Laos · Lao culture
More than 50 ethnic groups: the peoples of Laos
Lao, Khmu, Hmong, Akha and many more: a country small in size, huge in cultural diversity. The peoples of Laos, and how to meet them respectfully.
Ethnic groups
More than 50
Languages
Almost as many
In Luang Prabang
Lao, Khmu, Hmong
In villages
Ask before taking photos
Laos has more than 50 different ethnic groups. Each community has its own traditions, language, beliefs and way of life. From one region to the next, the landscapes change, and so does the culture. It is one of the country's greatest riches.
The peoples of Laos
Plains, hills, mountains · each region its communities
The Lao live mainly in the plains and along the Mekong. The Khmu, among the country's first inhabitants, live in the hills. The Hmong and Akha live mostly in the mountains, in the north. Around Luang Prabang, you mainly meet Lao, Khmu and Hmong villages.
“It is one of the things that fascinates me most about Laos: a country small in size, but huge in cultural diversity.”
At NK Seeds
- A mixed team: our local team comes from several ethnic groups
- The village language: there is always someone who speaks it
- Needs: it helps us understand each community
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Some of the peoples of Laos
The Lao
The largest group, in the plains and valleys, mostly Buddhist.
The Khmu
Among the oldest inhabitants of the country, in the northern hills.
The Hmong
In the mountains, known for their embroidery and their New Year, at the end of the year.
The Akha
In the far north, recognisable by their headdresses decorated with beads and coins.
And the others
Tai Lü, Lanten, Tai Dam and many others, each with its own language and traditions.
Do
- Visit villages with a local guide
- Ask before taking photos
- Buy crafts directly from families
Avoid
- Entering a house without being invited
- Handing out sweets or money to children
- Treating the village as a show
Travel with us
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang temples and Mount Phousi
A day in the old town with your guide, in French, English, Chinese or Thai: the day market, the Royal Palace, Wat Xieng Thong and Wat May, then Mount Phousi, by private tuk-tuk.
From 65 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Mekong cruise and Pak Ou caves
The town in the morning, then about two hours by private boat on the Mekong to the Pak Ou cave and a village where rice spirit is distilled.
From 78 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Kuang Si waterfall and Hmong village
About an hour's drive to the Kuang Si waterfall, a stop in a Hmong village and at the buffalo farm, then the Ock Pop Tok textile workshop before returning to your hotel.
From 72 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Street food at the night market
A street food evening guided by our students in training: they learn French with NK Seeds and introduce you to Lao food among the stalls of Luang Prabang.
From 30 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Sindad evening, the Lao barbecue
An evening around the sindad, the Lao barbecue you share, with our students in training: they learn French with NK Seeds and introduce you to the meal Lao people love to share with friends.
From 30 € / person
See the tour
Frequently asked questions
How many ethnic groups are there in Laos?
More than 50, each with its own language and traditions.
Can I visit a Hmong village near Luang Prabang?
Yes, our Kuang Si tour stops at a Hmong village.
What language is spoken in villages?
Often the group's own language, as well as Lao.
How do I visit a village respectfully?
With a local guide, asking before photos, and buying directly from families.
A question about the peoples of Laos?
Write to us: we answer you ourselves, from Luang Prabang. Please book at least one week in advance.
Ask a question