Rent a bike to visit the less accessible temples
Because today is a somewhat relaxed day, I made the choice to cycle around Luang Prabang. Initially, I have a large breakfast diagonally opposite my guesthouse. While eating, the waiter begins talking to me, inquiring whether or not I have already explored the Kuang Si Falls. He can arrange the trip by mini-van. Initially, I wanted to do this by boat, but I confirm anyway.
I also rent a bicycle from him, as I want to cycle around Luang Prabang today to visit some of the temples that are located in more secluded areas. In order to borrow a bike, I will have to leave my passport as a deposit. Although I am not particularly excited about this, it is a common practice to do so.
Surprising discovery when I cycle around Luang Prabang
As I cycle around Luang Prabang, I head south and finally find Wat Hosiang Voravihane, with great silver-colored nagas at the entrance. Then I continue even further south and discover Wat That Luang, and I am truly amazed by what I see. I have visited many temples lately, but this one in Luang Prabang truly stands out as the most stunning.
The beautifully detailed black window frames, the exquisite Buddha inside, and the impressive stupa outside, all contribute to its magnificent beauty. Additionally, the serene Buddha statue located beneath a grand bodhi tree adds to the enchanting atmosphere of this temple. I am content with my decision to visit this location as not many tourists put in the effort to go there.
Talking to Buddhist novices at the river junction
Then I pedal back to the center to visit the museum again. However, to my dismay, I discover that the museum is closed once more. I don’t seem to be able to visit this place no matter what. So I decide to cycle around Luang Prabang a little further and stop at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Ka river. There I chat with a few Buddhist students for a while before continuing my way back to the guesthouse to relax. The cycling in this hot weather is taking its toll.
Watching a movie to kill time
Following a brief nap, I head to a bakery shop where I intend to grab a bite and a drink — specifically, a tuna sandwich paired with a beer. It appears that at 4 pm, they will be screening a movie, Million Dollar Baby. Watching movies while on holiday seems a bit out of place, but since I have ample free time, I enter the venue right as the film begins. It is an emotionally moving tale – directed by Clint Eastwood – about a young girl’s aspirations to pursue a boxing career. Although she excels in the sport, her journey has unexpected and dramatic twists.
Owner not aware of my booking for tomorrow
While watching the movie, I consume multiple pints of beer. Afterward, I no longer feel the urge to cycle around Luang Prabang anymore. As a result, I decide to return the bicycle and retrieve my passport. The owner says she has several trips on offer.
When I tell her that I have already booked a trip to the Kuang Si waterfalls with her staff, it turns out she is not aware of this. The young man I made the appointment with this morning is new to the job, having only been there for two days. An unusual way of running a business, it seems to me. However, she reassures me that I don’t need to be concerned and that I should return tomorrow morning to resolve the matter.
Seen enough of this World Heritage City
In the meantime, the effect of the alcohol is taking its toll on me. It would be best to stay somewhat reserved for the remainder of the evening. Tomorrow will be my final day in Luang Prabang. I am looking forward to returning to Chiang Mai. However charming this small World Heritage City can be, I guess I have seen what I wanted to.
