountering ticket counters that can be pushy about entry fees, even if you're just passing through. Clarify what you're paying for. :warning:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A ticket is generally required to enter the specific monastic buildings and the nearby cave. However, you might be able to walk around the exterior without a ticket. :ticket:
The entry fee is typically around 10,000 Kip per person, which often includes access to a nearby cave with Buddha statues. :moneybag:
Some visitors have described the ticket sellers as pushy and have felt pressured to pay. It's recommended to clarify what the fee covers before making a payment. :speech_balloon:
The ticket usually grants access to the temple's interior and a nearby cave that features Buddha statues. :statueofliberty:
While some visitors suggest taking detours to avoid ticket counters, it's important to note that the fee is for accessing specific areas. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the ancient monastic buildings, historical significance as a royal residence, and a peaceful atmosphere. There's also a cave with Buddha statues nearby. :temple_building:
Wat Long Khoun is known for being a quiet place with very few tourists, offering a peaceful experience. :person_walking:
It's an ancient Buddhist temple that served as the accommodation for Kings for seven days before their official coronation ceremonies. :crown:
Yes, there are some nice wall paintings inside the temple that are worth observing. :art:
As with most Buddhist temples, it's respectful to dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. :clothing:
🎫 😔 Visitor Concerns
Some visitors have reported encountering begging children who they felt were encouraged by locals, which detracted from the experience. :sad:
If you have extra time, visiting the temple and the nearby cave can be worthwhile. However, be mindful of the entry fee and potential pressure from ticket sellers. :clock3:
Common complaints include pushy ticket sellers and the issue of begging children, which some feel is contrary to Buddhist philosophy. :disappointed:
Focus on the peaceful atmosphere and historical significance. Be clear about entry fees and consider if the experience aligns with your expectations. :smiley:
Some suggest taking dirt road detours to bypass ticket counters, though this might mean missing certain parts of the site. :round_pushpin:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to manage expectations regarding the 'attractions' for children. While the historical aspect is significant, it might not hold the attention of very young ones. The main draw for families might be the novelty of the boat trip and the quiet atmosphere. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. :apple:
💰 Budget Travelers
Some Reddit users suggest taking detours on dirt roads to bypass ticket counters, which could be a strategy for those strictly avoiding fees. However, this might compromise the ease of access and the full experience of the site. Weigh the cost against what you wish to see and experience. :round_pushpin:
🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
While the historical context is rich, be prepared for the ticketing situation. If you encounter pushy vendors, a polite but firm stance can be effective. The opportunity to see the wall paintings and the cave with Buddha statues can add to the solo exploration. Just be aware of the fee and decide if it aligns with your priorities for a peaceful visit. :ticket:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mekong Crossing
Be prepared for the ticketing situation upon arrival. While the temple is a place of historical and spiritual significance, some travelers have reported feeling pressured by ticket vendors. It's crucial to understand what the fee covers – whether it's for general access, specific buildings, or the nearby cave. Clarifying this upfront can help manage expectations and avoid potential frustration. :ferry: :ticket:
For those who prefer to avoid potential hassles, some visitors have mentioned exploring alternative routes, such as dirt roads. However, this might mean missing out on certain aspects of the temple complex. Weigh your priorities and decide what kind of experience you're seeking. :round_pushpin:
Historical Significance and Royal Connections
The temple complex itself is described as a handsome, small collection of monastic buildings. While not as grand as some of the more prominent temples in Luang Prabang, its historical significance and the quiet atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local heritage. The wall paintings inside offer a glimpse into the artistic and religious expressions of the past. :crown: :art:
Beyond the main temple structures, the site is known for its peaceful and quiet ambiance. Visitors can enjoy walking under the trees, soaking in the serene environment. This tranquility is a significant draw for those seeking a respite from the more bustling tourist attractions. :pray:
Understanding the Entry Fee and Nearby Cave
A key component often included with the entry fee is access to a nearby cave. This cave houses several Buddha statues, adding another dimension to the visit. If you decide to pay the entrance fee, make sure to explore this cave to get the full experience. :statueofliberty:
For travelers on a tight budget or those who prefer to avoid the fee, some suggest exploring the perimeter of the temple via alternative paths. However, this means you won't be able to enter the main buildings or the cave. It's a trade-off between cost and access to the site's core attractions. :round_pushpin:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit