Indochina Tour with Bangkok Extension 21 Days

Embark on a captivating city tour of Hanoi, a city steeped in history and culture. Visit notable landmarks such as the revered Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh, the picturesque One Pillar Pagoda, the magnificent Temple of Literature, the tranquil Tran Quoc Temple by West Lake, and the insightful Ethnology Museum. Explore the vibrant Old Quarter, marvel at the Ngoc Son Temple, and enjoy a leisurely cyclo tour through the charming streets. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in the traditional art form of water puppetry in the afternoon. Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Halong City, passing through the picturesque Red River Delta. Upon arrival, board the Treasure Junk and begin your enchanting cruise through the mesmerizing landscapes of Halong Bay. Feast on a delicious lunch featuring fresh seafood (vegetarian and kids menus available) as you sail towards the captivating meeting point of Halong and Bai Tu Long. Prepare for an exciting exploration of the limestone karsts, taking part in activities such as kayaking and tender boat rides. Return to the cruise to refresh and indulge in an aperitif on the sundeck before savoring a delectable dinner onboard. Overnight on the cruise.

Start your day with a mesmerizing breakfast as you witness the serene beauty of the mist-covered bay. Relax and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery from the sundeck, capturing stunning photos of the bay. Embark on a tender boat to explore a secluded floating village nestled amidst the mountains. Journey through the vibrant community of floating houses and rowing boats, witnessing the daily activities of the locals and their unique way of life. Indulge in a delicious lunch as you cruise back to the harbor. Return to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Danang, our driver will meet you and escort you to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a delightful walking tour of Hoi An, renowned for its rich trading history and well-preserved architecture. Explore the centuries-old merchant homes, marvel at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling market. In the evening, enjoy the freedom to savor a delicious dinner and further explore the charming town. Overnight in Hoi An.

Embark on a journey from Hoi An to the captivating My Son Holyland, located amidst magnificent mountains approximately 48km west of Hoi An. Discover the religious significance of My Son, a grand complex consisting of over 70 towers and temples built by the Cham people in the 4th century. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures, and be immersed in the rich history of the Champa Kingdom. Afterward, head to the boat station and embark on a leisurely boat trip along the Thu Bon River. Experience the local way of life and embrace the refreshing air as you admire the picturesque views along the river. Enjoy a delightful lunch onboard the boat. The boat trip concludes at Bach Dang Boat Station, marking the end of the tour. Overnight in Hoi An.

Take a flight to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Indulge in a memorable evening aboard the Bonsai Cruise on the sparkling Saigon River. Experience a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary performances while savoring an array of fresh and homemade dishes from interactive buffet stations. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark on a morning excursion to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of tunnels stretching over 124 miles. These tunnels, built by the Vietcong, served as strategic hideouts during the French and American wars. Witness the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese as you explore this remarkable underground system. En route, visit a local rice paper workshop and admire picturesque paddy fields. In the afternoon, venture into Cholon, the bustling Chinese quarter. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this mercantile hub, wandering through the maze of streets lined with shops, pagodas, churches, and market stands. Experience the organized chaos and observe the lively daily life unfolding before your eyes. Overnight at the hotel.

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho and embark on a captivating Mekong Delta adventure. Begin your tour with a visit to the renowned Vinh Trang Pagoda, known for its architectural beauty and cultural significance. Board a motorboat and cruise along the mighty Mekong to Xuan Dong Islet, a tranquil and less crowded destination that offers an authentic glimpse into local Mekong life. Explore the island at a leisurely pace, cycling through lush greenery, capturing photos, and observing the daily activities of villagers. Visit a "Coconut Artisan" village to witness the skillful handcrafting of coconut husk and fiber products. Savor honeyed tea as you immerse yourself in the local craftsmanship. Next, embark on a serene sampan ride along the enchanting Vam Chua canal, surrounded by tropical plants and hidden waterways. This tranquil rural setting provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to My Tho and heading back to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight at the hotel.

