HIGHLIGHT EXTENSION

We board a short afternoon flight to Xieng Khouang, which was devastated by American bombing between 1964 and 1973. Upon arrival, we transfer out to visit the Plain of Jars, an impressive archaeological site where hundreds of large stone jars are littered throughout the plateau. We also have time in the afternoon to see the old capital in Muang Khoun Province as well as some the nearby Hmong and Tai Dai ethnic minority villages.
Overnight in Xiengkhuang

In the early morning, we visit the Central Market of Phonsavanh to watch the different hill tribe people barter and exchange merchandise. We then head out this small town towards Luang Prabang and en route stop to see the 200yr old Buddha images at Thampra as well as some various minority villages. The mountainous scenery and fresh air makes for a perfect drive into Luang Prabang.

The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. After checking into hotel, if time permits, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai; we then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi to explore the sacred, gilded stupa as well as capture a beautiful view of the city and the Mekong River at sunset. From there, we visit the Night Market, where you can browse through a lovely selection of handmade textiles.
Overnight at Luang Prabang

After breakfast, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong with its low sweeping rooves. We then board an upstream cruise on the Mekong River, which gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside. We’ll make sure to stop at the Pak Ou Caves, sanctuaries consisting of two large caverns, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images. We will also stop at a few villages during the day, including Ban Xanghai where the local rice wine is produced and Ban Xiengmene and Ban Chan. Once back in Luang Prabang city we take a short drive to Ban Phanom, well known for its hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning alms giving ritual to saffron clad monks. This tradition is unique to Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving this procession. Later in the morning we go to Phosi Market, which has an eclectic selection of foodstuffs and souvenirs. Afterwards, we head out to visit some ethnic minority villages and see how these colorful people live. We then drive to the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfalls where you can swim in the turquoise pools or walk along forest paths. We continue to Ban Phanom, another well-known weaving village, and return to Luang Prabang by the late afternoon to observe the sunset at Wat Phabath.
Overnight in Luang Prabang

After breakfast, we visit the National Museum (closed Tuesday), which was once the Royal Palace. The museum has a great collection of personal artifacts from the royal family, including photos, musical instruments, and the many gifts they received from foreign dignitaries. Tour ends.