Luang Prabang Discovery
Trip code: LLPD3
Grade: Easy
Best season: Year-around
Daily departure from Luang Prabang

Situated in the northern mountain valley at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong rivers is the former royal capital, LuangPrabang. The city remains almost unchanged for the last century and boasts a fascinating array of shimmering gold temples, historic monuments and French colonial houses which caned its status as a World Heritage Site in 1995. It is an exceptionally charming city, a jewel, with a timeless atmosphere which can rarely be found in modern day Asia. The gently atmosphere and its relatively small size make it ideal to explore on foot or by bicycle. LuangPrabang is also a gateway for exploring outer regions of the north visiting hill tribe villages and cruising on the Mekong river.
Day 1: Arrival Luang Prabang
On arrival at the airport, you are met and transferred to hotel. LuangPrabang is perhaps the best preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. 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 a short rest, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Mai. We then climb up to the top of Phousi Hill for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong river. Overnight at Luang Prabang.
Day 2: Luang Prabang– Pak Ou & Waterfalls
Today offers a change of pace and surroundings. After breakfast we will take a boat to the mysterious Pak Ou Cave containing thousands of Buddha images of all shapes and sizes. On the way, we will stop at Ban Xanghai. This village is famous for the production of Lao Khao – one of the national drinks of Laos – made by the distillation of rice. Watch the process and taste the product.
We will also visit the two Lao-Loum villages of Ban Chan and Ban Xiengmene. Lunch will be served in one of Luang Prabang’s favourite restaurants where you should try some of the province’s specialities. On our way to Kuangsi Waterfall there are stops in two more ethnic minority villages – Ban Na Oune, a Hmong village and Ban Tha Pane, a small Khmu village. You will have the opportunity to see how widely different the ethnic minorities are – in the style of their houses, their dress and their beliefs and customs. Then it’s on to the waterfall set in the lush green surroundings of one of the country’s National Biodiversity Conservation Areas.
Cool off by splashing around in the clear pools and just stroll around and enjoy the forest scenery. We will return to Luang Prabang by late afternoon stopping at Ban Xangkhong, a weaving village. Watch how the weavers produce intricate patterns on home looms. The final visit of the day is to Wat Siphouthabath where you can see the footprints of the Buddha – a relaxing finale to your day. Overnight in Luang Prabang (B, L)*
Day 3: Luang Prabang Departure.
After breakfast. Visit the national Museum at the former royal Palace which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao cultural dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign and the central market are not to be missed. After visiting these sights, you will have free time for your own exploration of the tour ends strolling around the shopping area. The tour ends after your transfer to the airport for departure.(B)
