Laos Explorer

Traditionally known as the Kingdom of a Million Elephants, Laos is blessed with a verdant countryside, glittering Buddhist temples, languid village life and gentle people. Years of isolation from the wider world have helped preserve Laos’ peaceful nature and allow a glimpse into a quieter time. Today you will cross the border into Laos at Chiang Khong (Thailand) / Huay Xai (Laos). If you spend the night before in Chiang Rai, we suggest departing the hotel early. The driving time from Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong via Route 1020 is approximately two hours (110 km). On arrival in Chiang Khong, proceed to the jetty for your cruise via Pakbeng to Luang Prabang. Enjoy the scenic river cruise from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang on the mighty Mekong River, soaking in the beautiful surroundings and stopping at local villages along the way. The cruising time is approximately six hours. You will spend the night in the charming town of Pakbeng, which is located about halfway between the Thai border and Luang Prabang. Time for leisure to explore this little town and experience rural Laos’s local way of life. 

After breakfast at our accommodation, we cruise towards Luang Prabang. Enjoy a break in the journey with several stops along the way, including at a Lao Loum village to get a snapshot into the lifestyle of indigenous people. We can also see how the modern world is starting to change their traditional way of life. The cruise will continue along the river to sacred Tham Ting and Tham Phoum caves which house hundreds of Buddha statues and are the final destination for thousands of pilgrims annually. Enjoy lunch on board before arriving at the charming UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. From the pier, meet your driver, who will provide the transfer to your accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to relax.

Rise early this morning to give alms to the monks before starting your tour of Luang Prabang. Begin your excursion with a visit to the local market to see the bustle and activity of the early morning. Visit the National Museum, a modest but graceful building that combines traditional Lao and French beaux-arts motifs. This turn-of-the-century royal residence has been preserved as it was when the royal family last lived here and provides unique insights into the history of Laos. Continue to Hor Phrabang. In the front-right corner room of the palace, which opens to the outside, is a collection of the palace’s most prized art pieces, including the Phrabang, cast of a gold, silver and bronze alloy. This Buddha stands at 83 cm tall and weighs around 50 kg. Proceed to Wat Mai, which was constructed in 1821 during the reign of King Manthatourath and was once the residence of Phra Sangkharaj (the Patriarch of the Buddhist clergy). Wat Xieng Thong was built in 1560 and situated on the banks of the Mekong River, it is the most beautiful monastery in Luang Prabang and shows the typical Lao art style with old religious artifacts and some ancient masterpieces of Lao art. Wat Khili is situated opposite Wat Xieng Thong and next door to Wat Si Boun Houang. It was built in a style reminiscent of temples found in the mountains close to the Plain of Jars, aiming to reinstate the relationship between there and Luang Prabang. We will also visit Wat Street (including Wat Sibounheuang, Wat Si Moungkhoun, Wat Sop and Wat Saen). In the evening, you can also visit Talat Night Market (Hmong Market).

Pack your swimsuit for a unique swimming experience at the spectacular Kuang Si Falls. Water tumbles over limestone rocks into numerous turquoise pools that are used as natural swimming holes. It’s refreshingly chilly and impossible to resist! On the way back to Luang Prabang stop for a walk around a local village. On return to Luang Prabang, enjoy more sightseeing, beginning with a tour of Wat Visoun (Wat Wisunalat), the oldest living temple in Luang Prabang, dating back to 1513. It contains a collection of antique wooden Buddhas. Next, visit nearby Wat Aham. In the evening, we will visit Mount Phousi for the sunset. Climb 328 steps starting from the entrance on the opposite side of the National Museum or 410 steps on the other side of Khan River to the small temples atop Phou Si. The hill is 150m high and sits in the middle of the town, offering beautiful views over the temples and river.

This evening, attend a traditional Baci Ceremony with Lao Traditional Music at Local House.

Enjoy your last few hours in Laos at leisure before you meet your driver in the hotel foyer, at a pre-arranged time, who will provide the private vehicle transfer to Laos International Airport for your departure flight.