Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar tour 27 days

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner, G=Guide

Day 1: Arrival Luang Prabang (D, G)

On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel by our transportation. After a short rest, we begin cycling to some of the major sights in this fabulous city, including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham and the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene. We visit these sights as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, its exterior architecture is remarkable with decorated guilded stuccoes and doorways, a “tree of life” mosaic pattern set in coloured glass on the back wall and its three tiered roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete without ascending 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa and to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the city and its glowing reflection on the Mekong River. From there we experience the hustle and bustle of the colourful Night Market where you can find a selection of traditional textiles, gifts and souvenirs made by the local people. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 2: Luang Prabang/Tad Sae (B, L, G)

After breakfast, we set off on our full day cycling tour. We head south of Luang Prabang, on route 13, passing by various local villages while enjoying splendid mountain and unspoiled forest scenery. Our biking route is approximately 18 kilometres on well-paved roads and 1 kilometre on unpaved dirt roads, to Tad Sae. On arrival, we take a small long tail motortaxi downstream on the Nam Khan River, passing stunning soft green mountains and observing the local activities at various small villages on our way. En route we stop at Tad Sae, a large beautiful waterfall which is cascaded in the forest with a cool natural swimming pool, you may refresh yourself from the sweat and humidity from cycling by immersing yourself in the cool and white waters of the spring in the big pool.

We will enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the waterfall on a Sala terrace. After lunch, we continue our boat trip downstream to retrace the tomb of the French explorer Henri Mouhot, who stumbled across Angkor Wat in 1860, but succumbed to a malaria attack in Luang Prabang on 10th November in following year. Your bike will be ready at the local pier near Ban Phanom for our journey back to Luang Prabang. We take a alternative route back to Luang Prabang, riding through and stopping over at the well-known weaving village of Tai Lue, who used to make silk weaving textiles for the former Lao royal family. We then ride to Luang Prabang by the late evening, to enjoy a short guided cycling tour in Luang Prabang before sunset. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 3: Luang Prabang/Biking to Pak Ou Caves (B, L, G)

This morning, we head northbound from Luang Prabang. After approximately 22 kilometres of smooth cycling and a further 3 kilometers on rough roads, we reach the village of Ban Pak Ou. After enjoying a picnic lunch surrounded by picturesque countryside, we cross the Mekong River to Pak Ou and Thamting Caves, located on the Mekong riverbank. We visit the interesting and mysterious Pak Ou Caves, which are two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. We then embark on a traditional boat downstream the Mekong River with our bicycles. On the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where you can sample the local produce of Lao rice wine. Our next stop will be at Wat Long Khoune, a royal family temple, as well as Sakkarine Caves and Ban Xieng Mene, a traditional pottery kiln village. We then return to Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day 4: Luang Prabang (B, G)

After breakfast this morning, we drive to Luang Prabang to visit The National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. We also visit the Phousi Market, where you will see such diverse offerings as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings. After lunch, your time will be your own. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 5: Luang Prabang/Siem Reap (B, D, G)

In the morning, the car will take you to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. On arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to a hotel for check in. After a short rest, a unique and enchanting experience awaits as you set off from Siem Reap to explore some of Angkor’s most beautiful temples by bike. Pedal along tree lined streets to the former capital Angkor Thom, where the mysterious faces of Bayon stare majestically in to the distance. Continue on to Ta Prohm, where the jungle like atmosphere was used as a movie set for the “Tomb Raider” film. Late in the afternoon we cycle to Angkor Wat and explore this massive complex filled with bas reliefs and enormous causeways and towers. Enjoy sunset before cycling back to Siem Reap to freshen up and heading to dinner.

Day 6: Siem Reap/Phnom Bok Trekking (B, L, D, G)

After our breakfast we depart for a long, but rewarding trek to Rolous group, a set of temples constructed in the 8th and 9th century. Explore these ruins and enjoy a bit of a rest before continuing through small rural villages and over sand paths to our final destination of the day; Phnom Bok Camp. Catch a breath before we take off for a climb up 640 steps to the ruins of Phnom Bok. The view of the plains below is magnificent and the perfect place to watch the sun set at the end of the day. (Today’s trek is 30km)

Day 7: Phnom Bok/Beng Mealea Cycling (B, L, D, G)

This morning, we set off cycling along quiet inland roads and countryside with the Kulen Mountains as a backdrop. Our destination is Beng Mealea, a relatively unexplored temple: a huge, sprawling complex that is an explorer’s dream as most of the temple is covered in jungle and the crowds are nowhere to be seen. It’s a real treat for anyone who loves nature, religion and history. En-route enjoy lunch and countryside stops where the local villagers welcome you with big smiles and shouts of ‘hello’! As the day ends, we’ll reach our campsite and once more enjoy a bright night under a star fulfilled sky. (Today’s ride is 30km). Overnight in tented camp.

Day 8: Beng Mealea/Phnom Kulen Trekking (B, L, D, G)

This morning we take a short transfer to foot of the Phnom Kulen Hills, a sacred place where many Khmers like to hang out in the weekends. However, the attractions are deserted during the weekdays and it is a great treat to discover the “river of a 1000 lingas”, a river bed that has been carved in to with Hindu images. The trek takes you through many local villages and attractions, including a waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Return to the campsite in the late afternoon. (Today’s trek is 27km). Overnight in tented camp.

Day 9: Phnom Kulen/Banteay Srey/Siem Reap Cycling (B, L, G)

After breakfast, we depart for Banteay Srey by bicycle. Banteay Srey remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia and offers stunning bass relief and other stone carvings. Along the way we pass Banteay Samre, a miniature Angkor Wat, which is relatively unexplored. The road to these temples passes pretty countryside and the flat terrain ensures that it’s a relaxing, enjoyable experience. As we continue back to Siem Reap, we pass through the Angkor Complex taking in stunning views of some of the world’s most impressive temples. (Today’s journey is 55km). Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 10: Siem Reap/Floating Village/Siem Reap Cycling (B, L, G)

This morning, cycle through the Siem Reap countryside to the small village of Kro Bey Real. Continue on to the Tonle Sap lake and board a boat for a short cruise through the floating villages. On the return ride we will ride on the opposite of the river passing through many of the local communities before arriving back in Siem Reap. (Today’s journey is 45km). Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 11: Siem Reap/Bangkok (B, G)

In the morning, you are free to explore the town of Siem Reap and the local market, Psa Chas (Old Market) before catching your flight to Bangkok. On arrival, you will meet the driver and transfer to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be your own. Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 12: Bangkok/Nakhon Pathom (20-40km) (B, L, D, G)

Heading out of town we travel by car to Samut Songkhran and begin biking on village roads past orchards, coconut plantations, temples and traditional Siam houses towards the floating market of Damnoen Saduak. This market is always a hive of activity as many people come from the surrounding areas to trade their goods. After seeing this sight we continue cycling to the Maekong River where we board a boat for an exciting trip. The pace is very relaxed, a perfect way to observe the rural life close up. Along the way we anchors at the King Rama Park II, a traditional teak house museum in a large tropical park which displays rare Thai flowers and plants. We drive to the Rose Garden, our final destination. Overnight at Nakhon Pathom

Day 13: Nakhon Pathom/Kanchanaburi (15-20 km) (B, L, D, G)

Today we make our way by car to Nakhon Pathom to visit the Phra Pathom Chedi as well as the large open market before we drive to Kanchanaburi. This enchanting town has plenty to see, some of which are the famous bridge over the River Kwai , the sobering War Cemetery and the Jeath War Museum. We also explore the beautiful countryside by riding our bike to the Hellfire Pass, where we visit the fascinating museum chronicling the events of World War II and board the train for a trip across the infamous “Death Railway”. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town. There are numerous options to choose from; however our guide are on hand to advise you invaluable information. Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Day 14: Kanchanaburi/Ayuthaya (20-40 km) (B, L, D, G)

The former capital of Thailand, Ayuthaya lies along the Chao Phraya River, and is surrounded by many canals giving this region a lovely name Venice of the East. After breakfast we drive to the outskirt of Ayuthaya and commence our biking trip on village roads. This is a wonderful experience as we pass through many villages and make fun with waving kids. We arrive at the ruin of Ayuthaya and have a chance to explore the many masterpieces by bike. The largest temple of Wat Phra Sisanphet, which was used as the Royal Temple Palace by several kings. The following sight is Wat Chai Wattanaram built by King Prasathong in 1630 with a huge prang surrounded by smaller ones to symbolize mount Meru, the abode of the heavenly gods. Overnight at Ayuthaya.

Day 15: Ayuthaya/Bangkok (20-40 km) (B, L, D, G)

Upon leaving the town we enjoy a short boat trip on the Chao Phraya River to Bang Pa In which was served as the summer palace for many Thai monarchs from the 17th century. This structure has a captivating collection of marvelous pavilions in a variety of Thai, Chinese, Italian and Victorian architectural styles, encircled by lush beautiful gardens and lake. We cycle towards the agricultural village of Bang Bua Thong and head across the Chao Phraya River to Koh Kred. After lunch at local restaurant we continue riding around the island and pass through many orchards, villages and pottery factories before we meet up with our car for few hour drive back to Bangkok. The trip ends after arrival at your hotel in Bangkok.

