Laos adventure Tour 10 Days 9 Nights - Explore the most rural areas of Laos

Your adventurous hobby will be pleased by a long-tail boat trip to Muong Ngoi and continue to our remote area – Luang Namtha. Meet, speak and explore ethnic minorities customs with a standard homestay among forest will make your journey be unforgotten.

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Head Office

88/07 Ban Phonpheng, Phouvao Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

+856 (0) 71 25 24 00

+856 (0) 71 25 27 25

info@asiarevealtour.com

Day1. Arrival – HoueiSay (B/…/…)
On arrival at the Lao border checkpoint at HoueiSay pier, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Today you are free at your leissure to explore this town, visiting the local market and villages nearby. The surrounding areas of HoueiSay are home to 34 ethnic minority groups, the second most ethnically diverse province in Laos.
Overnight in HoueiSay

Day2. HoueiSay – Luang Namtha (B/…/…)
Early morning we head out the town to Luang Namtha, this will be a bumpy ride driving along dirt roads, uphill and downhill. The scenery is great and wonderful which makes it worth it; we visit hill tribe villages along the road at Muang Phouka and other surrounding area. Luang Namtha, which is located on the banks of the Namtha River, is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful tropical forests and shares its border with China and Myanmar. We arrive in Luang Namtha in late evening.
Overnight in Luang Namtha

Day3. Luang Namtha – Ban Nalan (B/L/D)
Heading out of the town, we take a short drive to Ban Chalernsuk. Then trek to Ban Nalan by late afternoon. Take Homestay.

Day4. Ban Nalan – Ban Namlu – Luang Namtha (B/L/…)
Trek to Ban Namkoy, passing picturesque landscape of forests and rice fields. Then go to Ban Namlu, we meet up with our truck and drive back towards Luang Namtha Town.
Overnight in Luang Namtha

Day5. Luang Namtha – Xieng Kok – Moung Sing (B/…/…)
We travel by road to Moung Sing and Xieng Kok, which is a border town near the golden triangle. In late afternoon, we drive back to Muong Sing with stopover at the Lantern minority village.
Overnight at Moung Sing

Day6. Muong Sing – Luang Namtha – Oudomxay (B/…/…)
Early morning, we visit the bustling colorful Morning Market and the impressive Ethnologic museum, transfer back to Luang Namtha and then to Oudomxay.
Overnight in Oudomxay

Day7. Oudomxay – Nong Khiow – Luang Prabang (Road and boat) (B/L/…)
We depart early for our drive to Nong Khiow, where we board a traditional boat down the Nam Ou River to Luang Prabang. Arrive in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon and transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day8. Luang Prabang – City Tour (B/…/…)
After breakfast, visit Wat Sene, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Visoun, Wat Aham, Wat Mai and Mount Phousi.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day9. Luang Prabang – Kuangsi (B/…/…)
Visit Phosi Market then head out to Khoang Si Water fall, enroute visit ethnic minority.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day10. Luang Prabang Departure (B)
Today is free at your leisure to transfer to airport for your flight home.

Laos Tour 3 Days - Ancient Capital

Luang Prabang is a beautiful and tranquil dream-like setting with a fusion of foreign influences and splendid landscape scenery, making this an idyllic, unspoiled and charming destination for visitors. It is no wonder this amazing city was recently declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO.

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Head Office

88/07 Ban Phonpheng, Phouvao Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

+856 (0) 71 25 24 00

+856 (0) 71 25 27 25

info@asiarevealtour.com

Day 1: Luang Prabang – Arrival  
Welcome to Luang Prabang!
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Check-in and the rest of day is free at leisure.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 2: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou & Khoangsi (B, L)
Breakfast at hotel.
After breakfast, we will visit National Museum at the former Royal Palace displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign; the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the small village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is distilled. We return to Luang Prabang for lunch at local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we will drive our way to Khoang Si Waterfall. On the way, we will stop by some local villages of Lao ethnic minority groups including Ban Ouay, a Hemong village, Ban Ou, a Laoloum village and Ban Thapene, a Khmu village. Later, free yourself in the cool ponds of Kuang Si Waterfall. Splashing, swimming, or simply walking the lush trails, Kuang Si Waterfall perfectly illustrates an ideal cooling-off for your Laos tours! We will be back to Luang Prabang.
Free evening at your leisure or explore the Night Market by your own.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Departure (B)
Breakfast at hotel.
Free to explore the ancient town, until the time transfer to the airport for departure flight.
End of services./.

