Laos is the least populated of the Indochinese countries, and perhaps the most beautiful. Devoutly Buddhist and largely undeveloped, Laos offers travellers a chance to experience rich traditions, natural beauty. Our trip to this intriguing country includes time in Luang Prabang, a perfectly preserved blend of rustic colonial architecture and gilded monasteries, and in the laidback riverside city of Vientiane .

On arrival at Wattay Airport or Friendship Bridge, you are met and transferred to our centrally located hotel. On the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is the charming and fascinating capital of Laos. This small city conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. After a short rest, we enjoy our city tour, seeing Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha statues. A next stop is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. We also visit the imposing Patouxai Monument well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe before continuing to the great sacred structure and symbol of Laos, That Luang Stupa. O/N in Vientiane.

The royal capital  of the former Lane Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop  retains an unique charm rarely found in all Asia. This morning we take a short  flight to Luang Prabang. There is plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham and Wat Mai with five tiered roofs. We include these sights in a half day guided tour which ends with a climb to Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset view  of the town and the Mekong River. There  are 329 steps leading us on zigzag way past various temples to the sacred, gilded stupa of Wat Phousi at the summit. O/N in Luang Prabang. (B)

Today we continue seeing this town with the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways while the main sim has a marvellous 'tree life' mosaic pattern on an outer wall. We  board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River, stopping en route at Ban Xang Hai to visit the distillation of local rice wine. Upon leaving this village we wave our wave through the stunning mountain landscape to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. They are  crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, all brought there by devout villagers. After the river trip we drive  towards  Ban Phanom and visit the hand weaving. O/N in Luang Brabang. (B,L)

The exploration of Luang Prabang would not be complete without a visit to the national museum at the former Royal Palace. This interesting structure displays a lovely collection of treasures and artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign.  We then spend our time wandering through the charming streets until transferring to the airport for a short flight back to Vientiane. On arrival we head out to see the impressive Friendship Bridge which links Laos and Thailand, and the Buddha Park. This landmark represents a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by mystical monk on a parkland located by the Mekong River. A perfect way to round off the day is to watch the spectacular sunset over the Mekong River from one of riverside bars. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

Trip includes:

All ground transportation and transfers in air conditioned vehicles
English speaking guide (other language available on request )
All accommodation based on twin share basis with daily breakfast
Additional Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Admission fees when on guided tours

Domestic flights : Vientiane - Luang Prabang - Vientiane

Trip does not include:

International flights
International departure tax
Visas and visa fees
Travel insurance
Admission fees during free time
Personal expenses such as shopping; telephone, laundry and bar bills etc.
Tips and gratuities