Luang Prabang Tourism Halves Year-on-Year During Pi Mai Lao

This Week

Luang Prabang recorded a dramatic drop in visitor numbers during the Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) festival this year, with authorities reporting a 46 percent decline compared to the same period in 2025.

The number of tourists visiting the city between 10 and 20 April fell from 126,846 in 2025 to just 68,126 this year, according to the provincial culture and tourism department. 

Both international and domestic segments were affected, with international arrivals dropping by 42 percent, while domestic tourists fell by 48 percent.

China emerged as the top international source country with 2,102 visitors, marking a 105 percent increase over the previous year. Thailand ranked second with 1,207 visitors, though that figure represented a steep 75 percent fall. 

Vietnam rounded out the top three, surging 142 percent compared to the prior year. 

The drop in footfall translated directly into lost revenue. The city generated USD 52.2 million during the festival period this year, compared to USD 97.5 million in 2025.

Visitor spending patterns added further weight to the economic picture. Domestic tourists stayed an average of three days at USD 109 per person per day, while international visitors remained for an average of five days and spent approximately USD 300 per person per day.

Pi Mai Lao is the highlight of the tourism calendar for Luang Prabang, one of Laos’ most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Cities, drawing visitors each year with its distinctive traditions including the Nang Sangkhan procession, almsgiving ceremonies, paper lantern releases, and the naga parade.

Latest article