After three months restricted to their temples, learning dharma and practising meditation, the Buddhist monks once again return to their social duties and are welcomed with offerings of food and gifts.

For three months, it was the rainy season, the period of calm in Laos (no wedding, no parties except the religious one). This is the end of Buddhist Lent, it’s also time for another big celebration close to Luang Prabang, the last boat race that takes place in Xieng Ngeun, 30km from the centre town.