The giving of alms is one of the oldest traditions in Laos Buddhist culture. In the early morning Buddhist monks leave their temples to collect their daily meal from locals who have woken early to prepare offerings for them. Locals line the sides of the roads with fresh meals for the monks to collect, commonly giving rice, fresh fruit, and traditional local snacks. Visitors can participate in the almsgiving by purchasing offerings for the monks. Participating in this special ceremony shows respect to the monks, and it is often seen as a blessing to be invited to attend.

View All Southeast Asia Tours
Laos Buddhist monks collecting alms