Laos Tour: Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang - Vientiane 4 Days 3 Nights

Vang Vieng – Heaven on the land, the ideal place for adventure & retreat activities in the North of Laos. Our overland tour Vientiane – Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang will take an opportunity for you to try Kayaking/trekking/hiking/tubing/biking throughout the land of Million Elephant.

http://asiarevealtour.com/ourproducts/stunning-laos-4-days-3-nights

CONTACT US FOR AN INQUIRY

Head Office

88/07 Ban Phonpheng, Phouvao Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

+856 (0) 71 25 24 00

+856 (0) 71 25 27 25

info@asiarevealtour.com

Day 1: Bangkok – Vientiane (QV442 @ 0935 – 1035)  – Vang Vieng (L, D)

Welcome to Vientiane!
Visit Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo, Patuxay Monument, That Luang and Buddha Park. In the afternoon, we leave Vientiane to Vang Vieng.Lunch and Dinner at local restaurants.  
Overnight in Vang Vieng

Day 2: Vang Vieng & Tham Jang Cave – Overland to Luang Prabang (B, L, D)
Breakfast at hotel.We will visit the most famous Tham Jang Caves. Afterthat, we then heading out of Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang.
In the evening, we will explore the Night Market. Lunch and Dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Cave & Khouangsi Waterfall (B, L, D)
Breakfast at hotel.Then we visit Wat Sene; the magnificent Wat Xiengthong.  Boat trip to Pak Ou Caves, visit Ban Xanghai.
In the afternoon, we will drive our way to Khoang Si Waterfall. Enroute visit Ban Ouay, Ban Ou, Ban Thaphene. Return to Luang Prabang, climb up 328 steps of Mount Phousi. Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 4: Luang Prabang – Alm giving – Museum – Departure (B, L)
Take part in Morning Alm Giving, then visit National Museum. Free at leisure until the time transfer to the airport for departure flight.
End of services./.

Laos best seller tour: Excited Laos 5 Days 4 Nights

Laos, is definitely one of the most impressive countries in the world. Quiet, peaceful, holiness, smiling, preserved and reserved, are really spellbinding for the travelers.
We propose this 5 days tour, with an English guide, visiting the city and discovering the way of Buddhism.

http://asiarevealtour.com/ourproducts/excited-laos-5-days-4-nights

CONTACT US FOR AN INQUIRY

Head Office

88/07 Ban Phonpheng, Phouvao Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

+856 (0) 71 25 24 00

+856 (0) 71 25 27 25

info@asiarevealtour.com

Day 1:Hanoi – Vientiane (QV921 @ 0940 – 1050) (D)
Welcome to Vientiane!
Visit Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo, Patuxay Monument, That Luang and Buddha Park
Dinner at local restaurant.
Overnigh tin Vientiane

Day 2: Vientiane – Vang Vieng (B, L)
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit Nam Ngum Lake then transfer to Vang Vieng. Lunch at local restaurant. The rest of afternoon, we will visit the surroundings and the Tham Jang Caves, a cave temple with a huge stalagmite resembling an elephant’s head.
Overnight in Vang Vieng

Day 3: Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang (B, D)
Breakfast at hotel.
Heading out to Luang Prabang. Climb up to the top of mount Phousi. Then visit Night Market. Dinner at local restaurant.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 4: Luang Prabang – City & Pak Ou (B, L)
Take part in Alms Giving.
After breakfast at hotel,  visit Wat Mai; the National Museum at the former Royal Palace, the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, boat trip to Pak Ou Caves. Along the way, we stop at the small village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is distilled. We visit Ban Xang Khong. Lunch at local restaurant.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 5: Luang Prabang – Khouangsi waterfall & Departure (B, L)
Breakfast at hotel. We then visit the Phousi Market, then drive our way to Khoang Si Waterfall. Visit Ban Ouay,  Ban Ou, Ban Thapene, a Khmu village. Later, free yourself in the cool ponds of Kuang Si Waterfall. Splashing, swimming, or simply walking the lush trails, Kuang Si Waterfall perfectly illustrates an ideal cooling-off for your Laos tours! Lunch at local restaurant.
We will be back to Luang Prabang and free at leisure until the time transfer to the airport for departure flight.
End of services./.

