Staying at The Namkhan Ecolodge gives you a unique opportunity to learn about and get first-hand experience of Laotian culture. The staff at The Namkhan make it convenient for you to do so through their neatly organized programs so you can get the most out of your time at Laos with minimal hassle involved. Here is an overview of what you can partake in.
Get a taste of Laos, literally!
The Namkhan offers a jeep tour through the heart of Luang Prabang where you’ll get to explore authentic Laotian street food sold at the local markets. You may come across some truly exotic and mouth-watering delicacies that you can’t find anywhere else!
Learn to cook like a true local
If you’re interested in learning how to cook some of the most famous and delicious Lao dishes in the most authentic way possible, the cooking class at The Namkhan can help you do just that! Here, you will learn how to prepare both local and traditional Lao dishes. There’s a highly experienced new Vegan chef at the resort who is highly skilled and ready to transfer their wealth of knowledge to you. Here you will even learn how to harvest your own vegetables by practicing in The Namkhan’s organic farm.
Traditional Lao costume rentals
If you’re looking to take some stunning photos to be remembered or to get a heightened feel of what it’s like from the perspective of a local, then this is a great option. The resort offers plenty of stunning backgrounds to choose from when taking photos. It is also highly recommended that you take some photos at the nearby Donkeo temple, which has its own wide share of stunning scenery.
Alms Giving
Alms-giving to monks has been a Laotian tradition since time immemorial. This is core aspect of the culture is especially relevant in Luang Prabang, which is home to over 30 temples and several forest monasteries. Indeed, Luang Prabang has been recognized as the religious and spiritual capital of Laos for quite some time. With that being said, The Namkhan can introduce you to the alms-giving ceremony, which takes place daily at sunrise.
Bamboo Weaving Workshop
A neat little fact about The Namkhan Resort is that it is located next to the Donkeo village, which is known for its specialty in bamboo and basket weaving, as well as workshops teaching all about it. The instructors at The Namkhan have drawn from this rich reservoir of knowledge and have life-long experience in the art of bamboo weaving. Thus, your stay at the The Namkhan offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself into the ancient tradition of Laotian-style bamboo crafting.
Horse riding tours
Riding across the Laotian countryside is also a phenomenal way to observe and learn about the Laotian way of life. Especially if you’re an animal lover, you won’t want to miss out on this. You’ll be taught all you need to know about how to ride safely and you’ll get to have the amazing experience of bonding with your horse before going on an adventure with it. You’ll have many trail options, including village trails, smell and long trails, first-timer rides and river trails (with an option to bathe in the river!).
Authentic Baci Ceremonies
Baci is a core ceremony practiced in Laotian culture and the word ‘Baci’ is literally translated into ‘Calling of the Soul’ or ‘Spirit Enchancing’. It’s used as a means to bless important life events such as birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, funerals and more. The Namkhan offers the most authentic Baci ceremonial experience possible and is meticulously organized for you with the utmost professionalism.
Namkhan- your one stop destination for cultural immersion
In closing, The Namkhan offers a rare opportunity to experience Laotian culture at remarkable depth and authenticity all in one place without all the difficult hassle involved in organizing your own program. The astounding variety of all the different activities at the resort allow you to customize your own experience, so you can become acquainted with the aspects of the culture that most resonate with you. Moreover, you’ll be backed by professional expertise that is second to none.
