Highlights of Laos 7 days

After breakfast, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xieng thong with its 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 the local speciality of rice wine is produced. Once back in Luang Prabang city we take a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village well known for its hand weaving. We also have time to visit Ban Xangkhong, Ban Xienglek, small villages well known for silk weavings and for Saa (jute) Papermaking.Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 3. Luang Prabang – Khuang Si Waterfall (Breakfast)

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) 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. Time permitting you may also wish to drive to the beautiful Kuangsi Waterfall where you can splash around 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 observing the sunset at Wat Siphouthabath. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 4. Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng (Breakfast – Lunch)

The National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace displays a collection of artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign. We also have time to visit the Central Market before we travel by road south to Vang Vieng. Our intrepid journey will be strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic, but also a road that is pot holed in places. In the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a small town, which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Its stunning scenery with a mixture of quiet river waters and limestone outcrops remains unspoiled, despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. We will embark on a boat for a well-paced trip along the Nam Song River, exploring the breathtaking mountain landscape. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Day 5. Vang Vieng – half day tour – Vientiane (Breakfast)

As part of our half day tour of Vang Vieng, we explore the famous caves of Tham Jang, which was once used by the local people as a hideout from Chinese invaders. We also cross the river to Ban Huai Ngai, a very pleasant village where we can explore the different lifestyles of the locals. Following lunch, we head south down route 13 to Vientiane. We will stop at Ban Tha Huea to explore all sorts of product made of fish selling here. After checking in a central located hotel, it’s your free time to to enjoy your night time in this city.

Day 6. Vientiane – city tour (Breakfast)

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 transfer out to see the Buddha Park, an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong Riverside meadow, near the Friendship Bridge. There are approximately 200 religious images dating back over 500 years, which were created by a mysterious monk spreading his philosophy on life and to reveal his ideas about the universe. A spectacular view of over the Mekong River at sunset is a perfect way to finish the day. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 7. Vientiane – departure. (Breakfast)