Highlights of Laos 8 Days

Today, we embark on a sightseeing tour of Vientiane, the charming and relaxed capital city with a distinctive French influence. We'll visit remarkable landmarks, including the Victory Gate, offering stunning town views, the revered That Luang stupa, believed to house a strand of Buddha's hair, and the exquisite Wat Sisaket temple adorned with intricate Buddha images. The afternoon is yours to delve deeper into the city's treasures. You may opt to visit Buddha Park, an expansive green sanctuary housing captivating Buddhist and Hindu statues, or discover the COPE Museum, a non-profit organization aiding those affected by unexploded ordinance from the Vietnam war. This museum provides crucial insight into Laos' history and the significant work of the COPE foundation. Visitors often find it a moving and enlightening experience, enriching their understanding of this captivating country.

This morning, we head to Vientiane railway station to embark on an exciting two-hour train journey to Vang Vieng, a picturesque town. The recently constructed Boten-Vientiane Railway, inaugurated in December 2021, is a remarkable collaboration between Laos and China, connecting the northern border with the Thai Railway system at the Friendship Bridge in the south. This modern railway has transformed travel in Laos, linking rural villages and facilitating trade. The train ride offers glimpses of lush rice paddies, farmers' fields, and charming villages, making the journey a delightful experience. Upon arrival in Vang Vieng, the afternoon is yours to leisurely explore the stunning surroundings. We recommend a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the mountains, capturing the breathtaking scenery with your camera.

Today, delight in the picturesque setting of Vang Vieng, nestled along the Nam Song river, with lush rice paddies and majestic limestone cliffs as the backdrop. Once known for its vibrant party scene, Vang Vieng has transformed into an adventure haven for travelers seeking various activities. Your day is free to indulge in optional excursions, ranging from guided walks through rice paddies to visit nearby ethnic minority villages, exploring the 2km underground cave network, to kayaking along the gentle Nam Song river. With abundant choices, there's something for everyone, from leisurely walkers to adrenaline enthusiasts.

Embark on the second leg of our train journey, traversing through the heart of Laos, surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes, interspersed with newly constructed tunnels. Arriving in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll be captivated by its tranquil valley, embraced by lush hills and the convergence of the Khan and Mekong rivers. French colonial influence graces the city, with elegant Indochinese villas complementing the golden-tipped wats (temples). Time seems to stand still here, inviting you to savor a traditional Lao coffee, observing life unfold at the leisurely Lao pace. After arriving, we travel by bus to the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfalls, a short 45-minute drive from Luang Prabang. The falls cascade into turquoise pools below, surrounded by forested hills and ethnic minority villages. Returning to Luang Prabang, consider an afternoon bicycle trip to the serene Lao Loum village at Ban Phanom, approximately 6 km away. As the day draws to a close, seize the opportunity to ascend Mount Phousi via its 328 steps, arriving just in time for a breathtaking sunset. The panoramic views from the summit offer a captivating sight of this tranquil city and its surroundings.

Today, we embark on an immersive walking tour of Luang Prabang, where all the captivating sights are conveniently close to one another. We'll stroll around the charming wats, such as the resplendent Wat Xieng Thong, adorned with brilliant red and gold designs, featuring an impressive tiled roof and mosaic dragon motifs. Our exploration includes visits to Wat Sen and the Royal Palace Museum. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to further explore this enchanting city or unwind at the cozy al-fresco coffee shops lining the streets. Don't miss the lively night market of Luang Prabang, it's a must-visit!

We embark on a traditional long-tail boat, gracefully sailing up the Mekong River to Pak Ou Caves. Ascending the limestone cliffs, we'll find a sacred Buddhist shrine, home to countless Buddha images in various forms and sizes. Afternoon offers an optional bicycle trip to Ban Phanom, a serene Lao Loum village approximately 6 km from Luang Prabang. Here, you'll have the opportunity to engage with locals and learn about rural Lao life. Returning to Luang Prabang, a refreshing Beer Lao awaits.

Our journey concludes after a delightful breakfast at the hotel. Today is free for departure, and you can leave Luang Prabang at your convenience. If your flight departs later, our hotel offers luggage storage facilities. For those requiring a complimentary airport transfer, depart from Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ), just 10 minutes away from our hotel.