History & Culture

Ban Pako is an archaeology site of international importance.

Ban Pako, some 2000 years ago, was a place where people gathered to work in pottery, iron and textiles. The people also deposited a vast amount of pottery at the site and buried their dead.

This fascinating history first emerged in the early 1990s when pots and other artifacts were uncovered during the construction of the lodge. Lao archaeologists made the initial excavations and in 1995 a co-operation project was established with a team of Swedish archaeologists that resulted in joint excavations of the site in 1995, 1996 and 2002.

The Longhouse lies partly over the ancient burial site. The discoveries made there tell a lot about the people who used the hill so many years ago. Potsherds and artifacts have been retrieved and these have been studied, sorted and counted to gain an understanding of the Ban Pako people.

Who were the people that used Ban Pako and why did they go there? They probably came from the surrounding villages to perform important rituals. The implements they used are similar to those used by Lao people today. There are also some strong similarities to contemporary sites in Northeast Thailand, such as Ban Chiang and Ban Na Di. The pottery of Ban Pako shows similarities to finds at these sites in Thailand, for example, the so-called paddle-and-anvil manufacture, the common cord-marked decoration and the red slip.

The site shows a remarkable individuality, in the distinct pottery styles and in the unique type of ritual that were performed there. Future investigations will lead to a better understanding of this special site.

There are a number of villages within walking distance of Ban Pako. These represent a cross-section of Lao society. It is possible to walk from the lodge through lowland Lao, Lao Thai Dham and Lao Hmong villages.

You can observe the unhurried pace and get an understanding of the difficult situations facing these rural communities. Trips to other interesting villages can be organized by boat or local transport. The level of English (and to a degree French) is good at the lodge. However, in the villages there are only a few people that can speak foreign languages and it may be advisable to ask the lodge for a guide. Nonetheless, you are free to walk and travel around on your own or in small groups.

The Lao people have a very traditional culture, particularly in rural communities not constantly exposed to western culture. Therefore, it is important to be culturally aware and considerate when visiting villages. This is true of both behavior and dress. The simplest approach is to show respect and use your head, eyes and common sense to guide you. When in Laos try to do as the Lao do and remember: don't touch heads, don't loose your cool and don't flash flesh. The rest is about manners: shoes left outside, accept the host's greetings, and don't upset religious feelings. The Lao are very friendly and hospitable people. If you respect the culture, you will earn its respect in turn.