Exploring Laos Tour – 8 Nights/9 Days
Laos, a landlocked gem in Southeast Asia, is a place of astounding beauty and enchantment. From the lush, emerald-green landscapes of its rolling hills and terraced rice paddies to the serene meandering of the Mekong River through its heart, Laos captivates with its natural splendor. The country’s rich cultural tapestry, with its ornate temples and vibrant festivals, adds to the allure, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Whether it’s the intricate architecture of Luang Prabang’s temples or the tranquil atmosphere of the 4,000 Islands in the south, Laos is a treasure trove of breathtaking vistas and authentic experiences. Prepare to be spellbound by the wonders that await in this enchanting destination.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Free Day to explore Huay Xai
You will be met by your Lao Explorer tour guide at the Thai-Lao Friendship bridge and transported to your hotel where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, spanning the Mekong River, symbolizes the strong and enduring bond between Thailand and Laos, facilitating not only the seamless flow of trade and connectivity but also fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations.
Hotel: Huay Xai Riverside Hotel
Day 2 – Xai to Pak Beng
After breakfast, you will be collected by your tour guide to embark on a boat trip down the Mekong River. As the boat gently glides through the meandering currents, the lush landscapes along the riverbanks offer glimpses of diverse wildlife thriving in this rich ecosystem. Exotic birds soar overhead, and elusive river creatures, such as freshwater dolphins, occasionally break the surface. Along the way, scenes of rural life unfold, with farmers tending to their crops on the fertile riverbanks. The rhythmic beats of traditional music emanate from riverside villages, where farmers engage in daily activities, showcasing a harmonious coexistence with nature. This immersive journey down the Mekong not only reveals the breathtaking beauty of the region but also provides a firsthand encounter with the symbiotic relationship between the river, its wildlife, and the resilient communities that call its shores home. You will stop in Pakbeng, have lunch and meet the local villagers.
Hotel: Pakbeng Hotel
Day 3: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
After breakfast, you will be collected by your tour guide and embark on another boat journey. Navigating the enchanting Mekong River from Pak Beng to Luang Prabang aboard a long boat is a captivating expedition that unfolds a kaleidoscope of cultural and natural wonders. Along the riverbanks, the sight of village children playing and waving enthusiastically adds a heartwarming touch to the journey. As the boat glides through the water, it provides a unique perspective on the diverse ethnic minority groups inhabiting the picturesque landscapes. These encounters offer glimpses into the rich tapestry of Laos’ cultural diversity, as villagers go about their daily lives. The voyage also includes a visit to the mystical Pak Ou Caves, where ancient Buddhist sculptures and statues are nestled within limestone formations, creating a spiritual atmosphere.
We stop for lunch at 12.30pm. After our meal we resume out boat ride to Xang Hai village where we meet and learn about the art of making whisky and handicrafts by local villagers. Our final destination is a stroll up Mt Phousi to view the Luang Prabang skyline before heading back into the city.
Feel free to explore the vibrant night markets when they come alive as dusk settles over the city. You will find a bounty of handcrafted treasures and local delicacies. If time permits, you can take a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets, lined with colonial architecture. Alternatively, you can go back to your hotel, freshen up before being transported to a local hotpot restaurant for dinner.
Hotel: Legend Hotel Luang Prabang
Day 4- Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfall.
9.00am: Our first destination is Hmong Village where you will learn and the experience traditional life of the villagers. We continue our journey to Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Kuang Si Waterfalls is a natural masterpiece of cascading turquoise waters with the refreshing embrace of nature. As you approach, the distant sound of rushing water gradually becomes a thunderous symphony, heralding the arrival of this breathtaking spectacle. The falls cascade over tiered limestone formations, creating a series of pools that beckon visitors to immerse themselves in the cool, crystal-clear waters. Make sure you bring your swimming costume as these natural pools beneath the lush canopy offers a sensory retreat into the heart of nature. The vibrant blue hues of the water, combined with the soothing sounds of the falls, create a tranquil oasis that feels like a hidden paradise tucked away in the verdant landscapes of Laos.
You will be returned to your hotel to freshen up before we meet to go to a restaurant for our evening meal.
Day 5- Luang Prabang City Tour
5:30 am – Your tour guide will take you to an Alms Giving Ceremony in the city.
