LHVTE04: Laos by Rail: Capital & Heritage

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After an early breakfast, transfer to the railway station and board the Laos-China high-speed train to Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s finest preserved historic towns.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the Royal Palace Museum, home to an impressive collection of royal artefacts that reflect the rich history of Laos.

Continue to Wat Sene, Luang Prabang’s oldest monastery, and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, considered the finest example of traditional Lao temple architecture, renowned for its exquisite “Tree of Life” glass mosaic.

Gain insight into Laos’ diverse ethnic communities at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, the country’s leading museum dedicated to traditional cultures and lifestyles.

In the late afternoon, climb Mount Phousi for spectacular panoramic views over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River before exploring the lively Night Market, famous for locally made handicrafts and textiles.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Note: Due to local regulations, vehicles with more than 16 seats are not permitted within Luang Prabang’s historic centre.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, embark on a scenic cruise along the Mekong River, passing picturesque riverside villages and forested hills.

Visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves, one of Laos’ most important pilgrimage sites, housing thousands of Buddha statues placed here over centuries.

Continue to Ban Xang Hai, renowned for producing traditional Lao rice whisky (Lao Lao), before crossing the river to Ban Xieng Mene.

A short climb leads to Wat Chom Phet, where you’ll enjoy one of the finest panoramic views across the Mekong towards Luang Prabang.

On the return journey, stop at Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek, villages celebrated for their silk weaving and handmade Saa (mulberry bark) paper.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, travel through the countryside to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, one of Laos’ most iconic natural attractions.

Along the way, visit local ethnic minority villages and gain insight into the traditional lifestyles of Northern Laos.

At the waterfalls, enjoy time to swim in the turquoise natural pools, relax beneath the forest canopy, or explore the walking trails.

Nearby, visit the Bear Rescue Centre, dedicated to protecting endangered Asiatic black bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.

In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station and board the Laos-China high-speed train back to Vientiane.

Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely orientation walk along the Mekong Riverside, where locals gather to enjoy cafés, riverside parks, and sunset views.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, visit the fascinating Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), home to more than 200 remarkable Buddhist and Hindu sculptures set in peaceful gardens beside the Mekong River.

If time permits before your flight, browse the bustling Morning Market or visit Ban Nong Bouathong, a traditional weaving village famous for its handwoven Lao textiles (closed on weekends and public holidays).

At the appropriate time, transfer to Wattay International Airport for your onward flight.

Your memorable journey through Laos comes to an end.