Laos Travel Blog 

Lao Baci is a spiritual ceremony traditionally practiced by the Lao people. It is a way to wish health, good fortune, and luck to the people of a family, person or community in order to protect them from any evil or bad luck. During the ceremony, everyone sits in a circle and a specially appointed leader puts a holy thread around each person's wrist as a sign of binding the group together and protecting against bad luck and harm. After the thread is in place, participants often join arms and perform ritual actions such as blessing the home with incense, bowing in gratitude and thanking their ancestors. Afterward, they will enjoy a communal meal that symbolizes the unifying bond that has been formed.

In the early morning in Luang Prabang, you can witness a ceremony of providing alms to Buddhist monks. A traditional offering of food, such as rice, is presented while a monk chants a blessing. Other clergymen and worshipers may also be in attendance, burning incense and soaking flower petals as past of the ceremony. As a tourist preparing to take part in the giving of alms, it is important to be respectful of the tradition. Wear modest clothing and remove your shoes before approaching the monks. Offer the alms with your right hand, and any words you say should be spoken calmly and respectfully.