Laos Textiles Tour 8 Days

Today, our journey begins with a visit to The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, where a captivating collection of artifacts showcases the richness of Lao culture through the ages. We then embark on a short-guided tour of the city's oldest temple, the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, adorned with an impressive "tree of life" mosaic in colored glass. Next, we board an upstream cruise on the majestic Mekong River, offering us breathtaking views of the serene countryside. Our destination is the renowned Pak Ou Caves, sacred sanctuaries housing thousands of Buddha images. On our way back to Luang Prabang, we make a stop at Ban Xanghai, known for its local rice wine production. Upon returning to Luang Prabang, we visit Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek, charming villages celebrated for their exquisite silk weavings and Saa (Jute) Papermaking. Enjoy dinner on your own and spend a restful night in Luang Prabang. Included services: Private car transfer, boat trip to Pak Ou Caves, hotel accommodation in Luang Prabang, English speaking guide, breakfast at the hotel, lunch with authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

We kick-start our day with a remarkable opportunity to witness or partake in the daily morning alms giving ritual to saffron-clad monks, a unique and preserved tradition in Laos. Afterward, we explore the vibrant local Morning Market before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Following breakfast, we visit the fascinating ethnicities and crafts center, TAEC, and continue to the exquisite Wat Visoun, shaped like a watermelon. Our journey then takes us to the mesmerizing Kuang Si Waterfalls, where you can stroll along the waterfall's top and even indulge in a refreshing swim in its crystalline waters at the foot. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch at the falls, surrounded by nature's beauty. On our return to the city, we ascend to the summit of Mount Phousi to explore the sacred, gilded stupa, capturing a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River at sunset. Next, we visit the charming Night Market, offering a delightful array of handmade textiles. Relish dinner at your preferred venue and retire for the night at the hotel. Included services: Private car transfer, hotel accommodation in Luang Prabang, English speaking guide, breakfast at the hotel, lunch featuring authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

After enjoying your breakfast, your knowledgeable tour guide will pick you up from your hotel, and we'll embark on a scenic drive out of Luang Prabang City center. Our journey will take us along the enchanting Nam Ou Riverside, where we'll be treated to mesmerizing views of the Nam Ou valley with its lush rice plantations. Along the way, we'll have the opportunity to visit Khmu tribal villages, Lao Loum, Hmong villages, as well as the bustling Nam Touam and Nam Bark food markets. As we venture further from Luang Prabang, we'll arrive at the peaceful and remote Ban Na Yang, where you'll experience a serene holiday amidst the embrace of nature and have the chance to engage with the Tai Lue community. The Tai Lue people migrated from Sip Song Pan Na (now Jing Hong province in China) to Laos around 500 years ago. Their rich culture and tradition are deeply rooted in Buddhism and ancestral spirits (Animist and Spirit). During our time in Ban Na Yang, we'll immerse ourselves in the local culture, traditions, and communicate with the Tai Lue people to gain new and enriching experiences. We'll explore the village, meet local weavers, and arrange a weaving course to learn their craft. A delightful dinner will be shared with a local family, and you'll spend the night in a homestay, fostering a deeper connection with the Tai Lue community. Included services: Private car transfer, homestay in Ban Na Yang, English speaking guide, breakfast at the homestay, lunch and dinner featuring authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

Today marks the beginning of an enriching experience in the art of Lao textiles. You'll delve into the fascinating world of textile production and weaving, focusing on the exquisite creations of the Tai Lue community. Witness the skillful hands of Tai Lue women as they meticulously craft traditional garments such as skirts, trousers, and family clothing using silk and real cotton. Gain valuable insights into the cultivation of mulberry trees, which play a vital role in nourishing silkworms and contribute to the creation of these magnificent textiles. The techniques passed down through generations of Tai Lue artisans truly showcase their expertise. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to explore the art of bamboo handicrafts, where you'll witness the creation of various items such as streaming rice baskets, fishing traps, and rice collecting baskets, all crafted with precision and care. Later in the day, we'll venture into the captivating world of Tai Lue tobaccos, where you'll be introduced to the unique process of tobacco production in Ban Na Yang. This village is renowned for its exceptional textiles, stunning handmade bamboo crafts, and intricate weaving traditions in the Nam Bark District of Luang Prabang Province. Your night will be spent in the welcoming ambiance of the homestay, further immersing you in the warmth and charm of the Tai Lue culture. Included services: Private car transfer, homestay in Ban Na Yang, English speaking guide, breakfast at the homestay, lunch and dinner featuring authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with the hospitable Tai Lue community in Ban Na Yang, where the name signifies the village amidst fields. At approximately 8:30-9:00 am, we'll set off on a scenic journey to NongKiaw, a picturesque drive through nature's wonders. The route will take us through charming local villages, lush rice and crop plantations, verdant mountains, and historical sites of Nam Park district, evoking memories of the Indochina war. Arriving at Ban Nong Kiaw, meaning "village of the green pool" (though the pool itself is now absent), you'll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and the presence of Nam Ou riverside. A highlight of the visit will be crossing the Nam Ou river using the beneficial old bridge connecting Ban Nong Kiaw and Ban Sop Houn. The exploration continues with a visit to the historical Pa Tok cave, once used as a nurse house during the Nam Bark and Muang Ngoi war (Indochina war), but now serving as a peaceful and captivating tourist attraction. Embark on a leisurely slow boat cruise, journeying along the Nam Ou river for an hour until we reach Ban Muang Ngoi, the old village of Muang Ngoi Kao. Here, you'll find a basic guesthouse for your stay, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Don't miss the opportunity to feed fish with rice or bread, wander around the oldest temple, and explore the charm of Ban Muang Ngoi Kao. Dinner will be at your own discretion, and you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel. Included services: Private car transfer, guesthouse accommodation in Muang Ngoi, English speaking guide, breakfast at the guesthouse, lunch featuring authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic cruise down the Nam Ou river, passing through NongKiaw and continuing to Dam. At Dam, your mini-bus will be ready to pick you up for the journey back to Luang Prabang. Along the way, we'll make stops at some charming Khmu villages, offering you an enriching cultural experience before returning to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and a chance to unwind. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Dinner will be at your own discretion, and you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel. Included services: Private car transfer, hotel in Luang Prabang, English speaking guide, breakfast at the hotel, lunch featuring authentic Laotian cuisine (vegetarian options available upon request), entrance fee, one bottle of water per person.

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll have free time to explore the town at your own pace until it's time for your departure. Our private car will be ready to transfer you for your onward journey. Included services: Private car transfer, breakfast at the hotel, one bottle of water per person.