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- Laos
- Package Itinerary
- Destination Details
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All About Laos Tour
11 days/ 10 nights
Description
Laos has become popular with tourists for its relaxed style of living and for retaining elements of the "original Asia" lost elsewhere. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful". The main attractions for tourists include Buddhist culture and colonial architecture in Luang Prabang; gastronomy and ancient temples in the capital of Vientiane; backpacking in Muang Ngoi Neua and Vang Vieng; ancient and modern culture and history in The Plain of Jars region (main article: Phonsavan); Laos Civil War history in Sam Neua; Trekking and visiting hill tribes in a number of areas including Phongsaly and Luang Namtha; spotting tigers and other wildlife in Nam Et-Phou Louey; caves and waterfalls near Thakhek; relaxation, the Irrawaddy dolphin and Khone Phapheng Falls at Si Phan Don or as they are known in English, the Four Thousand Islands; Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex; and the Bolaven Plateau for waterfalls and coffee......More |
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Accommodation on twin-sharing basis as per itinerary Breakfast |
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Railway Station/Airport-Hotel transfers by chauffeur-driven vehicle |
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Intercity transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary |
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All hotel taxes |
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Day 01: Explore these intriguing Khmer ruins
Meals: Dinner
Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the boat pier, we board the long tail motorboat downstream the Mekong to Champassak to visit the ruins of Wat Phu, the pre-Angkorian temple, one of Southeast Asia's most dramatically situated temples. We have time to explore these intriguing Khmer ruins, which are perched at the base of Mount Phu Kao. Wat Phu is one of the Lao World Heritage sites recognized by UNESCO in 2001, this wonderful archeological site of Khmer civilization dates back to the 9th century, predating the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Here we also have a chance to visit some nearby Khmer temples and Buddhist shrines. After lunch we drive to the peaceful Khong Island, one of the largest in the 4000 islands region, on the way we stopover to at the villages of ban Phone Saat. Overnight on Khong Island.
Day 02: Visit the fishing village of Ban Done Khone
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we enjoy a cruise venturing into the widest point of the Mekong River where thousands of islets become visible in dry season, giving this area a lovely name: Si Phan Done. Along the way, we stop at the Liphi waterfalls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls marking the Lao Cambodia border, also known as the Samphamith. We also visit the fishing village of Ban Done Khone. On return, we take a short drive Khone Phapheng, which boasts South East Asia's biggest waterfall, known as the Niagara of the east. If we are lucky, we may even see the rare freshwater Irrawaddy Mekong dolphin at Ban Hang Khone. Overnight on Khong Island
Day 03: A trip to the plateau
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Upon leaving Done Khone Island, we journey towards Tadlo, through Boloven plateau. The Boloven Plateau is known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley. Rivers run off this high plateau in all directions and then plunge out to lush forests along in a series of spectacular surging waterfalls. A trip to the plateau provides a refreshing break from the heat and allows you to observe the cultivation of rich coffee, tea, cardamom, bananas, and other crops that can be seen en route. This trip gives visitors the chance to venture off the beaten track and to discover some of the lesser-known areas of Laos, exploring the wild beauty of this southern region. Upon arrival at Tad Lo waterfall, we visit the villages of Alak, Nge, and Katu, populated by ethnic minority groups. We return to Pakse by late evening. Overnight in Pakse
Day 04: Visit the Plain of Jars
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for a flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival we explore the capital, if time permits, before boarding the flight to Xiengkhouang. Upon arrival, we transfer out to visit the Plain of Jars, an impressive archaeological site where hundreds of large stone jars are littered all over the plateau. If time permits, we may see the old capital of Muang Khoum and its' surrounding villages which are home to the Hmong hill tribe. They have an interesting local culture and a colourful history. Overnight in Phonsavanh
Day 05: Visit the Central Market
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we visit the Central Market of Phonsavanh and then drive 50 kilometres to Muang Kham. En route we visit the tribal villages of Hmong, Tai Dam and Khmu. and the hot springs and Tham Piew cave - where hundreds of local people hid during the bombings of the Indo-china War. We explore the local market at Muangkham and visit local villages before returning to Phonsavanh by the late afternoon. Overnight in Phonsavanh.
