Luang Prabang (also
Louangphrabang,
Lao ຫລວງພະບາງ) is a province of
Laos, located in the north of the country. Its capital of the same name,
Luang Prabang, was the capital of
Lane Xang Kingdom during the 13th to 16th centuries. It is listed since 1995 by
UNESCO as a
World Heritage Site for unique architectural, religious and cultural heritage, a blend of the rural and urban developments over several centuries, including the
French colonial influences during the 19th and 20th centuries. The province has 12 districts, Luang Prabang, Xieng Ngeun, Nan, Pak Ou, Nambak, Ngoi, Pakseng, Phonxay, Chomphet, Viengkham and Phoukhouny. The
Royal Palace, the national museum in the capital city, and the Phou Loei Protected Reserve are important sites. Notable temples in the province are the
Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Wisunarat,
Wat Sen, Wat Xieng Muan, and
Wat Manorom. The
Lao New Year is celebrated in April as The Bun Pi Mai.