Cultural and Natural Treasures of Southern Laos & Thailand

9 Days

Bangkok – Ubon Ratchathani – Ban Khiet Ngong – Vat Phou – Khong Island – Pakse

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  • Venture from bustling Bangkok to remote Southern Laos for an exciting cross-border journey.
  • Explore natural wonders, cultural sites, and diverse landscapes with local guidance.

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy a private dinner cruise on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, accompanied by a Thai historian.
  • Navigate the ‘4,000 Islands’ riverine archipelago in southern Laos on a converted rice barge.
  • Stay at the rustic Kingfisher Ecolodge, located near biodiverse protected wetlands.
  • Explore fascinating cultural sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vat Phou, a pre-Angkorian temple complex.
  • Experience an adventurous overland border crossing from northeastern Thailand into southern Laos.

Itinerary Summary

Day 1: Bangkok | Culinary Delights & Iconic Landmarks

  • Explore vibrant Bangkok, where tradition meets modernity along the Chao Phraya River.
  • Discover colorful street life, Buddhist culture, and world-famous Thai street food in one of Asia’s top culinary capitals.

Day 2: Bangkok | Temples, Ferries & River Cruise

  • Start with morning chants at Wat Pho and visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
  • Ride a local ferry to Wat Arun before enjoying a private dinner cruise on a restored rice barge, guided by a Thai historian.

Day 3: Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani | Temples & Isan Culture

  • Fly to Ubon Ratchathani to explore ancient wats, including Wat Thung Sri Muang and Wat Nong Pa Pong.
  • Visit the heritage village of Pa-Ao, then savor Isan street food at Donklang Market and unwind at Thung Sri Muang Park.

Day 4: Ubon Ratchathani to Ban Khiet Ngong | Wetlands & Jungle Hike

  • Cross into southern Laos and settle into Kingfisher Ecolodge, set beside the Beung Kiat Ngong Wetlands.
  • Hike through Xe Pian National Protected Area and explore Mount Phou Asa’s ancient ruins, guided by locals sharing knowledge of wildlife and medicinal plants.

Day 5: Ban Khiet Ngong | Biking & Waterfalls

  • Cycle through quiet villages to Dong Hua Sao National Park.
  • Hike to a scenic waterfall for a refreshing swim in spring-fed pools, followed by a picnic lunch.
  • Return to the ecolodge by bike, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 6: Ban Khiet Ngong to Vat Phou | River Cruise & Ancient Temples

  • Cruise the Mekong from Pakse to Champassak aboard a converted rice barge.
  • Visit Vat Phou, a 10th-century Khmer temple complex and UNESCO site.
  • Explore the ruins, visit the museum, and enjoy sunset from your overnight river mooring.

Day 7: Huei Thamo to Khong Island | Temples & Island Life

  • Sail to Tomo to explore the 13th-century Wat Tomo ruins, then cruise into Si Phan Don—Laos’ ‘4,000 Islands’.
  • Hike through Ban Deua Tia Village and meet local students before settling in on Don Khong, the largest island in the Mekong.

Day 8: Khone Island to Pakse | Waterfalls & Colonial Traces

  • Cruise to Don Khone via Ban Veuthong and explore its colonial heritage, including a French railway bridge.
  • Enjoy lunch by the river before visiting Khone Pha Pheng Falls—Southeast Asia’s largest and most dramatic waterfall.

Day 9: Departure | Farewell to Southern Laos

  • Transfer to Pakse International Airport for your onward journey.

For more information, email our friendly team at info@quietasia.com
tree
On each trip we will buy 1 tree to plant
By planting one tree on each journey, we aim to nurture nature and promote sustainability for future generations.