Day 1: Vientiane Arrival
Upon arrival, you will be met outside the baggage claim area by your guide who will escort you to a waiting vehicle for your transfer to downtown with a brief introduction en route. Your guide will be holding a welcome signboard with the ASIA TOUR ADVISOR LOGO & your name. During the drive your guide will provide an introduction to Vientiane.
Vientiane is the tranquil and timeless capital of Laos with a kaleidoscope of architectural styles and influences ranging from traditional Lao to Thai, Chinese, French, Soviet and American. Discover crumbling French mansions, the golden spires of Pha That Luang, ancient atmospheric temples, bizarre sculptures and the Patuxai Monument, the Arc de Triomphe of Laos. From steaming noodle bars to riverside cafes, Vientiane will surprise and delight you with its quaint placid charm.
Day 2: Vientiane Tours
After breakfast we explore the charming and laid-back capital of Laos with a city tour. We visit the oldest Buddhist monastery temple in the country – Wat Si Saket – and the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaeo, built to house the famed Emerald Buddha.
Today it serves as the national museum of religious art. Learn about Laos’ tragic past and present suffering at the COPE Centre, an organization that works with victims of unexploded bombs and mines. Next visit Pha That Luang, the most important monument in Laos and a symbol of both Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty.
We also stop to view the imposing Patuxay monument – Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe. Later in the afternoon enjoy time exploring the hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures scattered throughout Buddha Park. End the day with a sunset dinner besides the Mekong River.
Day 3: Vientiane – Vang Vieng
We leave the capital early and journey north through lush countryside to Vang Vieng. Along the way we visit Ban Keun, famous for its salt extraction plant and a village of local Lao rice wine whiskey distillation. A next stop is the busy and colourful market of Thalat, where local hill tribes come to trade and shop and also visit the archaeological site of Vang Xang that dates back to the 11th century.
Arriving at Vang Vieng, nestled on the banks of the Nam Song River is our delightfully rustic and rural hotel. The remainder of the day offers free time, perhaps opt to explore the local caves or take a bicycle ride through the surrounding countryside.
Day 4: Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang
This morning we explore the famous caves of Tham Jang once used by the local people as a hideout during Chinese invasions. We observe the lifestyles of the local people at Ban Huai Ngai village before making our way further north to the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Luang Prabang.
Day 5: Temples of Luang Prabang
Today set off your exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace also known as the National Museum to learn more about the long-lasting history and culture of the region.
Afterwards, pay a visit to Wat Mai, a beautiful temple located nearby Royal Palace and built in the 18th century. It is the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in Luang Prabang.
Afterwards, transfer to the pier and take a long-tailed boat for an upstream cruise. During the cruise, you will be treated a stunning of nature along the river. From the distance you can see limestone cliffs where the hidden Pak Ou Caves are located. The cave is home to thousands of Buddha statues which make the region a revered one. Take your time to explore numerous images hidden in the cave.
Then, make your way back to the city. En-route, stop to visit Ban Xang Hai village to learn more about the making process of the traditional Lao rice whisky. It is a great chance to taste its unique flavor. Move onto Ban Xang Khong village- famous for its wood paper and Lao silk weaving.
Afterwards, we transfer back to hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 6: Cruise the Mekong, Pak Ou Caves
We head out of town to a local farm to learn about rice production. After lunch we cruise up the Mekong River to visit the Pak Ou caves crammed with Buddha images of all shapes and sizes, stopping Ban Xanghai village en route to sample local rice wine. Returning to Luang Prabang we stop at Ban Phanom village – known for its hand weaving.
Day 7: Luang Prabang Departure
Free at your leisure until being transferred to Luang Prabang Airport for your departure flight.
We thank you for joining us on this incredible experience to explore all the wonders of Laos. Goodbye, and we hope to see you again next time! Asia Tour Advisor can also arrange additional customized trips for you if the above itinerary does not match your expectations
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