Traditional silk tapestries from Xam Tai district in Houaphanh Province will soon be recognized as official One District One Product (ODOP), aiming to preserve and promote local craftsmanship.
On 15 January, the Houaphanh provincial committee for the ODOP initiative, in collaboration with the Xam Tai district committee, met to support the local silk weaving group as part of the program. The ODOP initiative seeks to boost the local economy by highlighting unique products that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Artisans in Xam Tai have long been known for their unique silk weaving traditions. These practices, maintained by the Lao Loum and Tai Daeng ethnic groups, have been passed down through generations, deeply rooted in both Buddhist and animist beliefs.
silk tapestries, which are often used as wall hangings or table coverings. These decorative textiles are more than just a craft because it holds spiritual significance, believed to promote healing and the well-being of both individuals and the community. While the process is intricate and collaborative, involving careful raising of silkworms, meticulous extraction and dyeing of silk threads using natural materials, and the creation of complex patterns and vibrant colors.
Each piece of silk often features traditional motifs, such as Nagas –river serpents– symbolizing female power, elephants representing political strength, and ancestor spirits believed to offer protection.
Weaving these complicated patterns requires months of dedication, mostly from women who craft each piece to support their families and contribute to the local economy. Their efforts also help preserve the cultural identity of their community.
Larsouk, a silk tapestry merchant from Xam Tai district, shared her insights on the craft saying, “Silk tapestries require more than three months to create a piece. My customers always prefer traditional patterns over modern ones. Due to the detailed and time-consuming process, the price in the Lao market starts at LAK 5 million and can go up to LAK 50 million.”
“I hope the Lao textile market expands, with more cultural events like fairs to promote Lao weaving domestically and internationally. I would love to see the beauty of Lao silk showcased to foreigners, so they can appreciate how beautiful it is,” she said.
Despite modern influences, the silk artists of Xam Tai remain committed to their traditional practices, finding ways to bring their creations to broader markets while safeguarding their heritage. This dedication ensures that the legacy of Xam Tai’s silk weaving will endure for future generations.
To sustain this program, the committee is also exploring ways to enhance visibility and sales, further integrating these traditional arts into modern markets and ensuring their continued growth and appreciation.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/textile.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-04 11:42:002025-01-20 11:43:58Xam Tai District’s Silk Tapestries Set to Achieve ODOP Status
On 16 January, Oudomxay officially launched its 2025 Ethnic Traditional Festival with the aim of promoting tourism.
The opening ceremony, held at the provincial stadium, drew both domestic and international visitors.
Bounkhong Lachiemphone, Secretary of the Party Committee and Governor of Oudomxay, highlighted the importance of each of the 12 ethnic groups in the province, including Lao, Hmong, Tai, Khmu, Bid, Leu, Yang, Lamed, Iu mien, Akha, Phounoy, and Hor. Each group brings its own traditions, languages, and lifestyles, and they have lived harmoniously, contributing to the province’s growth while preserving their unique cultures.
The festival features a variety of events, including an exhibition of local handicrafts, agricultural products, and souvenirs. Visitors can also participate in a forum offering information on government loans and guidance on selling products online. Cultural performances and activities will showcase the traditions of five ethnic groups—Khmu, Hmong, Hor, Tai Dam, and Lao.
Oudomxay is home to several natural attractions, including the Nam Kat waterfall, the Singkham Buddha temple, the panoramic views from Phu Ya Kha Mountain, and Tad Talae waterfall. The province is also renowned for its local cuisine, such as sop pak (vegetables cooked with sesame, ginger, and chili) and som seen sai mai phai (fermented pork mixed with chili and garlic, packed into bamboo tubes).
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Lao-Ethnic-1.webp6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-03 11:40:002025-03-28 22:06:18Oudomxay Launches Ethnic Traditional Festival to Promote Tourism in 2025
On 20 January, Laos received 29 ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards during the ASEAN Tourism Forum held in Johor, Malaysia. These accolades celebrate the country’s efforts in enhancing tourism quality, sustainability, and cultural preservation.
Among the awards, Laos earned four under the ASEAN Homestay Standard category, recognizing efforts to promote sustainable tourism. The honored homestays include one located in Vang Vieng district, Vientiane Province, and three in Champasak.
In addition, Laos secured five awards for the ASEAN Community-Based Tourism Standards, with notable recognition for wildlife viewing experiences at Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park in Houaphan Province. The remaining four awards went to community-based tourism initiatives in villages across Khammouane, Luang Namtha, and Luang Prabang provinces.
The country’s spa services also stood out, garnering five awards in the ASEAN Spa Services Standard category. Three awards were presented to spas in Luang Prabang: Amantaka Hotel, Ban Lao Spa of My Ban Lao, and Mekong Spa at Phou Vao Hotel. The Senses Spa at Crown Plaza Vientiane and Dalah Spa in Vientiane Capital also received recognition.
Furthermore, Laos excelled in the ASEAN Public Toilet Standard category, with five public facilities being awarded. These included toilets at Nong Sa Phang Lenh Park in Vientiane Capital, Xieng Thong Temple in Luang Prabang, Mountain View Restaurant in Luang Namtha, Tat Yeuang Waterfall in Champasak, and None-Nangfa Cave in Vang Vieng.
On top of receiving awards, Laos also achieved a milestone of tourist arrivals. In 2024, Luang Prabang welcomed over 2 million visitors, far exceeding its initial target of 900,000. This growth is credited to the country’s heightened visibility on international travel platforms and the success of the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign.
