Daily Morning Alms giving in Luang Prabang
The alms-giving ceremony, or Tak Bat in Lao, is a centuries-old and meaningful tradition in the Buddhist culture of Lao people. In Luang Prabang, it takes place daily from 5:30 in the morning onward, starting from temples in this ancient town to the main roads then to all backstreets. Buddhist monks and novices in their bright saffron robes walk silently on barefoot throughout the streets in long straight lines to gather the almsgiving. While the local residents – the almsgivers also wake early to prepare food, usually Lao sticky rice, and wait quietly by the roadside to give their offerings. Tourists can involve this religious ceremony but make sure that it has a deep meaning for you, not just a photo-op. Otherwise, you may like to be an observer, keeping a reasonable distance, dressing properly and witnessing a more peaceful experience in silence. You can also take some photos without a camera flash and do it in a respectful way.