Laos - Vietnam - Cambodia & Thailand Discovery 21 days

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Luang Prabang Arrival – Serene Beginnings

Upon your arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into this charming UNESCO World Heritage town, often described as the spiritual heart of Laos. Take some time to relax, perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River, or explore the quaint streets of the old town.

Day 2: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Caves Excursion

Today, immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural beauty surrounding Luang Prabang.

• Morning: Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Mekong River to the sacred Pak Ou Caves. These two limestone caves (Tham Ting and Tham Theung) are filled with thousands of Buddha statues, left by pilgrims over centuries.
• Afternoon: On your way back, stop at local villages like Ban Xanghai, known for its traditional Lao rice wine (Lao-Lao) production, and Ban Xang Khong, famous for its traditional Saa paper and silk weaving.
• Evening: Experience the vibrant Luang Prabang Night Market, offering a wide array of handicrafts, textiles, and local street food.

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfall – Vientiane

Discover natural wonders before traveling to Laos' capital.

• Morning: Start with the spiritual practice of alms giving (Tak Bat), where you can observe monks collecting offerings from devout locals. Afterwards, visit a temporary local market.
• Mid-morning: Ascend Phousi Hill for panoramic views of Luang Prabang. Then, journey to the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade with stunning turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxation. You can also visit the Bear Rescue Center located within the park.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your domestic flight to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Day 4: Vientiane – Buddha Park

Explore the unique blend of spirituality and art in Vientiane.

• Morning: Embark on a city tour of Vientiane. Visit Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane with thousands of Buddha images, and Wat Prakeo, a former royal temple housing the Emerald Buddha. Continue to Patuxay Monument, often called the "Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane," and the revered That Luang Stupa, a golden stupa symbolizing Buddhism and Lao national identity.
• Afternoon: Drive out of the city to Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), a whimsical sculpture park featuring over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues.

Day 5: Vientiane – Flight to Hanoi

Transition from the relaxed pace of Laos to the vibrant energy of Vietnam's capital.

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. You might have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot in Vientiane.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Wattay International Airport (VTE) for your international flight to Hanoi, Vietnam.
• Evening: Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Hanoi. Settle in and prepare for your Vietnamese adventure.

Day 6: Halong Bay On Overnight Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking journey to a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Morning: After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and transferred by shuttle bus to Halong Bay (approx. 2.5-3 hours drive).
• Mid-day: Board your luxurious overnight cruise. Enjoy a welcome drink and a delicious seafood lunch as your boat begins to glide through the emerald waters, passing by thousands of limestone karsts and islets.
• Afternoon: Participate in activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons, swimming in the bay's calm waters, or visiting a cave (e.g., Sung Sot Cave).
• Evening: Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board, followed by optional activities like squid fishing, karaoke, or simply relaxing under the stars.

Day 7: Halong Bay – Hanoi

Savor the final moments in Halong Bay before returning to Hanoi.

• Morning: Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the bay (optional Tai Chi session). Enjoy breakfast on board as the cruise continues to explore more stunning landscapes.
• Late Morning: Disembark from the cruise. Transfer back to Hanoi by shuttle bus.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Hanoi. You will have free time to relax or explore Hanoi's charming Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, or indulge in some street food.

Day 8: Hanoi – Flight to Da Nang – Hoi An

From the bustling capital, journey to the ancient charm of Central Vietnam.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You might have some free time to explore more of Hanoi, perhaps visit the Temple of Literature or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (if open and time permits).
• Afternoon: Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your domestic flight to Da Nang (DAD).
• Late Afternoon: Upon arrival in Da Nang, you will be transferred directly to Hoi An, a captivating ancient town. Check into your hotel and enjoy the lantern-lit streets in the evening.

Day 9: Hoi An Walking Tour Half Day

Discover the timeless beauty and cultural fusion of Hoi An.

• Morning: Embark on a delightful half-day walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town. Explore its UNESCO-listed streets, visiting the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, an old merchant's house, and a local market. Learn about Hoi An's rich history as a trading port.
• Afternoon: Enjoy free time to explore Hoi An at your leisure. You could custom tailor clothes at one of its famous tailor shops, take a cooking class, or cycle through the rice paddies.

Day 10: Free Time in Hoi An – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a final taste of Hoi An before heading to Vietnam's southern metropolis.

• Morning: A full free morning in Hoi An. This is your chance for last-minute souvenir shopping, relaxing by the river, or enjoying the beach (An Bang or Cua Dai).
• Afternoon: Transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (SGN).
• Evening: Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Take the evening to soak in the bustling energy of this vibrant city.

