A Journey Through Timeless Laos 7 Days 6 Nights

After breakfast, begin your discovery of Luang Prabang with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, constructed in 1904 during the French colonial period for King Sisavang Vong and his family. You’ll then set off on a leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, soaking the tranquil scenery before reaching the Pak Ou Caves – two sacred caverns filled with thousands of Buddha statues of varying shapes and sizes, creating an atmosphere both solemn and deeply spiritual. For the people of Luang Prabang, this site has long been a sacred place of worship and devotion.

On the return trip, stop by Ban Xanghai Village to see how locals produce traditional Lao rice wine. Back in town, visit the elegant Wat Sene and the exquisite Wat Xieng Thong, an architectural masterpiece adorned with detailed mosaics and a shimmering “Tree of Life” mural.

Continue to Heuan Chan Heritage House, a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion that showcases Lao traditions through exhibits, crafts, and family stories. Enjoy a cup of authentic Lao coffee or tea before heading to Wat Prabath for a serene sunset view over the city.

End your day exploring the Night Market, where you can browse an array of handmade textiles crafted by local artisans and hill tribes. 

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: breakfast 

Optional: Visit the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center to learn more about Laos’ diverse ethnic cultures (closed on Mondays). 

Rise early this morning to witness one of Laos’ most sacred traditions – the daily alms-giving ceremony, dating back to the 14th century. Watch as hundreds of saffron-robed monks walk quietly through the streets to collect offerings from local residents.  Continue to the morning market near the former Royal Palace, a lively spot where vendors sell fresh produce and handmade goods. After breakfast, journey to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, the largest in the Luang Prabang area. Here, turquoise pools cascade over limestone formations, creating the perfect setting for a refreshing swim. Nearby, visit the peaceful Butterfly Park, where you can relax with homemade cookies and tea surrounded by fluttering butterflies.

You may also explore Ban Thapene Village and its hidden waterfalls or stop by the Bear Rescue Center, home to rescued Asiatic black bears. On your way back, visit Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre on the banks of the Mekong River to learn about traditional Lao weaving techniques.

Late this afternoon, climb the 329 steps of Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city and the river at sunset. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: breakfast 

After breakfast, enjoy some free time before transferring to the station for your day train to Vang Vieng. The one-hour journey offers charming views of the Lao countryside along the way. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and driver and start your visit to Wat That, a serene temple near the town center, where locals come to pray in a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by Buddha statues.

If time allows, stop at Nam Xay Viewpoint for a sweeping view over Vang Vieng’s limestone mountains and green valleys.

  Overnight in Vang Vieng.   Meals: none

After breakfast, set out on your journey to Vientiane, with an adventurous day of exploration ahead. Along the way, you’ll discover a series of fascinating caves and local villages that reveal both the natural beauty and cultural depth of the region.

Depending on the season, you’ll either cross the Nam Song River by boat (during the rainy months) or walk across the bridge (in the dry season). The route offers a refreshing mix of gentle exercise and outdoor discovery, away from the bustle of Vang Vieng’s riverside activities.

Your first stop is Tham Xang, or Elephant Cave, known for its impressive limestone formations resembling elephants and its ancient Buddha images that have been venerated by locals for generations. As you explore, your guide will share stories and legends that give this sacred place its charm.

Continue to a nearby Laotian village, where life moves at a peaceful pace. Stroll through the narrow paths, meet friendly residents, and gain a glimpse into their traditional lifestyle.

Next, journey across lush rice fields and towering karst peaks to visit Tham Hoy and Tham Loup, two more caves filled with Buddha statues and striking stalactites. These caverns also hold traces of history—inscriptions of names left by those who once sought refuge here during past conflicts.

A short hike then leads you to Tham Nam, the Water Cave, where you can take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the cool air flowing from the underground stream. Finally, walk onward to a nearby Hmong hill tribe village, home to one of Laos’ oldest ethnic communities. Meet local families, interact with playful children, and capture the warm spirit of mountain life before continuing your drive to Vientiane.

Overnight in Vientiane.

After breakfast, explore Vientiane’s highlights, starting with the Thong Khan Kham Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, herbs, and traditional goods. Continue to the iconic Patuxay Monument, Laos’ own “Arc de Triomphe,” before visiting the revered That Luang Stupa, the national symbol of Laos.

Next, visit Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple still standing in the city, housing thousands of Buddha images, and Haw Phra Kaew, the former royal temple that once enshrined the Emerald Buddha.

In the afternoon, discover Wat Si Muang, believed to be blessed with spiritual power, and then drive out of the city to the famous Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan). Here, over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues are scattered across a peaceful riverside meadow.

On the way back, stop for photos at the Friendship Bridge, which links Laos and Thailand. Return to the city and enjoy your evening at leisure — perhaps with a cup of coffee on a shaded terrace as the sun sets over the Mekong. 

Overnight in Vientiane.

Meals: breakfast 

Your one-week journey comes to an end today. Your driver will pick you up at the appointed time and transfer you to Wattay International Airport for your departure flight.

Meals: breakfast