Louang Phrabang Pak Ou Cave Laos (Sept 2009) part 1

1 USD = 18000 VND (Vietnam Dong)
1 USD = 8500 LAK (Laos Kip)
1 USD = 3.5 RM (Ringgit Malaysia)
1 USD = 6.5 MMK (Myanmar Kyat)
1 USD = 4250 KHR (Cambodia Riel)
Luang Phrabang is a city in Laos; it was formerly the capital of a kingdom of the same name and is also the name of a province of which it is the capital. The city of Luang Phrabang is in north central Laos, on the Mekong River about 425 km north of Vientiane. It has a population of about 16,000 people. Until the communist takeover in 1975, it was the "royal capital," the seat of the king of Laos. Today it is a UNESCO World heritage site.
Pak Ou Caves - The famous "Buddha caves" are north of town on the Mekong and can be reached by road (approx 1 hr) or river boat. Alternatively, you can hire canoes and a guide for the day, which would allow you to view the beautiful scenery and visit the caves without throngs of other tourists. It's also possible to finish the trip at the 'whisky village' where the local Laolao (lao rice spirit) is made. There are two caves - one on the entry level and another - the upper caves - on top of the hill. A very steep climb, but worth the efforts. A torch recommended to see the upper cave, as it is dark.