Date: Sunrise daily
The main attraction in Luang Prabang is the morning Alms Ceremony. Male Laotians from across the country come to Luang Prabang to study Buddhism for at least a year at some point in their life. As such the city is teeming with men and boys dressed in their saffron-coloured robes. Every morning before sunrise the monks proceed through the village along the main street collecting alms for their consumption for the day ahead. This ancient and ritualised ceremony is a sight to behold and a great photo opportunity for those willing to wake up before dawn to go out and see it. Tourists are able to buy rice and foods to give to the monks. Be sure to buy fresh food as there have been scams in the past where market vendors sell old or stale leftovers to naïve tourists. Remember the ceremony is a serious and holy event so be respectful at all times, particularly if you are taking pictures. Women should dress conservatively and it is considered extremely rude to come into physical contact with a monk, especially if you are a woman. The procession is a solemn and silent affair which is sometimes embarrassingly ruined by ignorant or pushy tourists.
