Start City: Vientiane
Departure city: Pakse
Route: Siem Reap – Angkor Complex – Luang Prabang – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay
Duration: 16 Days 15 Nights
Private Tour. Departure: Daily, upon your request.
– Extendable with optional tours
Please let us know your international arrival and departure flight time, so that we can adjust your itinerary much better.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Siem Reap arrival
Day 2: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei – Ta Prohm – Angkor Thom
Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat – Beng Mealea
Day 4: Siem Reap – Fly to Luang Prabang
Day 5: Luang Prabang city tour
Day 6: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Cave – Kuang Si Waterfall
Day 7: Elephant riding – Tadse Waterfall – Fly to Hanoi
Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay overnight on boat
Day 9: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Day 10: Hanoi city tour – Fly to Yangon
Day 11: Yangon city tour
Day 12: Yangon – Fly to Bagan – Sightseeings
Day 13: Bagan – Mt Popa – Discovery
Day 14: Bagan – Fly to Mandalay – Sagaing – Amarapura
Day 15: Mandalay – Mingun – Mandalay Hill
Day 16: Mandalay departure
COST: Price is quoted in US dollars per person based on double/twin room.
Group size | 2 persons | 4 pax | 6 pax | Single Supp |
Land Tour/pp | 1,998 | 1,650 | 1,553 | 596 |
4 domestic flights/pp | 885 | 885 | 885 | |
Total/pp | US $ 2,883 | 2,535 | 2,438 |
Tour Includes | Tour Excludes |
– 5 Domestic flights: Siem Reap – Luang Prabang – Hanoi – Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay – Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels – Private tours, transfers and all services as mentioned in the itinerary – Services of a private driver and air-conditioned vehicle – Service of English speaking guides in every location – Entrance fees for all mentioned sights visited – Meals as mentioned in the itinerary |
– International flights – Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary – Early check-in and late check-out at hotels. – Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.) – Tips for guides and drivers – Personal travel insurance – Visa fees (contact us for further information) |
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Siem Reap arrival
Welcome to Siem Reap, the provincial capital and gateway to the ancient Angkor temples. Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses dozens of temple ruins including Bayon, Banteay Srei and the legendary Angkor Wat. Upon arrival, a guide of Travel Cambodia will welcome you at the airport and take you to the hotel to check in. Stay overnight at your hotel.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Day 2: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei – Ta Prohm – Angkor Thom
We begin the temple exploration today at Angkor Thom near west gate. From the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple to the intricate base reliefs of the Terrace of the Elephants, Angkor Thom is filled with fabulous monuments. From there you will discover the jungle-covered temple of Ta Phrom. At midday have lunch at local restaurant of your choosing. After lunch we will drive to Banteay Srei, it is also one of the most beautiful temples; built in 967 AD by Jayavarman V’s guru, it showcases the most exquisite, deep and complex carvings in all Khmer architecture, and Preah Khan meaning “Holy Sword” is one of the largest temple compounds in Angkor and is defended by four concentric walls. The main shrine and its adjoining buildings are richly decorated with Buddhist motifs and scenes from Hindu epics. We will return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon so you can enjoy your free time shopping and relaxing.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat – Beng Mealea
Enjoy an entire day dedicated to discovering the mysterious Angkor temples. Wake before dawn and take a “tuk-tuk” ride to visit the magnificent Angkor Wat – the largest Khmer temple and finest example of Angkorian art and architecture. After that return to hotel for breakfast then set back out, drive further to Beng Mealea Temple and explore the abandoned temple (11th century), strangled by the jungle.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Day 4: Siem Reap – Floating village Tonle Sap Lake – Fly to Luang Prabang
After breakfast, we will head out of town and embark on a short cruise along Tonle Sap Lake visiting the local floating villages, before driving to Siem Reap airport to catch your flight to Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang – the best preserved city in South East Asia is exceptional for both its rich architectural and artistic heritage that reflects the fusion of Lao traditional urban architecture with that of the colonial era. Its remarkably well-preserved townscape reflects the alliance of these two distinct cultural traditions.
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, a guide and driver of Laos Tours Expert will welcome you and transfer to hotel in town for check in. The rest of day is at your own leisure.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Day 5: Luang Prabang city tour
This morning you are advised to wake up early and participate in the daily early morning ritual of saffron-clad monks with their black Alms-giving bowls being given offerings from the local people, including the ubiquitous sticky rice. Have a simple preparation by your own and show your respect to the monks and our people is highly appreciated.
