Cambodia Laos Thailand Itinerary Tour 16 Days 15 Nights

Continuing our Phnom Penh discovery, we will visit the Victory Monument and the National Museum, also known as Musee des Beaux-Arts. Designed by French archaeologist and painter Georges Groslier in Khmer style in 1917, the museum houses a remarkable collection of Khmer art, particularly sculptures from different eras.

Next, we'll explore the Royal Palace, constructed by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town. Within the palace grounds, we'll find the Silver Pagoda, named after its floor adorned with 5000 silver tiles. The pagoda's treasures include a 90-kilogram solid gold Buddha and a small 17th-century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha.

In the afternoon, we will take a sobering walk back into Cambodia's brutal modern history under Pol Pot's regime in the 1970s, as we visit 'The Killing Fields'.

Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh.

Meal included: Breakfast

In the early morning, we'll travel to Siem Reap by car, where this charming town will be our base for exploring the world-famous temples of the ancient city of Angkor. Angkor was the capital of the mighty Khmer Empire from 802 AD to 1350 AD.

After checking into our hotel, we'll head to the archaeological area to begin our temple exploration. Siem Reap promises an unforgettable journey through time, allowing us to delve into the rich history and architectural wonders of this ancient city.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal included: Breakfast

In the morning, we will visit the most renowned temple in the Angkor complex: Angkor Wat. Covering 81 hectares, it rivals the size of Beijing's Imperial Palace. The temple's distinctive five towers, depicted on Cambodia's flag, make it a 12th-century masterpiece and a prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. The five towers symbolize Meru's peaks, while the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the world's edge, and the surrounding moat represents the ocean beyond.

In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a visit to the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century). We'll see the South Gate, adorned with statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk, followed by the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephants Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the remarkable Bayon Temple. The Bayon Temple is renowned for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara. As the day winds down, we'll enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at Angkor Wat.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal included: Breakfast

Morning: We'll begin our day by transferring to the Banteay Srei temple, dating back to the 10th century. This temple is renowned as the jewel in the crown of Classical Khmer Art. Next, we'll explore Ta Prohm, one of the area's most captivating temples. Left relatively untouched since its discovery, Ta Prohm retains much of its mystical allure.

Afternoon: Our journey continues with a visit to the Roluos Group, which includes the monuments of Roluos. These temples served as the capital of King Indravarman I (reigned 877-89) and represent the early stages of Khmer classical art. We'll see Preah Ko, erected by King Indravarman I in the late 9th century, dedicated to his ancestors in 880. Next is Bakong, the largest and most intriguing temple of the Roluos group, situated near an active Buddhist monastery. Lastly, we'll explore Lolei, built on an islet in the center of a large reservoir (now rice fields) by Yasovarman I, the founder of the first city at Angkor.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer to Siem Reap airport for our flight to Vientiane, Laos. Upon arrival in Vientiane, we'll be greeted by our local guide at the airport, who will transfer us to the city center hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing us to relax or explore the city on our own.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Meal included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we'll set out to visit the Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, located outside Vientiane Capital. This unique park boasts over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, which were built in 1958 by a Laos Shaman. The concrete sculptures are both bizarre and intriguing, creating a serene atmosphere within the park. We'll then return to Vientiane and make a stop at Mai Savanh, a shop specializing in high-quality silk products made by families from various provinces of Laos.

In the afternoon, our city sightseeing tour begins with a visit to Wat Sisaket, the only temple that survived the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828, featuring thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, we'll explore Wat Phra Keo, which serves as a museum displaying a collection of Lao and Khmer artworks. We'll also pass by the Presidential Palace (outside) and visit Wat Simuang, considered the guardian of the city's spirit. Lastly, we'll visit Pangkham Street, where you can see how traditional areas of the city are blending with modernity.

