Boun Awk Phansa in Luang Prabang, Laos (video)

Temple decorated for Boun Awk Phansa in Luang Prabang, Laos
Temple decorated for Boun Awk Phansa in Luang Prabang, Laos

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS – Each fall, at the October full moon, the Lao people celebrate Boun Awk Phansa.

The festival marks the end of the three months of Buddhist Lent, a period of meditation, learning and retreat during the height of the rainy season.

Sometimes referred to as the Festival of Lights, the boun (or festival) is held on the 15th day of the 11th month of the lunar calendar.

Continue reading “Boun Awk Phansa in Luang Prabang, Laos (video)”

A Monk’s Life in Laos (Watch the video)

Buddhist monks receive donations of sticky rice during the daily alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang, Laos
Buddhist monks receive donations of sticky rice during the daily alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang, Laos

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS – If you’ve spent any time living or traveling around Southeast Asia, you’ve no doubt seen them. With their shaved heads and brilliant orange robes, they always stand out from the crowd.

I’m talking, of course, about the Buddhist monks in their colorful saffron robes.
Continue reading “A Monk’s Life in Laos (Watch the video)”