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Merry Riverside Hotel sits right on the Nam Khan River — you’re actually on the water, not across the road like most “riverside” hotels in Old Town.
I stayed here, and it was surprisingly quiet at night, which is rare in Luang Prabang.
Breakfast is served on a little riverfront terrace and bikes are free, so it works really well for couples, light sleepers, and families.
Below I’ll show you which room to book (hint: balcony), how late check-in works, and what to expect if you arrive after dark
Is this a safe, good-value pick for families and late arrivals?
If you want real riverside views without Mekong-front prices, this is a strong choice.
The hotel sits at the quiet end of a narrow lane directly on the Nam Khan River, so nights are peaceful and you’re away from the Old Town traffic.
Staff are warm and helpful, and there are Family Rooms.
For late-night arrivals, you’ll need to arrange a driver who knows the lane entrance.
Pre-arranged pickup is the least stressful option for families or solo travelers arriving after dark.
If you expect to arrive after 22:00, message the hotel in advance to confirm key handover.
Where is it, and how long does it take to reach the Night Market?
The hotel is just outside the busiest Old Town streets on the Nam Khan riverbank.
It’s about 10–15 minutes on foot (≈1 km) to the Night Market and main sights.
Free bicycles make it even easier.
I stayed here and the first thing I noticed was how quiet it gets at night once you turn into the little lane.
Which room should you book for the best view?
Book a River View category—ideally with a balcony.
The “King Room” and “Family Suite” with balcony are the sweet spots if you value open river scenery.
I stayed in the Family Suite with balcony (double + single) and spent most of my downtime on the terrace facing the Nam Khan.
Note: Not all rooms face the river; double-check the room name and photos when booking.
In the rainy season the Nam Khan is fuller and more dramatic; in the dry season the flow drops.
If river scenery is your priority, aim for rainy season.
How much does it cost, and how easy is it to book?
Typical rates sit in the mid-range for Luang Prabang and are usually cheaper than Mekong-front properties.
Exact prices vary by season and room type.
Availability is straightforward on major OTAs; you can compare room names to ensure you’re choosing Riverview.
What do you get for free (and what’s missing)?
Included perks
- Breakfast included, served on a small riverfront terrace with open views of the Nam Khan. Seating is first-come, first-served.
- Free bicycle rental, ideal for short hops around compact Luang Prabang.
- Wi-Fi, bottled water, basic bath amenities, and parking are provided.
I loved having breakfast while watching Nam Khan — worth waking up a bit earlier to claim a front table.
What are the trade-offs (no pool, gym, tub)?
This is a value-first riverside stay, which means a few honest compromises:
- Slightly outside the densest Old Town area (that’s why nights are quieter).
- No pool or gym; showers only (no bathtubs).
- Bath amenities are simple: shampoo + body wash only (no conditioner).
During my stay, the handheld shower spray felt a bit “prickly,” likely due to tight nozzle holes; the rain shower worked fine.
Bottom line: If you can accept these, you’re rewarded with quiet, real riverfront mornings and nights.
It’s not flashy luxury—it’s the quiet kind, where you sit on the balcony and feel like the river is yours for a while.
Is it safe and comfortable at night?
Yes—because it sits at the end of a quiet lane, you’re away from late-night noise.
I walked back in the evening and it felt calm, with staff around.
If you’re arriving very late, tell the hotel your ETA and confirm access instructions for the lane.
Family-friendly details
Family Suites fit parents + a child comfortably (double + single layout).
The balcony gives parents a place to unwind after bedtime while still keeping an ear on the room.
Extra towels can usually be provided on request.
Nearby experiences (alms route, cafés, sauna)
- Local alms route passes near the lane outside.
This isn’t a staged experience; observe respectfully.
Please observe respectfully; don’t use flash or block the monks.
If you want to participate, go to the Old Town routes where etiquette is guided.
- Cafés, small shops, and a rental bike shop are within walking distance, so daily needs are covered.
- The Lao Red Cross Herbal Sauna is a pleasant walk away—sweat, then a cold drink.
Who will love this hotel (and who won’t)?
Choose it if you want true riverside views, a quiet night’s sleep, and good value without paying Mekong-front premiums.
Skip it if you require a pool/gym, a bathtub, or to be right on the Night Market street.
My room: balcony-first, bed-second
I stayed in the Family Suite with balcony (double + single).
The balcony was the star—that is what you’re paying for.
The room footprint is decent on paper, but the beds take most of it.
I’d still rebook purely for the balcony sunsets.
Basic information (easy reference)
| Address | Choxomphou, Luang Prabang 06000, Laos |
| Check-in Check-out | 13:00–22:00 by 12:00 (12:00 pm) |
| Rooms | ~8 total |
| Breakfast | included; terrace seating, first-come |
| Freebies | Wi-Fi, bottled water, basic amenities, bicycles, parking |
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