Laos: Luang Prabang Extension

Gilded Temples and Traditional Buddhist Culture of Laos

Trip Details at-a-Glance

Cost From: $695   see pricing
Length: 3 days
Arrive: Luang Prabang, Laos
Depart: Luang Prabang, Laos
Lodging: 2 nights hotel (First Class or Deluxe option) describe
Meals: Meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Activity: Cultural Adventures
Trip Level: Walking tours, river cruising, and cultural exploration
2 explain

Visa Requirements

A visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting Laos. You can obtain your visa on arrival ($35 and one passport photo required.)

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Choosing the Right Trip

We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.
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Savor the delights of Laos, with its gilded temples, French-Indochinese architecture, and traditional Buddhist culture. Our extension visits the enchanting town of Luang Prabang, the heart and soul of the old Lao kingdom, a place to enjoy tranquil rural rhythms and a dramatic setting on the Mekong.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Bangkok / Luang Prabang

Arrive in Luang Prabang, Laos’ ancient Royal capital, where you will be met and escorted to your hotel. Located on the Mekong River and encircled by mountains, Luang Prabang is a delightful and regal town, now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is known for its outstanding handloom weavings, and the local market is a venue for the Hmong hilltribe communities, with their unique cross-stitch and applique work. In the afternoon, visit the spectacular, three-tiered Kuangsi waterfall, set in lush green surroundings about 20 miles south of town. En route, visit the Hmong village of Ban Na Oune to see how traditional hilltribe people live. Hmong villagers still practice ancient animistic rituals including animal sacrifices, and dress in traditional colorful handmade clothing and silver jewelry. We will also visit Ban Tha Pane, a village of the Khmu minority group. Return to the hotel for overnight...meals on your own.

Day 2
Pak Ou Caves

Board a local boat for a scenic trip up the Mekong River to Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist pilgrimage site located above the river. Over the last five centuries, processions of worshipers from kings to peasants have brought Buddha images to the caves, and it is a fascinating site to visit. Along the way we visit Ban Xanghai, known for its traditional rice whiskey. Returning to Luang Prabang by boat, we continue by car to visit Ban Xangkhong, famous for its wood paper-making and Lao silk weavings made with natural dyes. Return to hotel in Luang Prabang for overnight...BL

Day 3
Old Luang Prabang / Bangkok

Enjoy a morning walking tour through the atmospheric lanes of old Luang Prabang. Visit several temples dating to the 15th century, including the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong (“Golden Temple”) and the former Royal Palace, now a museum housing heirlooms of the royal family. We can also make an optional climb up Phu Si Hill (328 steps), a sacred site with panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight...B

Note: For religious reasons, it is recommended that women have shoulders covered and refrain from wearing shorts or very short skirts. Men should wear trousers and short sleeved shirts. Shoes must be removed before entering the temples.

Extension Cost

Valid through September 30, 2013

First Class Option

4-Star Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (Garden wing room)
$695 per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $255
Solo traveler: $975
Internal airfare: $510 (subject to change)

Deluxe Option

5-Star La Residence Phou Vao (Garden view room)
$1025 per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $570
Solo traveler: $1675
Internal airfare: $510 (subject to change)

Note: when this extension is taken with the Vietnam & Cambodia Private Journey, extension airfare is $245 (Luang Prabang/Hanoi), subject to change

Note: A holiday season surcharge applies between December 24, 2012–January 2, 2013, with a minimum three-night stay.

All costs subject to change

more on pricing

Extension Cost Includes:

  • Services of local English-speaking guide
  • Accommodations
  • Meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
  • Activities as indicated and entance fees for activities listed
  • Ground transportation and transfers as indicated

Extension Cost Does Not Include:

International airfare; any additional hotel nights that may be needed before or after your extension; airport departure taxes; any meals not specified after each itinerary day; gratuities to local guides, drivers, and transfer agents; pre-trip expenses of medical immunizations; visa fees (if applicable); travel insurance; any other expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, sodas, laundry, etc.).

Maison Souvannaphoum

Maison Souvannaphoum (First Class Option)

Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Luang Prabang, Laos

Steeped in history and colonial charm, the Maison Souvannaphoum is a former royal residence with contemporary design features. Each guest room has a ...
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La Résidence Phou Vao

La Résidence Phou Vao (Deluxe Option)

Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Luang Prabang, Laos

La Résidence Phou Vao, an Orient Express property, is a small, exquisite hotel about a 20-minute walk from the town center. Each simple yet ...
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Note: Listed above are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.