Ban Anoulak
Cultural Preservation Village
Ban Anoulak
Gallery
Maria Elisa Buttelli
"Our two-day stay with Pannavith and his family was one of the highlights of our trip. His dedication to preserving local culture is truly inspiring, and the atmosphere he has created in the village is incredibly special. Being welcomed by his parents, nephews, and the entire community made us feel like part of the family. Located just a few minutes’ drive from Nong Khiaw, the village offered a perfect blend of hospitality, tradition, and authenticity. We took part in bamboo workshops, learned weaving techniques, and shared delicious meals with the locals. It’s a unique experience I would recommend to anyone who wants to discover the true soul of Laos!"
Agnes Rouchon
This is an amazing place! I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. If you want to experience genuine Tai Lue culture, go there. We were welcomed by Pannavith and his family like relatives. The children came and played with ours and we all cried when we left. Pannavith is so passionate about his culture and willing to share and explain everything to his hosts. He is a brilliant young man and can offer very insightful perspectives. The workshops they offer are incredible value. It is not merely a quick demonstration of a craft, you actually get to craft something from start to finish in how much time it takes you to finish. The meals are wonderful and varied, a true culinary experience. Every day we discovered a new ingredient or dishes we had never tasted before. Everyone in the family is so generous with their time and knowledge and open their heart to their guests. An unforgettable experience, thank you so much to whole the family.
Hans
This place is perfect for anyone who truly wants to immerse themselves in a culture—far away from the tourist hustle and bustle. “Life is simple” is the motto here, and it is genuinely lived. There is no restaurant; you eat what the family eats, and that is absolutely recommended. This is also great for vegetarians, who in other places often have to settle for fried rice and boiled vegetables. Here, you’ll find the best vegetarian food, simple and without frills. Good food is simple, too. And you will experience how enjoyable a meal can be when you don’t have to browse through 30 dishes on a menu beforehand.
The tranquility of this place takes time to set in. I therefore recommend staying for at least three days. But once it has taken hold of you, it unfolds its effect and gives your thoughts space to breathe. The only requirement is that you can keep yourself occupied. You have the opportunity to weave baskets with the family members, process cotton and then weave on a loom, or take a cooking class. Or you finally take the time to read that book you've been carrying around for the past two weeks. Everything is based on your own preferences and the availability of the family. And everything moves at its own pace.
Ban Anoulak is a place that becomes an experience precisely because of its remoteness, its hosts and residents, and its tranquility—in the sense that you live something entirely different from the otherwise highly organized tourism industry.