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Alms Giving in Luang Prabang
Alms Giving Luang Prabang
Monks walking by Mount Phousi

Alms Giving

Each morning at dawn in Luang Prabang the local Buddhist monks form a procession around the streets of this charming town, collecting alms of rice and vegetables from the local population.

Alms giving is an integral part of the Buddhist philosophy, earning the giver merit, or 'bun', toward their next life, enhancing their chances of improving their existence next time around. Taking part in this daily ritual can be one of the highlights of a stay in Luang Prabang.

You are collected by your guide from your hotel early in the morning (approximately 5.30am but varying according to season) and given a small food parcel which will have been freshly prepared that morning. A short walk takes you to a suitable vantage point and your guide will give you a quick instruction in etiquette.

The procession does not last very long and you will be back at your hotel in plenty of time for breakfast before you enjoy the rest of your day.

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Photos of Alms Giving

  • Alms Giving in Luang Prabang
    Alms Giving in Luang Prabang
  • Monks walking by Mount Phousi
    Monks walking by Mount Phousi
  • Woman giving alms before sunrise in Luang Prabang
    Woman giving alms before sunrise in Luang Prabang
  • Early morning Alms Giving ceremony in Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang
    Early morning Alms Giving ceremony in Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang

Other experiences in Luang Prabang

These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.

  • Evening Baci Ceremony
    Traditional dress

    Evening Baci Ceremony

    Evening Baci Ceremony

    The Baci ceremony is a mix of Animism and Buddhism. These ceremonies are common to Laos. Their purpose is to call back your own spirits to your body because they sometimes escape.

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  • Kuang Si Waterfalls
    Kuang Si Waterfall, Luang Prabang

    Kuang Si Waterfalls

    Kuang Si Waterfalls

    Kuang Si Falls are 30 kilometers from town. The excursion leaves Luang Prabang in the morning and heads toward Ban Ou by boat.

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  • Living Land Rice Experience
    Workers at the Living Land Rice Experience, Luang Prabang

    Living Land Rice Experience

    Living Land Rice Experience

    This is a great opportunity to experience the hard life of a farmer and try your hand at some of the activities, such as working with Suzuki the water buffalo, in knee-deep muddy rice paddies. Enjoyable and very educational, you will learn about the 13 steps and various methods involved in planting, growing, harvesting and cooking rice.

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  • Luang Prabang Discovery
    Temple in Luang Prabang

    Luang Prabang Discovery

    Luang Prabang Discovery

    The day is spent with your guide discovering the magical temples and ancient crafts practiced in this beautiful city in the mountains. Exactly what you choose to do on this day is up to you and can be discussed with your guide.

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  • Nam Ou River Adventure
    Pak Ou caves

    Nam Ou River Adventure

    Nam Ou River Adventure

    The Ou River is a tributary of the Mekong and its valley has some of the most stunning scenery in the whole of Laos. You will take longtail motorboats to cover the distance through the valley back to Luang Prabang, stopping en route to visit some of the local hill tribe villages and the holy Pak Ou Caves.

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Experience it for yourself

You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.