After breakfast at your hotel, we will visit the former king’s palace, which is now a Royal Palace Museum. Many items nicely displayed include rare furniture, traditional costumes and arts, jewelry, ornaments as well as working tools and utensils of the early part of the 20th century. Continuing on to Wat Mai, a temple renowned for its golden bas-reliefs. Then we embark on a tour of this enthralling town to visit Wat Xieng Thong – the Golden City monastery, which dates back to the 16th century and is considered to be the finest in Laos. Furthermore, we visit Wat Visoun which entirely rebuilt after its destruction in 1887 by the invading Black Flags from southern China. In the courtyard of Wat Visoun stands the Watermelon Stupa, which is shaped like the fruit it takes its name from. Visit the nearby Wat Aham before continuing to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre for insight in to the countries various ethnic groups and traditional crafts.
Later that day, we adjourn to the Phousi Holy Hill to enjoy the marvelous panoramic views of the town at sunset. Your unforgettable memory is the Bustling Hill Tribe Night Market where sells traditional textiles and handicrafts made by the ethnic local people.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Day 6: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Cave – Khuang Si Waterfall
After breakfast we take a stroll on the Phousi Market where you see many local products such as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings.
Then we board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a beautiful view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves. En route, stop over to visit Ban Xang Hai where distillation sticky rice wine can be seen. Gently cruise up the Mekong River to admire the startling collection of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes nestled deep in the massive limestone caverns of the Pak Ou Cave. On the return cruise, stop at small villages to see the production of traditional Lao textiles and Sa paper by local artisans.
In the afternoon, enjoy a short drive through the Luang Prabang countryside to Kuang Si Waterfalls. You will have a chance to make the most of beautiful landscapes of rice fields, hills, and small villages. After passing the entrance gate, you will visit the Bear Rescue Center where now cares for 23 bears. Most of the bears arrive at the rescue centre as very young cubs having been confiscated by the Lao Government from illegal poaching and trading. It is likely that they would otherwise have been destined for a life of torture in a “bile farm” outside of Laos.
Continue your steps up to the chain of falls to relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Sitting under the shade of big trees and swimming or jumping up and down in the pools can be relaxing and enjoyable. The water tumbles down a large drop and cascades gently in to several cool, clear pools where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Day 7: Elephant riding – Tadse Waterfall – Fly to Hanoi
After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel then join a group tour of the Elephant Project.The “Elephant Village” is about 15 km out of town, Elephant Tour takes place in the middle of a green, natural surroundings, settled on the banks of the Nam Khan river. Here you will be introduced to the protected Asian Elephants and go out for a scenic ride in the beautiful settings along the river. Enjoy the new perspective and the wonderful nature on this 1 hour Elephant ride through which you support the rescue of our former logging Elephants.A stunning landscape, tranquility and lush nature gives you a relaxed stay on the back of the Elephant. Lean back in your seat and enjoy.
Enjoy your lunch on the river view terrace overlooking the Nam Khan river and the surrounding landscapes.
A short boat ride will bring you to the amazing Tad Sae waterfalls (depends on the water level). Here you can hang out and relax for a while in the refreshing cascades. A short boat trip will bring you back to the Elephant Village.
Transfer to Luang Prabang airport for your flight to Hanoi. Transfer from/ to included. Upon arrival, get picked up and transferred to your hotel, stay overnight.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi.
Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay overnight on boat
After breakfast you will have over 4 hour drive along the country side of the Red River Delta to the UNESCO world’s heritage site of Halong Bay.
Spend 24 hours on a traditional Junk Cruise in the amazing bay: a natural wonderland composed of jutting limestone islands and sparkling turquoise waters. Arrive at the dock around noon and board your junk. Savor a gourmet lunch of fresh seafood onboard as we sail out into the mystical bay. In the afternoon, cruise around some of Halong’s many islands, including Dinh Huong and Ga Choi. Along the way visit one of the bay’s 3 largest caves (Thien Cung, Dau Go or Sung Sot). Stop at an island cove with a sheltered white-sand beach and take a dip in the warm waters of the Tonkin Gulf (weather permitting). Pass the night on your junk, lulled to sleep by the gentle rocking of calm waters.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Accommodation: on cruise.
