A common Lao spirit practice is the Basi Ceremony that ensures the 32 khwan (guardian spirits) are all present in a person's body. Belief in spirits is very prevalent amongst the upland peoples of Laos; notably the Black Tai; whilst animism and shamanism play central roles in the rites and religious beliefs of the Hmong; Akha and Mien minorities.

Luang Prabang was formerly the capital of a kingdom of the same name. Until the communist takeover in 1975; it was the royal capital and seat of government of the Kingdom of Laos. The city is nowadays a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pictures From Asia David Henley