Introduction / History

The Pala people live in 26 villages in Laos’ isolated mountainous regions of Phongsaly and Oudomxay provinces in rugged, isolated terrain at elevations of 800-1500 meters. They are not officially recognized by the Lao government as a separate ethnic group and are often categorized under the Akha in official records, such as the 1995 census, despite having their own language and cultural practices. The Pala share some linguistic and cultural similarities with the Oma subgroup, another nearby ethnic group, but maintain a unique identity.

What Are Their Lives Like?

With a unique highland lifestyle, Pala women wear distinctive traditional clothing, especially during festivals or market visits. Their attire includes embroidered aprons, vests, trousers, and turbans, often decorated with coins and aluminum for a striking appearance. Everyday clothing is simpler, made of blue indigo cloth for both men and women. The Pala are rice and corn farmers and raise chickens, pigs, and water buffalos. They trade primarily with the Lao and Khmu ethnic groups. They occasionally visit markets to barter for goods. The Pala are described as relatively closed to new ideas and development, maintaining traditional practices and living in isolated communities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Pala predominantly follow animist beliefs, worshiping spirits and deities. Each household has a sacred ancestral altar for rituals and offerings. Held every June after planting rice, the Tgelapeu ceremony honors the spirits of the village and the harvest, with the Pala reflecting on their deep connection to agriculture and spiritual life.

What Are Their Needs?

Their remote, high-altitude villages limit access to modern infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Like many indigenous groups, the Pala face pressures from modernization and assimilation, though their traditional clothing and rituals remain strong du

Prayer Items

Pray for other tribal representatives whom God has reached, who will go to them with the message from their Father God.
Pray for disciples who will contagiously make more disciples.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give dreams and do miracles among the Pala people, showing them God’s power and care.
Pray for new Pala believers who have been ostracized in their villages. Pray that the Lord will meet their physical and spiritual needs.

Scripture Prayers for the Akha Pala in Laos.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akha_people
Joshuaproject.net
Minorityrights.org/country/laos
International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs: Laos Iwgia.org/en/laos
Wikipedia.org
Remotelands.com
Phongsalytourism.org
Tandfonline.com