Day 06: Visit some tribal minority villages
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Following breakfast, we drive along route No. 7 to Luang Prabang (6 hours drive). Along the way, we enjoy the splendid scenery of the surrounding countryside and the mountain ranges. We make a few stops along the way to visit some tribal minority villages and capture amazing landscapes with several photo stops before reaching Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. After freshening up, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai. We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 07: We stop at the village of Ban Xanghai
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city's oldest temple Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with it's roofs sweeping low to the ground, representing classical Laotian architecture. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. En route, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where local rice wine is produced. We also have time to visit Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek, small villages well known for silk weavings and for Saa (jute) Papermaking Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 08: Visit the morning Phosi Market
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms from the faithful residents. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. From there you will visit the morning Phosi Market where you will see such diverse offerings as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings. Laos is also known for its traditional handicrafts, and today you will visit local village of Lao ethnic minority groups at Ban Ouay and Ban Thapene. We also drive to the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall where you can take a dip in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest paths. We return to Luang Prabang by late afternoon and continue to Ban Phanom, a well-known weaving village, and then return to the city by late evening for the sunset at Wat Siphouthabath. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 09: Visit the National Museum
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast we visit The National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a collection of artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating back from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. We also have time to visit the Central Market, before you are transferred to the airport for your afternoon flight back to Vientiane. After transferring to the hotel, we may have time for a short orientation walk of Vientiane, strolling around some of the colonial sights that make this a characterful city. Overnight in Vientiane.
Day 10: We pass by the major shopping area
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
AM: After breakfast, we continue to explore Vientiane capital by visiting the major sights of the capital; including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao's national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph. PM: We continue visiting the rest of Vientiane by foot, including Wat Ong Tue, Wat Inpeng and Wat Haisok. We pass by the major shopping area continuing to the Vientiane Central Market of Talad Sao and Talad Kouadin where various goods are displayed for sale; including fresh food, household goods, souvenirs, textiles, gold, silver and antiques. We return to the Mekong Riverside in the late afternoon in time for a beautiful sunset. Overnight in Vientiane.
Day 11: Have free time
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, you are free at your leisure until your transfer to the airport.
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| Destination: Laos |
Laos has become popular with tourists for its relaxed style of living and for retaining elements of the "original Asia" lost elsewhere. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful". The main attractions for tourists include Buddhist culture and colonial architecture in Luang Prabang; gastronomy and ancient temples in the capital of Vientiane; backpacking in Muang Ngoi Neua and Vang Vieng; ancient and modern culture and history in The Plain of Jars region (main article: Phonsavan); Laos Civil War history in Sam Neua; Trekking and visiting hill tribes in a number of areas including Phongsaly and Luang Namtha; spotting tigers and other wildlife in Nam Et-Phou Louey; caves and waterfalls near Thakhek; relaxation, the Irrawaddy dolphin and Khone Phapheng Falls at Si Phan Don or as they are known in English, the Four Thousand Islands; Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex; and the Bolaven Plateau for waterfalls and coffee.
Luang Prabang and Wat Phu are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the Plain of Jars expected to join them once more work to clear UXO has been completed. Major festivals include Laos New Year which is celebrated around 13-15 April and involves a water festival similar but more subdued than that of Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
The Lao National Tourism Administration, related government agencies and the private sector are working together to realise the vision put forth in the country's National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan. This includes decreasing the environmental and cultural impact of tourism; increasing awareness in the importance of ethnic groups and biological diversity; providing a source of income to conserve, sustain and manage the Lao protected area network and cultural heritage sites; and emphasising the need for tourism zoning and management plans for sites that will be developed as ecotourism destinations.