Xam Tai District’s Silk Tapestries Set to Achieve ODOP Status
Traditional silk tapestries from Xam Tai district in Houaphanh Province will soon be recognized as official One District One Product (ODOP), aiming to preserve and promote local craftsmanship.
On 15 January, the Houaphanh provincial committee for the ODOP initiative, in collaboration with the Xam Tai district committee, met to support the local silk weaving group as part of the program. The ODOP initiative seeks to boost the local economy by highlighting unique products that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Artisans in Xam Tai have long been known for their unique silk weaving traditions. These practices, maintained by the Lao Loum and Tai Daeng ethnic groups, have been passed down through generations, deeply rooted in both Buddhist and animist beliefs.
silk tapestries, which are often used as wall hangings or table coverings. These decorative textiles are more than just a craft because it holds spiritual significance, believed to promote healing and the well-being of both individuals and the community. While the process is intricate and collaborative, involving careful raising of silkworms, meticulous extraction and dyeing of silk threads using natural materials, and the creation of complex patterns and vibrant colors.
Each piece of silk often features traditional motifs, such as Nagas –river serpents– symbolizing female power, elephants representing political strength, and ancestor spirits believed to offer protection.
Weaving these complicated patterns requires months of dedication, mostly from women who craft each piece to support their families and contribute to the local economy. Their efforts also help preserve the cultural identity of their community.
Larsouk, a silk tapestry merchant from Xam Tai district, shared her insights on the craft saying, “Silk tapestries require more than three months to create a piece. My customers always prefer traditional patterns over modern ones. Due to the detailed and time-consuming process, the price in the Lao market starts at LAK 5 million and can go up to LAK 50 million.”
“I hope the Lao textile market expands, with more cultural events like fairs to promote Lao weaving domestically and internationally. I would love to see the beauty of Lao silk showcased to foreigners, so they can appreciate how beautiful it is,” she said.
Despite modern influences, the silk artists of Xam Tai remain committed to their traditional practices, finding ways to bring their creations to broader markets while safeguarding their heritage. This dedication ensures that the legacy of Xam Tai’s silk weaving will endure for future generations.
To sustain this program, the committee is also exploring ways to enhance visibility and sales, further integrating these traditional arts into modern markets and ensuring their continued growth and appreciation.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/17/xam-tai-districts-silk-tapestries-set-to-achieve-odop-status/
Oudomxay Launches Ethnic Traditional Festival to Promote Tourism in 2025
On 16 January, Oudomxay officially launched its 2025 Ethnic Traditional Festival with the aim of promoting tourism.
The opening ceremony, held at the provincial stadium, drew both domestic and international visitors.
Bounkhong Lachiemphone, Secretary of the Party Committee and Governor of Oudomxay, highlighted the importance of each of the 12 ethnic groups in the province, including Lao, Hmong, Tai, Khmu, Bid, Leu, Yang, Lamed, Iu mien, Akha, Phounoy, and Hor. Each group brings its own traditions, languages, and lifestyles, and they have lived harmoniously, contributing to the province’s growth while preserving their unique cultures.
The festival features a variety of events, including an exhibition of local handicrafts, agricultural products, and souvenirs. Visitors can also participate in a forum offering information on government loans and guidance on selling products online. Cultural performances and activities will showcase the traditions of five ethnic groups—Khmu, Hmong, Hor, Tai Dam, and Lao.
Oudomxay is home to several natural attractions, including the Nam Kat waterfall, the Singkham Buddha temple, the panoramic views from Phu Ya Kha Mountain, and Tad Talae waterfall. The province is also renowned for its local cuisine, such as sop pak (vegetables cooked with sesame, ginger, and chili) and som seen sai mai phai (fermented pork mixed with chili and garlic, packed into bamboo tubes).
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/17/oudomxay-launches-ethnic-traditional-festival-to-promote-tourism-in-2025/
Laos Wins 29 ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards
On 20 January, Laos received 29 ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards during the ASEAN Tourism Forum held in Johor, Malaysia. These accolades celebrate the country’s efforts in enhancing tourism quality, sustainability, and cultural preservation.
Among the awards, Laos earned four under the ASEAN Homestay Standard category, recognizing efforts to promote sustainable tourism. The honored homestays include one located in Vang Vieng district, Vientiane Province, and three in Champasak.
In addition, Laos secured five awards for the ASEAN Community-Based Tourism Standards, with notable recognition for wildlife viewing experiences at Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park in Houaphan Province. The remaining four awards went to community-based tourism initiatives in villages across Khammouane, Luang Namtha, and Luang Prabang provinces.
The country’s spa services also stood out, garnering five awards in the ASEAN Spa Services Standard category. Three awards were presented to spas in Luang Prabang: Amantaka Hotel, Ban Lao Spa of My Ban Lao, and Mekong Spa at Phou Vao Hotel. The Senses Spa at Crown Plaza Vientiane and Dalah Spa in Vientiane Capital also received recognition.
Furthermore, Laos excelled in the ASEAN Public Toilet Standard category, with five public facilities being awarded. These included toilets at Nong Sa Phang Lenh Park in Vientiane Capital, Xieng Thong Temple in Luang Prabang, Mountain View Restaurant in Luang Namtha, Tat Yeuang Waterfall in Champasak, and None-Nangfa Cave in Vang Vieng.
On top of receiving awards, Laos also achieved a milestone of tourist arrivals. In 2024, Luang Prabang welcomed over 2 million visitors, far exceeding its initial target of 900,000. This growth is credited to the country’s heightened visibility on international travel platforms and the success of the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/22/laos-wins-29-asean-tourism-standards-awards/