Culture

Lao language is the main tongue in Laos but several dialect coexist such as Akha, Kamu, etc.. In the town, English and French are common, as well as Thai and Vietnamese.

Buddhism, appeared early in the country but has been declared as state religion after the foundation of the United Kingdom of Lane Xang (the Kingdom of Million Elephants) by King Fa Ngum at the 14th century. Food is mainly dominated by the thai influence and could be quite spicy, especially the Tam Makhung or “Papaya Salad”. All food is prepared with fresh ingredients and herbs and spices. Lime, lemongrass, coriander give a sweet touch to the cuisine. One of the most famous dishes is the laab with thin slices meat with mint leaves and chilli served with the traditional sticky rice.

The Beer Lao is very popular in the whole country. Art have been influenced by the neighbouring countries and the French presence. However, we can discover as well traditional theater, traditional music with a wind instrument, made in bamboo and called khene.