Laos is known for its silk and local handicraft product, both of which are on display in Luang Prabang's night market, among other places. Another speciality is mulberry tea. |
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- Laos
- Package Itinerary
- Destination Details
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Laos Overland Tour
8 days/ 7 nights
Description
Soothe your senses by indulging in a trip to ecstasy. Exclusively designed and meticulously planned, this package tour takes you to the natural environs of the beautiful and prolific Kashmir. Fondly called the 'Paradise on Earth', Kashmir is a true heaven and encompassed a number of natural treasures like snow-covered peaks, shimmering river, beautiful lake, well laid-out gardens and above all soothing environs. Visit the picturesque valley to enjoy a memorable vacation in the lap of nature. Besides natural wonders, Kashmir fascinates the visitors with its rich cultural heritage including exquisite handicrafts, old temples and historic attractions...More |
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Accommodation on twin-sharing basis as per itinerary Breakfast |
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Railway Station/Airport-Hotel transfers by chauffeur-driven vehicle |
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Intercity transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary |
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All hotel taxes |
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Day 1: The rest of the day is relax at your leisurely
Meals: Breakfast
Welcome to Vientiane, Arrive at Vientiane airport, and after customs & immigration formalities, transfer with your guide to your hotel. The rest of the day is relax at your leisurely. Overnight in Vientiane.
Day 2: Visit Wat Simuang and Wat Prakeo
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast Enjoy a city tour to Wat Sisaket with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Visit Wat Simuang and Wat Prakeo, which was the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha, which today lives in Bangkok. There are many excellent restaurants in Vientiane, and you will easily find something to suit your taste. Visit the huge golden That Luang monument, where all Lao citizen respect as holy pagoda. Visit Vientiane's own Victory Monument, which looks like the Arc de Triumphe. This was built at the end of the Indochina wars with money rumoured to be American, and earmarked for the airport's new runway. Thus the departing Americans dubbed this monument the vertical runway! Have a look at the lovely arches inside the monument. Overnight in Vientiane.
Day 3: Visited from town
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, We drive ahead to Vang Vieng, about 3 hours from the capital. Once a key military airfield during the Indochina wars, the town's central feature is the long-abandoned runway along the eastern side of town. On the west side, a small river separates the town from the nearby caves & mountains, which can easily be visited from town. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route. Overnight in Vang Vieng.
Day 4: Enjoy an exploring the former royal capital
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast at hotel, check out of your hotel, visit the local market and then the Tham Jang caves through which flows a crystal clear stream. Drive to Luang Prabang, drive passes through splendid scenery and past many panoramic lookout points on the winding mountaintop road. There are several stops en route to take in the scenery. Arrive in Luang Prabang, check into the hotel, and enjoy an exploring the former royal capital & crown jewel of the ancient Lane Xang Empire (pronounced 'lan sang') - the Land of a Million Elephants. Shopping Night Market. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 5: Visit Wat Visoun
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After Breakfast, Visit Wat Visoun, the site of impressive Thad Makmo stupa. The rounded dome is 1stylistically more Sinhalese than Lao. Continue to visit Wat Mai. Built in 1796, the five-tiered roof of the wooden Sim (chapel) epitomizes the graceful Luang Prabang architectural style. Visit Wat Xieng Thong further emphasizes the uniqueness of Luang Prabang, its several roofs sweeping low to the ground. See also the impressive "tree of life" mosaic here. The gilt panel on the exterior of the chapel depicts semi-erotic episodes from the Ramayana. Climb up Phou Sii hill stands right in the center of this small city. Climb its 350 steps to enjoy commanding views for many miles in each direction. Wat Phu Sii sits atop the mountain, along side the skeletons of Indochina war anti-aircraft guns! Shopping Hmong market, where hundred of Hmong vendors display their handmade handicraft. Overnight in Luang Prabang
Day 6: Visit the National Museum
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast. Visit the National Museum, once a king’s palace. Displayed inside is a lovely collection of personal artifacts of the royal family, including photos, musical instruments, and many gifts received from the dignitaries of foreign countries. Begin a Mekong Riverboat trip with your guide on the mighty Mekong River to visit the famous & sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves. These caves, overlooking the confluence of the Mekong & Ou Rivers from on high, have been home to many thousands of Buddha images that were placed here by local people since 16th century, when King Setthathirat found the caves and declared them a holy spot. On return Visit Por Sa Paper Handicraft & textile area at Ban Xang Khong. Overnight in Luang Prabang .