Luang Prabang Elephant Festival 2015

“The Mark Community” led Luang Prabang’s public and private sector tourism stakeholders sponsored an Elephant Baci Ceremony during the city’s 20th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The event welcomed a 20-strong Elephant Caravan, which spent 53 days trekking the 630-km route from Sayabouly Province’s Elephant Conservation Centre to Luang Prabang.
Led by Luang Prabang’s revered white elephant, the caravan arrived at the Elephant Baci Ceremony at 11:00 Thursday, 10 December, where a crowd of thousands welcoming them to the outdoor arena.
‪Luang Prabang View‬ hotel owner, Bounthieng Deuangprasurth, donated the land for the event, which took place on the proposed site for the new Night Market.

The Luang Prabang View hotel recently received “The Mark” for clean and safe dining, and joins the city’s Mark Community, a growing group of local hotels and restaurants certified by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) for following global food production guidelines.
The Mark Community supported the ceremony, with nine hotels, along with LANITH (Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality), signing up to back the event.
The Mark Community members co-sponsoring the ceremony included ‪‎Kiridara‬, ‪Maison Dalabua‬, ‪Maison Souvannaphoum‬, ‪Satri House‬, ‪Victoria Xiengthong Palace‬, ‪Villa Maly‬, ‪Villa Santi‬, and ‪3 Nagas‬.
The sizeable venue for the Elephant Baci Ceremony featured a massive lotus-shaped flower centerpiece, made with more than 200 kg of marigolds pinned to a banana-skin frame.
Luang Prabang View contributed LAK15 million (USD1,850) for the floral statue as well as the ceremony’s stage, scaffolding, and lights, with The Mark Community and partnering tourism stakeholders adding a combined USD1,500.
Luang Prabang View also arranged the USD1,000 fruit feast for the elephants, which dined at individual tables.
During the ceremony, Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Khampheng Saysompheng presented Deuangprasurth and Sebastien Duffilot, co-founder of the Elephant Conservation Center, with awards recognising their contributions to Laos and the ‪#‎UNESCO‬ anniversary celebration.
After the event, The Mark Manager Manichan Chanpradid revealed LANITH – The Mark’s operating body – is set to continue the CIEH training program and restaurant audits in 2016.
The Mark certifies restaurants and hotels meet CIEH global standards for clean and safe food production.
“We aim to add 15 members to The Mark Community in 2016,” Ms Chanpradid said.
LANITH also announced a soon-to-open luxury hotel has booked The Balcony, the institute’s restaurant d’application in Luang Prabang, to train its staff to international standards.
Gary Tyson, general manager of the new five-star property located on the grounds of the old Phousy Hotel, said he wants the hotel to hit the ground running when it opens in 2016.
“It is imperative that our staff receive CIEH training and the hotel achieves The Mark to ensure we deliver quality service with safe and hygienic food production,” he said.
Tyson added: “We also want to become an active member of The Mark Community and contribute to establishing Luang Prabang as a competitive international destination.”

The Mark Community is the leading private-sector partner in the local government’s Luang Prabang Safe & Green Tourism Scheme. Among its objectives is solidifying public-private sector partnerships to promote tourism for the UNESCO World Heritage city.
LANITH receives support from UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organisation) and funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to oversee The Mark.
Source: ‪‎TTRWeekly‬

New Riverside Park planned for Plain of Jars

Xieng Khouang province will develop a 10-hectare riverside park in Paek district of Phonsavanh to beautify the area and give residents and tourists a place to relax.
Vientiane Times reported the park is being built along the Nam Ngum River near a market and is on a well-traveled route that visitors must take to enter or exit the town.
It will take two years to complete the park. However, once it's finished, the place should become a popular spot where residents can exercise or join in community activities.
“Construction of the park is expected to be finished in mid-2016 as the province is set to host the 11th National Games in 2017,” the governor told local media.

The park is close to the provincial stadium where the National Games will be hosted.
This is the first park to be built in the province and underscores the authorities efforts to attract domestic tourism and improve recreational facilities for residents.
‪Plain of Jars‬ is located in the Xieng Khouang Plateau, Northeast of the country around 400 km of Vientiane. It is already one of the country’s top tourist destination after Luang Prabang, attracting tourists interested in the Plain of Jars.
The province borders ‪Luang Prabang‬ to the Northwest, Houaphan to the Northeast, ‪Vietnam‬ to the East,  Bolikhamsai to the Southeast, and ‪Vientiane‬ to the Southwest.
The province’s Plain of Jars site has been proposed for listing as a ‪UNESCO‬ World Heritage Monument.

