If you are in the market for some fine textiles, antiques, or handicrafts then here’s my guide to some of the best boutiques in Luang Prabang….

Anakha – The Blue House

This shop only opened in 2011 and is located in a wonderful old colonial building named The Blue House.  Anakha is expensive, but for those with deep pockets it is worth the visit.  With an elegant display of home linens, clothes, toiletries and tasteful handicrafts you will surely find something you like. Everything is of the highest quality and very natural, it’s a beautiful shop to enjoy, even if you don’t buy anything!

Address: 9 Rue Sakkrine, Ban Vat Sene, Luang Prabang

1. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Cenre (TAEC)

So not technically a boutique, this is in fact a great museum, displaying a superb range of textiles from across the country, but they also have a great shop. I bought a wonderful table runner and a shawl, both cotton and handwoven and both under $15, which is much cheaper than the upmarket boutiques. It costs 20,000 kip to get in, but well worth a visit anyway. There’s also a lovely little cafe and on top of this 50% of the shop proceeds go straight back to the villages where they were made.

Website: http://www.taeclaos.org

Address: Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, Ban Khamyong, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

2. Caruso Lao

A contemporary collection of handicrafts, beautiful wooden bowls, silk cushions, and wonderful home furnishings. I bought two small hand-drawn pictures here, which were $75 each. Expect to pay more for most things, but you great quality and style. They also have a store in Vientiane.

Website: http://www.carusolao.com

Address: 60 Sakaline Road, Luang Prabang

3. Pathana Boupha Antique House

A small room in a big colonial house, but don’t the size worry you as this gem is crammed full of fine antiques from textiles to buddhas, from silver to

4. OckPopTok

Started by a local weaver and an English photographer, OckPopTok creates and sells a diverse selection of textiles in their numerous shops in Luang Prabang. Quality is high, but so too are prices. They also have accommodation, and a cafe to enjoy. You can find the shop locations on their website.

Website: http://www.ockpoptok.com

5. Ma Te Sai