Day 16: Bangkok/Yangon (B, G)

After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Yangon. Arrive in Yangon where you will be welcomed by your local tour guide and transferred to your hotel to drop off you luggage. If you arrived by mid day flight, we may proceed for lunch. After lunch, a walk through “downtown” Yangon, a diverse mix of faded colonial architecture from the British times, and high-rises built by more recent investors; Sule Pagoda, built in the early 3rd century is a landmark in the city centre. late afternoon visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda of Rudyard Kipling fame and one of Myanmar’s most sacred places. The massive bell shaped stupa is plated with gold and the tip of the stupa is set with diamonds and rubies, sapphires and topaz – a stunning sight as the sun sets and a most fitting place to begin our trip in this “Golden Land”. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 17: Yangon/Mandalay (B, L, G)

Morning fly to Mandalay, the city of bicycles. We will try to take the bikes along with your flight, since we are flying with ATR 72 air craft with small cargo space, and start biking from the airport after assembling. The supported pick-up will be waiting you and following you on the way to hotel. Recommend to bike until you get near the city. And then you will be transferred to the Hotel. Bike to some highlights in Mandalay such as Mahamuni Temple and craft shops and sunset at Mandalay Hill. Overnight at the hotel in Mandalay.

Day 18: Mandalay/Mingun/Sagaing/Amarapura/Mandalay (bike) 50 km (B, L, G)

After breakfast, bike down to the jetty and cross the Ayeyarwaddy River by a private boat (45 minutes). Visit Mingun, an exclusive village for KING BADON whose dedications are of today-tourist-site. Things to see are unfinished and semi-ruined Pathodawgyi Pagoda, Mingun bell and Myatheindan Paya which is a resemblance of the universe. Proceed to Sagaing, one of the ancient capitals in Kobaung Dynasty, along the River by bike. Your supported pick-up will be waiting on that point. Up on the Sagaing Hill, nestling a number of monasteries for retreat, viewing the Mighty River from the top. Sit on the pick-up or continue cycling along the avenue via the river bank is on your wish. Arrive back Mandalay and overnight at the hotel in Mandalay.

Day 19: Mandalay/Myittha (bike) 74 km (B, L, D, G)

Morning after the breakfast, you will be transferred out of Mandalay for about 20 minutes to avoid the congested city traffic and bike southward along the superb high-way for about 40km where you arrive Kyaukse, the rice bowl during the Bagan period. This thriving small town is assumed to be the origin of Burmese, according the British scholar G.H Luce. Then, turn right to a by-way and arrive Myittha, a small charming town. Best place to be local and an added experience on the trip making a night stop at a monastery. Overnight with very simple accommodation.

Day 20: Myittha/Myingyan (bike) 80 km (B, L, D, G)

Say goodbye to the chief monk and bike to the south further. Breakfast shall be at a local tea-house near the market. Have a leisure walk there and bike to the south further. The road is flat, narrow and roughly tarred. Pass through many villages along the way. Should you take delight in visiting a local house on the way, the guide and the driver with you shall be of assistance. Overnight at a local guest house in Myingyan with simple accommodation, a perfect distance to make your night stop before Mt. Popa.

Day 21: Myingyan/Taungta/Mt. Popa (bike) 84 km (B, L, D, G)

Today shall be the most beautiful day to bike. The road is typical to the central dry zone. You will pass many un-bridged sand creeks winding the toddy forest towards Popa Mountain range with picturesque scenery taking away your exhaustion. . On arrival to the foothill, continue bike up to your resort. Overnight at Popa Moutain Resort which offers great view towards the Popa Taungkalat and Summit.

Day 22: Mt. Popa/Bagan (bike) 50 km (B, L, G)

Time for your energy to walk up 777 steps and reach the summit of extinct volcano; the abode of Nat (spirit) called Mt. Popa. Outset with your bicycle to Bagan. Road is narrow but smooth and labyrinths in the toddy/palm trees. Enjoy observing how the local wine/liquor/spirit/candy is made from toddy seed. Arrive in the New Bagan where 2000 Pagodas and temples are rest. Overnight at the hotel in Bagan.

Day 23: Bagan (B, L, G)

What make the experience of cycling with 2000 millennium old religious edifice better? This venue is an archaeological treasure as well as historical wonder and ranked as a World Heritage site by the UNESCO. Some highlights are Ananda temple (the master-piece edifice amongst 2000), Thatbyinnyu temple (the highest one), Dhanyangyi temple (the most massive one). You will also see how the lacquer items are made in a local workshop. Enjoy the sunset from a temple over looking the majestic flat plain. Overnight at the hotel in Bagan.

Day 24: Bagan/Thandwe (Ngapali) by flight (B, G)

Today, we will fly to Ngapali Beach. Time to relax after all the exhaustion.

Day 25: Leisure at Ngapali beach (B)

Day 26: Ngapali/Yangon by flight (B, G)

Fly back to Yangon and explore the tales of metropolis Yangon in the afternoon. We plan to visit by car to Karaweik, a royal barge for fantastic photo shot along the “pilgrims” causeway across the Royal Lake with stunning views of Schwedagon Pagoda and visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market) for souvenir shopping. Overnight at the hotel in Yangon.

Day 27: Yangon departure (B, G)

Today is of your own, you hotel is central located and it is pretty convenient to have orientation walk around your hotel area. Our car and driver are available at your request for touring around the city. Stay at leisure until our guide and driver come to pick you up for the departure flight.