Bolikhamsai improves four ecotourism sites

Information, Culture and Tourism Department of Bolikhamsai province, in Lao PDR, will improve four ecotourism sites that could be linked up with trips to other destinations in the country.

Lao News Agency reported the four ecotourism sites that will be developed are Meuangmoun Choumthong area in Viengthong district, the Kaengsaitean area in Khamkuet district, Thamphasing cave in Bolikhanh district and the Nam Tone waterfall in Pakkading district.
The province’s deputy governor, Souvanny Xayana, said Bolikhamsai province has a high potential for ecotourism with many tourist sites scattered around the province.
“We have a plan to improve and develop tourism sites to support the influx of both domestic and foreign tourists.”

inside no 1The issue hindering their development is the lack of adequate transport between the destinations.
He added: “An ecotourism site in Thaphabath district has already been developed and has attracted tourists from both nearby provinces and neighbouring countries. It has generated income for local people.”
Bolikhamsai is located in the heart of the country bordering Xiangkhouang province to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Khammouan province to the south, and Thailand to the west. The province includes the Annamite Range, stretching east to Vietnam, while to the west is the Mekong River that marks the border with Thailand.

Source: Vientiane Times

The Elephant Festival Sayabouly

The Asian elephant has its day, actually two, in mid-February when Laos turns its eyes to Sayabouly Province and the Elephant Festival. Launched in 2007, the annual fete draws more than 80.0000 elephant fans to the ceremonies, processions, and performances to pay tribute to the national symbol of “The Land of Million Elephants”.

Home to the country’s largest pachyderm population, Sayabouly Province is the natural choice to host this growing event that also aims to raise awareness about the need to protect the endangered Asian elephant, which has played such a vital role in Lao people’s livelihoods, culture and heritage.

After an opening ceremony, a procession of elephants enters the host village through a bamboo arch. The elephants bathe and are blessed by monks, with participants making merit in a baci ceremony, before with the election of the “Elephant of the Year”. Then the entertainment begins: pachyderm performances, musical concerts, outdoor films, dance shows, and fireworks displays in a carnival atmosphere that includes elephant rides and a “Fun Fair”. After the second day’s procession and religious ceremony, mahouts round up their massive mammals for a day of elephant entertainment and visitor education capped with the crowning of the elephant of the Year. For an even more authentic experience, visitors can book a village home-stay.

Source: tourismlao.org

Wat Phou Festival

The annual Vat Phou Festival takes place in February each year, coinciding with the Buddhist festival of Makha Busa and bringing believers from near and far to attend a ceremony and take part in festivities. The Vat Phou Festival 2016 will take place on 03 February 2016.

Since the ancient Khmer ruins of Vat Phou were listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, government authorities have been working hard to promote tourism in Champasak and the surrounding area. The Vat Phou Festival is also important for helping Lao people to understand the cultural significance and historical importance of the magnificent site.

Photos: Adul Tanthakosai

Alongside the sound and light show, the Vat Phou Festival will also include singing and dance performances by performers from Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam as well as Laos. Most of the performers are local people from Champasak who have trained for the performance alongside their foreign counterparts. There will also be a large market for facilitating the sale of domestic products and handicrafts.

Vat Phou is open daily from 08:00 to 1800 and admission is around 30,000 kip. The Vat Phou complex is about 8 km from the main Champasak town, south of Pakse. For more information on ideas for a trip to the south of Laos, please contact us:info@asiarevealtour.com

Based on: Yingchockchai Group, Vientiane Mai
Photos: Adul Tanthakosai

Laos’ International Tourist Arrival Report 2014

Lao PDR’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism reports international tourist arrivals surpassed 4.1 million in 2014, up 10.03% from 3.7 million in 2013.
The Vientiane Times quoted figures from the ministry that confirmed 2014 closed with 4,158,719 visitors compared to 3,779,490 in 2013.
According to the ministry’s Tourism Research and Administrative Division statistics, Thailand continue to supply the most foreign tourists .

