IN6-LA11D: TASTE OF LAOS
11days/10nights

Day1. Arrival – Vientiane
On arrival in Vientiane Capital, 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 town conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. This afternoon exploration visiting Wat Sisaket which is the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. The following sight is Haw Prakeo, the former royal temple of Laos monarchy, where previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Statue. We then visit the imposing Patuxay Monument which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph before continuing to the famous That Luang Stupa. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day2. Vientiane - Luang Namtha - Moung Sing
The journey northwards begins as we board the flight to Luang Namtha, a land of rugged mountains, beautiful tropical forest, rich of rivers plain and sharing the border with China and Myanmar. Today Luang Namtha is populated by over twenty ethnic groups that make this region one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in Laos. On arrival, we travel by roads to Moung Sing, stopping along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group was originally in China but immigrated into Laos down centuries. They are very poor, but have an interesting culture and a colorful history. Overnight in Moung Sing. (B)

Day3. Moung Sing – Trekking
The remote and extremely beautiful mountain region of Muong Sing is ideal for anyone seeking a true adventure and trekking expedition. After breakfast we have time strolling round this small town where many ethnic minorities are frequently seen on the main street while small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. Upon leaving the town we take a short drive north before we set off on a half-day walk, using the local tracks. We pass through the breathtaking mountain landscape to the Yao, Akha and Lanten hill tribe villages, and are sure to attraction attention as this part of the country explored by very few visitors. Overnight at Moung Sing. (B)

Day4. Moung Sing–Luang Namtha–Oudomxay
An early morning departure to Oudomxay. These back roads are a perfect way to explore the real Laos. We see very few other travelers, mostly rural dwellers who are just as interested in finding out about our lives as we are of theirs. The drive is difficult at times; however the verdant and rugged mountain scenery combined with the colorful local population makes for a memorable experience. On arrival we check in a very simple hotel and take a walk to explore this hill town. Overnight at Oudomxay. (B)

Day5. Oudomxay – Muong La - Muong Khoua
The local market also attracts numerous ethnic minorities who converge from the surrounding mountainsides or valley to barter and trade their goods. We visit this congregation before we set off on our journey along the Nambak River to Muong La. Here is a chance to visit Praxack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image. This 400-year-old statue legendary possesses many supernatural powers, which are widely worshipped among local people. Upon leaving Muong La, the roads begin to deteriorate but the drive is very interesting as we pass through the scenic landscape. Overnight in Muong Khoua. (B)

Day6. Muong Khoua – Nong Khiow – Luang Prabang (Boat)
Today, embark a long trail traditional boat down stream for a leisurely trip on the Nam Ou River, enjoying with green and Along the way we stop to visit the mysterious caves of Pak Ou which are crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various sizes. We continue our trip to Luang Prabang. This former royal capital with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop retains a unique charm rarely found in all Asia. There is little traffic on Luang Prabang roads and monks in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas to shade themselves from the Sun. Over night in Luang Prabang. (B)

Day7. Luang Prabang
The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Laos culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign, is not to be missed. We visit this sight as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways. Heading out of this area, we explore some other major sights including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. The perfect way to round off the day is to watch the spectacular sunset over the Mekong River from the top of Phousi Mount. From there, we explore Street Night Market, where you can find the lovely collection and handmade textile by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight at Luang Prabang. (B)

Day8. Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng
Today we travel by roads to Vang Vieng. The journey is strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic but rough routes in the whole of Asia. We arrive in Vang Vieng, a small town which is located on a bend in the Nam Song River. This tranquil town is rapidly developed with the advent of tourist, but the beautiful scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops is unchanged for century. We embark on our boat for a well-paced trip on the Nam Song River, exploring the breathtaking mountain landscape. Over night in Vang Vieng (B)

Day9. Vang Vieng – Trekking
The limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng are home to numerous caves and caverns. The most famous of these caves, Tham Jang, was used by local people around 200 years as a hideout from Chinese invaders. We visit this beautiful cave this morning before we take a walk to the Tai Deang and the Souay hill tribe villages. They are all friendly and welcoming. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and relaxation. Over night in Vang Vieng. (B)

Day10. Vang Vieng – Vientiane
Heading out of town we drive back to Vientiane. Along the way we make a stop to visit the archaeological sight of Vang Xang dating back from the 11th century. After checking into hotel we transfer out to see the Buddha Park, a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by mystical monk on 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 Atacular sunset over the Mekong River from one of riverside bars. Overnight in Vientiane. (B)

Day11. Vientiane – Departure
After breakfast, we visit the Morning Market and the weaving village of Ban Nong Bouathong (if time permits). The tour ends after your transfer to Wattay Airport or Friendship Bridge for departure. (B)

PACKAGE PRICE: Tour cost per person (in USD)

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