Day 1: Arrival - Luang Prabang

On arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The royal capital of the former Lane Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang with its gleaming temple roofs, colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop, retains a unique charm rarely found in all Asia. There are plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the Srilankalese styled temple of That Marko, the shrine of Wat Aham and the five tiered roof Wat Mai. We visit these sites in a half day guided tour before embarking on a climb up to Phousi Hill for a beautiful panoramic view from the town center to the mighty Mekong River. There are 329 steps leading us on zigzag way past various temples to the sacred, gilded stupa of Wat Phousi at the summit. O/N in Luang Prabang.

Day 2: Luang Prabang - Pakou Caves - Luang Prabang

Today we continue seeing this charming town with the famous Wat Xieng Thong, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes, doorways and marvelous tree life mosaic pattern on an outer wall, representing the ancient temple architecture of Luang Prabang. We board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River, stopping en route at Ban Xang Hai to visit the distillation of potent local rice wine. Upon leaving this riverside village we wave our way through the stunning mountain landscape to the mysterious Pakou Caves. They are crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, all brought there by devout villagers. We explore these famous grottos and cruise back to Luang Prabang Town. On arrival we catch a short drive to Ban Phanom, a well known weaving village of the Tai Lue people who used to make royal silk weaving textiles for the Lao former royal family. O/N in Luang Prabang. (B,L)

Day 3: Luang Prabang - Vientiane

The former Royal Palace has been turned into a national museum. This interesting structure 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. We visit this museum and enjoy a walk tour around the old quarter streets. The following destination of our trip is Vientiane via a short flight from Luang Prabang. Upon arrival we begin to explore the capital city of Laos. The first stop is Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha statues. Close to this masterwork is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Afterwards we continue driving to Patouxai. This imposing monument standing in Lane Xang Avenue, is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe and provides a stunning views of the city. We round off our day with a visit to the great sacred masterpiece and symbol of Laos, That Luang Stupa. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

Day 4: Vientiane - Departure

The vibrant central market in the heart of Vientiane sells a wide away of local treasures. We explore this famous trading center and the town center on a morning walking tour. The sightseeing tour is all depending on your departure time. The trip ends after your transfer to Wattay Airport for departure. (B)

INCLUSIONS:

-Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver

-Meal as mentioned: B = breakfast, L = Lunch, D = dinner

-Accommodation: twin sharing room at mentioned hotels or similar one

-English or French speaking guide

-Entrance fee to indicated sights

-Boat trip in Luang Prabang

-Domestic flight Luang Prabang - Vientiane

EXCLUSIONS:

-Drinks

-Flight in/ out of Laos; Airport taxes

-Personal expenses

-Travel insurance

-Tips