9 DAYS, ASTOUNDING LAOS

Itinerary

ITINERARY IN DETAILS:

DAY1.   ARRIVAL – VIENTIANE

On arrival in Vientiane Capital, you are met and transferred to hotel. On the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is the charming and fascinating capital of Laos. This small town conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. We explore the town this afternoon; with Wat Sisaket which is the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. The following sight is Haw Prakeo, the former royal temple of Laos monarchy, where previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Statue. We then visit the imposing Patuxai Monument which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph before continuing to the famous That Luang Stupa. Overnight in Vientiane.

DAY2.   VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG
The journey begins as we depart Vientiane and drive along one of the most scenic routes in the whole of Asia to Vang Vieng, which is located on a bend in the Nam Song River. This small and tranquil town is rapidly developed with the advent of tourist, but the beautiful scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops is unchanged for century. After checking into hotel, we explore the most famous cave of Tham Jang, which was used by local people around 200 years as a hideout from Chinese invaders, and the breathtaking landscape along the Nam Song River. Over night in Vang Vieng. (B)

DAY3.   VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANG
An early morning departure towards Luang Prabang. The road conditions are very poor; however the stunning mountain scenery makes the hardship all worthwhile. We arrive in Luang Prabang this afternoon and have time strolling around to catch our first glimpse. This enchanting town with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop has been claimed by UNESCO to be “the best preserved traditional city in South East Asia”. There is little traffic on Luang Prabang roads and monks in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas to shade themselves from the Sun. Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B)

DAY4.   LUANG PRABANG – CITY TOUR 
The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign, is not to be missed. We visit this sight as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways. Heading out of this area, we explore some other major sights including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. The perfect way to round off the day is to watch the Atacular sunset over the Mekong River from the top of Phousi Mount. From there, we explore Street Night Market, where you can find the lovely collection and handmade textile by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B)

DAY5.   LUANG PRABANG – BAN PAKLUNG
The extremely beautiful mountain region around Luang Prabang is ideal for anyone seeking a true adventure and trekking expedition.  After breakfast, we cross the mighty Mekong River and visit one of the famous caves in Luang Prabang before walking to local villages of three kind of ethnic minority groups of Laos of Ban Chane and Ban Pha Phet. This small village is conquered by the Khmu hill tribe people. After an enjoyable stop at Ban Pha Phet, we continue our trek and embark on a boat for a leisurely trip to Paklung where we are the guest of a Lao family. The accommodation is very simple and dormitory style, no western facilities. Overnight at Ban Paklung villager’s house (Home stay). (B)

DAY6.   BAN PAKLUNG – KHOUANGSI WATERFALLS
Upon leaving the village of our previous night we begin our full day trek, using the local tracks and passing through various hill villages from Ban Jong to Ban Long Phu. Along the way we encounter many ethnic minorities, and are sure to attract attention as this part of the country receives very few visitors. On arrival at Ban Saluen, we cross the Mekong River again and walk towards the famous Khouangsi Waterfalls. The water tumbling over multi tiered limestone formations into the cool and clear pool makes it a wonderful place to relax. Overnight at Ban Thapene near Khouangsi Waterfall. (B)

DAY7.   BAN LONG PHU – BAN LONG LAO
Today, we continue venturing into the beautiful surrounding area of Luang Prabang as we walk mountainsides and pass through forest, streams and rice fields. The trek is somewhat difficult; however some physical preparation will enable you to maximize enjoyment from the walk. We arrive at Ban Long Lao by late afternoon and have time to walk around this little village to catch a glimpse of local people’s life style. Here, we will be toasted as honored guests and will be sample some of their homemade rice wine! Overnight at Ban Long Lao villager’s house (Home stay). (B)

DAY8.   BAN LONG LAO – LUANG PRABANG
After breakfast, we trek for a half day, passing through several more hill villages. On arrival at Ban Xieng Mouak, we board a local transport, Tuk Tuk for a short drive back to Luang Prabang. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and catching up on some shopping areas. Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B)

DAY9.   LUANG PRABANG – DEPARTURE
There is free time for you to further explore the town or relax. The tour ends after transfer to the airport for departure. (B)