In Laos, the Alms Giving ceremony, known as “Tak Bat,” holds profound cultural and spiritual significance. This daily ritual takes place at dawn as Buddhist monks clad in saffron robes walk in a silent procession through the streets, collecting alms from devout locals and sometimes tourists. The act of giving alms is deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings, emphasizing generosity and compassion. Devout locals gather along the streets, armed with offerings of sticky rice, fresh fruits, and other essentials placed in beautifully crafted baskets. As the sun rises, a procession of monks draped in saffron robes moves silently through the streets, barefoot and carrying alms bowls. Devotees approach the monks with a sense of reverence, placing their offerings directly into the monks’ alms bowls. The ceremony promotes a serene atmosphere, emphasizing the values of humility, compassion, and interconnectedness within Laotian society.
5.30am- Your guide will meet you at your accommodation and take you to the Alms Giving Ceremony in Luang Prabang. This ceremony is 60 minutes in duration. After the ceremony, wander through the French quarter where you can peruse the shops to buy special lao souvenirs. You will then return to the hotel for breakfast.
9.00am- We will visit the Royal Palace, Haw Pha Bang Temple and Wat Xieng Thong.
Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is adorned with cultural treasures. The Royal Palace, a masterpiece of traditional Lao architecture, stands as a regal testament to the nation’s royal past. Its golden façade and intricate detailing draw visitors into the heart of Lao monarchy, where the opulent Throne Hall and the revered Phra Bang Buddha reside. Just steps away, the Haw Pha Bang, a royal temple built to house the sacred Phra Bang Buddha, exudes a serene grandeur. The temple’s gilded facade and intricate carvings pay homage to Laos’ religious heritage. Further, the spiritual journey unfolds at Wat Xieng Thong, one of Luang Prabang’s oldest and most significant temples. Nestled on the banks of the Mekong River, Wat Xieng Thong captivates with its sweeping roofs and dazzling mosaic work, encapsulating the essence of Lao Buddhist artistry.
Spend the remainder of the day exploring the city or resting at the hotel.
Hotel: Legend Hotel Luang Prabang
Day 6 – Luang Prabang to Van Vieng
After your breakfast we will travel to a handicraft and paper products at a local village.
11.15am: Arrive at Luang Prabang railway station and travel to Van Vieng by hi-speed train. Lunch can be purchased on the train.
On arrival at Vang Vieng, you will be transferred to your hotel.
In the afternoon, you have the option of visiting Blue Lagoon 1,23 and trekking yo Pha Namxay to view the scenery.
After visiting these two attractions, you are free to explore Vang Vieng at your leisure or return to your hotel for the remainder of the day.
Hotel: Silver Naga Hotel Van Vieng
Day 7 Adventure Day in Vang Vieng
8:30am: You will be transported
Day 8 Departure from Vang Vieng to Vientiane.
11.00am – You will be transported to the Van Vieng Railway Station for your train journey to Vientiane. On arrival at Vientiane, you will be met by your tour guide and transported to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon we will visit Vientiane’s most famous landmarks, the Patuxai Arch, the Wat Sisaket Temple and Pha That Luang Temple.
The Patuxai Arch stands as a symbol of national pride and independence, resembling Paris’s Arc de Triomphe.
The Wat Sisaket Temple is renowned for its historical significance and unique architectural features. Constructed in 1818 by King Anouvong, it stands out as the oldest surviving temple in the capital. The temple is particularly famous for its cloister walls, which house thousands of small Buddha images and statues, an impressive and rare collection that spans various styles and materials. This extensive array of Buddhas is a testament to the preservation of religious and artistic heritage, making Wat Sisaket a cherished and culturally significant site in Laos.
Pha That Luang – Vientiane
This temple dates back to the 16th century, but the current structure was built in the mid-20th century after the original was destroyed during foreign invasions. It stands on the site of a much older Khmer temple, highlighting the historical layers of the region.
Pha That Luang’s distinctive golden exterior is a striking example of Lao architectural style. It is surrounded by a cloister containing small stupas, statues, and shrines, creating a visually impressive and spiritually significant complex. It is believed to house a relic of the Buddha, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The annual That Luang Festival, held in November, attracts devotees from Laos and neighboring countries, adding to the stupa’s religious importance. Pha That Luang is a symbol of national pride for the Lao people and is depicted on the national emblem of Laos.
You will be returned to your hotel and in the evening there is the option to explore the night time markets in Vientiane.
Hotel: Sure Stay hotel in Vientiane.
Day 9 Free Day and Departure
Today you will have a full day of free time in Viantiane. Enjoy exploring this charming capital before you depart for home. If you require transportation to Wattay International airport, please advise your tour guide in advance.
If you are interested in booking this tour or require additional information, please complete the form or contact Lao Explorer via Whatsapp: 856 209 589 1009.