

Location: Luang Prabang, Laos
In Theravada Buddhism, monks collect daily alms of food. In the early morning they set off walking barefoot around town to collect food in their large bowls.
People stand by the side of the street and place food in the monk’s bowls as a way to make merit.
Get exclusive updates
Enter your email and I’ll send you the best travel food content.
This photo was taken in Luang Prabang, Laos, at about 7 am when the monks were out on a cloudy morning.
Get exclusive updates
Enter your email and I'll send you the best travel food content.
chris
12 years ago
i would love to see the monks collecting alms in the morning.I didnt see them falling in line in bangkok,there were just two or three at a time begging for alms
ladakh tour
12 years ago
the Buddhism monk is laborious. In this picture they are collecting food in large bowl amazing…….
Mark Wiens
12 years ago
Thanks!
Arti
12 years ago
This is an amazing pic. I can relate with the Jain monks who too have similar routines. People fold their hands and give them food, it is considered very good.
Mark Wiens
12 years ago
Thanks for the comment Arti!
Renee King
12 years ago
For some reason, this saddens me. Maybe I’m too far removed culturally and looking at this with Western eyes, but it seems like they are begging….but I am glad that people are sharing their food with them.
Emily S.
12 years ago
Do they collect the food for themselves, or is it to give away to others?
Their bright clothing is such a stark contrast to the surroundings!
Mark Wiens
12 years ago
Hey Emily. They collect food together as monks from a temple, then they go back to the temple and share the food amongst themselves. The contrast is what I really liked about this photo!
Priyank
12 years ago
Hey Mark, this photo reminded me of my childhood, I too used to go in the morning to seek alms. Not every day and certainly not dressed colourfully like that. 🙂
Mark Wiens
12 years ago
Cool, thanks for sharing Priyank!