Laos: Discovering the secrets of sticky rice

In Laos, sticky rice – known locally as Khao Niew – is one of the main staples of the Laotian diet and yet for most visitors to the country, the process of growing and producing it remains a mystery.

At the Living Farm just outside Luang Prabang, those travelers curious to find out more about this staple fare will have the opportunity to become rice farmers for the day and discover just how this glutinous grain is grown and prepared for the table.

On hand will be our experienced and energetic farmer and guide, who will take visitors through every step of the process from selecting the seeds, to plowing the field using a water buffalo, and the actual planting.

“In the eight years since I moved to Laos, I have eaten sticky rice thousands of times,” says Khiri Travel’s Laos Country Manager.

“I was intrigued to learn how complicated it is to grow. Now I really appreciate it and highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about real life in Laos,” he adds.

The Living Farm tour is especially suitable for families with children from the age of six upwards as they can also join in the fun.

The farm also plays an important role in preserving the traditional way of life in Laos, while giving outsiders the opportunity to learn more about a key part of Laotian culture.

Profits from this community enterprise go toward sustaining a number of educational and farming programs; assisting in improvements to village infrastructure and sanitation, as well as providing scholarships for local farmers to study at the Agricultural College of Luang Prabang.

There is also the option for visitors to spend a night on the farm in one of the converted rice barns, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies. Accommodation for two is basic, but clean and comfortable.

For more information, or to request a booking, please contact at [email protected]