However, Thai arrivals decreased 0.76% from 2,059,434 to 2,043,761 visits last year and the length of stay is short.
inside no 3Vietnam was second with 1,108,332 visits increasing 21.77% from 910,164 in 2013.
Laos also saw an increase in Chinese visitors from 245,033 in 2013 to 422,440 in 2014, up 72.40%. The percentage growth is high due to the relatively small numbers. As the volume expands the growth rate will lower to around 10 to 15%, but there is no doubt that within five years, China will be the top travel source market fo Laos with much higher revenue than either Thailand or Vietnam.
Europe was the only region that saw travel to Laos drop, due to an economic downturn in key markets. The region supplied 209,331 visitors in 2014 down 1.52% from 212,566 in 2013.
Tourists from ASEAN member countries increased 5.92% from 3.04 million in 2013 to 3.22 million visitors in 2014, while tourists from non-ASEAN states increased by 46.0% to 630,361 visits in 2014.
Visitors from the Americas increased by 0.15% to 86,027 in 2014, while tourists from Africa and the Middle East increased by 13% to 8,920 in last year.

Source:From report of TTRWeekly

Savannakhet at a glance

Total Area: 21,774 square kilometers.
Population: 906,440.
15 Districts: Kaisone Phomvihan, Outhoumphone, Atsaphangthong, Phine, Sepone, Nong, Thapangthong, Songkhone, Champhon, Xonnabouly, Xaybouly, Vilabouly, Atsaphone, Xayphouthong and Phalanxay.
Capital of the Province: Kaisone Phomvihan
Savannakhet Province is situated in the middle of the country and the largest province (21,774 square kilometers), being bordered by Vietnam to the East, Thailand to the West, Khammouane Province to the North and Salavanh Province to the South. 60% of land is covered by forests. A wide variety of ethnic groups are found in the province: Lowland Lao, Phoutai, Thai Dam, Katang, Mangkong, Vali, Lava, Soui, Kapo, Kaleung and Ta-Oi. In addition, many Vietnamese and Chinese descendants live in the province as well. This fact makes the province rich in cultural and gastronomic diversity.
Savannakhet has long been a center of trade and power. The province is well noted as the birthplace of the Honorable Kaisone Phomvihan, first Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and co-founder of the Lao PDR. His house and a museum documenting his life achievements can be visited in Savannakhet Town. The province’s history, however, goes back long before the time of man.

The area was once inhabited by dinosaurs as evidenced by the bones found in Bang Tang Wai Village and the giant footprints found in Phalanxay, which are documented in the Savannakhet Dinosaur Museum. Remnants of an ancient civilization can be seen at the Stone temple, “Heuan Hin” a pre-Angkorian building located 40km down stream from town along the Mekong. That Ing Hang Stupa, originally built more than 1.000 years ago and later rebuilt by King Saysethathirath in the 16th century, is the province’s most important religious site. Also of interest is the historic library, Hortay Pidok, which is believed to have been built in the 18th century and was traditionally used to house old “Bai Lan” Buddhist scriptures. Of more recent history is the section of the Ho Chi Minh Trail which passes through Savannakhet. Old tanks, guns and other war equipment left behind on the trail can be seen near villages on Route 9 near the Vietnam border.The Phouthai ethnic group, known for its unique silk and cotton weaving, claimsits origin in the province’s Vilabouly District. The Katang ethnic group, which is loved for its famous folk song, Lam Tang Wai, also has traditional lands in Savannakhet. For nature enthusiasts, trekking in Dong Phou Vieng National Protected Area (NPA) provides an opportunity to see rare Douc and Silvered Langurs. Phou Xang Hae NPA has a population of wild elephants as well as distinctive rocky outcrops and vistas. The Eld’s deer, once considered to be extinct in Laos, were rediscovered in 2002 in Xonbouly District and are revered by local villagers. The Province is a hot spot for crocodiles, which inhabit the confluence of the Champhone and Xe Bang Hieng Rivers. Hundreds of stump-tailed macaques, considered sacred by locals, are easily spotted in the 4-hectare Monkey Forest. Giant Asian soft shelled turtles, also considered sacred, can be easily seen in Ban Done Daeng. In Dong Na Tad Provincial Forest, snakes, monkeys and old-growth forest are well protected by the villagers for spiritual reasons. Locally guided tours to the area are available.

Savannakhet is most noted for its weavings, especially Phouthai silk and cotton weaving in Vilabouly District, and ethnic Katang weaving in the Dong Phou Vieng area. The favorite national meat, “sin savanh”, a flat, sweet dried beef sprinkled with sesame seeds, originates from Savannakhet and can be purchased in local markets.

The That Ing Hang Festival is the largest festival of the year and is typically celebrated in December at the time of the full moon.

