Things to Do in Laos

Amantaka - Alms Offering (Tak Bat)

Luang Prabang, Laos

Every morning at sunrise (05:30-06:00) for centuries the tradition of Tak Bat has taken place. Partake in this contemplative and spiritual experience and offer Alms (sticky rice and other foods) with locals to the monastic population of Luang Prabang.

Amantaka - Baci Ceremony

Luang Prabang, Laos

Overseen by a master of ceremonies or "Mo Phon", take part in a traditional 30-minute Baci ceremony and receive Baci strings around your wrists. A ritual practiced in Luang Prabang for hundreds of years it is thought to protect from illness and sadness.

Amantaka - Buddhist Pilgrimage to the Budding Buddhist Academy

Luang Prabang, Laos

A unique Buddhist site, this project is located in the rice fields and forests north of the city. You will spend one full morning with the novices of Vat Souvanna Khili carrying out your own Buddhist pilgrimage by boat in support of this place of study.

Amantaka - Floral temple offering

Luang Prabang, Laos

Create a religious offering or Vanh-Cornet to present to monks at the village temple of Wat That Noi with the help of one of Amantaka's artists, using banana leaves and local flowers from the jungle surrounding Luang Prabang.

Amantaka - Luang Prabang city tour

Luang Prabang, Laos

Spend half a day exploring remarkable Luang Prabang from Amantaka with a private guide on foot or by bicycle. Visit notable landmarks such as Wat Visoun, follow the Nam Khan River to Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Sene, The Royal Palace and impressive Wat Mai.

Amantaka - Monk blessing at Wat That Luang

Luang Prabang, Laos

Arrive at Wat That Luang (Monastery of the Royal Stupa) accompanied by Tiao Nith, Amanataka's resident artist. Here you will be blessed with fragrant water by the monk after which string bracelets will be tied to your wrists to be kept on indefinitely.

Amantaka - Offering of food to one chosen Monastic Community

Luang Prabang, Laos

Taking food to the temple for boys living in monasteries who are from poorer families in far away villages is an essential way that local people participate in the life of the monastic community. Amantaka can prepare this with you and recommend a temple.

Amantaka - Pak Ou Caves

Luang Prabang, Laos

Take a relaxing cruise along the Mekong with your private guide to Pak Ou caves where you will be met by thousands of Buddha statues offered by pilgrims for hundreds of years. Observe village life on the banks of the river and enjoy a picnic en route.

Amantaka - Morning market walk with our chef

Luang Prabang, Laos

Visit the colourful and exotic morning market in Luang Prabang with Amantaka's chef to learn more about Lao food and its ingredients. Surrounded by vegetables, spices, freshwater fish and meats it is a real treat for photographers.

Books Not Bombs

Luang Prabang, Laos

Sadly in Laos, books are often a luxury few can afford. Spend the day learning about the people and organisations trying to change this, bringing education and a love of reading to local children.