Historic Wonders and Cultural Treasures of Laos

12 Days

Pakse – Don Khong – Don Khone – Vientiane – Xiang Khouang – Phonsavan – Sam Neua – Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang

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Trip Highlights

  • Discover the lush Bolaven Plateau and its renowned coffee plantations.
  • Visit the mystical Plain of Jars, a significant prehistoric site.
  • Explore the underground city of Vieng Xai Caves, a relic of the Second Indochina War.
  • Cruise through the ‘4,000 Islands’ Archipelago in the Mekong River.
  • Participate in a traditional Baci ceremony, a Lao spiritual ritual.

Itinerary Summary

Days 1-2: Pakse – Bolaven Plateau | Riverside Relaxation & Waterfall Wonders

  • Arrive in Pakse and unwind at your riverside lodge on Done Daeng Island, relaxing on sandy beaches overlooking the Mekong River and UNESCO-listed Vat Phou temple.
  • Next day, venture to the lush Bolaven Plateau, exploring renowned tea and coffee plantations and marveling at spectacular waterfalls cascading into deep jungle gorges.

Day 3: Pakse – Don Khong | Khmer Temples and Laos’ Largest Waterfall

  • Venture to the ancient Vat Phou temple, a stunning pre-Angkorian site.
  • Continue to Khone Pha Pheng Falls, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia.
  • The thunderous cascade is a magnificent natural wonder, capping off the day.

Days 4-5: Don Khone – Vientiane | Island Charm & Capital Highlights

  • Explore Si Phan Don’s tranquil islands by boat, visiting Don Khone’s colonial buildings and Liphi Waterfalls.
  • Next day, discover Vientiane’s historic landmarks: Wat Sisaket’s Buddha statues, the golden That Luang stupa, and Patuxai Monument, celebrating Laos’ independence.

Days 6-7: Vientiane – Xiang Khouang – Sam Neua | Ancient Mysteries & Local Life

  • Fly to Xiang Khouang to explore the mysterious Plain of Jars, ancient stone vessels scattered across the landscape, and learn about their fascinating history.
  • Continue to Sam Neua, a serene town surrounded by lush hills. Discover its vibrant riverside market, filled with regional produce and handicrafts.

Days 8-9: Sam Neua | Historic Caves & Ancient Wonders

  • Explore Vieng Xai Caves, the hidden wartime city of the Pathet Lao, featuring homes, schools, and government shelters used during aerial bombings.
  • Next day, visit Hintang Archaeological Park’s mysterious prehistoric standing stones, and discover Wat Phoxaysanalam, renowned for its sacred 16th-century Buddha statue.

Days 10-11: Sam Neua – Luang Prabang | Scenic Journey & Cultural Discovery

  • Travel through Nong Khiaw’s stunning limestone landscapes to Luang Prabang, where you'll join a traditional Baci ceremony for good fortune.
  • Next day, explore Luang Prabang’s UNESCO-listed highlights, including golden Wat Sene, followed by an afternoon at the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, with inviting turquoise pools perfect for swimming.

Day 12: Luang Prabang | River Cruise to Sacred Pak Ou Caves

  • Take a scenic cruise along the Mekong River to visit Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues.
  • On the way back, stop at local villages famous for producing traditional textiles and Lao whiskey before transferring to the airport for your departure.

For more information, email our friendly team at info@quietasia.com
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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.