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Royal Palace Museum
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Landmark
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang, also known as Haw Kham, was constructed in 1904 during the French colonial era as the residence for King Sisavang Vong. The architecture elegantly blends traditional Lao motifs with European Beaux-Arts styles, reflecting the cultural synthesis of the period. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, it remained the official seat of the Lao monarchy until the revolutionary changes of 1975, after which it was converted into a national museum. The museum's most significant artifact is the Phra Bang, an 83-centimeter-tall gold-alloy Buddha statue that is regarded as the kingdom's most sacred palladium. Inside, the Throne Room features memorable glass mosaics set against red lacquer, depicting scenes from the Ramayana and traditional Lao festivals. The private quarters of the royal family have been preserved much as they were on the day the monarchy ended, providing a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the former Lao royalty, including diplomatic gifts and ceremonial regalia.
- Location: Laos
- Top sights: Royal Car Exhibition · Wat Xieng Mene Sai Ya Set Tha Ram · Wat Choum Khong
- Nearby: Kasi (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 6 | 31 | 62 | 121 | 116 | 219 | 234 | 127 | 56 | 23 | 12 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang is open to visitors, featuring interiors showcasing royal life and a well-kept exterior garden. The entire palace complex can be toured.
Typical hours
Museums in Laos typically open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM, with a lunch break from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Exact times should be checked in advance.
Photography
Inside the museum, photography without flash is allowed to protect delicate exhibits. In the outdoor area you can photograph freely.
Time needed
Visiting the museum and palace takes about one hour. If you also want to see the gardens and throne hall, plan for 90 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Wat Mai and the Luang Prabang night market. Mount Phousi is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The museum is located in central Luang Prabang near the Mekong River, easily reachable on foot. Tuk-tuks and bicycles are good transport options in the city.
Insider tip
Visit the museum early in the morning to avoid crowds. Remove your shoes before entering the interior, as is customary in Laos.
Geography
Facts
- Construction commenced in 1904 for King Sisavang Vong.
- Converted into a National Museum in 1976 following the revolution.
- Houses the Phra Bang, a sacred Buddha statue weighing 54 kg.
- The Throne Room features intricate red lacquer and glass mosaics.
- The collection includes Moon rock fragments gifted by NASA.
- Exhibits traditional Lao royal costumes and ceremonial jewelry.
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Sights in the town Royal Palace Museum (3)
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Frequently asked questions
When was the Royal Palace built?
The palace was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong.
What is the most important exhibit?
The Phra Bang, an 83 cm tall Buddha statue made of a gold-silver alloy that gave the city its name.
Can bags be taken into the museum?
No, all bags and cameras must be left in the free lockers at the entrance.
Is there a throne room in the palace?
Yes, it is magnificently decorated with mirror-glass mosaics and displays the royal regalia.
What are the dress code rules for visitors?
Strict dress code: shoulders and legs must be covered, and shoes must be removed before entry.
Royal Palace Museum: where is it located?
Royal Palace Museum is located in Laos.
Royal Palace Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Royal Car Exhibition, Wat Xieng Mene Sai Ya Set Tha Ram, Wat Choum Khong.
Royal Palace Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
Royal Palace Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang, also known as Haw Kham, was constructed in 1904 during the French colonial era as the residence for King Sisavang Vong.
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Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a historic city in northern Laos.
Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw is picturesquely situated on the Nam Ou River, surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Muang Ngoi
Muang Ngoi is a picturesque riverside village surrounded by towering karst peaks, offering a tranquil escape along the Nam Ou River.
History & landmarks
Mount Phousi
A 100-meter high hill in the center of Luang Prabang offering religious shrines and a panoramic view of the city.
Wat Mai
The largest and most richly decorated monastery in Luang Prabang, famous for its gilded reliefs on the front facade.
Wat Visounnarath
One of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang, known for its unique watermelon-shaped stupa.
Wat Xieng Thong
One of the most historically significant Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang, famous for its sweeping roof and rich decorations.
Pak Ou Caves
Sacred caves along the Mekong where thousands of small and large Buddha statues have been left by pilgrims.
Nature
More places
Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham
One of the largest and most richly decorated temples in Luang Prabang, famous for its golden bas-relief work on the facade.
Mount Phou Si
A small but prominent forested hill in the center of Luang Prabang, offering fantastic panoramic views of the Mekong and the city.
Royal Palace Museum
The former royal palace of Luang Prabang, which is now a museum detailing the history of the Laotian monarchy.
Wat Visoun
The oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang, home to the unique watermelon-shaped stupa.
Wat Aham
A small but important historical temple in Luang Prabang that was once the center of both animist and Buddhist worship.
Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden
The first botanical garden in Laos, dedicated to preserving the rich flora and ecological learning.
Luang Prabang SEZ
An economic center under development, aiming to bring light manufacturing and services to the historic and tourism-focused province.
Nam Ou Valley
The valley carved by the Nam Ou River, one of the most important rivers in Laos, known for its dramatic limestone karst landscapes.