Day 7: You can swim, relax, soft trek to the top of the fall
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast drive out of town 30KM to the beautifull Kuang Sii Fall, where you can swim, relax, soft trek to the top of the fall. On return short stop at Black Hmong Village, where hill tribe hand-made handicraft as souveniors for visitors pass by. Arrive in the town, transfer to your hotel. Overnight at same hotel.
Day 8: End of trip
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, relax until your flight time to transfer you to the airport. End of trip..
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| Destination: Laos |
Laos has become popular with tourists for its relaxed style of living and for retaining elements of the "original Asia" lost elsewhere. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful". The main attractions for tourists include Buddhist culture and colonial architecture in Luang Prabang; gastronomy and ancient temples in the capital of Vientiane; backpacking in Muang Ngoi Neua and Vang Vieng; ancient and modern culture and history in The Plain of Jars region (main article: Phonsavan); Laos Civil War history in Sam Neua; Trekking and visiting hill tribes in a number of areas including Phongsaly and Luang Namtha; spotting tigers and other wildlife in Nam Et-Phou Louey; caves and waterfalls near Thakhek; relaxation, the Irrawaddy dolphin and Khone Phapheng Falls at Si Phan Don or as they are known in English, the Four Thousand Islands; Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex; and the Bolaven Plateau for waterfalls and coffee.
Luang Prabang and Wat Phu are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the Plain of Jars expected to join them once more work to clear UXO has been completed. Major festivals include Laos New Year which is celebrated around 13-15 April and involves a water festival similar but more subdued than that of Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
The Lao National Tourism Administration, related government agencies and the private sector are working together to realise the vision put forth in the country's National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan. This includes decreasing the environmental and cultural impact of tourism; increasing awareness in the importance of ethnic groups and biological diversity; providing a source of income to conserve, sustain and manage the Lao protected area network and cultural heritage sites; and emphasising the need for tourism zoning and management plans for sites that will be developed as ecotourism destinations.
Laos is known for its silk and local handicraft product, both of which are on display in Luang Prabang's night market, among other places. Another speciality is mulberry tea. |
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- Laos
- Package Itinerary
- Destination Details
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Vientiane - Luang Prabang Tour
4 days/ 3 nights
Description
This delightfully friendly capital, studded with crumbling French mansions, bougainvillea-blooming streets and steaming noodle stalls, is somewhere between a big town and a diminutive city; the kind of place you might find a Graham Greene protagonist. Its conveniently compact travellers' enclave is based around Nam Phu, the Mekong riverside and Setthariat and Samsenthai streets. Full of things to see, from Buddha Park to the Morning market and an impossibly rich selection of international cuisine - most pointedly French - you'll find yourself slowly won over by the easy charms of this evolving backwater. The city may reveal its beauty less readily than Luang Prabang, but spend a few days visiting its unusual sights, sampling its excellent food and enjoying a Beer Lao at sunset by the river, and you'll soon feel at home here. |
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Accommodation on twin-sharing basis as per itinerary Breakfast |
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Railway Station/Airport-Hotel transfers by chauffeur-driven vehicle |
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Intercity transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary |
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All hotel taxes |
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DAY 01: Enjoy a city tour to Wat Sisaket
Arrive at Vientiane airport, and after customs & immigration formalities, transfer with your guide to your hotel for check in and Lunch. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a city tour to Wat Sisaket with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Other sites you will see include the huge golden That Luang monument, and next door, Vientiane's own Victory Monument, which looks like the Arc de Triomphe. This was built at the end of the Indochina wars with money rumored to be American, and earmarked for the airport's new runway. Thus the departing Americans dubbed this monument the vertical runway! Have a look at the lovely arches inside the monument. Also visit Wat Simuang and Wat Prakeo, which was the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha, which today lives in Bangkok. There are many excellent restaurants in Vientiane, and you will easily find something to suit your taste.
