This 4-day add-on itinerary is perfect for travellers looking to deepen their experience of Laos through the rich culture and history of Luang Prabang. It’s well suited to those with an interest in heritage, religion, and local craft traditions, offering a meaningful insight into one of Southeast Asia’s most atmospheric cities. From ancient temples to riverside villages, the itinerary offers a strong sense of place and context that complements a broader tour of the region.
Over four days, travellers will explore some of Luang Prabang’s most iconic sites - from the golden-roofed Wat Xieng Thong and the hilltop views of Mount Phousi to the peaceful Mekong cruise and limestone caves filled with Buddha statues. Encounters with local weavers and the early-morning almsgiving ritual give depth and authenticity to the experience. With comfortable accommodation at a riverside resort and all arrangements handled by our expert team, it’s an easy and enriching way to discover the cultural heart of Laos.
Please note: this add-on itinerary can only be booked as part of a longer itinerary with a minimum duration of 7 nights.
Arrive in Luang Prabang, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Surrounded by mountains and set at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the town is known for its well-preserved architecture, Buddhist temples, and relaxed pace. Once the royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key cultural centre. It’s a place where monks collect alms at dawn, colonial buildings sit beside gilded wats, and quiet streets invite you to slow down and explore.
Start the day exploring some of Luang Prabang’s most important cultural sites. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, an elegant 16th-century temple known for its sweeping rooflines and mosaic artwork, and Wat Mai, with its striking gold reliefs. At the Royal Palace, now the National Museum, learn about the city’s royal past and see artefacts from the Lane Xang Kingdom. Climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views across the town and rivers.
In the afternoon, travel out to Kuang Si Falls, a multi-tiered cascade of pale turquoise pools surrounded by forest. Stop at the Living Crafts Centre along the way to learn about traditional Lao textiles and weaving techniques. At the falls, there’s time to swim or simply take in the scenery. Also visit the nearby Sun Bear Reserve, which protects bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. On the return to town, stop in a local H’mong village to glimpse daily life in the countryside. (B,L)
Begin the day with one of Luang Prabang’s most meaningful traditions: the morning alms ceremony. As the sun rises, watch hundreds of saffron-robed monks move quietly through the streets collecting offerings of rice, a daily ritual rooted in humility and devotion. Afterwards, explore the nearby morning market where locals barter for fresh produce, herbs, and spices.
Later, board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves. These limestone caverns are filled with hundreds of Buddha statues placed by worshippers over centuries. It’s a striking and spiritual site, set against dramatic river scenery. Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant before continuing by boat, stopping at a village known for its handwoven textiles. Here you can see traditional looms in use and meet the artisans keeping these skills alive. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon. (B,L)
Meet your driver in the lobby of your accommodation for transfer to your next destination. (B)
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