Royal Palace National Museum, Luang Prabang

Royal Palace National Museum, Luang Prabang (must see)

The Royal Palace National Museum, located in Luang Prabang, Laos, holds great historical and cultural significance. Originally constructed in 1904 during the French colonial era, the palace was intended to serve as the residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family. The site was carefully selected so that official visitors arriving by river could disembark directly below the palace and be received there with appropriate ceremony. However, following the monarchy's abolition in 1975, the palace was transformed into a national museum.

The architecture of the Royal Palace National Museum is a captivating blend of traditional Lao motifs and French Beaux Arts styles. The building's layout takes the form of a double-cruciform shape, with the entrance situated on one side of the lower crossbar. Above the entrance stands a three-headed elephant, a symbol of the Lao monarchy, sheltered by the sacred white parasol. This prominent emblem is a recognizable feature of the palace.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the King's reception room on the right side. This room showcases busts of the Lao monarchy, paying homage to the country's royal lineage. Notably, two large gilded and lacquered Ramayana screens crafted by the skilled local artisan Thit Tanh adorn the room. These intricate screens depict scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana and serve as valuable artistic and cultural treasures.

On the left side of the entrance hall, visitors can explore the secretary's reception room. This room offers a glimpse into the diplomatic history of Laos, as it showcases an array of paintings, silverware, and china that were presented to the country as diplomatic gifts.

The crown jewel of the Royal Palace National Museum is undoubtedly the throne room. This majestic space houses the precious Crown Jewels of Laos. These regal treasures represent the grandeur and historical legacy of the Lao monarchy, offering a glimpse into the opulence and splendor of a bygone era.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.

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Royal Palace National Museum on Map

Sight Name: Royal Palace National Museum
Sight Location: Luang Prabang, Laos (See walking tours in Luang Prabang)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Luang Prabang, Laos

Create Your Own Walk in Luang Prabang

Create Your Own Walk in Luang Prabang

Creating your own self-guided walk in Luang Prabang is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Luang Prabang Introduction Walking Tour

Luang Prabang Introduction Walking Tour

Initially founded as a city-state in the 8th century AD, Luang Prabang served as a religious center spreading Buddhism introduced to the region by Sri Lankan missionaries. Centuries on, their legacy is still alive in the abundance of Buddhist temples, known as Wats. Among them are the magnificent gilded 16th-century Wat Xieng Thong, the former residence of the Laotian chief Buddhist; the Wat Mai...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles