Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 83 travelers

Discovering Laos: 6-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, December 5, 2023: Arrival in Vientiane

Start your journey in the capital city of Laos, Vientiane. In the morning, visit the magnificent Pha That Luang, a golden Buddhist stupa considered a national symbol. Afterward, explore the serene grounds of Wat Si Saket, known for its beautiful architecture and thousands of Buddha statues. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the picturesque Mekong River and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening approaches, head to the vibrant Night Market to experience local food, handicrafts, and live music.

  • Pha That Luang: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Wat Si Saket: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
  • Mekong River: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Vientiane Night Market: Cost Estimate: Variable, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6, 2023: Luang Prabang

Take a short domestic flight from Vientiane to the charming town of Luang Prabang. Start your day by witnessing the spectacular daily Alms Giving Ceremony, where monks collect alms from locals. Afterward, explore the UNESCO-listed town and visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about Laos' royal history. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Kuang Si Waterfalls and cool off in its turquoise blue pools. As the evening sets in, head to the lively Night Market to find unique handicrafts, garments, and local delicacies.

  • Alms Giving Ceremony: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
  • Royal Palace Museum: Cost Estimate: $5, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kuang Si Waterfalls: Cost Estimate: $3, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Night Market: Cost Estimate: Variable, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 7, 2023: Pak Ou Caves

Embark on a scenic boat trip on the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves. Marvel at the thousands of Buddha images housed inside the limestone caves. After returning to Luang Prabang, visit the ornate Wat Xieng Thong, known for its exquisite architecture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local street of Ban Vat Sene and discover local handicrafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a traditional Lao dance performance at the Royal Ballet Theatre.

  • Pak Ou Caves: Cost Estimate: $20 (including boat trip), Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Wat Xieng Thong: Cost Estimate: $3, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ban Vat Sene Street: Cost Estimate: Variable, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Royal Ballet Theatre: Cost Estimate: $10, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 8, 2023: Vang Vieng

Travel by road from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, a picturesque town surrounded by limestone karst mountains. In the morning, explore the enchanting Tham Jang Cave, offering stunning views from its balcony. Embark on a kayaking adventure along the Nam Song River in the afternoon, passing through beautiful landscapes. As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the river and indulge in a traditional Lao barbecue dinner.

  • Tham Jang Cave: Cost Estimate: $2, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kayaking on Nam Song River: Cost Estimate: $15, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Sunset Cruise: Cost Estimate: $10, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Lao Barbecue Dinner: Cost Estimate: $10-20, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 9, 2023: Plain of Jars

Embark on an excursion to the mysterious Plain of Jars, an archaeological site scattered with ancient stone jars. Explore the various jar sites and learn about their historical and cultural significance. In the afternoon, visit the UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) Visitor Center to understand the impact of the Vietnam War on Laos. As the evening approaches, relax and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Phonsavan town.

  • Plain of Jars: Cost Estimate: $10, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • UXO Visitor Center: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Phonsavan Town: Cost Estimate: Variable, Time Spent: Evening
Sunday, December 10, 2023: Return to Vientiane

Say goodbye to the tranquil countryside and return to Vientiane. Spend the day exploring the city's hidden gems, such as the serene Buddha Park filled with large-scale sculptures, and the vibrant Talat Sao Morning Market, offering a myriad of local products. In the afternoon, visit the COPE Center, a museum highlighting the impact of UXOs in Laos, and gain a deeper understanding of the country's history. As the evening unfolds, relax in one of the city's riverside restaurants and enjoy a delicious Lao dinner.

  • Buddha Park: Cost Estimate: $2, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Talat Sao Morning Market: Cost Estimate: Variable, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • COPE Center: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Riverside Restaurant Dinner: Cost Estimate: $10-20, Time Spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Luang Prabang, don't miss the opportunity to visit the serene Kuang Si Falls, a hidden gem offering picturesque surroundings and refreshing turquoise water. Locals also love taking a boat ride along the Nam Ou River, where you can witness the local way of life and explore remote villages. For a unique experience, participate in a traditional Baci ceremony, a Lao ritual that symbolizes good luck and blessings.

Check hotel and flight prices
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version