DAY 02: Enjoy a half-day spin around Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast
Surrounded by thickly forested mountains and situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong Rivers, Luang Prabang has a tranquil, old world charm rarely found in Asia today. This fascinating town was the capital of the Lane Xang (million elephants) kingdom until the mid-sixteenth century. In colonial times it served as a provincial headquarters of the north. The legacy of the European presence here - well preserved French architecture and careful street planning - has blended delightfully with more than 30 gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the morning flight to the former Royal capital. Your guide will meet you at the airport and bring you to your hotel. To check in before taking you to a local restaurant to try the local cuisine for lunch! Welcome to Luang Prabang! Your guide will meet you upon arrival at the airport and bring you to your hotel. Then enjoy a half-day spin around Luang Prabang and you will understand why it deserves the World Heritage title! Visit Wat Visoun, the site of impressive Thad Makmo stupa. The rounded dome is stylistically more Sinhalese than Lao. Phou Si hill stands right in the center of this small city. Climb its 350 steps to enjoy commanding views for many miles in each direction. Wat Phou Si sits atop the mountain, along side the skeletons of Indochina war anti-aircraft guns! Then continue on to visit Wat Mai. Built in 1796, the five-tiered roof of the wooden Sim (chapel) epitomizes the graceful Luang Prabang architectural style. Wat Xieng Thong further emphasizes & characterizes the uniqueness of Luang Prabang, its several roofs sweeping low to the ground. See also the impressive "tree of life" mosaic here. The gilt panel on the exterior of the royal funerary carriage house depicts episodes from the Ramayana. Then visit the National Museum, once a king's palace, where displayed inside is a lovely collection of personal artifacts of the royal family, including photos, musical instruments, and many gifts received from the dignitaries of foreign countries. Also peruse the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center, a private museum recently opened to explain about the livelihoods of Laos' ethnic minorities. You'll learn many interesting facts about the tribal peoples of Northern Laos. This town is wonderful for walking, and today's excursion will help to give you your bearings! Spend the rest of the day exploring or relaxing on your own. You can find dinner at any number of clean & delicious international restaurants. Lao beer is an excellent pilsner, and many types of French wine are also available at reasonable prices.
DAY 03: Visit the famous & sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves
Meals: Breakfast
If you wish, get an early start (6:00am or so) and go watch or participate in the traditional Lao rite of Almsgiving to the monks. In the city, some 300+ monks file through silently collecting alms. This is an amazing sight and your guide will be on hand to demonstrate and explain this important ritual. Return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, begin a Mekong Riverboat trip with your guide on the mighty Mekong River to visit the famous & sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves. These caves, overlooking the confluence of the Mekong & Ou Rivers from on high, have been home to many thousands of Buddha images that were placed here by local people since 16th century, when King Setthathirat found the caves and declared them a holy spot. Today many still pay respect with this old tradition. Walk through the caves before returning to your boat and to Luang Prabang town. Enjoy lunch en route. Return to the hotel to relax or explore on your own. Luang Prabang is a wonderful walking town, and you can find dinner on your own at any number of fine international restaurants. Tonight, if you'd like, have your guide escort you to the local nightlife spot - Muang Swa. Part 50s prom, part 70s disco and very Lao. Places like this are rapidly disappearing in the world. Learn charming Lao circle dancing (Lamvong) techniques! You'll have to go early though; all nightlife in Laos shuts down at 11:30pm.
DAY 04: Drive with your guide by car to the Kuang Si Waterfall
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, drive with your guide by car to the Kuang Si Waterfall. The falls cascade over many calcified tiers and down several hundred feet into a series of cool, turquoise pools. The water here has a clear blue-green tint due to the high mineral content. You can climb the stairs and look down from various high viewpoints on the way to the top! Bring a bathing suit if you'd like to swim. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight onward.
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| Destination: Laos |
Laos has become popular with tourists for its relaxed style of living and for retaining elements of the "original Asia" lost elsewhere. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful". The main attractions for tourists include Buddhist culture and colonial architecture in Luang Prabang; gastronomy and ancient temples in the capital of Vientiane; backpacking in Muang Ngoi Neua and Vang Vieng; ancient and modern culture and history in The Plain of Jars region (main article: Phonsavan); Laos Civil War history in Sam Neua; Trekking and visiting hill tribes in a number of areas including Phongsaly and Luang Namtha; spotting tigers and other wildlife in Nam Et-Phou Louey; caves and waterfalls near Thakhek; relaxation, the Irrawaddy dolphin and Khone Phapheng Falls at Si Phan Don or as they are known in English, the Four Thousand Islands; Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex; and the Bolaven Plateau for waterfalls and coffee.
