When thinking about why Luang Prabang attracts thousands of travelers every year, shopping may not be the very first reason coming to your minds. But in fact, this charming town is bursting with handicrafts and fine arts. They are perfect souvenirs to remind you of every single moment you have experienced in Luang Prabang! Travel to Luang Prabang with: Tours Indochina Laos
Coffee
Lao coffee- source: internet
Since the French introduction in the early 20th century, coffee has been loved by all Laotians. Thanks to their love for this bitter taste, Laotians have created some of the most delicious brews in the world. The Bolaven Plateau, where 95% of coffee is harvested, provides the best coffee in this country and plays an important role in the largest agricultural export commodity. In spite of the popularity of Robusta — which makes up most of export coffee and sweeter Arabica, you must order khaafeh Lao to enjoy real Lao coffee. Whenever coming to Luang Prabang, you should not miss the Lao version of coffee. It is certain that Bolaven Plateau is the best place to pick up a few bags of traditional Laotian coffee beans. However, it does not mean that you cannot do so in Luang Prabang. Let’s visit Luang Prabang night market to choose what kind of coffee you like to bring back home. Remember to bargain well!
Textiles
Textiles in Luang Prabang- source: internet
Luang Prabang, which produces both handmade and high quality silk and textiles, has been a hub for textiles in Laos – the country famous for its weaving tradition. The skill of weaving in Luang Prabang is preserved as an art for many generations. Instead of using machines, wild silk is used almost exclusively to make incredibly unrefined and naturally beautiful silks and textiles. Not only a decoration item, textiles also are a fascinating way to discover the diversity of ethnic groups: Hmong, Tai Dam, Tai Lue, Katu and Lanten and know more about their culture. Laos travel packages
Where to go for textiles in Luang Prabang?
For 16 years running business, Ok Pop Tok, a village and shop that supports more than 400 artisans throughout Laos is a favorite place for textiles in Luang Prabang. These items you can find at Ok Pop Tok are bags, chok Collection, home décor, scarves & shawls, toys and wall hangings. The price ranges from few dollars to hundred dollars. Moreover, Ok Pop Tok also holds dyeing class, weaving class, batik class, bamboo weaving class to give you a chance to see how silk is traditionally woven for generations in Laos. It is your chance to experience Laos through textiles.
Pottery
Pottery objects in Luang Prabang- source: internet
Hard, waterproof containers to keep food, drinks or to prevent rice from humidity and away from mice, in the past, pottery was used for all purposes at home and in the fields in Laos. Now, pottery items are used as daily wares such as urns, pots, roofing and floor tiles as well as decoration items and religious art forms. Laos has many villages entirely dedicated to creating clay objects, which help to preserve and develop the clay and ceramic pottery-making tradition.
Where to go for pottery in Luang Prabang?
Ban Chan village- source: internet
These traditional pottery villages just outside of Luang Prabang and near Pak Ou Caves are place to go to support the handicraft villages in Luang Prabang countryside.
Another place to go is the small village of Ban Chan – a 10 minute boat-ride downstream from Luang Prabang. Here, you can find a clay bottle, a small jar or a small pot. Moreover, on a visit to this lovely village, you will observe the traditional way to make these jars and know more about the history of pottery in Laos as well as its role in the daily life of Laotians. If you like, with the help of little expert Laotian hands, you can join hand in creating your own objects. What stunning souvenirs to exhibit at your home!
See more:
2017’S BUYING GUIDE | WHAT TO BUY IN LUANG PRABANG
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