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 as well as doorways and the main sim has a marvellous 'tree life' mosaic pattern on an outer wall. We  embark on a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River, stopping en route at Ban Xang Hai to see 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)

Heading out of town we embark on a drive south and pass the verdant and rugged scenery to the bustling market of Phosi that sells a wide array of local goods and handicrafts. The mountainous region around Luang Prabang is also home of many ethnic groups containing Lao Loum, Khmu, Hmong. Along the way we have a chance to visit Ban Xom, Ban Lao Soung,  Ban Ou and Ban Thapene which provide a deep insight into their simple lifestyle. Our main stop  is the beautiful Khouang Si Falls which are surrounded by lush forest. The waterfall tumbles over multi tiered limestone formations into the cool and clear pools ideal for anyone seeking an enjoyable escape when the heat becomes unbearable. O/N in Luang Prabang. (B) 

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 also have time to enjoy a walk through the charming streets before catching a flight back to Vientiane. After checking into hotel we transfer out to see the Buddha Park, a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by mystical monk on a parkland located by the Mekong River and the impressive Friendship Bridge which links Laos and Thailand. 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)