The ancient town of Luang Prabang is situated in northern Laos and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Considered by many travellers and writers as being the heart of Laotian culture, the tiny town is encircled by mountains and is 700 metres above sea level at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. Luang Prabang is Laos' premier tourist destination and one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful spots.
Alms Giving - The Buddhist Way of Life
Buddhism is a very important part of life in Laos. With 35 Buddhist Wats (temples) in Luang Prabang alone, you won’t go far without sensing how important this religion is to the people of Laos.
Buddhism is a tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development. Buddhists strive for a deep insight into the true nature of life and do not worship gods or deities. Founded over 2500 years ago, Buddhism now has over 376 million followers.
For many young boys in Laos, the temple is their only opportunity to receive an education when their family can’t afford the costs associated even with public school. Monks often come from poor rural villages throughout the north, boys as young as seven can receive acceptance to a temple and free education (usually sponsored by the temple). The life of a novice is not an easy one. They leave their home and families knowing it could be years before being reunited. The shared accommodation is very basic.
As the sun rises in Luang Prabang around 200 Buddhist monks depart from their various temples to gather their daily meal. The tradition of alms gathering dates back to the 14th century, yet still today locals wake early to prepare the food for the monks and wait quietly by the roadside to give their gifts. Although the main purpose is for locals to give alms to the monks, you will also notice small children kneeling with baskets in the hope that the monks will share some of their alms with them so that they can take food back to their family. Women show their respect by not looking at the monks and keeping a low posture to them.
Everywhere you go you see temples, statues and symbols honouring Buddha.
As you walk around the city you see monks going about their daily routines.
Kuangsi Waterfalls
is a three levelled waterfall about 29 kilometres (18 mi) south of Luang Prabang. These waterfalls are a favourite side trip for tourists in Luang Prabang. The falls begin in shallow pools atop a steep hillside. These lead to the main fall with a 60 metres (200 ft) drop.
Another favourite thing to do in Luang Prabang is to walk across the bamboo bridge. This bridge is built completely out of bamboo and is rebuilt every year because of the damage caused from the floods of the rainy season.