Luang Prabang is home to numerous spiritual festivals, and Amantaka joins the celebrations, further fusing the property to local life. The Light Festival, an occasion to show respect to the spirit of the river, takes place annualy between 12th and 14th October. Temples are decorated with colourful candles, garlands and paper stars, but the highlight is the paper boat parade that makes its way around the town, towards the Mekong River. Amantaka’s General Manager Tom Rutherford personally escorts guests to watch the parade pass the front entrance of the resort, followed by an excursion on the resorts two boats.
Throughout March, the Boun Mahasat festival tells the tale of the virtue of perfect clarity and is celebrated in temples across Laos. Guests can take part in the time-honoured festival by donating drinking water, a bag of rice and a soft drink to the monks and by watching their chanting, teaching and meditation each evening, paying homage to an important part of Laos folklore.
For those wanting to further their spiritual education at Amantaka, Buddhist Spiritual Master Geshe YongDong will lead Journey to Peace, a six-night retreat at the resort. Taking place from 22nd – 28th November 2019, Geshe will share the ancient lessons of the Bon Tibetan Tradition, enabling participants to find the serenity of mind and spirit they seek.
With lively festivals throughout the year, temples and monasteries within walking distance, Amantaka is a place of quiet contemplation infused by the spiritual tranquillity of Luang Prabang, further enhanced with the new Buddhist Learning Centre.