Day 11: Explore Sai Gon and Cu Chi Tunnels

Delve into the history and dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Morning: Drive to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, learn about the ingenious guerrilla warfare, and perhaps even crawl through a section.
• Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a half-day city tour. Visit key landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office, and the bustling Ben Thanh Market.
• Evening: Enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Reap

Bid farewell to Vietnam and journey to the ancient heart of Cambodia.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You might have some free time for last-minute shopping or visiting a favorite spot in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your international flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
• Evening: Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport (REP), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your first evening in the gateway to Angkor.

Day 13: Ta Prohm – Angkor Thom – Angkor Wat

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Angkor Archaeological Park.

• Morning: Begin your exploration with Ta Prohm, the "Tomb Raider" temple, where giant tree roots embrace the ancient stones, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Continue to Angkor Thom, a vast walled city. Enter through the impressive South Gate adorned with carved faces, then explore the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
• Late Afternoon: Conclude your day with the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Witness a spectacular sunset over the temple (weather permitting).

Day 14: Discover the Charms of Siem Reap

Delve deeper into the culture and local life of Siem Reap.

• Morning: Explore less-visited temples within the Angkor complex or discover local life. Options include Banteay Srei (known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings) or Preah Khan and Neak Pean.
• Afternoon: Visit a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake (such as Kompong Phluk or Chong Kneas), offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. Alternatively, explore local artisan workshops or enjoy a traditional Khmer cooking class.
• Evening: Enjoy an optional Apsara dance performance with dinner, or explore the lively Pub Street and Night Market in Siem Reap.

Day 15: Siem Reap Fly to Bangkok

Leave the ancient temples behind for the vibrant capital of Thailand.

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in Siem Reap. You might have some free time for souvenir shopping at the Old Market or a relaxing coffee.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport (REP) for your international flight to Bangkok, Thailand.
• Evening: Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Bangkok. Settle in and prepare for your Thai exploration.

Day 16: Full-Day Highlights of Bangkok

Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy and cultural richness of Thailand's capital.

• Morning: Visit the dazzling Grand Palace, home to the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Then, explore Wat Pho, famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue.
• Afternoon: Take a longtail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and its intricate klongs (canals), observing local life and making a stop at the iconic Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
• Evening: Consider experiencing a rooftop bar for panoramic city views or exploring the lively nightlife of Sukhumvit or Khao San Road.

Day 17: Bangkok – Ayutthaya Full Day

Step back in time to Thailand's ancient capital.

• Full Day: Take a full-day excursion to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom.
• Morning: Explore magnificent temple ruins such as Wat Mahathat (with its famous Buddha head in tree roots), Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana. You might enjoy a cycling tour or a unique "Kermit Tuk Tuk" ride around the historical park.
• Afternoon: Visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a beautiful summer palace with diverse architectural styles, before returning to Bangkok.

Day 18: Bangkok – Fly to Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep

Journey north to the "Rose of the North."

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your Bangkok hotel. Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Chiang Mai (CNX).
• Afternoon: Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you will be transferred to your hotel.
• Late Afternoon: Ascend to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's most iconic temple, nestled high in the mountains. Enjoy the intricate architecture and panoramic views of the city below as the sun begins to set.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for dinner and souvenirs.

Day 19: Chiang Mai – Mae Sa Elephant Camp Half Day

Experience an ethical encounter with Thailand's revered elephants.

• Half Day (Morning/Afternoon): Visit a reputable Elephant Camp/Sanctuary in the Mae Sa Valley (ensure it's an ethical sanctuary focused on welfare, like Elephant Nature Park or similar rescue centers, if that's what your tours use). Learn about the elephants, feed them, and observe them in a natural environment. This experience offers a deeper understanding of these majestic creatures.
• Afternoon/Rest of Day: Free time in Chiang Mai. You could explore more temples within the old city walls (e.g., Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh), take a Thai cooking class, or relax.

Day 20: Doi Inthanon Trekking and Waterfalls

Discover the natural beauty of Thailand's highest peak.

• Full Day: Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park. Visit the summit of Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain. Explore the beautiful King and Queen pagodas (Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaponphumisiri), surrounded by stunning gardens.
• Nature & Waterfalls: Trek along scenic nature trails, perhaps visiting a local Karen hill tribe village. Explore impressive waterfalls within the park, such as Wachirathan Waterfall and Mae Klang Waterfall.

Day 21: Chiang Mai Departure

Your grand Southeast Asia adventure concludes.

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Chiang Mai.
• Daytime: Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final walk around the city.
• Departure: Transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) for your departure flight, carrying a lifetime of unforgettable memories from Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.

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