Source: www.tourismlaos.org

New destination - Xaysomboun Province

Xaysomboun province is set to officially open to tourists at the end of this year allowing visitors the chance to explore some unknown and untouched sites in this formerly secret area that was for a long time closed to all outsiders.
Xaysomboun Province was established on 13 December, 2013 as is the 18th Province of Laos. It is located in the central part of Laos, bordering Xiengkhouang Province to the North and the East, Bolikhamxay Province to the South and Vientiane Province to the West. The Province consists of 5 districts which include Anouvong, Long Cheng, Long San, Hom and Tha Thom District. This province does not share any borders with neighboring countries.

To reach this province, there are to ways:
Follow Route 13 to the North of Vientiane – Vang Vieng, about 140 km
Follow Route 13 to the South of Vientiane – Paksan about 90 km

Xaysomboun Province has abundant natural resources scattered in high mountains and steep valleys. The province has a fresh air and cool breeze during summer, but getting pretty cold during winter – some years it gets down below zero degrees. In general,  the annual average temperature of approximately 20˚C.
With a total population of around 80,000; consisting of Khamu 19%, Hmong 55% and Laoloum 26%, this province has rich culture and tradition coupled with generous hospitality of local people.
Visit Xaysomboun, tourists could choose between enjoying home-stay with several ethnic groups, or staying at standard four star hotel. A number of largely unexplored historic caves and mountains is also the attractive of this potential area.
Firstly, exploring Phou Mork in Long Cheng District, learn more about King Anouvong. Then embark on a local boat, seeing the stunning view of Tha Thom District, have a yummy feast at Dan Pha Saeb, Long San, and experience the legend of Chae Lae Waterfall in Hom District. For those are the faithful of adventure, climb to the top of Phou Bia – the Roof of Laos PDR, will be one of the most unforgettable memory.

All about Salavanh

Total area: 10,691 square kilometers
Population: 366,723
08 Districts: Salavanh, Ta-Oy, Toumlane, Lakhonepheng, Vapi, Khongxedon, Lao-Ngarm & Samouay
Capital of the province: Salavanh
A southeastern province situated on the Bolaven Plateau is devoted to agriculture and nature offering idyllic scenery. A prehistoric site exists not far from the cascades where a wonderful scene can be seen.
Salavanh Province is home to the Phou Xieng Thong National Biodiversity Conservation Area, covering nearly 1,000 sq km in the western part of the province next to the Mekong River. It is thought that Asiatic black bear, banteng, clouded leopard, Douc langur, elephant, gibbon, guar, Siamese crocodile and tiger and inhabit this area. Within a cave huge stone caskets are piled one on top of the other, province not only beauty but interesting thoughts as to how it originated.
Salavanh has vast tracts of forest and is home to three National Protected Areas that harbor a wealth of biodiversity. Xe Xap, (1,335 km2) Xe Bang Nouane (1,970 km2) and Phou Xieng Thong (1,200 km2) lie mostly within Salavanh’s borders, have a range of habitats and micro-climates and are home to a diverse population of ethnic minority groups. The Mekong River separates Salavanh from Thailand and the province also shares a border with Vietnam to the east. The main geologic features are the Bolaven Plateau, Mekong River Valley and Southern Annamite Mountains, which rise to over 2,000 meters in the eastern portion of the province.

Most visitors access Salavan by route 20 from Pakse, stopping in Ban Houn, a roadside village that produces fine weavings and basketry. Tad Lo, the best known attraction in the province is a wide, multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and a number of well-planned resorts and guest houses. At Tad Lo you can rent a bicycle, enjoy nature walks and venture out to surrounding villages on the Bolaven Plateau. Tad Lo sits in the center of a major coffee and vegetable growing region, so there is usually a variety of fresh seasonal produce on the menu. East of Tad Lo and the provincial capital are Ta-Oy and Samouay Districts, populated mostly by Mon-Khemer speaking ethnic groups. Here you can see traditional long houses that may house up to 45 people. A nice outing in Ta-Oy is a trip on the Xe Lanong to watch birds and walk to the La Lao Waterfall. Criss crossing the eastern half of the province is the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail network, still in use today as a link between remote villages. Along the trail you can see extensive evidence of the heavy aerial bombardment this part of the country suffered during the Second Indochina War.On the Mekong is Khongsedon District, maker of some of the most potent Lao lao whiskey in the country. Khongsedon has many unusual rock formations along the Mekong valley, best known among them is Phou Lahit with its prehistoric rock paintings.One of the most entertaining songs and dances in the entire country, the Lam Salavanh, was conceived here and this catchy tune really does make you want to get up and dance! There are excellent “khaen” players in Salavanh and the traditional instrument is still made here. Besides coffee, two famous Salavanh products are the fragrant coconuts from Naxai Village and the delicious barbeque chicken that can be purchases at Napong Village on route 13.Like everywhere else in the country, Lao New Year or Pi Mai is celebrated throughout Salavanh for a week around 14 April. Before this are the Katang and Ta-Oy ethnic group’s annual festivals, which occur during late January – early February.

