A peaceful oasis among the chaos that defines much of Southeast Asia, Laos is a comparatively relaxed country that is nonetheless bursting with pride, history and colour. In this compact six-day trip, you’ll soak up the best of what Laos has to offer. Travel from the gilded capital Vientiane, where evidence of French colonial rule still exists among the myriad wats and stupas, to the lush forests and limestone cliffs of Luang Prabang. Highlights
Rise with the sun and watch saffron-robed monks shuffle between houses, where the faithful wait with offerings as part of an alms giving ritual.
See the crowning-jewel of Laos' spiritual monuments – Pha That Luang, a shining Buddhist stupa that sits on ground that has been considered holy for thousands of years.
Splash in the blue waters of Kuang Si Waterfall, where multi-tiered cascades ensconced by thick jungle give the appearance of a Laotian Eden.
Give something back with a visit to Ock Pop Tok, a sustainable and ethical textile partnership helping women to earn a living.
Taste the sweet and sour delights of local cuisine in Luang Prabang.
Cruise down the mighty Mekong River to the limestone caves of Pak Ou, which practically overflow with icons of the Buddha.
- You will visit the following places:
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Vientiane
Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, situated in the Mekong river. Vientiane became the capital in 1563 due to fears of a Burmese invasion. During French rule, Vientiane was the administrative capital and due to economic growth in recent times, it has become the economic centre of Laos. The estimated population of the city is 754,000 (2009) while the number of people living in the Vientiane metropolitan area (the entire Vientiane Prefecture and parts of Vientiane Province) is believed to be over 730,000. The city hosted the 25th Southeast Asian Games in December 2009 celebrating the 50 years of SEA Games. Sri Sattanak, or Sisattanak, is a former name of Vientiane. It is often confused with Sri Sattanakanahut, the Pali name of Lan Xang, the Kingdom of the Million Elephants. Sisattanak now is the name of one of the five districts of the city Vientiane.
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Luang Prabang