Overland Explorer: An Enchanting Journey through Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam

18 Days

Bangkok – Udon Thani – Nong Khai – Vientiane – Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang – Muang La – Muang Khua – Dien Bien Phu – Phong Tho – Sapa – Hanoi – Haiphong – Lan Ha Bay

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Discover the rich cultures and breathtaking scenery of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam on an enchanting overland adventure filled with history and natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

  • Sail through Lan Ha Bay on a luxurious junk-style cruise
  • Discover vibrant markets of ethnic minority communities in Vietnam’s mountainous northwest
  • Experience a traditional Baci spiritual ceremony in a local Lao home
  • Hike to breathtaking limestone caves surrounded by lush rice paddies in Vang Vieng

Itinerary Summary

Days 1–2: Bangkok | Temples, Canals & City Life

  • Kick off in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital.
  • Visit the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, the Grand Palace with the Emerald Buddha, cruise the Thonburi canals, and admire Wat Arun’s iconic Khmer-style spire.

Day 3: Bangkok to Udon Thani | Ancient Civilizations

  • Fly to Udon Thani, gateway to the past.
  • Explore Baan Chiang, a UNESCO site rich in Bronze Age relics, and visit the National Museum and Cultural Centre to uncover 5,000 years of Thai and Chinese heritage.

Day 4: Udon Thani to Nong Khai | Sacred Sites & Skywalks

  • Discover the spiritual beauty of Wat Pa Phukon and its giant reclining Buddha.
  • Then, head to Wat Pha Tak Suea for sweeping views from the mountaintop glass skywalk.

Day 5: Nong Khai to Vientiane | Buddha Park & Local Weaving

  • Cross into Laos and wander through the whimsical Buddha Park, filled with surreal sculptures.
  • Then visit a traditional Lao textile studio and observe skilled artisans at work.

Day 6: Vientiane to Vang Vieng | Cycling Through History

  • Cycle through Vientiane’s cultural landmarks: Wat Sisaket with its thousands of Buddha images, the golden That Luang Stupa, and the Patuxai Monument, echoing the Arc de Triomphe.

Day 7: Vang Vieng | Cave Adventures & Picnic Views

  • Trek through Vang Vieng’s dramatic limestone scenery to explore the magical Tham Chang and Tham Loup caves.
  • Enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by nature.

Day 8: Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang | Traditional Baci Ceremony

  • Journey to the cultural heart of Laos, Luang Prabang.
  • Participate in an authentic Baci ceremony at a local family home, receiving blessings from a village elder.

Day 9: Luang Prabang | Heritage Walking Tour & Bamboo Craft

  • Take a guided walking tour through the charming streets of Luang Prabang, discovering colonial and Lao architecture.
  • Later, delve into the significance of bamboo in Lao culture with hands-on weaving and cooking classes.

Day 10: Luang Prabang – Muang La | Morning Almsgiving & Sacred Caves

  • Experience the serene beauty of the Tak Bat almsgiving ceremony, then embark on a river cruise to the revered Pak Ou Caves, housing thousands of sacred Buddhist statues.

Day 11: Muang La | Connect with Ethnic Cultures

  • Travel to remote villages of the Ikhos and Hmong ethnic groups.
  • Learn about their unique traditions and daily lives while enjoying the stunning mountain views.

Days 12-13: Muang La – Muang Khua – Dien Bien Phu – Phong Tho | Historical Insights

  • Cross into Vietnam, arriving in Dien Bien Phu, known for its pivotal role in history.
  • Explore key battle sites surrounded by stunning landscapes, including: A1 Hill: A historic stronghold from the French colonial era Muong Thanh Airbase: Learn about the significant battles that shaped Vietnam’s future

Day 14: Phong Tho – Sapa | Explore Remote Hmong Villages

  • Hike to the enchanting Black Hmong villages of Sa Xeng and Sau Chua, where you’ll experience the rich traditions and daily lives of the mountain communities.

Day 15: Sapa – Hanoi | Vibrant Ethnic Minority Markets

  • Visit local ethnic markets, each vibrant with color and culture.
  • Engage with diverse hilltribe communities, including Flower H’mong and Dzao, as they gather to trade and socialize.

Day 16: Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay | Luxurious Cruise & Island Cycling

  • Set sail on the luxurious Ginger cruise ship through the stunning Halong Bay.
  • Cycle through Cat Ba Island, then cruise deeper into the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by spectacular karst formations.

Day 17: Hanoi | A Captivating Cultural Performance

  • Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session, then return to Hanoi for an exclusive Four Palaces cultural show, showcasing enchanting performances rooted in Vietnamese folk art.

Day 18: Departure

  • Conclude your journey with a transfer to Hanoi airport for your onward flight, taking home memories of an extraordinary adventure.

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.