Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Luang Prabang, Laos, and Mekong River Giant Catfish


Luang Prabang, Lao P.D.R.
The view of Luang Prabang from Phu si

Photography: Jatuporn Rutnin

postmarked in 2010 with two great Laos stamps

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Luang Prabang, or Louangphrabang (literally: "Royal Buddha Image), is a city located in north central Laos, on the Mekong River. The current population of the city is about 103,000.

Tourism:

Luang Prabang has both natural and historical sites. Among the natural tourism sites, there are the Kuang Si Falls and Pak Ou Caves. Tourists may also ride elephants. At the end of the main street of Luang Prabang is a night market where stalls sell shirts, bracelets, tea - suitable souvenirs. Also, a significant part of the old town's appeal are the many French provincial style houses.

The city is also notable as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lao PDR (Laos) Stamp from 2005
Mekong River Giant Catfish 6500 K

The Mekong giant catfish grows extremely quickly, reaching a mass of 150 to 200 kg in only six years. The largest catch recorded in Thailand since record-keeping began in 1981 was a female measuring 2.7 m (roughly 9 feet) in length and weighing 293 kg (646 lb).

Lao PDR (Laos) Stamp from 2009
Antiquity of Lao 2000 K

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