Luang Prabang Alms Giving Ceremony and Mekong Cruise with Lunch

Luang Prabang , Laos

Luang Prabang Alms Giving Ceremony and Mekong Cruise with Lunch

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Luang Prabang with this private tour featuring the sacred alms giving ceremony. Witness the serene procession of saffron-robed monks collecting offerings at dawn, and learn about its significance from your expert guide. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Mekong River toward the mystical Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues. Savor a delicious lunch at a riverside restaurant and visit a traditional weaving village to see artisans at work, preserving ancient techniques.

- Expert English-speaking guide to enrich your cultural experience
- Experience and know about daily routine of Monk/Novice for Alms Giving
- Scenic boat ride to Pak Ou Caves, a revered pilgrimage site
- Enjoy a tasty lunch with authentic Lao flavors at the Mekong Back restaurant
- Relax on the Mekong Cruise to Buddha Cave and Visit whisky villages (Lao Alcohol Village)

Available options

Luang Prabang Alms Giving Ceremony and Mekong Cruise with Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Private Boat

Admission Fee

Local-style scarf to wear during the ceremony

Traditional Lao offering set (sticky rice, banana, snacks)

Lunch

Drinking Water

Hotel Pickup and Drop off

English Speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Your tour will start by hotel pickup then head out to join Arm Giving Ceremony. As the sun rises and temple gongs echo through the quiet streets, witness one of Southeast Asia’s most sacred rituals: the daily alms giving ceremony. Around 300 young monks in saffron robes walk silently in a solemn procession, collecting offerings of sticky rice and food in their bronze bowls. This centuries-old tradition reflects the Buddhist values of humility and compassion. Your guide will help you respectfully participate in the ritual and explain its spiritual significance.

Stop 2

After the ceremony, take a leisurely stroll through Luang Prabang’s bustling morning market. Watch locals haggle over fresh produce, meats, and herbs, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of daily life. Return to your hotel for breakfast before embarking on a scenic boat journey along the Mekong River. Cruise through tea-colored waters toward the mystical Pak Ou Caves, a revered pilgrimage site filled with thousands of Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes, tucked into limestone grottoes.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Mekong Back restaurant, offering riverside views and authentic Lao flavors. On your return journey, stop at a traditional weaving village where artisans work on ancient looms, preserving centuries-old techniques. This private tour blends spiritual insight, cultural immersion, and natural beauty—perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Laos.

After the tour finish, our tour guide will take care you back to your hotel.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

To show respect for the local culture when visiting temples, kindly ensure that you wear attire that covers the knees, such as a long dress or trousers.

Please bring your passport copy with you

About Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved traditional Laos architecture and serene natural beauty. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, it offers a unique blend of historic temples, French colonial buildings, and lush landscapes.

Top Attractions

Wat Xieng Thong

One of the most important temples in Laos, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate mosaics.

Religious 1-2 hours 5 USD

Mount Phousi

A small mountain in the center of Luang Prabang offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Nature 1-2 hours 5 USD

Kuang Si Falls

A stunning series of waterfalls and turquoise pools, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Nature Half day 10 USD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Larb

A spicy minced meat salad with herbs, spices, and lime juice.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with tofu.

Tam Mak Hoong

Green papaya salad with tomatoes, chilies, and lime juice.

Main Dish Vegetarian if made without fish sauce.

Khao Soi

A Northern Lao noodle dish with a coconut curry broth.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding mountains Kayaking on the Mekong River Visiting spas and wellness centers Sunset watching at Mount Phousi Attending a traditional Lao dance performance Participating in a cooking class Swimming at Kuang Si Falls Boat tours on the Mekong River

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the cool and dry season, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. The weather is pleasant, and it's the peak tourist season.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Lao
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Lao Kip (LAK)

Time Zone

Indochina Time (ICT), UTC+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Luang Prabang is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious with your belongings and use common sense.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Luang Prabang International Airport • 3 km from city center

By bus

Northern Bus Station, Southern Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The most common and affordable mode of transport. Negotiate fares before starting your journey.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Limited app-based services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Ban Phou Khoune

Day trips

Pak Ou Caves

25 km north of Luang Prabang • Half day

A complex of caves filled with thousands of Buddha images, dating back to the 16th century.

Living Land Farm

15 km from Luang Prabang • Half day

A working farm offering insights into traditional Lao farming practices and sustainable agriculture.

Festivals

Lao New Year (Pi Mai) • April 13-15 Boun Ok Phansa • October (date varies)

Pro tips

Visit Kuang Si Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool weather.
Attend the alms-giving ceremony (Tak Bat) for a unique cultural experience, but be respectful and follow the rules.
Explore the city on foot or by bicycle to discover hidden gems and local life.
Try local Lao coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at the many cafes in town.
Bargain politely when shopping at markets, as prices are often inflated for tourists.