LHWTLPB3: Northern Laos Discovery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, visit Wat Sene, Luang Prabang’s oldest monastery, followed by the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, widely regarded as the masterpiece of Lao temple architecture.

Board a traditional boat for a scenic cruise along the Mekong River to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed here by pilgrims over many centuries.

Along the journey, stop at Ban Xang Hai, where villagers continue the tradition of producing Lao Lao, the country’s famous rice whisky.

In the afternoon, travel into the countryside to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfalls. En route, visit local ethnic communities and gain insight into the diverse cultures of Northern Laos.

At the waterfalls, enjoy time to swim in the emerald pools, relax beneath the shade of tropical forest, or explore the walking trails.

You may also visit the nearby Bear Rescue Centre, dedicated to protecting rescued Asiatic black bears.

Return to Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Accommodation: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, transfer to Luang Prabang Railway Station and board the Laos-China high-speed train for the scenic journey north to Oudomxay Province.

Often overlooked by visitors, Oudomxay is one of Laos’ most culturally diverse provinces, home to more than twenty ethnic groups and spectacular mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival, transfer to Namkat Yolapa Resort, an eco-lodge nestled deep within pristine forest beside the Nam Kat River.

After checking in, enjoy a gentle guided walk through the surrounding rainforest to Nam Kat Waterfall, where cascading waters and peaceful natural surroundings offer the perfect introduction to Northern Laos’ untouched wilderness.

Return to the resort for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, set off towards Pak Khai, passing terraced rice fields, mountain streams, and traditional villages along the Nam Pak River.

Begin a rewarding trek through tropical forest, following scenic mountain trails and crystal-clear streams.

Along the way, meet local farmers working in their rice fields and learn about traditional agricultural practices, fishing techniques, and daily life in the mountains.

After approximately 90 minutes of walking, arrive at Ban Phavie, a picturesque Khmu village perched on a hillside. Enjoy a traditional local lunch while discovering the customs and culture of one of Laos’ largest ethnic communities.

Continue to nearby waterfalls where, weather permitting, you may relax or enjoy a refreshing swim in natural pools before returning to Namkat Yolapa Resort in the late afternoon.

Overnight at the resort.

Accommodation: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, depart for Pakbeng, travelling through some of the most scenic mountain landscapes in Northern Laos.

Along the journey, stop at Ban Yor, a traditional pottery village, before visiting several ethnic minority communities.

Your guide will introduce the distinctive traditions of the Lao, Khmu, and Hmong peoples, explaining their unique architecture, customs, ceremonies, and ways of life.

Unlike many parts of Southeast Asia, these remote communities continue to preserve much of their cultural heritage, offering fascinating insights into the ethnic diversity of Laos.

Arrive in the riverside town of Pakbeng in the late afternoon.

The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere overlooking the Mekong River.

Overnight in Pakbeng.

Accommodation: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, transfer to the pier and board your boat for a memorable upstream cruise along the Mekong River toward Huay Xai.

As you journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic river landscapes, stop at a remote riverside village to learn about the traditions and daily life of local hill tribe communities.

A freshly prepared lunch featuring regional specialities will be served on board while you relax and admire the ever-changing scenery of forested mountains, sandy riverbanks, and traditional villages.

Following a brief stop at Pak Tha for routine river formalities, continue cruising north to Huay Xai, arriving in the late afternoon.

Upon arrival, transfer either to your hotel in Huay Xai or to the Lao immigration checkpoint for onward travel to Thailand via the Fourth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge.

Your Northern Laos adventure concludes here.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, transfer to the pier and board your boat for a memorable upstream cruise along the Mekong River toward Huay Xai.

As you journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic river landscapes, stop at a remote riverside village to learn about the traditions and daily life of local hill tribe communities.

A freshly prepared lunch featuring regional specialities will be served on board while you relax and admire the ever-changing scenery of forested mountains, sandy riverbanks, and traditional villages.

Following a brief stop at Pak Tha for routine river formalities, continue cruising north to Huay Xai, arriving in the late afternoon.

Upon arrival, transfer either to your hotel in Huay Xai or to the Lao immigration checkpoint for onward travel to Thailand via the Fourth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge.

Your Northern Laos adventure concludes here.