VTL03 - THE CULTURES OF LAOS

Day 1: Houeixay – Pakbeng by Shompoo Cruise (L/D)

Morning:

• 08:00: Meet Shompoo Cruise's English-speaking guide at Chiang Khong immigration (Thailand). Receive assistance with immigration and Laos visa process.

• Cross the border into Laos via shuttle bus. Board a minivan to the slow boat pier.

• Embark on Shompoo Cruise: a scenic, shared journey along the Mekong River.

• Enjoy an informative onboard briefing about Lao etiquette, traditions, and cultural insights.

• Traditional Lao lunch is served on board while cruising.

Afternoon:

• Visit Ban Keng Lae, a small Kamu ethnic village of ~70 families. Observe remote, rural Lao life and learn about indigenous traditions.

• Continue the cruise, enjoying views of unspoiled jungle, river life, and mountain backdrops.

Evening:

• Arrive in Pakbeng by late afternoon.

• Dinner at your hotel and free time to relax.

Overnight: Pakbeng

Notes:

• Cruise departs with a minimum of 6 passengers.

• Schedule:

  • Oct–Apr: Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun

  • May–Sep: Mon, Fri

• Recommended arrival at Chiang Khong: before 07:45. Boat leaves Houeixay no later than 10:00.

 

Day 2: Pakbeng – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang (B/L)

Transfer: Shared Shompoo Cruise

Morning:

• 08:00: Depart from Pakbeng.

• Enjoy jungle and village views while cruising downstream.

• Participate in an onboard demonstration: Lao dessert & herbal drink preparation.

• Stop at Ban Baw Village, a cultural mix of Lao Loum, Tai Lue, and Shan ethnic groups. Learn about traditional Lao Lao whisky making.

Midday: Enjoy another delicious Lao lunch onboard.

Afternoon:

• Visit Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting & Tham Phoum): two sacred limestone caves filled with over 2,000 Buddha statues.

• Sample the Lao desserts and drinks made earlier.

• Arrive in Luang Prabang by 16:30. Meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel.

Evening: Free time to explore this serene UNESCO World Heritage city.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

 

Day 3: Cultural Discovery – Khouangsi Waterfall – Baci Ceremony (B/L/D)

Morning:

• Visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace to explore royal artifacts, historical photos, and religious relics.

• Explore Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang’s most beautiful temple with traditional low-sweeping roofs and detailed mosaics.

• Discover Ock Pop Tok Weaving Center, supporting women artisans and preserving traditional Lao weaving techniques.

Afternoon:

• Scenic drive to Khouangsi Waterfall, stopping at:

  • Ban Na Ouane (Khmu ethnic group)

  • H'mong village for insight into local hill-tribe life

• Hike forest trails, visit the Bear Rescue Center, and enjoy the turquoise waterfall pools (swimming optional).

• Visit the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm:

  • Learn about sustainable farming, milking, and buffalo care

  • Optional tasting of cheese and ice cream made onsite

Evening:

• Join a Baci Ceremony hosted by a local family to receive traditional blessings.

• Enjoy a Lao-style dinner with live traditional music and dancing.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

 

Day 4: Morning Ritual – Ethnic Insights – Train to Vientiane (B/L)

Train: Fast Train C81 | Departure: 16:51 – Arrival: 18:45

Optional Early Morning:

• Join the Alms Giving Ceremony with monks walking silently through town collecting offerings.

• Note: Modest attire required. Participation optional.

Morning:

• Explore the vibrant Morning Market for herbs, dried meats, tea, and handmade goods.

• Climb Mount Phousi for panoramic city and river views.

• Visit Wat Visoun and its watermelon-shaped stupa (rebuilt 1887).

• Discover the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center (closed Mondays): displays from over 20 ethnic groups.

• Stop at Ban Xang Khong to observe Saa paper and silk weaving.

Afternoon:

• Transfer to Luang Prabang Train Station.

• Board the high-speed train to Vientiane.

• Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in.

Overnight: Vientiane

 

Day 5: Vientiane City Tour & Buddha Park (B/L)

Morning:

• Visit key landmarks:

• Wat Sisaket: over 6,000 Buddha images, ancient murals, and Siamese-era design.

• Wat Prakeo: originally housed the Emerald Buddha.

• That Luang Stupa: national symbol of Buddhism in Laos.

• Patuxay Monument: Vientiane’s version of the Arc de Triomphe.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): a riverside park of over 200 spiritual sculptures.

• Return to the city and enjoy sunset along the Mekong River.

• Optional visit to Anouvong Night Market.

Overnight: Vientiane

 

Day 6: Cultural Encounters & Departure (B/L)

Morning:

• Visit the Morning Market for final souvenir shopping.

• Tour the National Museum (Revolutionary Museum): documents Laos’ modern history and liberation movements.

• Visit the private home-studio of Carol Cassidy, an American textile expert:

  • Guided tour of her workshop

  • Learn about silk weaving processes and cultural preservation

• Optional Add-on: Visit COPE Visitor Centre, offering education on UXO clearance and support for victims of the Secret War.

Afternoon: Free time until your airport transfer to Wattay International Airport for your departure flight.

 

Important Notes:

• Included Meals: B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner - Days 1 & 3)

• Cruise Requirements:

  • Shared Shompoo Cruise: Minimum 6 passengers

  • Operates Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun (Oct–Apr) / Mon & Fri (May–Sep)

• Practical Reminders:

  • Museum & center closures vary (e.g., Mondays)

  • Tad Sae Waterfall & rural road conditions may vary by season

  • Fast train and schedules subject to change