Source: www.tourismlaos.org

Boun Khao Phansa Festival (Buddhist Lent) or Asalahaboucha Day

Boun Khao Phansaa, which marks the beginning of "Buddhist Lent", is celebrated yearly on July.  There is a legend said that, there was once a group of six monks walking during the rainy season. They were careless about where they put their feet, stepping on frogs and crushing new rice plants. This angered the farmers who complained to the Buddha. The Buddha made the rule for the Sangha, the community of monks, to observe Khao Phansaa, which means "entering the rainy season."  The traditionally lay people are not allowed to get married until the end of the Buddist Lent which is less making parties during three months Khao Phansa. Many take time away from work to make merit for deceased relatives. They also offer robes to become novices or monks.

During this time devout people often abstain from alcohol. They pray for assistance and guidance to encourage merit and happiness in their lives. It encourages them to follow the five major Buddhist vow to follow the precepts (five rules of conduct):

·         You shall not kill lives

·          You shall not steal or cheat

·         You shall not commit adultery

·          You shall not lie

·         You shall not consume alcohol or drugs

The rule is that for three months during the rainy season the monks must vow not to stay overnight away from their temple, unless they have permission for special circumstances such as visiting sick parents, going to deliver sermons.   In any case, they can never be gone more than seven days.

Source: laos-guide-999

On the first day of the waning moon, People do Tak baat (Alms offerings)  of food (particularly khaotom, rice, banana or pork wrapped in banana leaves) and donate necessities like soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes and towels for the monks. Most temples are very busy during this time with people making merit and giving their donations. At the end of these merit-making activities the monks will recite the teachings of Buddha and tell the history of Lent to temple goers., take the precepts, and listen to a sermon.   After the evening prayers, the novices and monks make their vows to stay in their wat and kuti or monk living quarters , residence, for the three rainy months.

On the full-moon day of the eighth lunar month people go to the temple with incense sticks, candles, and Pha Ab Nam Fon (a yellow robe for bathing) and offer them to the Buddha statue in the temple. After that, they perform the prayer/chanting ceremony and listen to a sermon. Later in the evening monks, novices and laypeople bring flowers and candles and walk around the central temple three times in a ceremony known as Vien Thien in Lao.

Nang Sang Khan - Highlight of Laos New Year

Boun Pi Mai, or Lao New Year is a three-day celebration, which is taken place from April 13-15 every year.  During these days, there are lots of themed activities, as well as cultural ceremonies, being officiated. One of those highlights, which can be found in the two biggest cities – Vientiane and Luang Prabang, is Nangsangkhan pageant.

Nangsangkhan pageant, or Miss Pi Mai Lao, or Miss Lao New Year, is famous by its own attractions from organization, candidate’s reputation, and a huge paradise on the street to show the respect, on the main day of Laos New Year.

Photo ©: Luang Prabang Moradock

Approximately from middle of March, normally 15 – 21st March, the committee will select the candidates for Miss Laos New Year. More or less of twenty-five beautiful girls around the city will be announced supporting by any organizations. Only seven contestants will be selected within the first winner is called Nang Sang Khan of this year. The reason why seven contestants, neither less than, nor more than, is because each person will symbolize for one of King Kabinlaphrôm’s seven daughters according to the Lao legend.

Photo ©: Luang Prabang Moradock

The contest is annually held at the Deun That or old stadium, Luang Prabang Province between11th – 12th nights of April; and Vientiane with the same time, at selected venue every year.

All the candidates have to prove themselves by 03 rounds. And the support from fans and crowds is also the important key for the champion. After selected, Nang Sang Khan will represent the tutelary spirit of the New Year in luxurious styles clothing. She performs in the main parades mounted on the huge animal statue (the holistic animal sign of the year) and surrounded by her fellow contestants.

