Ancient Kingdoms Explorer – 16 Days

Tour Code: XMX337IRU9G4 

5 (110 Reviews)
Bangkok, Khorat, Surin, Mekong River, Si Phan Don, Khong Island, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Wat Phou
From: €840 4-star hotels
5
(110 reviews)
Check
Duration

16 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on a captivating 16-day journey through Southeast Asia, where you’ll explore the vibrant city of Bangkok, delve into the historical riches of Khorat and Surin, and navigate the serene Mekong River. Discover the enchanting Si Phan Don and Khong Island, experience the cultural heart of Kratie and Phnom Penh, and marvel at the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Your adventure also includes a visit to the ancient Wat Phou temple, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Included/Excluded

  • * Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
  • * Entrance fees if specified in the program
  • * Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.
  • * Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • * Meals not mentioned in the program
  • * Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • * Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • * Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • * Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • * The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • * Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Arrive Bangkok

Upon arriving in Bangkok, you'll be greeted and taken to your hotel. This evening, join your tour leader or local guide for a welcome drink and an overview of your upcoming journey.

<span> Day 2</span> Bangkok to Khorat

Leave the vibrant modern city of Bangkok and head to Ayuthaya, the ancient capital that thrived from 1350 to 1770. Explore the Ban Than Prasat archaeological site and the Phi Mai Khmer temple.

<span> Day 3</span> Khorat to Surin

Explore a pottery village located south of Khorat and engage with the local community in this picturesque, secluded area of Thailand. Tour the historic temples of Phnom Rung and Muang Tam, significant landmarks on the ancient ‘Royal Road’ to Angkor Wat, before continuing on to Surin.

<span> Day 4</span> Surin to Khong Jiam

From Surin, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Suai minority community, who rely on local elephants for their livelihood. You might even get the chance to embark on an early morning trek atop these gentle giants.

<span> Day 5</span> Around Khong Jiam

Following breakfast, you'll drive to Pha Taem National Park to explore prehistoric cliffside paintings and take in breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape of Laos.

<span> Day 6</span> Khong Jiam to Pakse

Today, you'll visit the impressive Preah Vihear Temple, a Khmer monument that remains in its original, unaltered state, offering an authentic ‘Indiana Jones’ adventure. Following your exploration, you'll travel to Laos, the Land of a Thousand Elephants.

<span> Day 7</span> Pakse to Khong Island

After breakfast, leave Pakse and head to the ancient Wat Phou, which predates Angkor Wat and was once a central hub of the Khmer Empire. By mid-afternoon, you'll reach the charming Khong Island, the largest island in the Mekong's vast area known as the 4,000 Islands or Si Phan Don.

<span> Day 8</span> Khong Island

Set sail on a leisurely boat journey along the Mekong River, absorbing the tranquil riverside life before arriving at Khone Island. Search for the rare and elusive Irrawaddy Dolphins and witness the impressive Khonephapheng Falls. After your explorations, head back to Khong Island.

<span> Day 9</span> Khong Island to Kratie

Head south to the Cambodian border, the entrance to the present Khmer Kingdom. Continue alongside the Mekong River to the charming town of Kratie, renowned for its beautiful examples of old French architecture.

<span> Day 10</span> Kratie

Today, enjoy a relaxed exploration of the Cambodian countryside, including a visit to a nearby pagoda with 100 pillars and the charming town of Kratie. In the evening, unwind by the river while trying a refreshing Cambodian fruit shake.

<span> Day 11</span> Kratie to Phnom Penh

En route to Phnom Penh, stop at a colonial-era rubber plantation and explore the unique Wat Nokor. You'll also have a chance to tour Kampong Cham, Cambodia's third-largest city. Arrive in Phnom Penh by the end of the day. Known for its historic charm and relaxed riverside atmosphere, Phnom Penh is one of Asia's rare low-rise capitals.

<span> Day 12</span> Phnom Penh

Today’s itinerary includes exploring the key attractions of the capital: the dazzling Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the bustling Russian Market, and the captivating National Museum. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the somber Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields, which offer a poignant reflection on Cambodia’s harrowing history.

<span> Day 13</span> Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Today’s journey along Route 6 will take you to Skuon, where you can try sautéed spiders, a local specialty. The trip will include a stop in Kampong Thom and a visit to the ancient stone bridge in Kampong Kdei, a remarkable Khmer structure dating back over a thousand years.

<span> Day 14</span> Siem Reap

Start your day with an early tuk-tuk ride to Angkor Wat for a breathtaking sunrise view. Experience the majesty of Angkor from above with a hot-air balloon ride, and explore the iconic temples of Bayon and Angkor Thom. In the afternoon, head to Tonle Sap, a vital part of the country's ecosystem, for a boat tour of the floating villages.

<span> Day 15</span> Siem Reap

Explore two of the most enchanting temples within the expansive Angkor complex: Ta Prohm, enveloped by lush jungle, and the stunning Banteay Srei, renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.

