North Isaan And The Mekong 5 Days -

From: ₹357 4-star hotels

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Duration

5 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Experience an unforgettable 5-day tour through Thailand, exploring vibrant Bangkok and the historical city of Lopburi. Discover the natural beauty of Phu Ruea National Park and the charming town of Loei. Continue your journey to Chiang Khan, where you can stroll along the Mekong River, and visit Nong Khai to witness stunning views and cultural sites. Finally, explore Udon Thani, known for its rich heritage and bustling markets. This adventure offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local experiences, making it a memorable getaway.

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

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Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Bangkok International Airport, you’ll enjoy a smooth, unaccompanied transfer to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure—consider treating yourself to a traditional Thai massage or sampling the delicious local cuisine. As the day comes to a close, relax with a cocktail while watching a breathtaking sunset from one of the chic bars that have recently emerged atop the city’s skyscrapers. Afterward, return to your hotel to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight in Bangkok.

<span> Day 2</span> BANGKOK – LOPBURI – KHAO KHO

Head to Lopburi to explore Phra Prang Sam Yot, the province's most famous landmark and a former Hindu shrine dating back to the 13th century, designed in the classic Bayon style of Khmer architecture. This site features three towers connected by corridors. In the 17th century, it was transformed into a Buddhist temple, with a hall built to house a magnificent Buddha statue.

Continue your journey northward, passing through Phetchabun, until you reach the Khao Kho District. Here, visit Wat Phra Thad Pha Sorn Kaew, established in 2004 as a Dharma practice center, perched on a hilltop surrounded by mountains. The serene setting is adorned with over five million mosaic tiles. Also, explore the hilltop cave where locals once claimed to have seen a floating marble, believed to represent the spirit of Buddha.

<span> Day 3</span> KHAO KHO – PHU RUEA NATIONAL PARK – LOEI – CHIANG KHAN

Visit a stunning British-style flower garden that offers a picturesque setting with sweeping views of the Great Mountain, known as ‘Pha Sorn Kaew.’ Next, we’ll head to the renowned Phu Ruea National Park, located in Loei province, one of Thailand's coldest areas. The northern section of the park borders Laos and is home to the headwaters of several rivers in Loei. The park's highest peak, Phu Ruea, rises to 1,365 meters above sea level, providing an excellent viewpoint for the Huang and Mekong rivers. The cool climate supports a rich variety of orchids that bloom year-round.

Make a stop along the way for an optional coffee break before proceeding to Ban Na Aor, a cultural village that preserves the ancient Thai-Loei heritage and architecture. Afterward, journey to the charming town of Chiang Khan. Unwind as you take in the beautiful scenery along the Mekong River at sunset, and then explore the vibrant local market at Khaeng Khut Khu, which comes alive each evening. Delight in the culinary offerings of Chiang Khan, including ma prao Kaew (wok-fried coconut strips with a sugar glaze), dark brown coconut sugar, and roasted peanuts. You can also savor small, deep-fried river prawns accompanied by cucumber dipping sauce or mixed into a spicy salad with chili, garlic, and lime. Overnight in Chiang Khan.

<span> Day 4</span> CHIANG KHAN – NONG KHAI

Rise early to partake in the local Buddhist tradition of offering sticky rice to monks during their morning alms rounds. Cycle along the riverside promenade to reach Chiang Khan Walking Street and be at the temple in the early hours. Visit Wat Sri Khun Muang, also known as Wat Yai, one of the region's most significant religious sites, and admire its ancient monastery with its distinctive descending roof in Lanna style. The wall paintings within the monastery narrate the ten lives of Buddha.

Afterward, return to your hotel to savor a delicious breakfast while enjoying a stunning sunrise along the riverbanks. Once you check out, continue your journey along the Mekong River on one of Thailand’s most scenic routes. Stop at Wat Pha Tak Sua to take in the breathtaking views from the 16-meter-long skywalk, which hangs over a cliff and features glass floors and walls.

As you proceed, make a quick photo stop at a viewpoint in Sri Chiang Mai before arriving in Mueang Nong Khai. This vibrant Thai town is just 20 kilometers from the border with Laos and serves as a gateway to Vientiane. Nong Khai beautifully represents the rich Isaan culture, characterized by its blend of Thai and Laotian heritage. Experience the warm and friendly atmosphere of this small city as the sun sets behind the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.

<span> Day 5</span> NONG KHAI –DEPART UDON THANI

Step aboard a boat for a scenic 90-minute journey along the Thai side of the Mekong River. Your first stop is Tha Sadet Market, the heart of local trade between this part of Thailand and neighboring Laos. Often referred to as the ‘Indochina Market,’ it features a wide range of goods sourced from various regions, alongside plenty of local products.

Next, leave Nong Khai to explore Sala Kaew Ku sculpture park, which boasts an impressive array of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures. While it isn’t a temple, the park is often informally called Wat Khaek (‘Indian Temple’), and some sculptures soar up to 25 meters high.

Continue on to Ban Chiang, an archaeological site in the Nong Han District of Udon Thani, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovered in 1966, this ancient site is famous for its beautifully decorated red pottery.

The day wraps up at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Centre, which opened in 2013 to preserve the art, culture, lifestyle, and philosophical principles of the Udon Thani Thai-Chinese community. The serene central garden reflects traditional Chinese design and is themed around '24 manners of gratitude, the garden of a thousand-year-old morality.'

Finally, you’ll be dropped off at the airport or railway station to continue your individual travel plans.

Durations

5 - 8 days

Regional Tours

Thailand

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Tour's Location

Bangkok, Lopburi, Phu Ruea National Park, Loei, Chiang Khan, Nong Khai, Udon Thani

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...