TIME: 3days 2nights
TRANSPORT:
ORIGIN: Ho Chi Minh City
DESTINATION: Luang Prabang
Highlights Since 1995, after being recognized as the site of UNESCO, Luang Prabang has emerged as a popular destination with its amalgamation of crumbling French architecture, glistening temples and extensive natural beauty.The entire historic sector of the town is devoted to tourism, with everything on the tourist trail from the former royal palaces to over 33 Wats (temples). This former Royal capital remains the main center for the study of Buddhism in Laos and is the perfect location for spiritual contemplation.
DAY1. ARRIVAL – LUANG PRABANG
On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos.
After a short rest, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, Wat Mai. We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the hill tribe and local people surrounding Luang Prabang.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
DAY2. LUANG PRABANG – PAK OU CAVE (B/…)
An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from the faithful residents. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession.
After breakfast, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the small village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is distilled.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
DAY3. LUANG PRABANG – DEPARTURE (B/…/…)
Breakfast, we visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign, there will be free time to venture into town and stroll around the shopping area. The tour ends after your transfer to the airport for departure.
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