Highlights Of Vientiane, 4 days

On arrival at Vientiane Airport, you are greeted by our guide and taken to your hotel by private transfer. We may have some time free to explore the capital city of Laos, Vientiane. This laidback city stretching long the mighty Mekong River conjures up exotic images with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences. The initial history of Vientiane dates back the sixteenth century, but it left its legacy in form of few pagodas which are still standing in place after many struggles for the independence. The recent economic reform of Laos has made this small city undergoing some vast changes with growing ambition. However, the historic old quarter of Vientiane still houses many French colonial villas, boutique hotels, vibrant shop malls, open air restaurants and tree lined boulevards. You can walk  from the old quarter area to the Mekong riverbank, admiring the cityscape and catching a view of the Mekong River. The long riverside is lined up with local food stands and open air bars, good place to enjoy some  drinks and  explore the authentic local ways of life.

Today, we begin our exploration of  Vientiane with the oldest temple of Wat Sisaket,  which is still in its original form. This masterpiece features remarkable frescoes and cloister wall where are laying almost 7,000 Buddha statues in all sizes. They have been made from wood, stone, and bronze and brought here  hundred years ago. Nearby is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. This sacred jade statue is currently displayed at  Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Upon leaving this sight  we drive towards  Patouxai, a version of own Arc de Triomphe standing on the Lane Xang Avenue. The following stop is That Luang Stupa, a current national symbol of Laos. This most venerable Buddhist monument with the golden stupa  was  built in Laos style but influenced by Buddhist beliefs. The sightseeing tour continues to the vibrant Morning Market , which is crammed with shopping malls selling everything from medicinal herbs, electronics equipment, silver jewellery, hand make  silks to everyday sundries. We wander around this bustling trading hub and  try our hand at bargaining. Heading out of the town, we make our way past the giant Friendship Bridge, which  links Thailand and Laos, on our way to  the impressive Buddha Park. This landmark represents a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by a mystical monk on a parkland near the Mekong River. The sculptures mesmerize visitors not only for their incredible size but also for their intriguing and unique details. We walk around these huge images scattered amongst gardens and catch some wonderful photos.

Heading south of the town, we make our way to  the Phou Khao Khouay National Park also called  “ Buffalo Horn Mountain” by foreigners.  This national park offers a variety of contrasting landscapes from evergreen dense jungle to extensive bush land, waterfalls and rough mountain slopes. On arrival we embark on a local longtail boat at Ban Hatkhai and start a thrilling trip upstream on the Nam Mang River, which is formed by various tributaries from the evergreen and dry deciduous forest. We venture into Houay Xai, a main source of this river, before we set off on a two-hour trek through the rain forest. The trekking is strenuous at time; however, some physical preparation will enable you to maximize your enjoyment from this walking adventure. The local track leads you through lush jungle where you can see green canopy, orchid flower, colorful butterfly, and even monkeys roaming through dense vegetation. We make stops to stretch the legs and enjoy a  picnic lunch prepared by our local team. The spectacular waterfalls are also a highlight of  the Phou Khao Khouay National Park. We visit Tad Xay and Pha Xay Waterfalls, which are particularly magnificent in the  raining season. We have free time  to relax by the falls and  can take a bath at the nearby pool. This exciting walking completes as we arrive at  Ban Hatkhai and travel by road back to Vientiane City.

There are no activities planned for the final day. You may have free time to continue your exploration of Vientiane City, do your last shopping or simply look back upon your trip images.  The holiday comes to end with a transfer to Vientiane Airport for  your departure.