Day 1 : Vientiane
Upon arrival in Vientiane you will be transferred to your hotel. This afternoon
there will be a tour of Vientiane. Although Vientiane is the capital city, it
has the feel of a small provincial town. The wide boulevards are almost devoid
of traffic and with its many temples, the city retains the feel of another age.
Our tour includes visits to the major temples of Vat Sisaket, Vat Phrakeo and
the impressive That Luang Stupa, the country’s most important monument. We will
also see the Arch of Triumph, the National Museum and the main market. In the
evening, following the meal you can enjoy an evening stroll along the banks of
the Mekong River.
(Breakfast included)
Day
2 : Vientiane - Phonesavanh
This morning we transfer to the airport for the short morning flight to
Phonesavanh. After you have checked into your hotel there will be a tour to the
mysterious Plain of Jars. The jars, over 250 in total are thought to be 2,000
years old although there is little proof to date them very accurately.
Archaeologists have also struggled to find out the specific purpose of the jars,
some of which weigh up to 1 ton: Theories range from a form of sarcophagus to
large wine or rice storage receptacles.
(Breakfast and lunch included)
Day
3 : Phonesavanh - Luang Prabang
This morning, following breakfast we transfer to the airport for the flight to
Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is best known for its beautiful scenery and high
numbers of ancient temples. This former royal capital has a rich variety of
architecture, from the old facades of French colonial homes to the glittering
temple rooftops. We embark on a tour of this enthralling town visiting Vat Xieng
Thong, the Golden City monastery. Dating back to the 16th century this splendid
temple is considered to be the finest in Laos. We will also visit the fine
temples of Vat May, Vat Vixoun and Vat That Luang. Later in the day we adjourn
to the Phousi Holy Hill to enjoy the excellent views of the town and a great
sunset.
(Breakfast and lunch included)
Day
4 : Luang Prabang
Today we take a trip to the Royal Palace Museum. The palace built in 1904 is
relatively new by Luang Prabang standards and is a mix of traditional Lao and
colonial French design. Afterwards we visit the morning market and the weaving
village of Ban Phanom. This will be followed by an excursion by boat on the
Mekong River to the holy caves of Pak Ou. The caves are crammed with images of
Buddha. Along the way we will have a picnic lunch before returning to Luang
Prabang.
(Breakfast and lunch included)
Day 5 : Luang Prabang -
Vientiane
This morning following breakfast there will be a transfer from the hotel to the
airport for the morning flight back to Vientiane and your connecting flight out
of Laos.
(Breakfast included)
