A special holiday during 16 days in Laos, Thailand and Myanmar gives you a chance to explore the magnificent scenery, major cultural highlights, spectacular landscapes, rural villages and ancient temples.
Arriving Luang Prabang where the tranquility and charm with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. After that, visit the Zen Namkhan Resort which is a slice of paradise in the midst of Lao jungle and nature. Continue your trip with some days in Bangkok which encompasses the major culture highlights.
The trip in Laos, Thailand and Myanmar will then take you to Myanmar, the land rich in culture and surrounded by spectacular landscapes that help you touch to the heart of Burmese countryside. Travelling overland through rural villages, visiting ancient temples and taking boat rides along winding rivers are what take your fancy
I am having a truly WONDERFUL time. It is just GLORIOUS. Thank you for all arrangement and make this trip unforgettable.
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner, G=Guide
Day 1: Luang Prabang arrival (G)
On arrival at the airport you will be met and transfer to your hotel in Luang Prabang, The Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best- preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. After a short rest, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, Wat Mai. A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete with ascending 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill 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 explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.
Day 2: Luang Prabang/Zen Namkhan Boutique Resort (B, L, G)
A private minivan will pick you up at the city or airport and transfers you to the “Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort” , an indulging luxury estate in the jungle of Laos following ecological guidelines. After installing yourself in the room and enjoying the first views on the river, we will take you to the beautiful Tad Sae Waterfalls (not in dry season) to take a refreshing dip in the turquoise water. Our guide will show you around and give you valued information along the way. In the afternoon you might want to hang out on the Ecological pool at the Resort… or in their Japanese style Spa…
Day 3: Enjoy a walk, join the “Fair Trek” (B, L, G)
After breakfast, around 10 am we will pick you up by boat to go to the other side of the river. There we start our short 3-4 h “Fair Trek” Hiking tour. You will learn about the small Khamu community living in this area facing a huge mountain range. You walk along the soft swinging slopes and get an introduction in every day life of these minority people. Take your time to wander around in the village and meet the locals where you can stop and ask your questions. Picnic lunch is provided along the way. Back to the river, we will have the kayaks ready for you and you will take an easy going 1-1.5 h paddle tour down the Nam Khan River . We will pick you up and bring you back to the Resort. Optional: To relax your shoulders after the kayaking, the Zen Namkhan Resort provides a wonderful one hour massage in their cosy Spa area. Before dinner, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the ecological swimming pool.
Day 4: Meet the giants, the protected Asian Elephants (B, L, G)
A holiday in Laos is not complete without seeing, feeling and riding an elephant . The nearby “ Elephant Village ” is our exclusive partner and provides the best programs and care for elephant as well as for our guests. Here you will be introduced to the protected Asian Elephants and go out for a scenic ride in the natural settings along the river . Enjoy the new perspective and the wonderful nature on this 1 hour Elephant ride through which you support the rescue of these former logging industry Elephants. A stunning landscape, tranquility and lush nature gives you a relaxed stay on the back of the Elephant. Lean back in your seat and enjoy. After lunch at the Zen Resort, we will transfer you to Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 5: Luang Prabang/Bangkok (B, L, G)
After breakfast, you’ll be free until the guide and driver come and take you to the airport for your flight to Bangkok.
On arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The glorious history of Thai Capital, Bangkok is much interwoven with the Chakri dynasty which still reigns but no longer rules Thailand. In the midst of dynamic modern growth, this bustling metropolis still preserves plenty of cultural heritages making it the national treasure house. No activities planned for this afternoon , however our guide is on hand to advise some available options. Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 6: Bangkok (B, L, G)
The longtail boat trip is a perfect way to start our exploration of Bangkok. We navigate along the Chao Phraya River and venture into the many lively inner canals which provide some fantastic views of the local life close up. Along the way we make stop over at Wat Arum, the temple of Dawn, before continuing to the Grand Palace. This masterpiece is dedicated to the Thai Royal Family’s ceremony. Nearby are the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew which is famous for the Emerald Buddha Image, and the Vimarnmek Museum, the world’s largest building entirely made of golden teak . We visit this complex and drive through the many vibrant streets of China Town to the Wat Pho, one of the most significant temples in Bangkok. This sacred edifice houses a gigantic gold plated Reclining Buddha. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and catching up on many funny shopping areas. Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 7: Bangkok/Ayuthaya/Bangkok Adventure tour (B, L, G)
Heading out of the town we drive though the scenic countryside to Ayuthaya, the ancient capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 AD. This glamorous city was all but ultimately destroyed by the hands of Burmese, however it is still fascinating to explore the ruined temples. Among these is Wat Phra Sisanphet, an impressive monument that was used as the royal temple by several kings. The following sight is Wat Chai whose the constructing patterns are very interesting. We continue to Bang Pa In, which was served as the summer palace for many Thai monarchs. This structure has a captivating collection of marvelous pavilions in a variety of Thai, Chinese, Italian and Victorian architectural styles. We embark a luxury boat at Wat Potangtai Pier and cruise down the river to Bangkok, a perfect way to observe the rural landscape. Overnight at in Bangkok.
