Experience Northern Laos

Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort for check-in where you'll spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, you'll be picked up from the hotel to cross the border to Laos. The journey to the Chiang Kong border will last around 2 hours. Once across the Thai-Laos border, you'll go on a boat cruise along the Mekong River, taking in the scenery. A stop at Pakbeng will allow for a visit to the village of Ban Houei Lumpane before settling in for the night. (B,L,D)

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Continue your relaxed river journey towards the picturesque city of Luang Prabang, making a worthwhile stop at the intriguing Pak Ou Caves, known for housing numerous Buddha statues along the riverside. Pause your cruise to explore the local lifestyle and traditional Lao alcohol production at Ban Sanghai, also known as the Whisky Village. Expect to arrive in Luang Prabang by late evening. (B,L)

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Take a tuk-tuk to the open-air morning market in the old town. Small farming families and communities continue to produce food, which is supplied to Luang Prabang from nearby rural regions. Your guide will discuss the most common vegetables and fruits in season, as well as pick up some snacks for later. After the morning market, you will visit Wat Mai, which has a lovely golden façade. Next, take the tuk-tuk to Pasaniyom Cafe for breakfast, where you will learn about a typical Laotian breakfast, real Lao coffee, and its traditional brewing technique. After breakfast, take the tuk-tuk down the Nam Khan River to see some of the most popular and culturally significant temples, including the famed Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Museum. The day's journey will conclude on the summit of Mount Phousi. (B)

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Today's journey kicks off at 9:00 a.m., leading you south of town towards the Kuang Si Waterfalls. En route, stop to explore the Living Crafts Centre, offering insights into traditional weaving techniques and textile preservation efforts. At the falls, marvel at crystal-clear waters cascading into stunning turquoise pools - don't forget your swimsuit if you fancy a dip! Additionally, pay a visit to the neighbouring Sunbear Refuge to learn about the conservation of these endangered creatures. Expect to return to Luang Prabang by early afternoon, leaving the rest of the day open for your enjoyment. (B,L)

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Today, board a high-speed train from Luang Prabang to Oudomxay, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival, a guide and driver will be waiting to escort you to Namkat Yorlapa for check-in where you'll spend the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

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Today, explore the local area with an easy trek around the beautiful countryside, visiting ethnic hill tribes residing nearby. You'll experience stunning mountain scenery typical of Southeast Asia, with stops at Khmu and H'mong villages. (B,L)

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Following breakfast, start the journey from Oudomxay to Luang Namtha, a drive spanning over four hours. Serving as the gateway to Northern Laos, Luang Namtha is renowned for its trekking opportunities and outdoor adventures. Yet, beyond its adventurous allure, the region offers a wealth of sights to explore at a leisurely pace, showcasing its captivating ethnic diversity. (B,L,D)

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The tour starts at 9:00 AM today, starting with a visit to the Luang Namtha Museum. Next, head to Nam Dee in Lanten Village to witness the captivating process of bamboo paper making and natural dyeing (availability varies with the season). Then take a leisurely stroll to the Nam Dee waterfall and explore the surrounding community forest. Lunch will be served en route.

Following lunch, the itinerary includes a visit to the Luang Namtha Stupa, offering a breathtaking panoramic vista of Luang Namtha town, followed by a stop at the historic Phou Pouk Stupa. The journey proceeds with visits to Nam Ngaen, known as the "Tai Dam Village," and Phieng Ngam, dubbed the "Tai Deang Village." These villages are renowned for their rich variety of handicrafts. While immersing in these communities, you'll have the chance to witness traditional practices such as Lao Whisky making, traditional weaving, blacksmithing, and bamboo basket making. Along the route, you'll also be treated to stunning vistas of expansive rice paddy fields before returning to the hotel. (B,L)

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Today, take a high-speed train to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to check in. This evening, you will have the opportunity to participate in the Baci Ceremony. This ritual has great cultural significance and is held on a variety of dates throughout the year. While it can occur on any day of the week, it must coincide with auspicious days in the lunar calendar as established by elders, senior monks, or ex-monks. Surprisingly, this ritual is not just designated for happy occasions, but also for times of sadness. Traditionally, the Baci Ceremony commemorates pleasant moments like as marriages, greeting visitors, Lao New Year, housewarmings, and homecomings. (B)

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After check-out, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to the UK. (B)