Old French Bridge

The Old French Bridge crosses the Nam Khan and links a walk around Luang Prabang with a visit to the craft villages of Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek. The local tourism site identifies the old bridge as a bicycle route to the villages; visitors can also walk there via the bamboo bridge, while tuk-tuks use the new bridge. After crossing the old bridge, turn left and follow the road north along the Mekong. Craft shops and workshops can be found along the way.

The villages are known for making Saa paper from mulberry bark and weaving traditional textiles. The bridge works best as part of a longer outing: cross the Nam Khan, continue to the workshops, and see paper-making or weaving. The official tourism site notes that Saa paper is sold in Luang Prabang markets and used as restaurant menus; visiting the villages offers a chance to see how it is made.

The old bridge itself is a heritage structure spanning the river. A UNESCO World Heritage Centre mission report recommends conserving and retaining the existing bridge, while considering a new bridge for vehicles and other traffic-management measures. This highlights the old crossing’s place in the town’s historic setting. Before setting out, note that the routes differ: cyclists can use the old bridge, while the site lists the bamboo bridge for pedestrians. Follow local signs and allow time for the journey and a visit to the craft workshops.

Address

Old bridge over the Nam Khan, Luang Prabang, Laos

On the map