Day 8: Bangkok/Sukhothai/Lampang (Religion & Relics Exploration) (B, L, G)
The following destination of our trip will be Sukhothai via a short flight from Bangkok. On arrival we spend our time exploring Sukhothai. This famous cultural town was once the royal capital of the Thailand Kingdom, however has left its legacies in the forms of many ruined temples and palaces. The excellent Ramkhamhaeng Museum displays a lovely collection of artifacts while the park features ruins of the very extensive city, which flourished in the mid 13th to the late 14th century. We include these in a half day tour which will give us a deep insight into the glorious past of Sukhothai. We also visit to Wat Si Chum and its rather imposing seated Buddha. The next stop of our trip is Si Satchanalai where various ancient monuments are still standing. Upon leaving this site we drive to Lampang and have time seeing some of Lampang’s most interesting sights including Ban Sao Nat , Wat Chedi Sao and Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang which provides an old Lanna or Burmese architectures. Overnight in Lampang.
Day 9: Lampang/Chiang Mai (B, L, G)
An early morning start to drive towards Chiang Mai. Along the way we make stop to visit Daan Kwian Market which is famous for the trade of local products. The capital of the north, Chiang Mai has rich historical and cultural heritage which is still evident in the architecture with over 300 temples spreading in and around. Today we visit the most famous one set on Doi Suthep Mountain and embark on a walk leading us to Wat Prathat Temple near the summit. At an elevation of over 1,000 m, the temple grounds affords a panoramic view over the surrounding countryside. The tranquil town of Chiang Mai has been always noted for the exquisite handicrafts made of the hill tribe people’s traditional wares. Upon leaving Doi Suthep we set off on a short drive to the neighbouring villages of Sankampaeng and Borsarng to see the various cottages industries including silk weaving, wood carving, silver ware and umbrellas making. We follow this with a visit to the old and new parts of the town featuring the great diversity. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 10: Chiang Mai/Maetang (B, L, G)
Upon leaving the town we set off on a short drive towards Maetang. The first stop is an elephant camp set against the tranquil mountain backdrop . Here, we have a chance to see the many colossal animals performing their amazing feats of strength and skill at the command of the mahouts. We continue our exploration of Mae Tang with an hour elephant ride though the nearby river and the rolling hills into the jungle. At the end of the excursion we experience a 15 minute ox-cart ride back to the camp. This transportation form was widely used by ancestors in the middle ages. We have rest for a picnic lunch under the cool jungle shade before we embark on bamboo raft for a thrilling trip along the peaceful Mae Taeng River. The exciting day ends up by seeing a beautiful orchid farm and a butterfly farm. This interesting site displays a large collection of colorful butterfly species , some of which are hardly seen nowadays. The highlight of this evening is a visit to the vibrant night market which is full of local treasures. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 11: Chiang Mai/Chiang Sean/Chiang Rai/Bangkok – Boat trips (B, L, G)
The impressive journey continues to Chiang Sean, the royal capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. This tranquil town is nestled on the Mekong riverbank which is now the border between Thailand and Laos. We visit some of its major sights including Wat Phrathat Jom Kitti, Wat Chedi Luang and drive towards the famous Golden Triangle in which powerful warlords have fought for control the opium trade. On arrival we have time to stroll around and make a stop at the opium museum. The display of pictures and documents feature the opium story dating back to the early last century onwards. We board a traditional boat for a thrilling trip on the Mekong River, which gives us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an interesting look at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers. This famous point is an area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet. There is possible to cross the border at Thachilek into Burma. This optional activity is not included, however our guide is on hand to advise your available options. We make our way to Chiang Rai and board a flight back to the capital city. Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 12: Bangkok/Yangon (B, G)
Your time will be your own until transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon.
Arrival in Yangon international airport, welcomed by tour guide and transfer to the hotel. Full day city tour in Yangon starts with drive through the colonial style buildings downtown, the Chinatown area and the Indian quarter. Visit center’s useful landmark, Sule Zedi with its golden octagonal pagoda. Continue to Temple of Chaukhtatgyi reclining Buddha. Stop alongside Kandawgyi (Royal) Lake to take photographs over the lake towards Shwedagon. Enjoy the sunset at Shwedagon.
“Its stupa with gilded gold leaves is the « heart » of Buddhist Myanmar. The pagoda is believed to be 2,500 years old and the central is surrounded by dozens of intricately decorated buildings and statues. There are always many Myanmar people praying and making offerings at Shwedagon, and it’s a fascinating place to spend time watching the world go by”
Return to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Yangon.