Day 9: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Cyclo & water puppet show
Awake early and participate in Tai Chi on the top deck or simply relax and enjoy the sunrise over the bay’s towering islands. Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea, before setting out to explore nearby islands by rowboat. Return to the junk for breakfast then take advantage of the sundeck and admire the amazing rock formations of Bai Tu Long Bay as you navigate back to Halong City. Have brunch on board the boat before returning to Halong pier. Your driver will meet you at the dock and take you to your hotel in Hanoi and stay overnight.
Late afternoon, we will have a brief city tour: discover Hanoi Old Quarter on cyclo ride or open electric car. In the evening enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Performance – a unique Vietnamese Art form hailing from Southeast Asia’s wet-rice culture.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Day 10: Hanoi city tour – Fly to Yangon
After breakfast, today you have a full day to explore Vietnam’s charming capital. With its wide tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and ancient oriental pagodas, Hanoi is an eclectic mix that offers something for everyone.
The visit includes most of the City’s outstanding historical and cultural sites.
– Temple of Literature, built in 11th Century and the country’s first University
– The complex of Ho Chi Minh historical sites (include: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, HCM’s Stilt House and One Pillar Pagoda – (closed on Monday & Friday)
– Quan Thanh Temples & Tran Quoc Pagoda
– Visit one of the museums in Hanoi (Museum of History, Museum of Ethnology, Museum of Fine Art, Hoa Lo prison which is also known as the “Hanoi Hilton”
Heading to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Yangon.
Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is still a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes Yangon one of the most fascinating and authentic capitals of South-East Asia.
Our tour guide & driver will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon
Day 11: Yangon city tour
Our tour guide & driver will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
Begin your first Myanmar visit to Shwedagon pagoda – the most prominent monument in Yangon which dominates the sky with golden flash, giant spires and holy relics.
Reach to the post office – a lovely historic building, we then walk from Sule Pagoda passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way to Chinese Town, covering exotic streets of Yangon downtown and British Colonial building as Emmanuel Church, Inland Water Buildings.
Our next visit is National Museum and you can see the 8 meter high Golden Lion Throne as well as the Mandalay Royal Regalia at the (closed on Mondays and public holidays).
We then continue to Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda’s 70m long reclining Buddha. This provides a great overview of Buddhism with murals depicting the life of Buddha, the feet of the statue carved with traditional symbols and often many locals gathering to pay homage and pray.
After the visit, proceed to Yangon’s oldest Chinese temple and continue to the riverside located Botataung Pagoda.
Spend a little time for shopping at the Bogyoke Market, formerly known as Scott’s Market, – one of the biggest market in Yangon for handicrafts and other goods. (Note: Market is closed on Mondays and public holidays).
Next your guided tour goes to Kandawagyi Park, one of central Yangon’s greenest spots. Here you will see the glittering Karaweik barge, a replica of the royal barge, and the vast lake with views of Shwedagon in the background. Enjoy breathtaking views of the golden stupa from this vantage point.
Your highlight for this evening is the dinner in Karaweik Palace, overlooking to the Royal Lake and Shwedagon tower. The dinner is served with fine Burmese food and amazing cultural show.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon
Day 12: Yangon – Fly to Bagan – Sightseeings
From the 11th to 13th centuries, when Bagan was the capital of Myanmar, the rulers constructed thousands of huge stupas and temples many of which are still standing today on the banks of the Irrawaddy River.
After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel, travel from Yangon to Bagan by a short morning flight, begin your first experience to visit Nyaung Oo Market where dozens of vendors come to sell their fresh products. The market is at its busiest early in the morning as the locals come to do their shopping. This is a great opportunity to observe the daily life of the friendly locals.
Continue the day with visits to the most beautiful pagodas and temples of Bagan including Shwezigon Pagoda, built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century as a religious shrine; enrich your experience with a visit to Ananda Temple with four standing Buddha images. Continue to the elegant Htilominlo Temple, noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations, the next visit is Sulamani Temple.
In the afternoon, discover the traditional way of making lacquer wares by local people, you can stop over at one of the most treasured handicrafts workshops where craftsmen create fine lacquer ware which features a part the Bagan fame, nearby Myinkaba village.
