Luang Prabang Early Morning Alms Giving and Wet Market

Luang Prabang , Laos

Luang Prabang Early Morning Alms Giving and Wet Market

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(5 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Anyone making it to Luang Prabang should permit an early morning wake-up call to bear witness and be blessed by giving alms to monks. A ritual so engulfed with spirituality, grace and devotion to Buddhism, nothing short of making it a Laos’ highlight.

• Take part in one of the most spiritual rituals in Luang Prabang – the Tak Bat
• See hundreds of monks walk through the streets in their saffron-coloured robes
• Learn about the deep respect the residents have for Buddhism and the monks during this early morning search for enlightenment.

Available options

Private Tour 25-26

Pickup included

What's included

An early morning tour with a professional English-speaking guide.

All applicable taxes and service charges

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

Food for donations to the Luang Prabang monks

Detailed itinerary

Guided by a local, English-speaking guide, you will be able to partake in this spiritual moment as he/she will explain the story behind this and observing the utmost respect towards its residents and the monks themselves. A mystical ritual and an integral part of the Buddhist philosophy, visitors may earn merit, or 'bun', towards their next life, enhancing their chances of improving their existence next time around.

A long line of monks creates a swirl of orange, accentuated by the soft morning light; the scene is framed by russet monastery roofs, tall palm trees, and whitewashed colonial housing. Within an hour, the monks complete their rounds and melt back into the monasteries-and the streets become quite ordinary again. Although this ritual can be seen in numerous parts of South-East Asia, it’s particularly striking in Luang Prabang because of the density of temples and the concentration of monks. After visit the morning wet market of Luang Prabang before returning to your hotel.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels

Single supplement charges for single travellers, where applicable

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Transfers from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply

Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Luang Prabang. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Kuang Si, along the Ou and Nam Khan River, Nong Kiau and Luang Prabang International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions

To respect local customs and respecting the Tak Bat alms giving ceremony on this tour, it is customary for guests to take off their shoes before presenting the alms to the monks.

Please dress respectfully by wearing clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. It is of the greatest importance to follow the guide’s instructions during this event in paying respect to the local customs.

This includes approaching the monks, taking photographs and obeying the unwritten rules and regulations of this deeply-spiritual encounter.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.

Certain scenes during this excursion may not be photographed for specific reasons. We kindly ask for your understanding by following local regulations.

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

Important notes

Our office hours are from 09:00 hrs. until 18:00 hrs. from Monday to Friday
- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.
- Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation. These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

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.