Day 13: Yangon/Mawlamein (B, L, G)
early breakfast, your day will begin with a scenic journey to Mawlamein by car (7 hour drive). Along the way you will stop in the town of Bago to visit the Shwethalyaung Buddha. This reclining Buddha is 55 m long and 16 m high, making it one of the largest in the world. Then, resume your journey stopping in Kyaikhto for lunch at a local restaurant (own account). Continue after lunch to Mawlamein. The drive takes you through the country side passing many typical rural Burmese villages. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in. Mawlamein is the capital of the Mon State and although it is Myanmar’s third largest city it retains a quiet charm of a sleepy fishing village. The town is located on the Gulf of Mottama at the mouth of the Thanlwin River. There is time this afternoon to stroll along Strand Road where colonial buildings overlook the river. Overnight in Mawlamein.
Day 14: Mawlamein (B, L, G)
Start today with a morning visit to the bustling colorful Zeigyi (central market). Wander through the dozens of stalls where local vendors come to buy and sell their wares. You will continue your sightseeing with a visit to the Kyaik Thanlan Pagoda, the city’s landmark. Built in 875 AD, it enshrines the Tripitaka Buddhist manuscripts as well as a hair relic from the Buddha. The 40 meter high stupa is located on a hill surrounded by 34 smaller Zediyan pagodas. From up here one can enjoy panoramic views over the city and harbor. It is also thought to be the site where Rudyard Kipling wrote his famous poem, Mandalay. Next you will visit the ancient Queen Sein Don Monastery (locally known as Yada Bonmyint Monastery). This Monastery is more as 100 years old and is famous for its intricate woodcarving and Burmese crafts inside. It was founded by Queen Sein Tone who had to flee Mandalay at the time that Myanmar’s last monarch, King Thibaw Min, took power. She became home sick and asked the local carpenters to build a monastery in the replica style of her former palace. The last stop this morning is at Holy Family Cathedral. Built during the colonial era, this church has a beautiful interior rarely seen by tourists. Nearby is Judson’s Church which was built in 1827 by Dr. A. Judson who translated the Bible into Burmese. Enjoy the lunch at a local restaurant (Own Account) After lunch, take a short boat trip across the Thanlwin River to Gaungse Kyun (Shampoo Island). The island got its nickname during the Hantharwaddy period when Kings would come over to the Island to have their hair washed with the pure water from the Islands Spring. You’ll walk around the island, visiting the Buddhist meditation center and Sandashwin Pagoda. As today draws to a close, proceed to the View Point (near U Zina Pagoda) to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Overnight in Mawlamein.
Day 15: Mawlamein/Hpa An (B, L, G)
After an early breakfast, you will start your scenic drive to Hpa An. On the way you will have a chance to visit several fascinating sites. Just outside of the city stop at Kha Yon Cave, a beautiful natural cave where locals do come to worship and say their prayers to ask for good health and prosperity. In addition to viewing the many Buddha statues you will also see many beautiful stalagmites and stalactites which have formed natural over the centuries. Your next stop will be Kadoe Kawnat village where you will visit Kawnat Monastery. This magnificent monastery with beautiful woodcarving was built a century ago by a villager named U Nar Ouat, who was famed in those days for his wealth and generosity. It was because of his donation that this religious site was build nearby his village. Upon arrival at Hpa An, you will first visit Kyauk Kalat, a pagoda which is built on layers of natural rock formations. Flanked by a Lake, the scenery guarantees a great photo opportunity. Proceed to the foot hill of the 722 m high Mt. Zwe Kabin. This sacred mountain has several thousand identical Buddha statues lined up at its base. Continue with a short walk to the waterfalls where you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. (Own account) After lunch, continue your sightseeing with a visit to Kaw Gun Cave also known as the ‘Cave of the Ten Thousand Buddhas’. As you walk through the cave, you will see more than 2000 votive tablets of Lord Buddha and Mon inscriptions. One inscription is so ancient that, to this day, no scholar has been able to interpret it. You’ll then check-in to your Hpa An hotel and take a stroll through this charming town.
Overnight in Hpa An.
Day 16: Hpa An/Yangon departure (B, G)
Transfer to the local jetty this morning for a boat ride on the Than Lwin River. You will cruise along the river for around 1 hour to the Dhamma Vizaya Pagoda and a hill locally known as Linnoh Gu (Bat Cave). Nowadays this cave has been sealed off by a door to avoid unwanted visitors who come to collect the very fertile compost produced by the large bat community. Stop to visit both the pagoda and the area around the cave, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and wonderful views. Return to the jetty and continue by road back to Yangon for your departure flight.
Price in US$ per person:
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Hotel list for Five Star standard:
Hotel list for Four Star standard:
Hotel list for Three Star standard:
If, at the time of booking, any hotels or rooms in the list above are fully booked, we will endeavour to find accommodation of a similar standard elsewhere. If the only available accommodation is of a higher or lower standard, we will revise the price accordingly and consult you immediately.