Luang Prabang and Wat Phu are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the Plain of Jars expected to join them once more work to clear UXO has been completed. Major festivals include Laos New Year which is celebrated around 13-15 April and involves a water festival similar but more subdued than that of Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
The Lao National Tourism Administration, related government agencies and the private sector are working together to realise the vision put forth in the country's National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan. This includes decreasing the environmental and cultural impact of tourism; increasing awareness in the importance of ethnic groups and biological diversity; providing a source of income to conserve, sustain and manage the Lao protected area network and cultural heritage sites; and emphasising the need for tourism zoning and management plans for sites that will be developed as ecotourism destinations.
Laos is known for its silk and local handicraft product, both of which are on display in Luang Prabang's night market, among other places. Another speciality is mulberry tea. |
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- Laos
- Package Itinerary
- Destination Details
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North Laos Tour
9 Days/ 8 Nights
Description
Vientiane Meet on arrival, you are welcome to Vientiane, the city of the moon - an ancient city, situated on the bend on the left bank of the Mekong as the largest city and the capital of Laos. Transfer to hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing. |
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Accommodation on twin-sharing basis as per itinerary Breakfast |
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Railway Station/Airport-Hotel transfers by chauffeur-driven vehicle |
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Intercity transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary |
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Round trip airfare in economy class |
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Day 01: A sightseeing tour of Vientiane
Meals: None
Meet on arrival, you are welcome to Vientiane, the city of the moon - an ancient city, situated on the bend on the left bank of the Mekong as the largest city and the capital of Laos. Transfer to hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of Vientiane, to visit religious museums of Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple to have been survived from the Siamese war of 1828 and its cloister contains more than 8000 Buddha statues; Wat Ho Prakeo, the former home-temple of the Emerald Buddha statue or Pra Keo, but today it contains a collection of Buddha statues, antiques and all artifacts found in around Vientiane; That Luang Stupa, the single most important monument in Laos, which was built to cover the original small stupa containing a piece of the chest bone of Buddha; Patouxay (Arch de Triumph), built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past and it is today as the land-mark of Vientiane..
Day 02: Visit Ban Nam Leu
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Wattay airport for departure by QV flight to Luang Nathan, a land of rugged mountains, pristine forests, and rich river plains with over 20 ethnic groups, make it the most ethnically diverse province in Laos. Upon arrival at Luang Nathan airport, our guide will accompany you to your guest house. P.M visit Luang Nathan provincial museum, drive outskirt of town to visit Ban Nam Leu, a small village of Lane Tane hill tribe and also visit Ban Thongchai Neua, a silk-weaving village of Tai Dam.
Day 03: Visit villages of Ikor or Aka
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Following breakfast, we head north by car about 2-3hrs to Muangsing, a small town near Laos-China border where there are more hill tribes to be seen. There are lots of interesting villages of various ethnic groups such as Hmong, Aka.that we may visit. Check in at a good guest house and enjoy our lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon, we continue to drive to near China border area and visit villages of Ikor or Aka ethnic group as well as a village of Yao hill tribe where you will learn more traditional way of rural life with their fascinating culture of these people. Dinner is at a local restaurant or guest house.
Day 04: Visit villages of various types of Aka
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After early breakfast, it will be another highlight day to take a drive about 2-3 hrs to visit villages of various types of Aka hill tribe on the way to Xiengkok, a small village for the check point on the Mekong to Burma It’s quite easy to see lots of ethnic Aka people, walking along the road. Arrive Xiengkok village, where we will have lunch at local restaurant and take a view of Burma on the other side of the Mekong river. Return to Muangsing in late afternoon and the rest of the day is spent free at leisure. Dinner is at local restaurant.