Kongbouat Festival - the beauty of Laos Therawada Buddist Culture

Respectful senior monks and newly ordained monks step over silk sashes placed by merit makers for the monks to step on after they walk from a Naga boat, which is where people pour water over them to wash away any bad spirits. This is the central feature of the Kongbouat festival.
Merit makers at this festival including young and old men and women who sit in a long line from a point close to the Naga boat until the grounds of the sanctuary. Some middle-aged men lay on the ground for the monks to step over their backs, believing the monks will cure their backache.
Merit makers take part in the ordination rituals at the temple and a large group of them invite respectful monks and newly ordained monks to step over their silk sashes, but it’s unlikely that most of them know the meaning of this custom.

Venerable Keo, a senior monk at Sisavangvong temple in Xayaboury district, Xayaboury province, said merit makers offer sashes to respectful monks and newly ordained monks to step over as a sign of respect and to offer their congratulation to monks who are promoted to a new position and have contributed to Buddhist organisations.
This ritual is in evidence as part of merit making during the Konghote and Kongbouat festivals. When these festivals are observed either in a temple or in someone’s home, the organisers and the monks will decorate a Naga boat while the pathway from the boat to the main worship hall will be adorned with leafy banana stems, sugar cane plants and flowers.
According to Venerable Keo, who is on the temple committee, the Konghote and Kongbouat festivals are held at an appropriate time of the year. This depends on the time that is convenient for those involved, as well as their financial circumstances. There is no limit to the number of festivals that may be held. A large number of people may hold nine Konghote festivals and one Kongbouat jointly. Some people will arrange two or one Konghote and Kongbouat festivals.
Venerable Keo said there are various reasons for holding the Kongbouat festival. Some people do it to ordain a son so that he can study Dharma in the temple and pay tribute to his parents, while others want to pay homage to their deceased parents and other relatives. Elderly people use the occasion as a merit-making ritual as they believe the offerings will support them in the next life. People who arrange a Kongbouat festival are aged over 40. It is considered unacceptable for people under 40 to host the festival because it means they will receive their offerings early and will therefore have a short life.
The festivals last for two days. On the first day the offerings are prepared and on the second day there is an almsgiving ceremony in the early morning and lay people take on the role of Nagas to protect the newly ordained monks. Merit makers and guests form a procession with the four Nagas and offerings and walk to the temple after the almsgiving ceremony.

On the first day, friends, relatives and other invited guests come to make merit with the festival organisers and give them money, flowers and milled sticky rice in a bowl. In return, the hosts invite the guests to have lunch and dinner and also give them a bag of snacks. Some guests place offerings in the monks’ bags and bowls. On the evening of the first day, a group of musicians plays traditional music and sings folksongs to entertain the guests.
The second day of merit-making sees the giving of alms, the conversion of people into four Naga and the procession carrying offerings to the temple. When the procession reaches the temple, respectful monks, elderly people, merit makers and the musicians walk three times around the shrine to pay their respects to Lord Buddha.
As the troupe of musicians plays their instruments and sings, participants cheer them to spur them on and create a joyful atmosphere. The merit-makers carry their offerings, comprising a bed, mattress, robes, household utensils and markbeng (a pyramid made of banana leaves, gold paper, flowers, and silver and golden trees hung with kip notes).
After the merit-makers have processed three times around the shrine, the monks begin the religious rituals in the main worship hall to ordain new monks and novices and present offerings.
After the ceremony, the monks who are to be newly ordained, ordained as senior monks or elevated to a higher rank will have water poured over them inside the Naga boat. The merit-makers do this in order to wash away any bad spirits.
The newly ordained monks carry bags and alms bowls from the Naga boat to the main worship hall. Some monks throw sacred water over the participants while some merit-makers throw money mixed with candy, milled sticky rice and flowers.
Merit-makers then invite monks from other temples and the organisers of the Kongbouat festival to take part in a Baci ceremony for the newly ordained monk. The hosts of the festival offer a bowl containing pieces of silver and golden swords to the monk.
Venerable Keo said these items are considered to be a show of support for the monk. The monk is not allowed to sell them, but may give them to someone he holds dear.
There is no limit to the weight of the silver and golden swords given to the monk. The amount given depends on the festival organiser.
The Konghote and Kongbouat festivals are similar, but the Konghote doesn’t involve the presentation of pieces of silver and golden swords.
Invited guests and all laypeople taking part in the merit-making, both at home and in the temple, will wear modest clothing. Women of course wear a sinh (long skirt) and blouse, while men wear trousers.

Source: By Phon Thikeo , Vientiane Times