As today comes to a close, proceed to Mingala Zedi Stupa or Bu Paya, travel to the boat jetty and embark on a sunset cruise. Enjoy a cocktail and a stunning view of Bagan as you cruise along the Irrawaddy River. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan
Day 13: Bagan Sightseeing – Mt Popa
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Mt. Popa (65 km and takes us 1.5 hour), an extinct volcano with spectacular views known as the most sarced site for meditation in Myanmar. You will have chance to challenge yourselves to climb the 777 steps to the shrine at the top of the peak. Its shrine is dedicated to animist spirits known as “Nats”. Our guide will lead you to Popa Kalat Monastery where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Popa national park.
On the way back to Bagan,we will experience the traditonal palm work, cigar maker and peanut oil distillation.
In the afternoon, we have an exotic horse cart ride to one of the biggest temple in Bagan: Nan Paya, a unique sandstone monument said to have been the palace of King Manuha. Proceed to Manuha Temple, which built in the Mon style in 1059, and follow on to many other interesting sites nearby such as Dhammayangyi, the largest built by King Narathu in the 12th Century, continue with sightseeing to Minkaba Gubyaukyi Temple, experience the architectural difference in MyaZedi pagoda.
The highlight of today is the panoramic sunset view from the second highest pagoda of Bagan the ShweSandaw pagoda.
Back to your hotel for overnight.
Note: Guests have the option of exploring some lesser known temples around the complex or tourguide can deduct some of temples as mentioned above depending on guests’ time and interest.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan
Day 14: Bagan – Fly to Mandalay – Sagaing – Amarapura
After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel, travel from Bagan to Mandalay by a short morning flight. Your guide and car will pick you up at the airport and take you to Sagaing, a 45-minute drive. Located across the Irrawaddy River, Sagaing is considered by many to be the Buddhist centre of Myanmar.
Drive up to Sagaing Hill to Umin Thonzeh. The name translates as ’30 Caves Pagoda’ but in reality the temple is one long hallway built alongside a hill with thirty recessed entrances giving it the appearance of being filled with caves. Inside the building you will find 45 Buddha images, an auspicious number 45 reflecting the number of years that Gotama Buddha was enlightened as a Buddha. Then proceed to Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin pagoda and enjoy wonderful panoramic view of Sagaing Hill with hundreds of stupas. If you look up at the ceiling at Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin you will find the old paintings describing the 16 scene dream sequence of Kawthala King.
Your final stop today will be in Amarapura including Mahagandayon monastery, where over one-thousand monks reside. Amarapura is the best place to experience the monk life in Mandalay.
Before departing Amarapura go to U Bein Bridge for a walk along this 200 year-old teak bridge. The bridge was constructed of 984 teak posts that were once part of the deserted Inwa Palace and it is 1.2 kilometers in length making it the world’s longest teak span. Enjoy a stroll along the bridge and fabulous views of the surrounding farms and streams.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Hotel in Mandalay
Day 15: Mandalay – Mingun – Mandalay Hill
Drive to visit Mingun complex including Mingun Bell which is more than 87 tons in weight and more than 3.7 metres in height. This is the world’s largest uncracked bell. Just south of the bell you’ll also visit Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a giant brick structure built in the late 1700s and although it was unfinished due to economic troubles it is still an impressive site. Mingun’s other highlight is the Hisnbyume Pagoda, a white-washed temple built to resemble Mount Meru.
In the afternoon, begin with a walk up Mandalay Hill. Rising 240 metres above the city, the hill provides a great viewing platform of the surrounding countryside, Irrawaddy River and city centre. At the base of the hill you’ll stop to visit Shwe Nandaw Kyuang- or Golden Palace Monastery- which is noted for its intricate wood carvings and to Kayuktawgyi Pagoda to view the huge marble Buddha. The marble is from Sagyin quarry and took 10,000 men almost two weeks to transfer the rock from the riverside to its current location. Finally we’ll visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to ‘the world’s largest book’, a collection of more than 700 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings.
Continue to the famed Mahamuni Image – a bronze Buddha image castled during the lifetime of Buddha himself.
Back to your hotel for staying overnight.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Hotel in Mandalay
Day 16: Mandalay departure
Checking out from your hotel, travel by car to Mandalay International Airport for your departure flight.
Flight out from Mandalay (Ta Da Oo International Airport), the most convenient flight route Mandalay – Bangkok (Thailand) with several airlines such as Air Asia, Bangkok Airways.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A