Luang Prabang: Mekong River Cooking Class With Hotel Pickup

Luang Prabang’s vibrant food scene comes alive with the Mekong River Cooking Class. This immersive experience takes travelers on a culinary journey, exploring a local market and learning to prepare traditional Lao dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. With convenient hotel pickup and a scenic river cruise, it’s an opportunity to savor the rich flavors of the region while gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious, this class promises a memorable afternoon that may just inspire your next culinary adventure.

Key Points

• A 5-hour Lao cooking class with a professional chef, including hotel pickup, market visit, cooking lesson, and Mekong River cruise with lunch.
• Hands-on experience preparing traditional Lao dishes like Mok Pah, Oua Si Khay, Laap Mou, and Khao Niew Mak Muang.
• Vegetarian options available, with a Lao-style lunch served after the cooking class.
• Limited to 6 participants, with the class offered in French, English, Laothian, and Thai.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Participants can experience traditional Lao cooking with a professional chef during this 5-hour class.

The group size is limited to 6 participants and the languages offered are French, English, Laothian, and Thai.

Priced from Kč 2,745 per person, the experience includes hotel pickup, a visit to the morning food market, a cooking class, and a boat cruise on the Mekong River with lunch.

Immerse in Lao culinary traditions with a 5-hour class featuring a market visit, cooking lesson, and Mekong River cruise with lunch.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option is offered.

The class isn’t suitable for certain groups, and dietary restrictions should be mentioned in advance.

Itinerary

The experience begins with a hotel pickup in Luang Prabang, which takes around 15 minutes by tuk-tuk.

Participants then visit the morning food market for 45 minutes, exploring the local produce.

Next, they embark on a 2-hour cooking class, where they learn to prepare Lao dishes like Mok Pah, Oua Si Khay, Laap Mou, and Khao Niew Mak Muang.

After the cooking lesson, guests enjoy a relaxing 2-hour boat cruise along the Mekong River, culminating in a delightful lunch of their own homemade Lao cuisine.

Cooking Class Details

During the cooking class, participants learn to prepare several authentic Lao dishes, including the steamed fish in banana leaf known as Mok Pah, the minced pork in lemongrass called Oua Si Khay, the pork salad Laap Mou, and the classic mango sticky rice dessert Khao Niew Mak Muang. Vegetarian options are also available, such as the steamed mushroom in banana leaf Mok Het, the minced tofu with eggs in lemongrass Oua Si Khay (Vegetarian), and the tofu salad Laap Tofu.

| Dish | Main Ingredient | Cooking Method |

| — | — | — |

| Mok Pah | Fish | Steamed in banana leaf |

| Oua Si Khay | Pork | Minced with lemongrass |

| Laap Mou | Pork | Salad |

| Khao Niew Mak Muang | Mango | Sticky rice |

| Mok Het | Mushroom | Steamed in banana leaf |

Inclusions

The cooking class package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour of the morning food market, the hands-on cooking class, the meal prepared during the class, a 2.5-hour boat trip along the Mekong River, and drinks and tips.

Participants will learn to cook Lao dishes like steamed fish in banana leaf, minced pork in lemongrass, and pork salad. Vegetarian options are available.

The class is limited to 6 people and is offered in French, English, Laotian, and Thai.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

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Important Information

This cooking class isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people prone to seasickness.

Participants should bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and wear comfortable clothes. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and bringing drugs or explosive substances aren’t allowed.

If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to inform the organizers in advance. Additional fees may apply for smaller groups.

Exploring the Morning Market

After departing from the hotel, participants venture into the vibrant Luang Prabang morning market.

This lively marketplace offers a glimpse into the local food culture. Wandering through the stalls, they’ll find an abundance of fresh produce, exotic fruits, and fragrant spices.

The market is a feast for the senses, with the sights and sounds of vendors haggling and shoppers browsing. This is the perfect opportunity to familiarize oneself with the ingredients that will be used in the upcoming cooking class.

The market visit sets the stage for an immersive Lao culinary experience.

Getting Hands-on in the Cooking Class

Following the conclusion of the morning market tour, participants eagerly make their way to the cooking class location.

Under the guidance of a professional Lao chef, they dive into preparing authentic local dishes. The menu includes specialties like steamed fish in banana leaf, minced pork with lemongrass, pork salad, and mango sticky rice.

Participants prepare authentic Lao dishes under the guidance of a professional chef, including steamed fish in banana leaf and mango sticky rice.

Vegetarian options are also available, such as steamed mushrooms and tofu salad. Participants actively chop, mix, and cook, gaining hands-on experience.

The class culminates in enjoying the fruits of their labor – a delicious Lao-style lunch along the scenic Mekong River.

Relaxing on the Mekong River Cruise

After the fulfilling cooking class, participants embark on a relaxing 2-hour boat cruise along the serene Mekong River.

Gliding across the water, they take in the beautiful riverside scenery and lush vegetation. The boat ride offers a peaceful respite from the bustling market and kitchen.

Travelers can sit back, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and savor the Lao cuisine they just prepared.

The Mekong cruise provides a perfect end to the immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to reflect on the day’s activities while taking in the natural beauty of Luang Prabang.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

No, bringing your own alcoholic beverages is not allowed. The tour policy prohibits the consumption of alcohol during the activities for safety reasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 5 hours and can’t be extended. The itinerary is pre-designed, and the class size is limited to 6 participants. Bringing your own alcoholic beverages is also not allowed.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Lao Dish to Learn?

Yes, you can request to learn a specific Lao dish during the cooking class. The chef is happy to accommodate special requests as long as they’re provided in advance. Additional charges may apply for customized menus.

Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Tours at Once?

Yes, there’s a discount for booking multiple tours at once. Customers can save money by reserving more than one activity during their stay. Contact the tour provider for details on available package deals and discounts.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Activities?

The activity allows photography during the cooking class and boat cruise, though visitors should respect the privacy of other participants. Photography may be restricted in some market areas as per local customs.

The Sum Up

Set out on a culinary adventure in Luang Prabang with the Mekong River Cooking Class. Explore a vibrant local market, learn to prepare authentic Lao dishes under expert guidance, and savor your creations during a scenic river cruise. This personalized experience offers a delicious way to learn about the rich flavors and traditions of Lao cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here: