REGIONAL TRAVEL EXTENSION
Laid-back Laos: Where echoes of a French-colonial past lingers in the unhurried east
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
ACCOMMODATIONS
HEALTH & SAFETY
HEALTH & SAFETY
We are following strict national and international safety guidelines and protocols (Royal Government of Bhutan, WHO, and CDC (US) recommendations) to keep you, our staff, and the Bhutanese people safe. This includes new measures for maintaining personal health and hygiene, social distancing best practices, face covering requirements, cleaning, handwashing and more.
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
With global travel resuming, we have changed our booking and cancellation policies back to normal. Normal cancellation policies are now in effect and final trip payment is due (4 months/120 days before trip start date, whichever is earlier). Trip cancellation policies are outlined in our trip confirmation emails and available by request.
PEACE OF MIND
Our travel extension dates are flexible and set on demand
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
DATE
2 PEOPLE*
4 PEOPLE*
6 PEOPLE*
Our travel extension dates are flexible and set on demand
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. Internal domestic flights and regional flights and transfers between cities are included in our travel extension pricing, unless stated otherwise. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Internal & regional flights for our travel extensions are provided at airline cost at time of booking. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based on international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family, our travel extension dates are flexible and can be arranged to match your travel in and/or out of Bhutan.
TRAVEL SEASONS
Our travel extension dates are flexible and set on demand
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
DATE
2 PEOPLE*
4 PEOPLE*
6 PEOPLE*
Our travel extension dates are flexible and set on demand
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
We provide the latest updated trip pricing based on your travel dates.
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. Internal domestic flights and regional flights and transfers between cities are included in our travel extension pricing, unless stated otherwise. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Internal & regional flights for our travel extensions are provided at airline cost at time of booking. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based on international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family, our travel extension dates are flexible and can be arranged to match your travel in and/or out of Bhutan.
TRAVEL SEASONS
2023 Dates & Prices
2023 Dates & Prices
2024Dates & Prices
2024Dates & Prices
DATES & PRICES
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- * International flights from your home city to Bangkok and return flight from Bangkok back to your home city ARE NOT included.
* Any sudden or unexpected airline fuel surcharges and other unexpected fare increases by airlines
* Visa fees, drinks, personal expenses.
* Local visa costs, where applicable, are not covered and are the responsibility of the trip member
* not all meals are included in order to let guests explore and try some local restaurants on their own - please consult your extension itinerary to see which meals are included and which ones are not.
- * English-speaking guide.
* Accommodation in hotels as mentioned above or equivalent.
* Meals according to itinerary / Breakfast box in lieu of ABF when early morning flight
* Flight ticket(s) as mentioned in the itinerary.
* Flight from Bangkok to travel extension destination cities
* Internal domestic flights between cities in the destination country or countries
* Return flight to Bangkok
* Boat ticket(s) according to the itinerary.
* Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
* 1 complimentary bottle of drinking water and 1 cold towel per person per half day tour/ 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person per full day tour.
* Sightseeing incl. admission fees according to itinerary.
* International and domestic airport taxes included in ticket.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
ITINERARY
PRACTICAL DETAILS
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TRIP PHOTOGALLERY
Laos is an ancient land of serene temples, elephants, and French-style cafés and patisseries. A place where the dying echoes of a Francophone past meets Buddhist calm, graciousness and generosity.
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Discover the ancient nation that is Thailand's quieter, less-traveled cousin
DAY 01: BANGKOK - LUANG PRABANG
VIEW DAY BY DAY
Flight from Bangkok to Luang Prabang
Arrival in Luang Prabang
Upon clearing Customs and Immigration, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport and present you with a welcome packet including all necessary documentation and vouchers as well as their contact information and information for local staff, offices and contacts you may need for the duration of your stay.
Transfer by air conditioned vehicle (6 kms)
Overnight in Luang Prabang
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 02: LUANG PRABANG/WALKING TOUR/'WATERMELON' TEMPLE/ANCIENT WAT VISOUN
Morning at leisure
A Wat to Wat Insider Walking tour (4 hours)
Discover the main sights of Luang Prabang and get an insider's view of the religion and culture from a renowned photographer and author. Acommpanied your own private guide take a tuk tuk to the centre of the city to start your walking tour.
Stroll through the winding streets to Wat Visoun, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Luoangphabhang. Visit That Makmo, also known as the "Watermelon Stupa." Continue to Wat Xieng Thong, the city's best-known and most visited monastery. The three tiered roof of the monastery sweeps low to the ground and the walls have been beautifully decorated in black lacquer and gold leaf with beautiful scenes carved in gold-painted bas-relief drawn from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
The back of Wat Xieng Thong features an intricate glass mosaic of the tree of life set on a dark red background. Later, take a walk along the Nam Khan River to Wat Khili. Here, at the temple, you will be introduced to a Luang Prabang native who has produced photography projects about world religions, and participated in art and education projects in Laos. He currently has a permanent exhibition, 'The Floating Buddha', inside the temple. He will take you on a private tour of the exhibition and share his extensive knowledge and expertise on Laos. Our final stop on this walking tour is the National Museum, which once served as the Royal Palace. After a short orientation tour through the Museum we transfer back to the hotel by tuk tuk.
Transfer to/from restaurant
Restaurant: Tamnak Lao Restaurant Luang Prabang (Dinner)
Overnight in Luang Prabang
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 03: LUANG PRABANG/ MEKONG & NAM OU RIVERS/CAVE TEMPLES
Excursion by boat to Tham Pak Ou Caves (5-6 hours)
Travel up the Mekong River to the steep limestone cliffs overlooking the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, home to the Tham Pak Ou Caves.
These extraordinary caves are filled with Buddha images, of every style and material imaginable. On the way to the Caves, stop at Ban Xang Hai Village (If time permits). The village is open 6.00 am - 15.00 pm and closed every major Buddhist holiday. This traditional Lao village is famous for the production of lao lao, the local alcoholic brew distilled from rice.
The village also provides an opportunity to learn how to make traditional Laotian Corn Leaf Paper and Rice Tree Paper. First you learn how the material for corn leaf and rice tree paper are sourced and then prepare the paper from the raw materials provided. Once the paper is dry you will be shown how it can be fashioned into lampshades, a booklet or a postcard. You get to keep what you make as mementos of your visit.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 04: LUANG PRABANG/KUANG SI WATERFALLS/TALAT MARKET & MUSEUMS
Luang Prabang, the ancient capital city of the Lan Xang Kingdom, is famous for its historic temples and beautiful setting surrounded by mountains. In 1995 it was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Visit Talat local market (Tour will start early morning) (30 minutes)
Visit the National Museum (former Royal Palace) and Wat Mai
Visit the National Museum (Royal Palace), a modest but graceful building which combines traditional Lao and French beaux-arts motifs.
This turn-of-the century royal residence has been preserved as it was when the royal family last lived here and provides unique insights into the history of Laos. Then, visit the Hor Phrabang, a royal temple built on the palace grounds especially to house Laos' most sacred Buddha statue. The Buddha, cast in gold, silver and bronze alloy, stands at 83 cm tall and weighs about 50 kgs (more than 110lbs). Continue to Wat Mai, which was built in 1821 during the reign of King Manthatourath, and was once the residence of Phra Sangkharaj, the Patriarch of Laos' Buddhist clergy.
Excursion to Kuang Si Waterfalls (3 hours)
From Luang Prabang, travel by vehicle to the Kuang Si falls. The waterfalls are in a perfect natural setting near Luang Prabang. The multi-tiered falls tumble over limestone formations into a series of turquoise pools. Bring your swim suits and sandals if you'd like to dip your toe or part of your body in a relatively gentle pool. Please exercise caution! During certain times of the year, the falls can be dangerous because of strong torrents and the volume of water rushing downstream. Visit the nearby village of Ban Ou or Ban Na Ouane, before returning to Luang Prabang by vehicle.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 05: MEKONG BOAT CRUISE/MEDITATION WITH BUDDHIST MONK/YOGA (OPTIONAL)
Today you have a free morning to enjoy a cozy breakfast for two at an interesting local cafe, relax at the hotel or do some exploring on your own.
Later in the afternoon your guide will meet you at the hotel and take you by local tuk tuk to the pier. Board the local boat and then sit back and relax on a short cruise on the mighty Mekong River. Take in the scenes of local life alongside the river and look out to the distant misty mountains.
Farther down the river, the boat will bring you to the opposite bank where the temple Wat Had Siew is located. After exploring the temple environs, you will be introduced to your monk teacher who will take you through a short guided meditation (your guide is on hand to help with the translation.)
After clearing your mind through meditation amid the spiritual surroundings, travel by boat and tuk tuk to a local yoga school (optional). After a warm welcome by the instructor, you will be taught some basic yoga aimed at improving mental and physical balance. Be sure to wear or bring some comfortable clothes if you plan on doing yoga this afternoon.
At the end of the day return to your hotel by vehicle.
Restaurant : Dyen Sabai Restaurant and Lounge (Dinner)
Overnight in Luang Prabang
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 06: FLIGHT FROM LUANG PRABANG TO VIENTIANE
Transfer by air conditioned vehicle (6 kms)
Flight from Luang Prabang to Vientiane
Transfer by air conditioned vehicle
Sightseeing in Vientiane
The capital city of Laos and the seat of Laotian government sits on a bend of the Mekong River amid the fertile alluvial plains. Vientiane (pronounced Wieng Chang by the locals) is a laid-back city with lots of history, interesting temples and lively markets.
Overnight in Vientiane
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
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DAY 07: EXPLORE VIENTIANE'S BOULEVARDS, MONUMENTS & MARKETS
The capital city of Laos, Vientiane, still feels like a sleepy city with a relaxed charm, tree-lined boulevards, beautiful temples and colorful markets. Tour the many highlights of the city, including Pha That Luang, a gleaming golden stupa with a vibrantly painted interior (below) that is perhaps the most important national monument in Laos; Ho Pha Keo, the royal temple, now a museum with beautiful examples of Buddhist sculptures; Wat Si Saket, another built in 1818; Patuxai, a monumental arch inspired by Paris' Arc de Triomphe, but executed with Lao motifs.
Stop by the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) for a reckoning with the awful legacy of American bombs, and the progressive work of the organization rehabilitating those injured by unexploded ordnances. See Wat Si Muang, a gold monument built in 1563. End your day at the Talaat Sao, or the "morning market" (actually open all day), the best place to buy traditional Lao fabrics.
Overnight in Vientiane
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 08: VISIT ART GALLERIES/COOKING CLASS WITH LOCAL CHEF/NIGHT MARKET
Today you have a chunk of leisure time to explore on your own, try some interesting local restaurants, visit an art gallery or just spend some time reading and relaxing at the hotel.
This evening visit the home of a local chef and learn how to cook delicious Lao dishes. Travel to Ban Nong Bone Village, where the Head Chef, Vanpheng, will welcome you to her home and teach your cooking class. Over the next few hours you will learn how to cook three local dishes using traditional ingredients and techniques. Afterwards, relax and enjoy the feast everyone has created together. Traditional sweets and snacks will also be on offer, although the savoury dishes tend to be most popular to prepare. Tropical drinks are also included with the meal. Say farewell to Vanpheng and spend the rest of the evening at leisure (or see recommendation below):
Recommended Tour:
This evening we recommend a stroll along the banks of the Mekong River through Chao Anou Park and the Night Market, observing locals and taking in the views. Both are situated along the Mekong and this area comes alive after dark. Adventurous foodies can sample a wide range of local snacks along the way. Cap off the night with a bottle of the Beerlao, a tasty local beer brewed from local rice and high-quality malt.
Overnight in Vientiane
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: We have a time-tested standby of regionally-esteemed 3-, 4- or 5-star accommodations which will be listed on your final email travel program
DAY 09: RETURN FLIGHT TO BANGKOK
Transfer by air conditioned vehicle
Flight from Vientiane to Bangkok
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodations: If you're transiting through Bangkok to Bhutan or back home, we reccomend using the Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Airport Novotel Hotel (a French hospitality chain)
This travel extension is for you if you'd like to spend a little more time exploring the magnificent World Heritage sites of Cambodia and Laos before or after Bhutan with arrangements in and out of Bangkok. We take care of your regional flights and hotels and set you up with a distinctive travel itinerary that's desgined to make the most of your time in the region. Tie in a visit to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat or explore the quaint streets of Luang Prabang and Vientiane where the cultural remnents of France cling to a distinctly gentler, gracious Asian sensibility.
CUSTOM TRIPS
If this trip or schedule doesn't meet your needs, we also arrange private journeys throughout the year with flexible dates.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where available.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature time-tested regionally-esteemed properties with a blend of traditional and modern styles. These regional properties are handpicked for their cultural character, comfort, and hospitality. Depending on availability, we may use accommodations comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
TRAVEL EXTENSION STAFF
Our regional travel extensions are curated by expert native-born local guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people during your journey. All travel extension guides and drivers are vetted and certified by their respective national tourism boards.
ABOUT CULTURAL EXPEDITIONS
Our cultural expeditions are bespoke itineraries designed for active travelers that combine guided excursions, cultural insights, art and customs, with distinguished accommodations featuring regionally traditional ambience. Our travel extensions are small group adventures of usually 8 to 12 travelers, with a maximum of 16 guests per group, with experienced indigenous guides. This makes our journeys feel more like shared adventures with local friends than a tourist's jaunt through the countryside.
GETTING THERE
Fly from your home city to Bangkok (Main Gateway City)*
Overnight
We recommend a day or two in Bangkok to acclimate and adjust to the time difference.
IMPORTANT: You are responsible for your international flight to Bangkok. Regional flights for travel extensions are included in our trip pricing (subject to change by airline).
For further details please email us contact us using the Reserve button on this page.
*Bangkok is the primary hub and Gateway City and offers the most frequent and reliable flights to travel extension destination countries (and Bhutan).
OUR TRAVEL EXTENSIONS
(with optional Bangkok Transit arrangements)
If you're thinking of traveling to some of the other interesting destinations in the region before or after Bhutan you may like to consider our travel extensions. That way you can spend less time juggling and coordinating multiple bookings and more time experiencing the magnificent World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, a peaceful Laotian sojourn, discovering Vietnam or experiencing India.
For further details, and to see our changing roster of travel extensions, please visit our Bhutan and Beyond page.
WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING
“Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders, we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced!”
~ Lola W., California (U.S.)
ACCOMMODATIONS
High-end traditional lodges
GROUP SIZE
8 ~ 12; 16 MAX
DURATION
09 days
TRIP TYPE
Active, Cultural
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy to Moderate
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