Wake up before the sun does for Tak Bat alms giving in Phanom Village where you will be the only foreigners unlike in Luang Prabang town. Experience this longstanding Buddhist tradition in the company of our English speaking monk-in-residence (and activities master) Noi’s who spent many years as a monk himself, including months at a time in silent Vipassana meditation.
Thanks to Noi’s insights, we sent you off with fiber-rich seasonal fruits to supplement the monks’ diet, be it crimson apples, calyx-stemmed mangosteen or aromatic jackfruit.
Following the scenic 15-minute car ride, take a seat in front of Phanom’s wing-tipped temple alongside the gossiping local grannies, their woven rattan baskets brimming with sticky rice. Around 20 monks and novices arrive on foot, wrapped in their saffron robes and chanting Buddhist scripture as you make merit by providing their first meal of the day. A short water ritual follows, to symbolize the life-giving nature surrounding us.
After the ritual, visit the bustling morning market and try local Laotian breakfast with Noi.
Daily, Advanced Reservations Required
Early Morning
Phanom Village
USD 180 per couple
Spiritual Journey
