Spiritual Vientiane

Upon arrival at Vientiane Wattay International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our airport representative who will escort you to a private vehicle for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. After settling in, you are free to relax and explore at your leisure, enjoying the city’s welcoming atmosphere and perhaps discovering local sights or amenities nearby.

Start your day early at 5:00 am by meeting your guide in the hotel lobby to participate in the meaningful tradition of giving alms to Laos Buddhist monks, a serene and culturally enriching experience. After this sacred practice, you will be returned to the hotel to enjoy a delicious breakfast, allowing you to reflect on the spiritual start to your day.

Your full-day city tour begins with a peaceful morning visit to Wat Sisaket, renowned for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere, followed by an exploration of Wat Phra Keo, which houses an impressive collection of Lao and Khmer art, providing insights into regional religious artistry. Then, you’ll proceed to the Presidential Palace, where you can appreciate the colonial-era architecture and learn about Laos’ political history, all accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide to enrich your experience.

Visiting COPE offers a comprehensive understanding of the American/Vietnam War’s history and its enduring consequences, particularly the danger posed by unexploded ordinances (UXO) in the region. The centre not only educates visitors on the conflict’s legacy but also showcases ongoing demining efforts to clear UXOs, thereby saving lives and enabling safe land use. Engaging with COPE’s exhibits and programs highlights the importance of continued support for landmine victims and the broader goal of post-conflict recovery and development.

Experience authentic flavours by indulging in a delicious Lao-style lunch at Lao Kitchen, where traditional ingredients and recipes come together to create a memorable culinary journey through Laos’ rich cuisine.

After exploring the Patuxay monument, known as Laos’ Arc de Triomphe, with its stunning city vistas from the accessible rooftop, your tour concludes with a visit to the That Luang, a revered 16th-century stupa and the most sacred religious site in Laos, offering a profound glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage.

After the tour, return to the hotel to relax.

End the day strolling along the banks of the Mekong River where cool drinks, delicious local snacks and unique souvenirs can be found.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you’ll depart in the morning to visit Wat Sok Pa Luang, a distinguished forest temple known for its commitment to Engaged Buddhism. During the tour, you’ll explore the serene gardens and have the opportunity to meet with a resident monk, who will serve as your guide and spiritual teacher for the day, offering insights into the temple’s practices and the principles of engaged Buddhism.

Begin with a general discussion on the subject of Buddhism, providing the chance to ask any questions about the religion that may arise. The remainder of the morning is dedicated to meditation training. The relaxed surroundings provide the luxury of tranquillity and time to  practice both sitting and walking meditation.

After the meditation session, visit the temple’s traditional sauna and chat with the Lao nuns that manage it. Learn how Buddhism is not only an age-old religion with regional traditions, but also a socially engaged pillar of contemporary Lao society.

The guide will have brought offerings from Vientiane, which can be presented to the monks before lunch, symbolizing respect, and devotion, and enhancing the spiritual significance of the tradition.

This afternoon, dedicate time to practicing meditation techniques and deepen your understanding by learning from the resident monks, enriching your spiritual experience before heading back to Vientiane.

Take this opportunity to relax and explore Vientiane’s at your leisure, before meeting your driver who will provide a private vehicle transfer to Wattay International Airport for your onward journey.