Published on May 16, 2024
Embrace a slower pace of life surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature when you visit the best wellness sites in Lao PDR. From breathing the fresh air deep into your lungs to quieting your mind, Lao offers plenty to find healing mentally, physically, and spiritually. For centuries, Buddhist monks have embraced the healing and restorative nature of this tropical setting. There is something for everyone, no matter what type and style of wellness experience you seek. From getting in touch with nature to embracing a rich spiritual history to indulging in a luxurious spa experience, you will find what you need.
Vipassana Retreats in Luang Prabang
One of the wellness experiences that Lao PDR is known for is Vipassana, an ancient Buddhist technique for meditating. In the early days of Buddhism, Vipassana was a method of awakening the mind and mastering awareness. While the practice stopped in Lao in 1975, Vipassana retreats were reintroduced in Luang Prabang in 2004.
Vipassana retreats in Lao are free, and participants are provided with accommodation and meals during the course. During this experience, you will learn the basics and hone your abilities to benefit from meditation, like balancing your physical body with your mind to become full of love and compassion.
Climbing Mount Phousi
If you are in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, take a spiritual journey by climbing Mount Phousi. Also known as Phou Si Hill, this hill is known for both its panoramic views of the town and its spiritual significance. Many temples on the mount, including Wat Chom Si, create a spiritual atmosphere that puts you in the right mindset for prayer and reflection. Monks wander the hillside among the people, wafting incense throughout the leafy walking paths. The gilded temples shine in the sun, drawing you in like a beacon to healing.
For the best experience, visit Moun Phousi early. The crowds are lighter, and the panoramic sunrise at the top is breathtaking. Plan to climb the hill on one side and descend on the other so you can visit the many temples throughout the surrounding landscape. Bring offerings for the temples and honour the local tradition. At the top of the hill, you will be rewarded with 360-degree views of the city, the temples, and the natural mountain landscape.
The Gibbon Experience at Bokeo Nature Reserve
Enrich your trip to Lao PDR by visiting the Gibbon Experience at Bokeo Nature Reserve. You can take in the natural beauty of the nature reserve while exploring and freshening up. Accommodations for the Gibbon Experience will be in the highest tree houses in the world. Each house is nestled in the forest and is custom-built, using a rope wire suspension or wooden console system. Enjoy calming and incredible views at one of the best places to recenter yourself in Lao PDR.
At the nature reserve, you can choose from three tours: the classic, the giant loop, and the honeymoon. The Honeymoon tour is perfect for couples looking for an intimate experience that gives you the ultimate privacy. The Giant Loop tour takes you on steep hikes and long zip lines. The Classic Tour is best for seeing the gibbons in their natural habitat. There is no strict schedule so you can tailor your experience to your interests.
French colonial style buildings in Luang Prabang | Visit Southeast Asia
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Laos when you stay at Rosewood. Nestled into the hilltop, you will enjoy accommodations that perfectly blend slow-town life with luxurious touches. You can sleep soundly in the designer beds with Frette linens for the ultimate restorative sleep or enjoy a dip in the crystal waters of the oval-shaped pool. You can lounge on the daybeds, listening to the soothing sounds of the natural waterfall next to the pool.
The Sense Spa is the ultimate mental and physical rejuvenation spot. Indulge in healing spa treatments that use locally harvested botanicals that will purify and rebalance your body, mind, and soul. The spa menu features traditional healing therapies that locals have used for centuries before modern medicine. You can also walk through the on-site spa garden to see the entire process of growing, harvesting, preparing, and using indigenous herbs and fruits. Rosewood Luang Prabang is one of the most luxurious wellness attractions in Lao PDR, honouring traditional healthy methods. With a Buddhist expert in residence, you can learn the art of meditation on a personal level. Visit the local Phanom Village for the Tak Bat alms offering for a unique experience among the locals.
Find Your Inner Peace at These Wellness Spots of Lao PDR
Visiting Lao PDR is the perfect opportunity to embrace a rich cultural history and preserved nature. Experiencing this beautiful country creates the ideal setting for finding mental and physical wellness. Learn ancient meditation practices at a Vipassana retreat in Luang Prabang. Spend the night in the treetops at the Gibbon Experience at the Bokeo Nature Reserve. Pamper yourself at Rosewood Luang Prabang’s spa featuring locally grown herbs. Start planning your wellness journey by booking your visit to the best wellness spots in Lao PDR.
Plan your visit to Lao PDR and experience elevated wellness.