<span> Day 16</span> Depart Siem Reap

Today, you'll be taken to the airport for your next leg of travel.

Durations

I3 - 16 days

Regional Tours

Cambodia
Cambodia & Neighboring Countries
Laos
Laos & Neighboring Countries
Thailand
Thailand & Neighboring Countries

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:



Tour's Location

Bangkok, Khorat, Surin, Mekong River, Si Phan Don, Khong Island, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Wat Phou
Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(110 Reviews)
Excellent
108
Very Good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
110 reviews on this Tour - Showing 46 to 60
Vietnam Tour Packages
Janice
11/04/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Myanmar with Indochina Royal Travel was a deeply rewarding experience. The itinerary was thoughtfully crafted, the hotels comfortable and culturally authentic. The English-speaking guides were warm, professional, and highly knowledgeable, ensuring a smooth, safe, and enriching journey.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Kelsey
11/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by Indochina Royal Travel are truly excellent. The hotels were comfortable and well-located, making it easy to explore major attractions. The included meals were delicious and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were professional, friendly, and very informative, enhancing every part of the trip.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Evelyn
10/04/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Vietnam with Indochina Royal Travel was a fantastic experience. The hotels were comfortable and well located near attractions. The food was delicious and authentic. The English-speaking guides were friendly and insightful, providing rich cultural and historical information.
Vietnam Tour Packages
April
10/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel’s Myanmar tour was full of wonder. From golden temples to river cruises, every day was thoughtfully planned. We loved our hotel selections—each was clean, quiet, and full of character. The highlight was our fluent guide, who offered personal stories and historical context that made each location even more memorable
Vietnam Tour Packages
Tamara
08/04/2025

Excellent!

I enjoyed my Laos trip immensely thanks to Indochina Royal Travel. The accommodations were authentic and comfortable, adding to the cultural experience. The itinerary was well paced to allow for sightseeing and relaxation. The English-speaking guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their culture.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Jaime
06/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel made booking my Cambodia trip simple and stress-free. Their team responded promptly to all questions and customized the itinerary to my needs. The hotels were clean and welcoming, and the English-speaking guides shared detailed cultural and historical insights that made the trip educational and fun.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Joann
06/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by Indochina Royal Travel are second to none. The company carefully chooses excellent hotels and plans itineraries that showcase the country’s best highlights. The English-speaking guides were professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, providing engaging narratives that made the history and culture come alive. The delicious food added a wonderful culinary dimension to the trip.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Ruth
06/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel made exploring Myanmar an unforgettable adventure. From temple visits to boat rides, every day was an exciting journey into the country’s rich traditions. The hotels had local character while still being very comfortable. Our English-speaking guides provided context for every experience and made the cultural depth of Myanmar come alive.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Joanne
05/04/2025

Excellent!

I enjoyed every moment of my Laos journey with Indochina Royal Travel. The company made sure we were comfortable, safe, and engaged throughout the trip. The English-speaking guides offered fascinating commentary that added layers of meaning to temples, villages, and landscapes. I appreciated the thoughtfully chosen hotels, each with its own character.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Brittany
04/04/2025

Excellent!

I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly everything went on my Laos tour with Indochina Royal Travel. From the moment I booked until the last day, their team was organized and communicative. The English-speaking guides were highly knowledgeable and friendly, helping me connect with the culture deeply. The hotels were comfortable and well chosen.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Felicia
01/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar trip with Indochina Royal Travel was inspiring. The blend of historical landmarks, local traditions, and personal storytelling created a truly immersive experience. The accommodations were neat and centrally located. I especially appreciated our guide’s perfect English and deep cultural knowledge, which gave the trip a sense of authenticity and connection.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Josue
01/04/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Myanmar with Indochina Royal Travel was a remarkable experience. The itinerary was well designed, the hotels were comfortable, and the English-speaking guides were experts on local culture and history. Their friendly and professional approach made me feel supported and enriched my understanding of the country immensely.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Chelsea
01/04/2025

Excellent!

We had the most enriching trip to Laos, thanks to Indochina Royal Travel. The itinerary included both famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path locations. The guide's English skills made everything accessible, and his stories brought the places to life. Truly a memorable journey.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Hope
31/03/2025

Excellent!

Booking a Cambodia tour with Indochina Royal Travel was a great decision. Their staff answered all my questions promptly and tailored the itinerary to my interests. The hotels were charming and spotless, and the guides spoke excellent English, making the cultural and historical sites come alive through engaging stories.
Vietnam Tour Packages
Douglas
31/03/2025

Excellent!

The attention to detail by Indochina Royal Travel impressed me from start to finish. Their Vietnam tours include superb accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and expert English-speaking guides who provide insightful cultural and historical context. The professionalism shown in planning and execution made this one of my best travel experiences yet.

Write a review

From: €840
4-star hotels
5 (110 Reviews)

Owner

Laos

Member Since 2024

Explore other options