Take a flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, embark on a boat trip to "Kampong Phluk," a charming collection of three small fishing villages nestled within a picturesque flooded forest. Cruise through the village, marvel at the unique houses on stilts, and observe the local Cambodians going about their daily lives in this floating forest. Traverse the forest canals, immersing yourself in the beauty of the ecosystem and catching glimpses of flora and fauna. Note: During the dry season from March to June, the group will visit Phare The Cambodia Circus instead of Tonle Sap Lake. Phare is an exceptional evening entertainment experience that combines theater, music, dance, and modern circus arts to narrate captivating Cambodian stories.

Start the day with a mesmerizing sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a tour of Angkor Thom, beginning with the South Gate. Explore the enigmatic Bayon, a temple adorned with captivating stone faces. Discover the impressive Baphuon temple and marvel at its grandeur. Visit the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a grand audience hall for public ceremonies, and the Terrace of the Leper King, shrouded in historical mystery. In the afternoon, venture to the iconic Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Spanning over 400 square kilometers, the Angkor Archaeological Park preserves the remarkable remnants of the Khmer Empire's various capitals, including the majestic Angkor Wat.

Embark on a captivating river journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, offering a unique and enjoyable alternative to the monotonous Tonle Sap Lake crossing. Our luxury private sedan/minivan will transport you to either the Tonle Sap River or the Mekong River (depending on weather conditions), where our specially designed double-hulled cruiser awaits—either the Mekong Tara Prince, formerly owned by the Prince of Cambodia, or the Mekong Explorer. Cruise along the picturesque Tonle Sap River and Mekong River, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery and rural life both on the river and on land. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds without the boredom of a long lake crossing. Our vessel's unique double hull enables us to navigate closer to the riverbanks and explore narrow waterways along the way. Departing from Siem Reap at 8am, our luxury private air-conditioned minivan will transfer you through pristine Cambodian countryside and traditional rural villages, providing an opportunity to admire the breathtaking scenery (approximately 4 hours). Upon arrival at the riverboat, our friendly cruise guides will welcome you with a refreshing drink. Indulge in a delectable BBQ lunch on board, complemented by fresh local fruits and a welcome drink (vegetarian options available upon prior request). You can also purchase drinks on board as we cruise south towards Phnom Penh, enjoying the mesmerizing sights of riverside life and exploring narrow waterways along the route (approximately 4.5 hours). At around 4:30pm, we will arrive at Phnom Penh dock, where a complimentary transfer to your hotel or guesthouse awaits.

Explore the captivating capital city of Phnom Penh, once renowned as the most beautiful city in Indochina. Despite its tumultuous history, it retains its charm and allure. Our city tour introduces us to the key landmarks of Phnom Penh. Begin the morning with a visit to Wat Phnom, a historic temple situated atop a small hill, symbolizing the legendary birthplace of Phnom Penh. The temple has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to 1926. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum, an architectural gem designed in the Khmer style by the esteemed French architect Georges Groslier and the School of Fine Arts. The museum houses a remarkable collection of Khmer sculptures, ranging from the pre-Angkor era (4th century) to the post-Angkor period (14th century). Next, explore the Royal Palace, a magnificent complex commissioned by King Norodom in 1866. Admire the breathtaking Silver Pagoda, named for its floor adorned with 5,000 silver tiles. The pagoda is located within the palace grounds. Conclude your city tour with a visit to the picturesque riverfront, a popular destination for tourists. Witness the mesmerizing confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, an exceptional geographical sight. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy an overnight stay in Vientiane.

Embark on a city exploration, starting with a visit to the oldest temple in Vientiane, Wat Sisaket, showcasing a vast collection of miniature Buddha statues. Continue to the former royal temple, Wat Prakeo, now transformed into an arts and antiques museum. As we journey along Lanexang Avenue, capture the impressive Patuxai Monument, reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The ascent to its top offers panoramic views of Vientiane. Continue to Laos' national icon, the golden stupa of That Luang, situated on Rue Singha 23. Conclude the morning with a visit to the COPE exhibition center, shedding light on the issue of unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Buddha Park, home to a captivating collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong River's banks. Despite its modern origins, built in the 1950s, the park boasts unique and photogenic sculptures, including a reclining Buddha and a giant pumpkin. Optionally, visit the Lao Disabled Women's Center, providing training and education for disabled women in Laos. Engage in conversations with the friendly women to learn about their lives. Marvel at the breathtaking sunset view over the Mekong River to conclude the day. Overnight at the hotel.