Day 05: Drive back to Luang Namtha
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Early morning visit Muangsing morning market, where there are lots of Aka people, who bring their forestry products to sell and also buy their necessary goods back home. Breakfast at local restaurant, it’s time to say good buy to Muangsing, and drive back to Luang Namtha and continue about 4 hours drive to Oudomxay, a good stop off point N or S surrounded by hills, linking China, Vietnam, Luang Prabang and Pakbeng, even it was razed during the war. There are also more villages of ethnic groups such as Hmong, Khmu that we may stop and visit along the way. There are a few good local restaurants where we can take a good simply lunch along the way. Arrive in Oudomxay, check in at a good guest house and relax after a long day drive. Dinner is also at local restaurant .
Day 06: Sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, it is also interesting visit the morning market in town, where some Hmong hill tribe people come to sell and buy things there, before we head south by car about 4 hours to Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. We also stop to relax and take our lunch at local restaurant. We en route stop to at Ban Pak Ou, a village opposite of Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height. We cross the Mekong by small ferry boat to visit Pak Ou cave, and we cross back to Ban Pak Ou to continue our way to Luang Prabang. This afternoon is spent free for own experience of this charming town with kind people.
Day 07: Sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples
Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel, we take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty still remain in the town and surrounding areas. visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace which houses the collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue, gifts received from foreign dignitaries…etc…; Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana – Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; drive outskirts of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, the well-known village for its wood papers and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes. In the afternoon, we continue to visit Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple, which more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture, Hmong market in town, where some of Hmong ladies still show their skilled embroidery works, climb Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi Hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang and watch sunset over the hill at Wat Phabat Tai on the bank of the Mekong river.
Day 08: Visit Kuangsi Waterfall
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
A morning breakfast, we take a drive (30 km South) to visit Kuangsi Waterfall, which, though not very high, is spectacular and really beautiful with its green surroundings as the preserved National park. We stop en-route, stop to visit a fresh produced market namely Talad Phosy, where most of your food come from and also visit Ban Na Oune, a small village of Hmong hill-tribe group. Just before arriving at Kuangsi waterfall, there is another village of Khmu minority group, Ban Tha Pane that we may visit. Our picnic lunch is served at the shady park nearby Kuangsi waterfall. There is plenty of time for relaxing and a swim in cool water, before we head back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is spent free for independent exploration on this ancient town.
Day 09: Visit local sights by own
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we spent a free morning for last chance to shop and visit local sights by own, before we say good bye to Luang Prabang.
Transfer to Luang Prabang airport for departure to next destination
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| Destination: Laos |
Laos has become popular with tourists for its relaxed style of living and for retaining elements of the "original Asia" lost elsewhere. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful". The main attractions for tourists include Buddhist culture and colonial architecture in Luang Prabang; gastronomy and ancient temples in the capital of Vientiane; backpacking in Muang Ngoi Neua and Vang Vieng; ancient and modern culture and history in The Plain of Jars region (main article: Phonsavan); Laos Civil War history in Sam Neua; Trekking and visiting hill tribes in a number of areas including Phongsaly and Luang Namtha; spotting tigers and other wildlife in Nam Et-Phou Louey; caves and waterfalls near Thakhek; relaxation, the Irrawaddy dolphin and Khone Phapheng Falls at Si Phan Don or as they are known in English, the Four Thousand Islands; Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex; and the Bolaven Plateau for waterfalls and coffee.
Luang Prabang and Wat Phu are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the Plain of Jars expected to join them once more work to clear UXO has been completed. Major festivals include Laos New Year which is celebrated around 13-15 April and involves a water festival similar but more subdued than that of Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
The Lao National Tourism Administration, related government agencies and the private sector are working together to realise the vision put forth in the country's National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan. This includes decreasing the environmental and cultural impact of tourism; increasing awareness in the importance of ethnic groups and biological diversity; providing a source of income to conserve, sustain and manage the Lao protected area network and cultural heritage sites; and emphasising the need for tourism zoning and management plans for sites that will be developed as ecotourism destinations.
Laos is known for its silk and local handicraft product, both of which are on display in Luang Prabang's night market, among other places. Another speciality is mulberry tea. |
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