Luang Prabang: Early morning alms giving

The tradition of giving alms to monks in Luang Prabang dates back to at least the 14th century. Early each morning people line the streets to give food, usually sticky rice or sweets, to the procession of monks that pass by to gain merit. There are over 30 temples in town, so this takes place all around Luang Prabang. We met at 530am to see the ceremony.

You can see a woman in back taking photos. Over the years it has become a major tourist draw, with foreigners attending and getting in the way of the monks in order to get the perfect photo. Vendors are now in the street selling baskets of offerings for those that want to join in.

Some of you know that I was debating participating, because it would have been meaningful to me, but in the end I elected not to. I was still not sure what to do even as we walked over.  But seeing the residents of town sitting in their spots, most likely where they sit every morning, and feeling slightly like I was even intruding by being even on the same sidewalk, I figured that it was best to watch and learn, and perhaps return another day to join.  Instead I watched from across the road, taking advantage of my zoom lens to photograph the proceedings.

In addition to people giving bits of rice, sweets or even cash to the monks, some people had baskets where they were collecting alms from thr monks to help their families.

Unfortunately, not everyone is respectful of this ancient tradition, and there were a large group of tourists following the monks very closely. It reminded me of paparazzi swarming a celebrity.  Because of this problem with tourists, there are now "guards" who help keep the crowds back.

I am glad I attended and got to see the ceremony,  even though I was appalled at thr behavior of some of the tourists.  Dress appropriately,  don't stand in front of the monks to take selfie and don't follow them. Why is it so difficult?