Embark on a half-day city tour, starting with a visit to the charming Royal Palace Museum, offering insights into local history. Continue to Wat Visoun, renowned as "The Water Melon Stupa" due to its distinctive shape. Explore the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, exemplifying the classical Luang Prabang architectural style with its gracefully sweeping roof. Delve into the rich ethnic diversity and culture of Laos at the remarkable Arts and Ethnology Centre. Conclude the day with a climb up Mount Phousi, treating you to a breathtaking sunset and panoramic vistas of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Overnight at the hotel.

Embark on a scenic boat journey along the Mekong River, providing breathtaking views of the serene countryside. Our first stop is the enigmatic Pak Ou Caves, nestled within a limestone cliff. These caves house thousands of Buddha statues of various sizes and shapes, creating a captivating sight. We then return to Luang Prabang, making a visit to the artisan village of Ban Nongxai along the way. Arriving in Luang Prabang, enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we venture to the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfall, where you can indulge in a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear turquoise pool or stroll along the forest trails. Adjacent to the waterfall, a Bear Rescue Centre is dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating the endangered Asiatic Black Bear. As the day draws to a close, we return to Luang Prabang. Overnight at the hotel

Enjoy leisure time before being transferred to the airport for your flight. Take a flight to Bangkok and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, we visit the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, an esteemed venue for royal ceremonies of the Thai Royal Family. Within the complex, we explore the renowned Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha Image. Continuing our tour, we visit Wat Pho, housing the magnificent Reclining Buddha. Next, we embark on a delightful long-tail boat trip along the Chao Phraya River and its lively inner canals, providing a glimpse into local life. Our journey includes a stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, before enjoying a delicious lunch at a floating restaurant. In the afternoon, we visit Wat Traimit, famous for its Golden Buddha. Return to the hotel and enjoy free time to relax.

Embark on a fascinating journey to Mae Klong, where the renowned railway market awaits. Witness the astonishing spectacle as vendors skillfully operate their stalls along the train tracks, seamlessly adjusting their wares to accommodate passing trains. Immerse yourself in this surreal shopping experience, surrounded by vibrant displays of fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Be amazed as everyone swiftly clears the tracks when the train approaches, only to resume business immediately afterward. It's an incredible sight that must be seen to be believed. After this captivating encounter, continue your adventure to a palm sugar plantation, a vital source of one of Thailand's key ingredients. Learn about the sugar production process and savor the taste of local delicacies derived from this crop. Next, set sail on a boat journey through the enchanting narrow canals, earning Bangkok the moniker "the Venice of the East." Arrive at Damnoean Saduak, one of Thailand's most famous floating markets. Explore the bustling market on foot, soaking up the vibrant ambiance of everyday life in Bangkok.

Embark on a guided day trip to Ayutthaya, the UNESCO World Heritage site and former capital of Siam. Explore four remarkable temples that bear witness to the city's rich history. Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle from Bangkok or join the tour directly at Wat Lokayasutha, renowned for its intact giant reclining Buddha image. Next, discover Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a temple within the royal palace complex where important rituals were conducted. Experience the significance of Ayutthaya at this iconic temple. Continue to Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya, one of the oldest and most significant temples in the city. Marvel at the Buddha head entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree, an iconic symbol of Ayutthaya's past. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local Thai restaurant, where your knowledgeable guide can recommend authentic culinary delights. Conclude your journey at Wat Chaiwattanaram, a grand riverside temple with architectural influences from Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Wander through the majestic grounds and admire the intricate design. Overnight at a hotel in Bangkok.

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore the city at your own pace before your departure. Take in the vibrant sights, indulge in shopping, or visit attractions of your choice. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight home.