Discover the Southeast Asian gems of Cambodia and Laos on this Indochina holiday which combines comprehensive sightseeing in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with several days in the laid-back cities of Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Delight in the jungle-clad temples of Angkor, travel past lush countryside and rice paddies on the bamboo train and reflect on a tragic past at the infamous Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.
Travel to land-locked Laos, explore the sleepy capital of Vientiane and discover Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in the city. End with time in historic Luang Prabang, home to many ancient temples. Witness the morning alms procession and cruise the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves, filled with an array of Buddha statues. Finally, visit the breathtaking Kuangsi Waterfalls, where you can swim in turquoise pools and soak in the natural splendour of the Laotian countryside. This tour aims to introduce you to two fascinating countries each with a distinct history and culture to explore and experience, leaving you with enduring memories of the countries and their people.
Interested in an Indochina experience of your own? Call a Regent Indochina Specialist today.
Fly to Siem Reap.
Arrive in Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples of Angkor, and drive to Sokchea Angkor Hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Today, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor, which includes prominent temples like Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, built by the Khmer Empire between 800AD and 1300AD. These temples, which had been abandoned for centuries, were reclaimed from the forest and now draw more than two million tourists yearly. Your guide will share information about the temples' structure and importance. In the afternoon, sail to Kompong Phluk on the shores of Tonle Sap Lake, where a Khmer population of three villages lives on wooden stilts. Enjoy a boat trip through mangrove forests, which are home to a variety of species. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet adventure at a local restaurant, accompanied by the beautiful Apsara dance, and immerse yourself in sensory bliss. (B,D)
Discover the peacefulness of rural life in Cambodia by visiting the real villages of Trei Nhoar. Escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in an environment where time appears to stand still and tradition reigns supreme. Experience the locals' real warmth and welcome as you participate in their everyday activities, such as working the fields, weaving elaborate baskets, and creating traditional Khmer delicacies. Share a meal with the locals, savouring Cambodian flavours while experiencing true hospitality. This comprehensive experience provides a profound understanding of village life, customs, and the resiliency of its residents. (B,L)
Enjoy today at leisure. (B)
Travel approximately 3 hours west to Battambang, a lesser-known city in Cambodia. Explore its colonial architecture, including the Art Deco gem Phsar Naht (Battambang Central Market). In the afternoon, experience the bamboo train in the countryside before visiting Prasat Banan Temple atop Phnom Banan for panoramic views. Finally, head to Phnom Sampov Hill to witness the mesmerising sight of bats emerging into the night sky, followed by dinner at a Social Enterprise restaurant supporting Cambodia's youth. (B,D)
Drive south to Phnom Penh, stopping for lunch along the way. Optionally, visit Oudong and climb the steps to the summit. Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, enjoy free time. Expect a total driving time of approximately 6 hours today. (B)
Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace, a stunning piece of Khmer architecture built in 1866 and once home to King Norodom. Explore Phnom Penh's vibrant capital, known for its Art Deco architecture dating back to the 1920s. Take a guided walking tour to see colonial landmarks like the Post Office, National Library, Wat Phnom, and Raffles building, ending at Phsar Thmey central market. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in the afternoon, offering insight into Cambodia's dark history under the Khmer Rouge regime. Note: Some exhibits may contain graphic content, so approach with respect and prioritize your well-being. (B)
Take the flight to Vientiane today and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to explore the 'city of sandalwood' or simply relax. Overnight Salana Boutique Hotel. (B)
With a local guide, start your day at Talaat Sao, Vientiane's Morning Market, sampling local coffee and snacks. Visit Wat Sisaket and Haw Phra Kaew, known for their impressive Buddhist sculptures and artefacts. Explore iconic landmarks like Putousay and Phra That Luang stupa, symbols of Vientiane's rich heritage. After lunch, visit Xieng Khuan Buddha Park and take in the Friendship Bridge spanning the Mekong River. Optionally, visit Carol Cassidy's Lao Textiles Gallery to see silk weaving in progress. The remainder of the day is free for your own arrangements. (B,L)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, drive to 3 Nagas Luang Prabang - MGallery for check-in where you'll spend the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
This morning, visit cultural highlights in the former royal capital. Explore Wat Mai and the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum. Then, take a boat to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to numerous Buddha statues. Stop at a riverside village to see traditional weavers. Later, visit the Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about Lao heritage. (B,L)
This morning, you have the option to wake up early and observe the traditional alms ceremony of the Buddhist monks. Afterwards, return to the hotel for breakfast and then set out to explore further. Visit Wat Sisoun, Wat Aham, and Wat That to delve deeper into the local culture and architecture. Later, drive to Kuang Si Waterfalls, nestled amidst dense jungle surroundings. Take the opportunity to cool off in the refreshing turquoise waters at the base of the falls. On the way back to the city, you may choose to visit the Free the Bears sanctuary. Alternatively, climb Wat Phousi to enjoy a final panoramic view of the city. Conclude your day with dinner at l'Elephant, renowned as one of the finest restaurants in the city. (B,L,D)
Return to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B)
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Price Notes