Legend of Laos

On arrival in the Laos capital of Vientiane, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. After a short rest, we start visiting the major sights of the capital; including the Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national icon, That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. The Mekong river side is the perfect place to end the day and admire the sunset. Overnight in Vientiane

We board a short afternoon flight to Xiengkhouang.  Upon arrival, we transfer out to visit the Plain of Jars, an impressive archaeological site encompassing hundreds of large stone jars scattered throughout the plateau. In the afternoon there will be time to see the old capital of Muang Khoun Province and its’ nearby villages which are home to the Hmong hill tribe and Tai Dam people who possess an interesting local culture and a vibrant history. Overnight in Phonsavanh (B)

Today, we drive to the picturesque and charming town of Luang Prabang. The drive takes along mountainous winding roads, with opportunities to stop for photos and explore the numerous local hill tribe villages.  Upon arrival in Luang Prabang you will be taken to your hotel.  In the evening we explore the street Night Market, where you will find a lovely collection of local handmade textiles from the hill tribes surrounding Luang Prabang.  Overnight at Luang Prabang (B)

Today, we enjoy a short-guided tour of the city’s oldest temple Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its sweeping low roofs, which represents the classical architecture of Luang Prabang temple. We then embark on a boat journey upstream along the Mekong River, which also gives us a beautiful view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. En route, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where the local speciality of rice wine is produced. Once back in Luang Prabang city we take a short drive to Ban Phanom, well known for its hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang (B)

After breakfast, we visit The National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating back from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign.  We can also visit a prominent Luang Prabang silver smith’s, the Fine Arts School, and the Central Market taking a flight to Vientiane. After checking into your hotel, we transfer out to see Buddha Park, an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong Riverside meadow and Friendship Bridge. Approximately 200 religious images dating back over 500 years, were created by a mysterious monk spreading his philosophy on life and revealing his ideas about the universe. A spectacular view over the Mekong River at sunset is a delightful way to end the day. Overnight in Vientiane (B)

After breakfast, we visit the Morning Market (if time permits). The tour ends after your transfer to airport for departure. (B)