Note that Mai Savanh is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Meal included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll proceed to Vientiane airport for a quick 50-minute flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, our tour guide will warmly welcome us and transfer us to the hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, we'll explore the charming temples of Luang Prabang. Our visits will include Wat Visun Temple, which was constructed during the reign of King Wisunarat, along with That Mako and Wat Aham, also known as the "Monastery of the Opened Heart." Afterward, we'll take a leisurely walk up Phu Si hill, where we can relish the fresh air and admire the stunning view overlooking Luang Prabang and the majestic Mekong River.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meal included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we'll board a traditional long boat for a delightful cruise on the picturesque Mekong River. We'll visit charming villages like Ban Xang Hai to learn about local rice whisky production.

Continuing our cruise, we'll explore the Tham Ting and Tham Theung caves in Pak Ou, marveling at the collection of Lao style Buddhist sculptures created by the locals over centuries.

On our return journey, we'll stop at Ban Xang Khong, famous for its homemade Saa Paper made from mulberry bark.

In the afternoon, we'll visit Wat Mai, a beautiful temple, and take a leisurely walk to Wat Xieng Thong, an elegant example of 16th-century Luang Prabang temple architecture situated along the Mekong River.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meal included: Breakfast

Wake up early (around 5:30 am) to witness the beautiful and serene alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang. Monks walk barefoot in long lines along the streets, collecting alms, offering a glimpse into Lao people's devotion. After the ceremony, return to the hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Kuang Si Waterfalls (approximately 1 hour drive). Visit a small ethnic minority village en route to learn about their culture.

At Kuang Si Waterfalls, relax or walk to the top for a captivating view and refreshing swimming in the summer. Don't miss the nearby bear sanctuary run by Free The Bears Fund Inc., where rescued animals can be seen.

In the mid-afternoon, return to Luang Prabang.

In the evening, explore the vibrant Night Bazaar, offering handmade textiles from local communities surrounding Luang Prabang. Find unique and lovely collections of crafts here.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Meal included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and have leisure time in the morning to explore the town on your own or simply relax at the hotel.

In the afternoon, we'll transfer to Luang Prabang airport for the flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, our tour guide will meet and greet us at the airport and transfer us to the hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free at leisure.

Overnight in Bangkok

Meal included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our sightseeing tour in Bangkok. Our first stop is Wat Traimit, also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, famous for its 900-year-old, five-and-a-half-ton solid gold image.

Next, we'll visit Wat Arun, famously known as the Temple of the Dawn, a prominent landmark and one of Bangkok's most photographed sites.

We will then proceed to Wat Po, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, housing the impressive Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas). This temple is also renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Lunch will be on your own, and after that, we'll continue our exploration by visiting the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are adjacent within the same compound. The Grand Palace exhibits a distinct European-inspired design, contrasting with the more traditional Thai style of Wat Phra Kaew.

After this exciting day, we'll return to the hotel, and the rest of the day will be free for you to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

Overnight in Bangkok

Meal inclusion: Breakfast.

Embark on a 120 km drive to reach Thailand's most vibrant Floating Market. En route, witness the largest source of Salt Production in the country along the highway. Upon arriving at Damnoen Saduak, visit a gardener's house and witness the process of sugar-making from coconut trees. Optionally, take a long-tailed speedboat to the main part of the market, where you'll experience the fascinating Thai way of life, a tradition still widely practiced in this area. Indulge in various exotic Thai fruits and explore a variety of Thai handicrafts available at the market.

Later, continue to Kanchanaburi to visit the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, serving as a memorial of World War II. Additionally, explore the nearby War museum and war cemetery. Check in at the hotel and enjoy free time at your leisure.

Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Meal inclusion: Breakfast.

After breakfast, we'll transfer to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. Our first stop will be at the stunning Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, known for its beauty and charm.

Next, we'll head to Krung Sri River for a delightful buffet lunch.

After lunch, we'll visit the Temple of Ruins, starting with Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch, the former Royal Temple. Then, we'll explore Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, famous for its reclining Buddha Image and impressive chedi. We'll also visit Wat Mahathat, where the head of a Lord Buddha Image is covered by a Poh Tree. Finally, we'll visit Wat Ratchabura, a temple where national treasures are kept.

Later on, we'll transfer to the hotel, and the rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Overnight at Ayutthaya

Meal inclusion: Breakfast