Royal Car Exhibition

“Did anyone here arrive in a classic car?” I ask, a playful glint in my eye as I gesture towards the Royal Car Exhibition. This often-overlooked gem, tucked away on the grounds of the former Royal Palace, offers a fascinating glimpse into Laos’s royal history. The Royal Car Exhibition showcases the vehicles once owned by the Lao monarchy. It’s a small but impressive collection, primarily featuring American cars from the 1950s to the 1970s. Imagine King Sisavang Vong, who reigned for 55 years, being chauffeured around Luang Prabang in one of these beauties. The Royal Palace, also known as “Haw Kham” or “Golden Hall,” was built for him and his family in 1904. It’s a blend of Lao tradition and French colonial architecture, reflecting the era in which it was constructed. While the main palace building is now a museum, the Royal Car Exhibition stands as a separate testament to the monarchy’s more modern tastes. It’s a unique blend of historical periods, showcasing a bygone era of Lao royalty in a distinctly Western style. The collection includes several makes and models, each with its own story to tell. They are a reminder of a time when Laos was a kingdom and these cars were symbols of power and prestige. After exploring the main museum, be sure to venture over to the Royal Car Exhibition. It’s a delightful addendum to your royal palace experience. You’ll find it behind the garages, near another building that hosts rotating exhibitions. It’s a small detour that offers a surprising and memorable look at a different facet of Laos’s royal past.