The idyllic country Laos is always known for the tradition of making exquisite handicrafts. Even many villages have their own secrets to create wonderful products which nowhere has the similar stuff to theirs. And perhaps it is not surprising when the ancient capital Luang Prabang possesses many unique places offering unique handicrafts. Below are 5 popular addresses to buy textiles and other local items in Luang Prabang.
Ma Té Sai
This is a very famous shop in Luang Prabang which sells not only traditional handicrafts of Laos but also several items made of modern materials. All of the stuff is transported from remote villages as well as community organizations throughout Laos. The items are extremely diverse with a lot of types such as fabrics, pieces of jewelry, embroidery…
Location: Ban Aphai, at the T-junction near Aussie Bar, Hive, Utopia and Wat Aphai
Web: matesai.com
Mail: [email protected]
Ban Lao Natural Products
Ban Lao is a store offering a variety of Laotian local products such as handicrafts, weavings, accessories…The unique thing about these items is that they bring the beauty of both traditional and modern style. Besides, it has an exhibition room displaying many crafts as well as other work of local and international artists.
Location: Ban Vat Nong, on Mekong Riverbank
Tel: +856 30 514 0555
CAMA Crafts
CAMA Crafts is a handicraft shop that is run with the non-profit purpose. The items here are made according to traditional patterns and techniques by the skillful hands of Lao artisans in order to preserve the essence of Laotian art of crafts.
Location: Downtown
Tel: +856-71 561 668
Caruso Lao
Caruso Lao offers high-quality handcrafted home and fashion accessories. Everything is designed and fashioned together by hand in Laos itself. The store’s Canadian owner spent a large part of her life in the Hong Kong fashion industry before settling down in Luang Prabang in 1988. All products are crafted from wood or silk, and the impressive range includes wooden bowls, decorative Buddha heads, cushions, natural silk shawls, bedspreads, table runners, and more.
The owner is a friendly Canadian girl who has lived in Laos for many years. She will help western tourists easily learn more the art of making handicrafts of Laos. All of the items in Caruso Lao are in high quality and beautifully designed. They are made of many local materials that are available in Laos such as wood, silk, silver. Through the specific things like wooden bowls, Buddha heads, bedspreads, neckwear…you can feel how wonderful the handicrafts are created.
Location: Sakkarine Road, Ban Vat Sene
Tel: +856 71 254 574
Hmong Market
This is the outdoor place selling the variety of ethnic crafts. You will see a maze of small stalls standing serially that display the most popular stuff of Laos such as weaving bags, tribe pants, purses, bed cover, accessories… All of them are handmade things.
Location: Sisavangvong Road
a Laos tour wouldn't be complete without indulging in the vibrant handicraft scene of Luang Prabang. This charming city offers a plethora of options for purchasing unique and exquisite handicrafts. Whether you're looking for intricately woven textiles, hand-carved wooden sculptures, or delicate silver jewelry, Luang Prabang has it all. Explore the bustling night markets, visit artisan workshops, and engage with local artisans to discover the true essence of Lao craftsmanship. Take home a piece of the rich cultural heritage of Laos by supporting local artisans and finding the perfect handicraft to cherish as a memento of your unforgettable Laos tour.
