Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing

Luang Prabang, LA

Included

  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Water
  • inclusion
    Hotel Pickup and Drop off
  • inclusion
    English Speaking Tour Guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities

What to expect

1
Luang Prabang

Our Tour Guide will pick you up from your hotel then head out to the market for Shop for some fresh and organic ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and fruits.

Duration 30 minutes
2

Phosy Market

<nil>

Shop for some fresh and organic ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and fruits. After getting all the ingredients, we will head to your local host’s house to start cooking those typical dishes, which Laos people always prepare to make merit to the monks.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3
Luang Prabang

Enjoy making khao niew (sticky rice), bamboo shoot soup (Keang nor Mai), steamed fish in banana leaves (Mok Pa), Luang Prabang stew (Ork Lam), and eggplant sauce (Jeo Mak Kheua) with the host family. Once the cooking is done, we will proceed with the dishes to the nearby Buddhist temple to offer to the novices and monks.

Duration 180 minutes
4
Luang Prabang

Your local host and our tour guide will guide you through the whole ceremony of offering merit, receiving a blessing from highly respected monks at the temple. By the end of the offering ceremony, bid farewell to all the monks as we walk back to the local host’s house and enjoy lunch together.

Duration 60 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Requirement: Passport copied
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    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.
Provided by Discova - Asia

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the local fish from Phosy market.
  • icon
    Visit the Wat Xieng Thong temple nearby.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for beautiful temple photos.
  • icon
    Consider visiting the night market later.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for market exploring.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing is an extraordinary journey that invites travelers to dive deep into the heart of Laotian culture. This unique experience spans over five and a half hours, combining the art of cooking with the spiritual essence of a traditional monk blessing. It begins with an engaging visit to Phosy market, where participants are guided by a friendly host family to select fresh, local ingredients. Following the market adventure, guests are welcomed into the warm ambiance of a Laotian home, where they will learn the secrets of crafting beloved local dishes like sticky rice and bamboo shoot soup. The day culminates in a sacred ceremony at a nearby temple, allowing visitors to offer their culinary masterpieces to monks while receiving their blessings. It’s not just a cooking class; it’s a heartfelt connection to the rich traditions of Laos that leaves lasting memories.

What to expect?

Embarking on the Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing means immersing oneself in the vibrant tapestry of Laotian life. Participants can expect an intimate experience where they learn to prepare a full menu of traditional dishes that are staples in local households. The journey starts at the bustling market, where the sights and sounds of the vibrant stalls set the tone for a day of discovery. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable host family, guests will engage in hands-on cooking, creating flavors that tell stories of the region's heritage. After the cooking session, the atmosphere transforms into one of reverence and reflection as participants take part in the meaningful ritual of food offering to monks. This blend of culinary artistry and spiritual connection provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the cultural richness of Laos, making it an unforgettable adventure that nourishes both the body and soul.

Who is this for?

The Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing is designed for anyone who has a love for food, culture, and authentic experiences. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking to connect with local traditions, a couple looking to share a unique experience, or a family eager to learn something new together, this tour caters to all. It’s perfect for culinary enthusiasts wanting to expand their skills, as well as those curious about the spiritual practices of Buddhism. Additionally, the tour is suitable for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, making it an inclusive experience. Even if you have no prior cooking knowledge, the friendly guidance provided ensures that everyone can participate and enjoy the process. This tour is a wonderful opportunity for anyone wanting to embrace the essence of Laotian culture and create lasting memories.

Why book this?

Booking the Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing is not just about tasting delicious food; it’s about connecting with the soul of Laos. This experience stands out because it weaves together culinary education and spiritual practice, offering a holistic view of the culture. Unlike standard cooking classes, this tour provides an authentic glimpse into the lives of local families and the significance of food in their traditions. The chance to interact with monks and partake in a sacred blessing adds a layer of depth and meaning that simply cannot be found in typical tourist activities. Additionally, the private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention, allowing participants to ask questions and engage deeply with their hosts. It’s an opportunity to create not just meals, but memories that resonate long after the tour concludes. For travelers seeking a unique, enriching experience that nourishes both the body and spirit, this is a must-book adventure.

Good to know

Before embarking on the Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing, there are a few helpful details to keep in mind. The tour is designed to be accessible to everyone, including families with infants, who can be accommodated comfortably. Participants will enjoy complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics seamless. While the tour includes all necessary cooking materials and a delightful communal lunch, it’s advisable to bring a small amount of cash for optional gratuities to the guide and host family, reflecting appreciation for their hospitality and expertise. Prepare for a day filled with learning, laughter, and spiritual reflection, as this tour promises to be both a culinary delight and an enriching cultural experience.

Reviews

Guests who have participated in the Luang Prabang Private Cultural Cooking Tour and Monk Blessing rave about their experiences, often highlighting the warmth and hospitality of the local host family. Many travelers express that the cooking lessons were not only educational but incredibly fun, with participants enjoying the hands-on approach to making traditional dishes. The visit to the market is frequently mentioned as a vibrant and engaging start to the day, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local life. The monk blessing ceremony is described as a deeply moving experience, with many saying it added a spiritual dimension to their trip. Overall, reviews reflect high satisfaction, with travelers leaving feeling enriched, having made meaningful connections with both the local culture and fellow participants.

Select Currency