12 Days Fascinating Laos & Cambodia

Wake up early, around 5:30 am, to experience the traditional and moving alms-giving ceremony where hundreds of monks in saffron robes collect offerings. This timeless ritual, a central aspect of Lao culture, is a must-see. You might also explore the bustling morning market, where local goods are on display, before returning to your hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, begin your visit to the Royal Palace, now a National Museum showcasing valuable artifacts from the former Lao royal family. The museum is open from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm daily, except Tuesdays. Continue exploring Luang Prabang's notable Buddhist temples, including Wat Visoun, a 16th-century temple that functions as a small museum of religious relics; Wat Aham, established in the early 19th century; and Wat Xiengthong, a 16th-century temple renowned for its architectural elegance. Engage with the monks at Wat Mai before climbing 328 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a breathtaking sunset view over Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Set off on a two-hour journey aboard a traditional long-tail boat along the Mekong River to visit the intriguing Pak Ou Caves. As you cruise, you'll pass by traditional Laotian villages obscured by dense foliage. Along the banks, you’ll notice wooden canoes tethered to bamboo poles and markers indicating fish nets and traps. Upon reaching Pak Ou, explore the two main caves, which are filled with thousands of Buddha statues ranging from a few centimeters to two meters in height. Afterward, return to Luang Prabang by car.

In the afternoon, head south to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, one of Luang Prabang’s most scenic spots. Take a relaxing hike through the surrounding national park to reach the waterfall. For those seeking a thrill, climb to the top of the waterfall and enjoy a swim in the large pool. Return to your hotel by private vehicle and enjoy some free time to wander through the vibrant night Bazaar. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Travel to the bus station for your journey to Vientiane. Upon reaching the bus station in Vientiane, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Check in, unwind, and enjoy your stay. Overnight in Vientiane.

Take a sightseeing tour of Vientiane’s key historic landmarks, including the religious museums of Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple to survive the Siamese invasion of 1828, known for its cloister housing over 8,000 Buddha statues; Wat Ho Prakeo, once the residence of the Emerald Buddha and now home to a collection of Buddha statues, antiques, and local artifacts; That Luang Stupa, the most significant monument in Laos, originally built to enshrine a relic of Buddha’s chest bone; and Patouxay (Lao Arc de Triomphe), a modern structure commemorating those lost in past wars, serving as a prominent landmark in Vientiane. Next, travel southeast for an hour to Buddha Park, a whimsical sculpture garden featuring Buddhist and religious images over 500 years old, including a massive concrete pumpkin with three levels representing hell, earth, and heaven. Overnight in Vientiane.

Transfer to Wattay International Airport, then proceed to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy some leisure time to relax. Overnight stay in Vientiane.

We will begin with a visit to the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The pagoda features Italian marble steps, and its interior is adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles, collectively weighing nearly 6 tons. Next, we will explore the Royal Palace, constructed by the French in 1866 on the site of the old town. The palace's main structure is the Throne Room, built in 1917 in traditional Khmer style, featuring a tiered roof and a 59-meter tower inspired by Angkor Thom’s Bayon Temple. Within the Royal Palace grounds, the Silver Pagoda stands out with its unique Italian marble steps and floor covered in silver tiles. The tour concludes with a visit to Wat Phnom, situated on a 27-meter high artificial hill in the heart of Phnom Penh. Originally built in 1372, this pagoda is considered one of the city's most significant landmarks.

Travel to the bus station for your journey to Siem Reap. As you travel through the countryside, you'll have the opportunity to observe traditional local houses along the route. Once you reach the bus station in Siem Reap, you'll be picked up and taken to your hotel. Check in and unwind. Enjoy your overnight stay in Siem Reap.

Spend the entire day exploring the famed Temples of Angkor Archaeological Park.

Rise early at 5:00 am to witness the stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat or Ta Prohm, renowned as one of the most photographed temples within the Angkor complex. Built in the Bayon style between the late 12th and early 13th centuries, Ta Prohm remains largely untouched by modern restoration efforts. After returning to your hotel for breakfast, continue your journey to Angkor Thom, meaning "Great City." This expansive city, covering 9 square kilometers, is home to several awe-inspiring monuments. The South Gate provides a grand entrance, while the Victory Gate offers access from the east. The East Gate, or Gate of the Death, remains in a quieter, more serene part of the complex. The Terrace of the Elephants, a 300-meter-long platform with three main sections and two smaller ones, is another highlight. Similarly, the Terrace of the Leper King, built in the 12th century, is named for the statue of the Leper King that graces its platform. Spend the night in Siem Reap.

You have the morning free to relax at your own pace. In the afternoon, explore one of Siem Reap’s genuine floating villages. This small village is inhabited by families who, unlike other floating communities, still reside in wooden houseboats. The village relocates throughout the year based on the lake’s water levels. At the end of the dry season, when the lake’s water is at its lowest, the villagers move closer to the shore and primarily engage in agricultural activities on land. By visiting a local home, you will gain a deeper understanding of life on the lake. Afterward, return to the port and visit the Silk Farm of Artisans d’Angkor, a 15-minute drive away. Here, individuals from underprivileged backgrounds are given the chance to improve their lives by reviving the ancient crafts of art-making and silk production. A local guide will accompany you, walking you through the farm and explaining all the steps necessary to produce high-quality silk. Overnight stay in Siem Reap.

Free time all day to explore Siem Reap on your own or take optional tour with Siem Reap Express. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Relax until the time of transfer to Siem Reap International airport for your departure flight.