Nam Ou River Homestay
Get connected to local Laotian village life by staying with Ms Kham and her family in their traditional, wooden stilted house on the banks of the Nam Ou River.
Situated beneath the gentle hills outside Luang Prabang, you’ll have the chance to soak up the atmosphere of the village and its surrounding terraced rice fields as you swing in a hammock under the house.
Staying in this 100-year-old house is your chance to gain a deeper understanding of the life that most Laotians lead away from the larger towns and cities.
Take a trip to the local market to buy the ingredients for the evening meal, and help prepare a Laotian feast to enjoy with the family.
Learn about local organic farming techniques, and take a trip down the gentle flows of the Nam Ou with a local fisherman explaining his craft.
Explore the village with an English-speaking local guide and participate in an almsgiving ceremony at the local temple.
Enjoy downtime away from scheduled activities as you relax into village life and focus on the different pace in Ban Muang Soune.
Where is Ban Muang Soune?
Ban Muang Soune is a small village situated on the Nam Ou River, just outside Luang Prabang, which is accessed by boat. It is ideally located to visit either as a return trip from your base in Luang Prabang, or as the start of an immersion in rural life as you head for the caves, kayaking and excitement of Nong Khiaw.
Where will I stay in Ban Muang Soune?
You will stay in the home of Ms Kham and her family. Their traditional stilted house has a living space and bedrooms upstairs and a kitchen and communal area complete with hammocks underneath. Although simple, you will have a private room kitted out with comfortable, mattress beds and mosquito nets.
Will my stay benefit the local community?
The homestay is owned by Ms Kham. She grew up in a nearby village that you may visit by boat during your stay. As well as gaining insight and understanding of local Laotian village life, you will also be contributing to the local economy through Ms Kham's employment of other local people, such as boatmen or local guides, purchases made at the local market and the opportunity to buy handicrafts straight from the artisans.
Do I have to spend the night at the homestay?
We certainly favour the idea of spending a night in the village as it's a rare opportunity to really immerse yourself in life off the tourist trail. But, if time is tight, you can share a meal with the family and enjoy a guided village or river tour without spending the night.
