Royal Palace (Haw Kham)

Royal Palace, also known as the National Museum or Haw Kham, is situated on the banks of the Mekong River and faces Mount Phousi. It is one of the most famous destinations in Laos, known for its many traditional relics and historical significance.

The history of the Royal Palace

The original palace was damaged by the Chinese, leading to the construction of a new Royal Palace in 1904 during the French colonial era. This palace served as the residence of King Sisavang Vong and his family. However, in 1975, the monarchy was overthrown, and the last king, Sisavang Vatthana, along with the royal family, was forced to leave. The palace was then transformed into a museum, which opened to the public in 1995.

Architectural design: A blend of French and Lao styles

The Royal Palace boasts a stunning architectural design that combines French Beaux-Arts style with traditional Lao motifs. Unlike the original wooden palace, the new structure was built with bricks and oriented to face Mount Phousi. The interior decorations and furnishings have been meticulously preserved since 1975, offering visitors a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of the past.

Royal Palace in luang prabang laos

This is a place to house many cultural relics and historical items of the country. One of the most valuable objects is the golden Phra Bang Buddha statue which was considered the most sacred and cultural symbol in Laos. On each occasion of Lao New Year, this statue is picked up back to Wat Xieng Thong to perform New Year's celebration and the ritual of Buddha statue bathing. Along with that, you will have a chance to explore a broad collection of paintings, weapons and ancient religious objects, the crown jewels of Lao in the Throne Hall. In addition, on the grounds of the Royal Palace of Luang Prabang are a new exhibition hall, a chapel named Haw Prabang, coupled with a statue of King Sisavangvong and the campus of the Upper Garden with a harmonious layout of trees and lakes, creating a peaceful beauty for this place. You can visit and enjoy the atmosphere of this destination.

Visitors can also explore an extensive collection of paintings, weapons, ancient religious objects, and the crown jewels of Laos, all displayed in the Throne Hall.

Highlights of the Royal Palace grounds

After the old palace was damaged by the Chinese, the new Royal Palace was built in 1904 during the French colonial era with function as the residence of the King Sisavang Vong and his family. However, in 1975 the monarchy government was overthrown, the last king Sisavang Vatthana and the royal families were forced to leave the palace. This place was changed into a museum and public opened in 1995 for visitors.

Royal Palace was designed beautifully with the mix of French Beaux-Arts style and Laos traditional motifs. Unlike the original palace that was made from wooden and faced the Mekong, the new palace was made from bricks and faced Mount Phou Si. The interior of the Palace Royal, as well as the decorations and furniture, has preserved since 1975.

Visiting Royal Palace, Luang Prabang

The palace is opened daily from 08.00 to 11.30 AM and 13.00 – 15.00 PM. With its great location in the city center, Royal Palace is often included in half-day, full-day city tours or any tours in Luang Prabang. Even if you would like to visit this destination on your arrival or departure day from Luang Prabang, it’s easy because the distance from Luang Prabang airport to Royal Palace is about 6km, around 15 minutes driving.

How to get there

It is also conveniently located just 6 kilometers from Luang Prabang Airport, about a 15-minute drive, making it an easy destination to visit on arrival or departure days.

The Royal Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Luang Prabang. It offers a fascinating insight into the country's history, culture, and royal heritage. For assistance in planning your trip, feel free to contact Travel Authentic Asia.

Royal Palace (Haw Kham)

The history of the Royal Palace

Architectural design: A blend of French and Lao styles

Highlights of the Royal Palace grounds

How to get there

Related Tours

Laos popular destinations

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